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Expect the extraordinary as you step aboard and discover the captivating possibilities, all true to her name
With top deck dining venues, Slice Pizzeria, The Mix, Salty Dog Grill and Coffee & Cones you’ll have even more options to choose from during your stay on board Grand Princess. Relax at The Sanctuary, a tranquil haven reserved for adults, enjoy Movies Under the Stars® poolside or see an award-winning Broadway-style production show in the Princess Theatre, showcasing an even more immersive audio experience.
Itinerary: Hawaii wasn't really a factor in our choosing this trip. Over the years, we've seen about all there is to see there, or at least all we really care to see. Not a bad destination, nice even. Just a big dose of been-there-done-that on our part. Same with Ensenada. The no-fly departure and return to LA was the main draw. Food: Spotty. The buffet was fairly limited with an odd mix of good, pretty good and "what the heck?" on any given day. The International Cafe was reliably a source of tasty items as long as you ignored the chia and fruit glop at breakfast (my apologies if you're a glop fan). Their Princess McMuffins (egg, cheese and ham muffins) and meat pies quickly became staples. Slices (pizza) and the Salty Dog (burgers and dogs) had reliable offerings. Good enough to mention their goodness but not quite best in class. The grudge from our first night's treatment at the Botticelli dining room never wore off and continuous app errors when trying to schedule a reservation kept us from ever trying the main dining rooms or the specialty restaurants, so we can't comment on the food there. Occasional reviews of the menus did not impress. By the descriptions of the food, it seems targeted towards people who ooh and ahh over subtle differences in wines that really taste the same. They may have been good, solid dishes with overly foo-foo descriptions, but we'll never know. No regrets. The soft serve ice cream at Cups & Cones Wonderful Wife got the first day was horrible. It was icy and tasted like vanilla lard with a greasy, unpleasant mouthfeel. We never tried the "special" desserts based on that. On the second to last day, Wonderful Wife tried another cone. It was edible. Not special. Not exceptional, but edible. We are assuming the first day was an anomaly. Still didn't try the special desserts. Did I mention that the Princess McMuffins and meat pies rocked? Staff: Except for our treatment in Botticelli's on the first night, every other staff member we interacted with was excellent. Polite and helpful. Bars: With very few exceptions, most of our drinks were ordered at the Good Spirits bar. Great selection of standards and creative specialty drinks that were as good as they were pretty. Well mixed and not watery. The wait staff was top notch. I can honestly say that it was one of the top three or four ship venues we've encountered in 60+ cruises. The other bars were very nice as well, but the Good Spirits quickly became our favorite. My only complaint is the sparse beer menu. No Guinness? (Seriously, how did they make the beef and Guinness pies? Did they use it all there?) One IPA. Mostly fizzy yellow beers and 20th century imports. At least the one IPA was Lagunitas. The seriously good mixed drinks took most of the string out of this glaring omission. Ship: Despite being 26 years old, the Grand Princess was very well kept and elegant, if a bit old school. That's not meant as a negative. It has a classic feel and you seldom notice a sign of age. The casino was not huge, but had a good selection of games. We aren't pool people but the pool areas and upper sun deck areas were well laid out with a vast number of lounge chairs. The public areas were always clean with someone almost always polishing or dusting. The elevators were typically slow (no one who cruises should be shocked) and one of the four near our room stayed on deck 12 for the entire trip. They all had signs stating a capacity of 18, which makes me think they were built by Hobbits. Overall, we were impressed with the ship Medallions: I do have to mention the medallions. The concept isn't unique to princess, both Royal and Celebrity have RF capability for locks on their newer and recently drydocked ships. The difference is the way the medallion tracks you on the ship so servers can deliver food or drinks to wherever you are via the app. You can also track the location of your traveling companions which is great if you're a parent with kids. The medallion also senses when you get close to your room and will unlock it without you having to fumble with anything. Very handy with two cups of coffee in the morning. All-in-all I was quite impressed with the technology and hope that other cruise lines take note. Cabin: Our cabin was neat and clean. Other than one iffy hinge on the cabinet door covering the mini-fridge, there were no serious signs of wear. The toilet had four episodes where it just took time off and refused to flush, but the maintenance crew always had it fixed quickly. I'm a DIY type who lives in a 70-year-old house and can sympathize with the maintenance crew dealing with aging plumbing that is infinitely more complex than one can imagine. Ship activities: There were a lot of them. A huge list every day. So many that it was hard to avoid them, but we did. Shows: We suspect there were some. The fact that we didn't go to any shows is not any disparagement of Princess' offerings. We just sort of stopped going to shows a few years ago unless we're traveling with people who want to go see shows. It's a rare production that piques our interest enough to go when we're on our own. Internet: Meh. They do have Starlink but it is throttled to an average of about 7Mb/s down and 2Mb/s up. Good enough for Wi-Fi calls, scrolling through social media, email and the news, including smaller format videos. Note that my opinion of the internet performance is colored by the fact that I have worked from home for over a decade with fiber internet that runs at close to 1000Mb/s up and down. We might be a bit spoiled. All in all, a great trip on a very nice ship. Our minimalist onboard lifestyle didn't in any way reflect on Princess' offerings. We just kept it simple and enjoyed each other's company. This was our 63rd cruise and the novelty of traveling on a floating city and the need to see and do everything has faded to a quiet appreciation. Would we do this itinerary again? A solid maybe. If we did, we would be smarter about reserving dining before departure. Or maybe not. This long, lazy trip was so very relaxing.
