We chose this cruise from Sydney around New Zealand to Celebrate our 50th Wedding Anniversary. We would not normally have sailed on this itinerary at this time of year. The ship was built for the Chinese market and has been modified I believe by reducing the size of Casino and other minor changes. Even though we have sailed on the sister ship Regal Princess and thoroughly enjoyed the cruise because of the itinerary(Baltic) this is too big for us.

The Boarding was extremely good and fast in Sydney. We arrived at the beginning of the allotted time for our Deck and we were on board in 10 minutes. Our Balcony Cabin D 216 was ready and we were greeted by our cabin steward on arrival. The cabin was as expeted in size with plenty of storage and the larger premium balcony. It had been a bit nocked around during it's time in China and Asia. The desk chair had a slit on the back upholstery probably caused by a lounge that had converted to an additional bed with insufficient room. We had no need for this extra bed. The lounge itself was stained and the carpet also nappeared that way. However our cabin steward kept it clean and tidy and was most helpful.

My wife has dietary issues son we had chosen fixed time late dining in the Allegro dinning room seated with other passengers. This worked well the menu has sufficient variety to satisfy most needs. Our Maitre De and two dining staff were excellent with their service and helping arrange my wife's dinner for the following evening. We dined at two of the specialty restaurants during the 13 night cruise. The Crown Grill was especially good and The Harmony also enjoyable. Princess say that they help passengers enjoy special occasions. This not the case were La Mer I approached them for a table on the night of our Wedding Anniversary for a table for two at a set time. The Maitre Desaid that this was not possible after 5.30 we would have to turn up and take what we could get on the night. Definately not the way to heelp aguest celebrate a special occsion. This was he said the Princess way for eating at the restaurant. It struck me as true Gaelic attitude and rather arrogant. The good news was at the Crown Grill this was'nt the Princess way and we had a very enjoyable wedding anniversary. Read more