princess christmas cruise reviews

12 best Christmas cruises for 2024 and 2025

It's the most wonderful time of the year ... to go on a cruise.

Trade the glow of a Christmas tree in your living room with the warmth of the sand and the sun on a holiday cruise. Skip the mulled wine on your stovetop for some of the world's best at a European Christmas market.

Christmas cruises can level up your holiday celebrations — and are an ideal opportunity to escape the conventional holiday celebrations in place of an adventure.

On a holiday cruise, you can leave the cooking, cleaning and decorating to the pros and simply enjoy time with your family. Christmas and New Year's cruises can also be good options for people trying to avoid the crush of relatives or who don't have family but still want to spend the holiday surrounded by other people and festive cheer.

Winter cruises feature holiday-themed activities for all ages, special feasts that capture the magic of the holiday season and port calls at destinations that let you enjoy the holiday spirit without shivering from frigid temperatures.

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It's never too early to plan your holiday getaway, especially as these cruises are among the quickest to sell out. Here are the best Christmas and New Year's cruises still available in 2024 and holiday sailings in 2025 to book now, as well as some useful tips about holiday cruise travel.

Holiday cruise tips

Before you book, keep in mind a few key facts about Christmas cruises.

Rates will be high

Expect cruise fares to be among the highest of the year during the holiday weeks as demand increases.

The best prices will be for early bookings; you likely won't find any last-minute discounts. If you do, they might be on windowless inside cabins or guarantee cabins , where the cruise line picks your room location.

Sailings will sell out

Holiday sailings sell out earlier than other itineraries, as people plan their holiday vacations months in advance. Suites and special cabins (family, spa and solo rooms and so forth) book up the fastest.

Consider booking your holiday cruise as early as possible, as the December sailings often fill up a year in advance .

Consider your own decorations

The crew will decorate public areas on board, but passengers often go all-out decorating their doors and cabins for the holidays.

Magnetic doors on cabins are blank canvases for the imagination. You'll find stateroom doors on Christmas cruises covered in wrapping paper, adorned with garlands or dotted with holiday-themed images.

It's best to double-check with your cruise line before attaching anything to your door or in your cabin, as rules and regulations differ per line. If you're not creative, check if your cruise line offers cabin decoration packages for preorder prior to your sailing.

Specialty dining is not advised on the actual holiday

Most of the specialty dining restaurants on major cruise lines have set menus that do not change for the holidays.

Your best bet for traditional holiday dinner options (think roast turkey, smoked ham, mashed potatoes and gravy) will come from the main, included dining options on board. It can't hurt to ask if any extra-fee restaurants are doing a Christmas or New Year's menu if you're looking for a more intimate holiday meal.

Expect holiday hours in port

Most cruise ships will plan for Christmas to be a sea day, but if you're in port on Dec. 25 (or on Boxing Day, as many islands celebrate the day after), expect shops, restaurants and attractions to have modified hours or be closed.

Onboard services won't stop, so if all your top lunch spots in port are closed, you're always guaranteed a hot meal on the ship.

Consider a holiday bonus for the crew

Cruise ship crew members go beyond the standard service on all lines for the holidays, whether it's a kind note wishing you well, a Champagne toast for New Year's or a fanciful towel creation.

They can't be at home celebrating with their families because they're working hard to make your holiday special. While gratuities are often included in your fare or added automatically to your final bill, consider tipping extra on a Christmas cruise. The hardworking staff will appreciate your extra generosity during the holiday season.

Best Christmas cruises for 2024

If you're on the hunt for the ideal holiday getaway, consider these Christmas cruises for this year's holiday vacation. (Note: These sailings had availability at the time of writing, but prices may change or ships sell out at any time.)

4-night Very Merrytime Bahamian cruise on Disney Cruise Line

Sail dates: Dec. 22-26, 2024

Ship: Disney Fantasy

Access Disney Cruise Line's newest private island when you sail Disney Fantasy this Christmas. This four-night Very Merrytime Bahamian cruise sails from Port Canaveral, Florida (near Orlando) to Disney's Castaway Cay, followed by a day at the new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. The new island destination will highlight island culture with work by local artists and Bahamian music throughout the colorful beachside resort.

