We chose this cruise for the port itinerary and length of cruise. We've done a CNE twice before (7 and 14 days, in October) and wanted warmer weather, less rain this time.

We've cruised w Princess before and DH was not impressed with the food, about 5 years ago. However on this cruise, dinner was delightful each evening. We had My Time Dining and made reservations each day, always requesting Table 210 for 4# in the Island MDR. We landed at this table on Day 1, and the server, Viktoria R, was the absolute best waiter we have experienced on the seas. Attention to detail, recommendations were spot on for each of us, friendly, professional - she didn't miss a beat. We had 2 nights when our reservation was moved to another MDR, when we showed up, we were instructed to go elsewhere - which was a pain and no explanation was provided by the HW or host in the Island and when we arrived upstairs, that dining room team was confused as to why tables were being sent to them. After 2 nights of chaos, the reservation returned to table 210# and all was right in the world, at least for dinner. Memorable food - the prime rib, early in the cruise was outstanding, honey mustard dressing was raved about at the table, and a chocolate dessert - with cookies and ice cream was the bomb, but each night dinner at table 210# was a treat and no complaints from our foodies.

Now back to the review - after we booked, we learned about the new Medallions - registering online was difficult to take the photo, upload and the scan the passport, but we managed. A lot of passengers complained about the whole process. The biggest pain was poor communication about when to expect the Medallion to arrive. We completed all steps over 30 days prior to sail, and waited. No update. Finally about 10 days out the system indicated the Medallion was on the way, only to change the next morning online to unable to ship, not sufficient time to process and mail. I was terribly disappointed and resigned to picking it up at the port. Then one night, about 5 days before we departed, Fed Ex dropped off a small box, even though the status had no change. Packaging was nice, represented the company and new initiative well. It included a carry case and lanyard without any upcharge. We were set. Then 48 hours before we traveled, I got the email indicating the Medallion was on its way - by then it was already packed in my carry on. Read more