Emerald Princess Review

4.5 / 5.0
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Review for Hawaii Cruise on Emerald Princess
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Travelartist16
10+ Cruises • Age 70s

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Sail Date: Feb 2019
Cabin: Penthouse Suite with Balcony

We flew from the east coast, spent two days at the Hyatt Regency in Long Beach (booked on our own so we can go early to the ship) and then took a one week cruise down the coast of Mexico, stayed in our Penthouse Suite and then took the 15 day cruise to Hawaii. We had never been to Long Beach and wanted a change from the familiar Caribbean cruises we take to escape our winter blues. We were able to catch up with old friends who had relocated to California, eat some great meals and go to the Laugh Factory across the street from the Hotel. The Hotel is a 20 minute taxi ride from the San Pedro pier and in a very good location. We have stayed in Penthouse Suites several times and this room, although a little shabby (the Emerald is going into dry dock for some major changes in April), has a brand new comfortable bed, two TVs, a walk in shower (plus tub). The sofa bed's cushions kept coming out and we had a minor flood that was quickly repaired. A narrow balcony held two jammed together lounges and a small table with chairs. We never used it as we sprung for the Sanctuary for the whole trip and were often the only couple up there. We raced to sign up (a stupid move - the weather was cold and windy for most of the cruise) as having a suite does not give you first dibs. Oscar and his staff treated us like royalty, bringing us tea and hot chocolate.

On the Mexico cruise there were some young families, replaced by Baby Boomers for Florida. The whale watching tour in Cabo was cancelled at the last minute due to weather and the other tours in Mexico were terrible. Just skip them. We were very disappointed in the excursion desk. Usually Princess is top notch in loading the buses, this time the Wheelhouse bar was used and was a zoo. However on Maui a bus broke down on the other side of the island and the ship waited over two hours for the excursion to return, so that is a reason to book through the ship if you plan on going far.

The change over for the Hawaiian cruise (leaving all your stuff in your room is a great perk) on returning to LA was wacky: We were sent off the ship around 11:00 am, directed to go out of the terminal and come in the other door with no guidance. About 100 of us were briefly dazed and confused, but we made it back on and went to lunch.

Cabin Review

Penthouse Suite with Balcony

Cabin S3

R405 Penthouse suite. Great location, mid-ship and only steps from elevator. large, comfortable, good bathroom. Poor lighting over sink, massive storage, narrow balcony, needs more outlets ( bring plug). Best steward. Beautiful orchid plant, fruit, free water, laundry. Best breakfast in world in Crown grill. Very comfortable bed.

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