This sailing is one of Disney Cruise Line 's Very Merrytime Cruises, so expect plenty of holiday-themed surprises and special moments. Disney's December sailings feature snow flurries in the ship's atrium, pop-up meet-and-greets with Disney characters dressed in their holiday best and a Christmas wonderland on the beach at Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay.

Rates start at $4,862 for two adults sharing an inside cabin, including all taxes and fees.

16-night Circle Hawaii Holiday cruise on Holland America

Sail dates: Dec. 18, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025

Ship: Zaandam

The 16-night Circle Hawaii Holiday on Holland America's Zaandam is a great way to retreat from the cold this December. The extended itinerary will whisk you away for both Christmas and the New Year.

The ship sails round-trip from San Diego with stops in Honolulu; Kahului, Maui; and Hilo and Kona, Hawaii. You'll spend five days traversing the Pacific Ocean on your way to Hawaii and five days at sea returning to the west coast for one more stop in Ensenada, Mexico, before returning to San Diego. You can also enjoy scenic cruising by the Kilauea Volcano.

Don't forget your holiday best, as Zaandam will host a Christmas Eve formal ball with dinner and dancing, as well as a midnight Mass. Other seasonal events include a holiday-themed high tea service, holiday choir performances and Santa meet-and-greets.

Rates for inside cabins start from $1,739 per person, not including an estimated $282 per person in taxes, fees and port expenses.

13-night New Zealand holiday cruise on Celebrity Cruises

Sail dates: Dec. 20, 2024-Jan. 2, 2025

Ship: Celebrity Edge

The most appealing holiday itinerary on Celebrity Cruises takes you Down Under for a two-week celebration, sailing round-trip from Sydney.

You'll cruise during the region's summer season with an itinerary that traverses the picturesque Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound before making port stops in Dunedin, Napier, Auckland, Tauranga and Bay of Islands, New Zealand.

The cruise doesn't call on Australian ports, but you can easily tack on a land-based pre- or post-cruise stay since the ship sails from Sydney.

If you're feeling the holiday spirit, sign up to join a group of crew and passengers to go caroling around the ship. Cookie decorating, visits with Santa and Christmas games are part of the holiday fun. On New Year's Eve, gather for a special party with a complimentary midnight Champagne toast, party favors and live music.

The lowest cabin fares start at $1,664 per person, plus $444.55 in taxes, fees and port expenses.

15-night South Africa Intensive Voyage on Azamara

Sail dates: Dec. 20, 2024-Jan. 4, 2025

Ship: Azamara Pursuit

Azamara is known for its travels to less-frequented ports, often with longer stays providing more time for immersion. Go somewhere new with Azamara's 15-night Christmas and New Year's cruise around South Africa. Azamara Quest sails round-trip from Cape Town with stops along the east coast of South Africa, including Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay, Durban and Mossel Bay.

Holiday events include caroling concerts, pop-ups with Christmas cookies and hot chocolate, and a special tree-trimming party on Dec. 24. Azamara Quest will time its popular White Night pool deck party to coincide with New Year's Eve. The line has a tradition of seeking out the oldest person on board to ring the ship's bell two minutes prior to midnight to literally "ring out the old." Then the youngest passenger on board will "ring in the new" as the clock strikes 12 o'clock.

Rates start from $2,784 per person, not including $196 in taxes, fees and port expenses.

7-night Christmas Markets on the Danube cruise on AmaWaterways

Sail dates: Dec. 9-15, 2024

Ship: AmaBella

A river cruise through Europe is the most convenient way to visit many of the continent's famous Christmas markets.

Your ship will dock in the heart of each city, usually just a few steps from the markets. Sailing with AmaWaterways during the holiday season, guests return from a day exploring the markets to events on board that include tree-trimming, caroling and a fun European tradition called "Shoes for St. Nick," where passengers who leave their slippers outside their stateroom awake to find them filled with sweets.

Unlike most Christmas-related retail stores in the U.S. that stay open through the holiday season, many of Europe's Christmas markets close up shop by Dec. 22, so you'll need to take your vacation before Christmas itself. AmaWaterways' seven-night Christmas Markets on the Danube cruise takes place aboard AmaBella. You'll be immersed in the holiday spirit with port stops in Passau, Germany; Linz, Vienna and Weissenkirchen, Austria; and Budapest.