Our first time on Grand Princess, third Princess cruise, but our 12-13 overall cruise. From what I understand is this ship is the oldest in the fleet and it shows. We chose this for the Hawaiian itinerary and nothing else. Rust running down stateroom window from rain on first sea day and window was never cleaned in any port. Deluxe Oceanview room was great. First time booking this type of room, (only 6 onboard) who needs a balcony with floor to ceiling windows on the Lido deck. Reminded me of the infinity balcony, only the window didn't slide, (which I used twice on previous cruises). Running out of cups & water in spa waiting area, along with gathering of dirty cups. Towels at Sanctuary pool same as regular pool, but Terrace pool had nicer and bigger towels. Did not use the Sanctuary. No coffee or ice tea in the Captain’s circle Elite lounge, only choices were alcoholic drinks. Same as the Captain’s circle event you either drink alcohol or water. Club one5 ceiling leak in multiple places and it wasn’t raining outside. Water was clearly coming from the jacuzzi above the club. Non drinker and mini bar set up with numerous alcoholic beverages. Had to go to guest services to request the removal of them. No one asked. Food in Horizon Court was a little disappointing with food choices, (same food every day) but was expected and no different from any other cruise. Coffee was hit and miss, sometimes too strong to drink, then other times weak like flavored water. Dining reservations app wasn’t working. Tried to set reservations for Crown Grille on day 3 and it said no reservations available. However when we walked by, there were only about 4 tables sitting and no one waiting to be seated for the time we wanted. Tried to set up reservations for Botticelli multiple times and would get to the confirmation page then it would give me an error. On another note the food at the Salty Dog Grille, (lido pool) was better than the food at the Salty Dog Gastropub for lunch, my advice is to save the $15 per person and go eat at the pool. Tried walk-in restaurant Da Vincie, and was told it was full and had to wait 30 minutes, which was understandable, however we couldn’t get in to reservations either. This was typical every night, the lines were out to the shops and each time we stopped by it was a minimum of 30 minutes wait. Once we got in, it was great. Also ate lunch at the lunch restaurant, rather than the buffet, (Horizon court) and is much better. Future Cruise team was a great help and booked our next cruise for the inaugural sailing of Star in October. Shore Excursion desk - we were on a waiting list for the Polynesian Cultural center which didn’t happen, but they got us on the longer excursion with the dinner. All other excursions were booked from the app. International café and pool deck quick bites were as always and good. Can’t believe that Alfredo’s is no longer part of the standard cruise and is considered an additional cost now. Slice up on the pool deck is the same pizza and is included. You just get 1-2 slices at a time. Additional cost restaurants are getting too expensive for the food that is offered, the atmosphere is different, but I’m not interested in paying for the atmosphere as much as I am the value of food. They should be the same. Better food and better atmosphere. We did eat at Crown Grille one time, but typically eat 2 times on a 7+ day cruise. This was a 16 day cruise and decided to go one time. Spa was excellent as always. Had the managers special deep tissue massage the second day, and went back for the stone massage on day 11. Both 75 minute massage. Shore Excursions Honolulu-Polynesian Cultural Center was probably the best shore excursion we’ve ever been on. Great atmosphere, Gateway Buffet was terrific, Ha, the show was awesome. This was a 10 hour excursion and well worth the money spent. Kauai-Opeka Falls, Plantation and Train. This was boring and I would only suggest if you need a “light” excursion. Maui-Wailea Beach. This was a great beach. Long drive to and from which is part of the excursion time, (only 3.5 hours on beach) so I would suggest taking a private transportation to this area if you want longer beach time. We got back to the cruise ship and still had another 4 hours before we left, so we took a cab to the mall. Hawaii/Hilo-Kilauea Volcano and Macadamia nut farm. Macadamia nut farm was a stop at the gift shop. It was okay, of course we bought some. Volcano was neat to experience with the steam vents and be able to see an active volcano crater. I would suggest this excursion, just wish it was about an hour longer to hike one of the trails. Ensenada-Stayed on ship. We have been to many Mexico ports and Ensenada is the least favorable. Only for partying and not much more. We took this cruise for the Hawaii ports, not Mexico.
