Majestic Princess Review
slcdann
6-10 Cruises • Age 50s
Rating by category
Cabin
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service
Additional details
Sail Date: Dec 2018
Cabin: Mini-Suite with Balcony
Traveled with children
This is only the sixth cruise of my lifetime (on five different lines) and it was easily the best of the lot - to say nothing of the tremendous value it represented versus Regent et al. Even if all six cruises had identical prices, this cruise would have earned first place by a wide margin.
The ship, itself, is so new and well-maintained that it spoiled us with its finishes and amenities. Embarkation was truly efficient and we never felt there were 3500 guests and another 1500 staff. It always was so spacious - a genuine achievement. The staff was a tremendous blend from around the world - Antonio from Portugal did a yeoman's job as our cabin steward and Monika in guest services lounge was priceless to us in terms of helping secure meal reservations for our difficult party of 7. Room service in the mornings was unbelievably precise and prompt - the best we've ever experienced. Great amenities for the kids and teens (of which there were many on this Christmas Cruise).
Our captains (one from NZ and one from Italy) did a tremendous job with the seas and we had the smoothest sailing I can remember. Our day in the Fjords and Milford Sound was one of the most rewarding, sunniest and relaxing days I will ever live.
Cabin Review
Mini-Suite with Balcony
Cabin MB
A truly spacious layout with very comfortable bedding, awesome technology and a giant balcony. The bathroom was especially well designed with its 'pass through' feature serving both sides of the suite for genuine spaciousness. We were in love with our suite. It also was exceptionally beautiful in its appointments (fresh orchids) and had a very new feeling thanks, no doubt, to the tremendous cleaning team that made it sparkle daily during turn downs and make ups. What a rewarding visit.
Port Reviews
Auckland
Went to Waiheke Island on the ferry and enjoyed lunch at Cable Bay Vineyards. Dinner at Viaduct and a very fun 'Escape Room' experience on the charming streets of Auckland. Sofitel was a beautiful hotel prior to cruise.
Tauranga
Rented a car and drove to Rotarua for Agrodome sheep shearing experience, followed by Zorb and then Te Puia for extravagant brunch, a chance to view Kiwi birds and enjoy a Maori performance which was extraordinary. Also drove through Cambridge horse country and would have loved a moment at Mt Manganui but the ship departed so early it really squeezed our time here.
Akaroa
Hired the brilliant Christchurch Taxi Tours - Brent and his team are magnificent. They took us into the city from the lovely port town of Akaroa and pointed us to a stunning play park for the kids as well as a cheese factory upon return. Whilst in Christchurch we enjoyed the tramway tour, the gondola and a lovely meal on New Regent Street. We would have loved more time to enjoy the French town of Akaroa, but again, the ship was on a shortened port departure schedule (though other tours ran well late of 'All Aboard' time).
Dunedin
Rented a car and drove to the Royal Albatross Centre, Penguin Place, Glenfollach Gardens and Baldwin (steepest hill in the country) and enjoyed the railway station and the Octogon shopping district at its frenzied Christmas pace. All aboard was 2:30 PM so there was little time for else.
Hobart
Went to the stunning MONA, enjoyed Hop On Hop Off tour of the city, Brooke St Pier, Salamanca market, ate at Fish Frenzy and found a new favourite beer - Moo Cow. Though Cascade remains a stunning choice and the pinot noirs here are not to be missed. Tasmania is so fresh and satisfying - even if only staying 8 hours.
Melbourne
Rented a car and drove to Yarra Valley for the Healesville Sanctuary, Domaine Chandon tasting tour, Yering Station winery lunch and return in time for 'All Aboard' at 5:30 PM. Victoria is a remarkable state and the cafes in Melbourne are well worth the time to just hang out in, if only we had the time.
Sydney (Australia)
Went to Opera Australia's 'New Years Highlights' at the Sydney Opera House, took the Manly Fast Ferry for lunch at Hugo's, had dinner at Iceberg's (Bondi Beach) and hired a water taxi for the most spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks any of us have ever seen. Rented a beautiful apartment at conveniently located Bondi Junction (Meriton Suites) because the cruise line seemed entire unprepared to assist in any way with post-cruise accommodation.
2 Helpful Votes
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