Rates for the weeklong cruise start at $3,699 per person, not including $224 in port charges and taxes.

7-night Western Caribbean cruise on Princess Cruises

Sail dates: Dec. 21-28, 2024

Ship: Sun Princess

Debuting in February 2024, Sun Princess is the first of Princess Cruises ' brand-new Sphere-class series of ships.

Take the line's newest flagship for a Christmastime spin on a round-trip Fort Lauderdale itinerary that features port calls at Cozumel, Mexico; Belize City, Belize; and Roatan, Honduras. Three sea days give guests plenty of time to explore all the attractions on board, from a dome-covered pool area to a top-deck family activity zone.

The 4,300-passenger vessel will be about 21% bigger than the current biggest ships in the Princess fleet. It will be the line's first ship that features suites with exclusive access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck. Sun Princess will also boast an innovative new "cabana cabin" along the ship's extra-wide 10th deck with access to a private deck area.

It will be easy to get into the holiday spirit while on board Sun Princess, with festive decor throughout the ship and an occasional "snowfall" in the Atrium. If you're traveling with kids, you can leave cookies for Santa and carrots for his reindeer. Christmas caroling, storytime and other holiday events will help you create special holiday memories.

Rates for the Western Caribbean cruise start at $957 per person for an inside cabin, not including $153 in taxes, fees and port expenses.

12-night Antarctic Explorer cruise on Viking

Sail dates: Dec. 22, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025

Ship: Viking Polaris

While instinct might say to stop by the North Pole to check in on Santa's operations, it's just too cold, dark and icy for cruising. Instead, head toward the South Pole and Antarctica for a Christmas expedition.

Spend close to two weeks exploring the farthest reaches of the earth on the Antarctic Explorer itinerary aboard Viking 's Polaris. The route sails round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, before traversing the Drake Passage and cruising Antarctica for seven days. You'll have a cruise line-provided pre-cruise stay in Buenos Aires the night before you fly down to Ushuaia to meet your ship.

You'll explore the icebergs and cliffs of Antarctica on Christmas, presumably followed by a hot cocoa or a warm cocktail on deck. Afterward, treat yourself to Nordic-inspired dishes like smoked salmon and caviar, along with holiday treats like krumkake (a Nordic take on the cannoli) and sandkaker (Norwegian sugar cookies).

As with all Antarctica itineraries, ports and destinations on the continent change by the day, depending on weather and climate conditions. Rates for available staterooms on the cruise start from $15,495, including airfare, port taxes and fees.

Best Christmas cruises for 2025

If you want to score the best prices on a holiday cruise, book far in advance. Here are a few cruises to consider for your 2025 Christmas vacation.

Royal Caribbean: 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise

Sail dates: Dec. 20-27, 2025

Ship: Icon of the Seas

Catch a ride on the world's largest cruise ship during the 2025 holiday season. Highlights of Royal Caribbean 's new Icon of the Seas include a reconfigured Aqua Theater, now set at the bow of the ship inside a giant glass dome and featuring a dazzling 50-foot waterfall and dancing robotic arms, and Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea with six waterslides, including the tallest drop slide at sea.

This holiday-week sailing departs round-trip from Miami with stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas). Three days at sea might not be enough time to try everything on board!

Holiday highlights often include Christmas Eve caroling, an ugly Christmas sweater crafting competition, Christmas ornament and gingerbread cookie decorating classes, and holiday games and trivia.

The lowest available cabin category for this sailing is an ocean-view cabin, starting at $3,266 per person, not including $182.51 in taxes, fees and port expenses per person.

7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Carnival Cruise Line

Sail dates: Dec. 21-Dec. 28, 2025

Ship: Carnival Celebration

Carnival's seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing is an excellent way to experience Carnival's Celebration Key, the line's new private destination on the south side of Grand Bahama Island. Carnival Celebration sails round-trip from Miami with stops in Celebration Key; Nassau, Bahamas; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic and Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, so you can get some much-needed beach time and warm weather.

