We chose this cruise because we live in Northern Cal and wanted to avoid the hassle of air transport. Getting on the ship was a breeze as embarkation staff were a delight, but things began deteriorating quickly. We made our reservation six months before sailing and had a confirmation of a table for 2 at dinner. However, we were seated at a table for 12. We protested and were given a table for 2 for the first night and on the following night we were shown to a table for 2 which had been set up so that one of the chairs was actually in the entry corridor. We declined this table and thereafter took our meals at Anytime dining. Not wishing to make this any longer than needed I will make a partial list the problems we encountered. (1) worn out or poor quality mattresses in cabin (we turned them upside down to get added support}. (2) poorer food quality in the dining room than on previous cruises (sorbet that was akin to a snow-cone). (3) carpet replacement in the cabin above us beginning at 8:30 AM which sounded like barbells being dropped on our ceiling. (couldn't we have been advised the day before?) (4) a loud metallic hammering which lasted for 2 hours on the last day and which destroyed the ambiance of a balcony breakfast. Our cruise last year on Princess was our Gold Standard for cruising and we had expected a similar experience this time. We were disappointed.