This was very likely the best cruise experience we've had on Princess cruises.. We are not fans of the newer ships, although have sailed on several....and we love sea days. We dined in Reserve Class, which had excellent service and usually 2 optional items beside the menu. I required "Special Diet" because of Celiac and allergies, so my meals were cooked in a separate area of the kitchen. My husband and our friends were very happy with the menu and the prepared dishes..The service was exceptional.. They often had lunch in the International Cafe. My husband and I enjoyed "Crab Shack" lunch in the Crown Grill twice..The Chef even prepared my meal separately because of allergies.. Well worth the price for a special occasion. Crown Grill for dinner is always good, although this time the Lamb was tough and well below standard throughout the ship's restaurants.. Lamb shanks in Main dining rooms was the exception.. I'm sure it was a new supplier, and that will be changed soon. Alfredo's and Sabatinis were enjoyed by our friends, but not go due to allergies.. Throughout the ship, crew was friendly, helpful and always working on the ship.. She's old, but well loved by her crew. Our cabin was one we'd been in many times and I noticed new curtains, couch looked to be recovered. on day 1 our fridge was failing, it was replaced with a "brand new" one within 3 hours of notifying our steward. I gave the steward a list of how many towels, etc. we would use daily..and he made them available. The Hawaiian couple who taught hula, ukulele, were wonderful.. They entertained in the Atrium on Deck 5, offered various craft classes, were available for questions about ports and very friendly on and off the ship. It was very hot and humid in some of the ports and I overheard some serious complaining.. 33 days would not be a good choice for your first cruise.. The ship had some air-conditioning issues, but they were addressed and most decks were consistently cool. Disembarkation was one of the easiest we've had.. there are always a few lines, but both Princess and Cruise Terminal employees were numerous and helpful. The Grand Princess may be old, but her engines are great and she made it across the Pacific from Raitea to Los Angeles in 8 days straight, which is a long time between ports and she safely went though an air rescue at sea 2 days out of Hawaii, which is one of the many exercises the crew trains for.. I can't say enough good things about the Captain, Officers, Engineers, Cooks, waiters, bartenders and the staff behind the scenes who clean day and night.. I do agree with some of the other reviewers.. Way too much pushing to buy things.. and I actually felt uncomfortable .. like the sales people were just looking at me as $$$$ and not as a passenger who might need assistance. Even in the Lotus Spa.. just too much pressure ..I think this is on all Princess ships.. and probably more about the new company handling the shops onboard .. than Princess crew.
Pros: Overall an VG experience. Cabin was clean daily, mattresses, pillows, linen were very clean & comfortable; as was the whole ship. The food was absolutely wonderful, extravagant - it made the cruise over the top in both the dining rooms and the buffet. The waiters all around were very good and attentive - even in the buffet hall. Cons: The drink & Wi-Fi packages are exorbitant; going to the Fitness Center was like walking a gauntlet of upselling which was constant all over the ship. The “new” manager a young woman in the EFFY jewelry store was like a carny hustler - several people commented on her hustling technique -laughable. Only bad experience - we saw and heard the female art manager bawl out another female employee in the open and in front cruise guests. It was not a good look for Princess and shouldn’t be done in any business. Reprimands and corrections should always be in private and the employee respected. It was A bad scene.
From the moment you step aboard, we want you to feel welcomed and right at home. And with attentive service from a friendly staff that knows what hospitality means, you’ll find your Princess® ship truly is your home away from home.
Photos, floor plan diagrams, amenities, and furnishings represent typical arrangements and may vary by ship and stateroom.
Indulge your appetite whenever you wish on board Princess®. Every hour, our chefs are busy baking, grilling and sautéing great-tasting fare from scratch. Princess offers unparalleled inclusive dining options throughout the ship with a wide range of culinary delights to suit any palate, from endless buffet choice to gourmet pizza, frosty treats, decadent desserts and much more.
Speciality Dining
Dining on board a Princess® cruise ship is a joyful celebration and our speciality restaurants always deliver an extraordinary experience. They are among the best at sea – or anywhere. We serve dishes made with the freshest ingredients, and our menus reflect regional flavours from around the world. You'll find our speciality restaurants are the perfect place to celebrate any occasion.
From relaxing pursuits and enriching activities to world-class entertainment and gourmet cuisine, when you step aboard, you are setting a course for a world of wonderful new discoveries.
A wealth of diversions for nearly every interest – and mood
On every Princess ship, you'll find so many ways to play, day or night. Explore The Shops of Princess, celebrate cultures at our Festivals of the World or learn a new talent — our onboard activities will keep you engaged every moment of your cruise vacation.
Original musicals, dazzling magic shows, feature films, top comedians and nightclubs that get your feet movin’ and groovin’. There’s something happening around every corner; luckily, you have a whole cruise of days and nights to experience it all.
The many activities on-board our ships are designed to stimulate, educate, entertain, inspire and sweat - not necessarily in that order. But, guests can be sure crew onboard will do their best to cover all the bases. From art auctions to The Sanctuary Spa, this ship is loaded with fun things to do.
From family-friendly stateroom options to enriching youth and family programmes, quality time is time well spent. Onboard activities spark curiosity and fuel creativity while excursions ashore engage and inspire!