The line understands its family-forward "fun" ships are built for cheery escapes, and its Christmas celebrations fit perfectly into that world. Seasonal holiday events include Christmas caroling, an ugly sweater competition and a live holiday show with appearances by Santa and the Grinch.

Rates for inside cabins start at $1,049 per person, not including an estimated $215.65 per person in fees.

14-night Galapagos cruise on Silversea

Sail dates: Dec. 13-27, 2025

Ship: Silver Origin

Escape to the exotic Galapagos Islands for the holidays with a Silversea cruise. On the 14-night sailing round-trip from San Cristóbal, Silver Origin will alight at a remarkable 27 ports throughout the archipelago.

The Silver Origin's Christmas sailing will include many festive enhancements, beginning with an extensive overlay of greenery and ornaments throughout the interiors of the ship. The ship's culinary team will prepare a special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinner menu, along with mulled wine, eggnog and hot chocolate.

Adding to the cheer, guests and the ship's crew can participate in caroling, and despite no chimney in sight, a special visitor from the North Pole is scheduled to make an appearance.

The "door-to-door" rate for this sailing starts from $24,400 per person, including port fees and taxes. It includes a transfer service to the airport, airfare, shore excursions, premium alcoholic beverages, all gratuities, butler service and a return transfer back home at the end of your trip.

11-night Monteverde Cloud Forest & Arenal Volcano cruise tour on Windstar Cruises

Sail dates: Dec. 16-27, 2025

Ship: Wind Spirit

Give yourself a bucket list gift for Christmas and book a Panama Canal cruise for your winter vacation.

Windstar Cruises ' Wind Spirit — a cruise ship that's part yacht, part four-masted sailing ship — is sailing down Costa Rica's Pacific coast and through the Panama Canal during the 2025 holiday season.

The journey begins with a five-day land tour of Costa Rica, taking guests to the Arenal volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. You'll then head to Puerto Caldera to board Wind Spirit. The ship will sail south to Quepos and Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica. Then it's on to ports in Isla Parida and Balboa (for Panama City) in Panama before sailing through the Panama Canal.

To sweeten the holiday, Windstar gifts each cabin with a basket of Christmas cookies, candy canes, mandarin oranges, roasted nuts and chocolate candies.

Rates for the 11-night Central American getaway start from $5,599 per person, not including $474 in port fees and taxes.

7-night Roundtrip New Orleans Christmas cruise on American Queen Voyages

Sail dates: Dec. 22-29, 2025

Ship: American Countess

Glide up the Lower Mississippi River and soak in the charms of historic towns decked out in their holiday finest. This American Queen Voyages itinerary will also visit the special European-style Christmas market in Natchez, Mississippi, created especially for the line.

The itinerary begins with a pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans, where the bustling Bourbon Street awaits exploration. The Mississippi river sailing includes stops along the river at Nottoway, Louisiana; Natchez, Mississippi; St. Francisville, Louisiana and an overnight in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Guests can opt for a premium holiday shore excursion in Natchez. The Jeweled Christmas in Natchez tour features a visit to The Towers, one of the state's most opulent privately owned antebellum homes. Guests will ooh and ahh over the festive decorations and displays that include over 100 Christmas trees.

While on board, passengers will enjoy festive holiday decorations, special holiday performances, seasonal cuisine and Christmas cocktails.

Rates for the seven-night Roundtrip New Orleans Christmas cruise start from $3,819 per person, including taxes, port fees and gratuities.

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The Best Holiday Cruises Are With Princess!

Holiday Celebrations at Sea

A variety of holiday activities on board offer fun for the whole family. Don’t forget to pack your festive outfits and take part in the holiday cheer! Enjoy games & activities including:

• Stanley breakfast event – wear your family pajamas
• Storytime with Stanley
• Holiday family fun fair
• Holiday themed PJ party
• Ugly sweater party
• Gingerbread house making*
• Santa gift giving
• Snow in the Piazza
• Family snowman building competition*

*Subject to availability

Christmas Cruises

Take a Christmas cruise with Princess

White Christmas

Regardless of where you're sailing, it actually snows in the Atrium of your decked‐out Princess ship. And of course, Santa visits each of our ships for gift giving — we offer cookies for him, and carrots for his reindeer. Experience the Christmas tree lighting and mingle with Kris Kringle as Yuletide Carolers sing joyful classics onboard your ship. And our very own Stanley the bear joins in on the fun for holiday storytime and breakfast event. Don't forget to pack and wear your family holiday matching pajamas!

