We chose this cruise as the best way to see the most of New Zealand. We were unable to do the scenic cruising as the ship had to reduce speed due to Cyclone Gita and we were running about 12 hours late. We arrived at the first port on time. But for several of the ports, we left earlier than originally scheduled, which reduced time in port. It seemed as though the captain travel at reduced speed - age of ship???? We do appreciate that safety is of foremost concern. But is appeared the Sun Princess was limping along.
Our balcony cabin was adequate and met expectations with the exception of the periodic sewer type odors, in side and in the hallway. We would call the purser's desk and they would come do something, but then the odor would be back the next day. We noticed it in the hallway on the very first day. Others on the ship also commented on odor in the hallway.
The service on the ship was excellent and the entertainment was good. The cruise director, Andrew, was excellent also. The Sun Princess is just tired, from our observations. Many people commented to us, "Don't judge cruising by this experience. This is not the typical Princess experience. It is usually much better."
The balcony cabin was average sized and adequate. The issue was there were periodic sewer type odors, inside and outside (in hallway) of the cabin.