View Holiday cruises

Baby It's Cold Outside...

But it’s warm and toasty onboard a Princess ship! Enjoy Christmas on a cruise ship as you sip eggnog, compete in a magical gingerbread house‐making contest, snowman building competition or design a special keepsake ornament. Revel in the Ugly Sweater party (don't forget to pack it!), Holiday Family Fun Fair, and countless joyful activities await you on your holiday cruise.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

The most wonderful time of the year should be wonderful for everyone. That’s why Princess, voted the best cruise line for multigenerational families (Portholes) offers the best Christmas cruises for families and guests of all ages. Kids can go play in our youth and teen centers, where they’ll enjoy fun holiday parties (and you’ll enjoy evening kid-sitting for a nominal fee so parents can celebrate a festive night out too!). Then the whole family can reunite for a stress-free Christmas dinner, feasting on a delicious banquet while cherishing each other’s company.

Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and New Year's Cruises

The Best Thanksgiving Cruises

Enjoy lovely autumn décor, take part in a Turkey Calling Contest, and add a special message to our annual Tree of Thanks in the ship's Atrium.

View Thanksgiving cruises

Thanksgiving Dinner

Leave the cooking to Princess, and join us for an elaborate traditional holiday feast in the dining room, complete with all the trimmings.

Thanksgiving under the Stars

What would Thanksgiving be without football? Watch the games on our Movies Under the Stars ® outdoor big screen.

Hanukkah Cruises

The Festival of Lights burns brightly with a menorah‐lighting ceremony, themed crafts, festive décor and special events, like a reading of Sammy Spider's First Hanukkah on the first night of Hanukkah.

View Hanukkah celebration cruises

Hanukkah Traditions

Enjoy traditional Hanukkah delicacies specially prepared by our professional chefs, such as potato latkes and gefilte fish. You can even pre-order kosher meals!

New Year's Cruises

Take a New Year's cruise. Count down and count your blessings on the biggest night of the year with a special New Year’s Eve dinner followed by a midnight celebratory Champagne toast.

View New Year's cruises

The Best Holiday Cruises — All Year Round

Mark the beginning of the Lunar New Year, with time–honored traditions for an immersive experience. Our Chinese New Year celebrations include symbolic red decorations that adorn the Piazza, mythological Lion Dancers thrill spectators, and much more.

View Chinese New Year cruises

Love, life’s sweetest reward, is celebrated with hearts and flowers and special touches throughout the ship. Onboard, you can make a card for your sweetheart, send a singing telegram, renew your vows, watch themed Movies Under the Stars, and so much more.

View Valentine's Day cruises

Celebrations of hope and springtime abound during this holy period. Onboard, you can participate in a Seder service, sit down with family for a traditional Easter dinner, and enjoy special visits from the Easter Bunny, and a candy egg hunt.

View Easter & Passover cruises

What’s the #1 travel gift moms want? A Mother's day cruise. Celebrate and pamper mom onboard with a relaxing spa treatment, a specially-themed balcony breakfast, complimentary sparkling wine and a rose at dinner, and much more.

View Mother's Day cruises

Watch the big game on our giant Movies Under the Stars screen, complete with grilled burgers and craft beers on deck. Treat your special dad to a hand–cut steak cooked to order at the Crown Grill. Celebrate the day with a whiskey tasting at the Wheelhouse Bar. It will be a Father’s Day he never forgets!

View Father's Day cruises

Halloween on a Princess cruise ship promises more treats than tricks. Delight in spooky décor while carving pumpkins in the Princess Piazza. Ghostly grown-ups can attend our Halloween Fright Night Party, while little pumpkins can enjoy a costume parade, scavenger hunt, and, of course, lots of candy!

View Halloween cruises

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Traveler Reviews

A ship’s traveler rating is provided under license by Cruiseline.com , which manages one of the largest databases of cruise reviews and ratings by travelers. A total of 335 guests have reviewed Discovery Princess , giving it a rating of 4.4 on a scale of 1-5.

Cruiseline Travel Rating:

Reviews by traveler type, most recent reviews.

Wonderful Alaska Cruise - Natalia was fantastic!

Jul 9th, 2024

I was very pleased with the cruise and the whole process. Our travel agent Natalia was amazing! The staff on the ship was fantastic - very attentive and professional.

Traveler Type

Singles/Friends

2-3 cruises

great cruise, ship was very good and clean.

Cruise was very good. Staff mentioned above did exceptional work and should be recognized. Port time was too short in Victoria to really tour the city--a disappointment.

First time on a cruise and first time in Alaska

As first time cruisers with young children we went with what our extended family recommended. If I was to do this again I would pick a cruise with less days at sea and more time on land. Got a bit of cabin fever. I would also pick a cruise with a wider variety of onboard activities for families. A kid's club (childcare) is not equivalent to family friendly activities in my opinion.

Family (young children)

1 cruise (first)

Jul 2nd, 2024

Would have rather cruised differently for the cost I would probably not cruise with princess again

Amazing Cruise

Amazing trip! Would definitely do it again! Enjoyed the ship and the ports.

Family (older children)

4-6 cruises

Wonderful time with my lovely wife!

Jun 29th, 2024

We enjoyed the Discovery Princess alot! Love the Royal class ships alot!

Terrific cruise, crew and ship

I would do this again. It was the most relaxing vacation I have ever taken. I felt well taken care of and the food, cabin, and ship were all above expectations.

Wonderful Ship Experience

Jun 18th, 2024

We loved the ship and Skagway. We would pass on Juneau and Ketchikan next time. As a group we determined the towns are just too crowded when multiple ships are in port at the same time. If they spaced them out more it would have been much more enjoyable.

A Perfect Alaska Cruise

It's impossible to overstate how wonderful this cruise was! The ship is glorious, the staff was motivated to serve. So glad we booked this, our first Princess cruise. It won't be our last!

Alaska beautiful but sailing from Seattle was not

Jun 9th, 2024

Beautiful Alaskan cruise. I would sail again with Princess but from another port.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Regal Princess Cruise Review – A Back to Back Holiday Sailing

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Regal Princess Cruise Review – A Back to Back Holiday Sailing

We recently cruised on the Regal Princess over Christmas and New Year’s and had a wonderful time. We’ve cruised with Princess before, and it’s one of our families’ preferred cruise lines. In fact, we celebrated my parent’s 50th wedding anniversary with a multi-generational cruise on the Crown Princess last year.

This time, we decided to do a back to back cruise. Like most cruisers, this has been a dream for several years.

Finally, this year we did it!!

Due to everyone’s schedules, as a family, we often travel and cruise over the Holidays . This time, in addition to New Year’s, we were on for the Christmas week.

If you’ve considered cruising during the Holidays, I highly suggest it. I’ll touch on some of the highlights in this cruise review, but since there is so much to say and show, the details of how Christmas is celebrated on the ship are in this post: Holiday Festivities on the Regal Princess

I’ll go through many points about the ship experience on the Regal Princess on both week 1 (Christmas) and week 2 (New Year’s), as well as the ports, which were Eastern then Western Caribbean (port reviews at bottom)

Regal Princess – Main Areas of the Ship

One of the largest ships in the Princess fleet, the Regal Princess is stunning. Entering into the Piazza, Princess’s atrium, it was decorated elegantly for the Christmas holidays. The 3 story atrium was as beautiful (but even more so) than other Princess ships we’ve been on. In the case of the Royal class of ships, the piazza is grand and spacious, with 3 elegant staircases and touches of glass and gold.

Since it was the holiday season, on the first level of the Piazza, stood a tall Christmas tree decorated in jewel tones. It was a great backdrop for people to take photos during the week.

In the Piazza there are a few shops, a couple of bars, the entrance to the casino, Alfredo’s Pizzeria and the International Cafe. There’s plenty of comfortable seating and has a nice dance floor in the middle, where we often saw people dance to the live bands. It is the central hub of the Regal Princess and there was always something going on.

Truly it was on one our favorite parts of the ship.

The main pool areas were very nice, and in keeping with everything on Regal Princess, the attention to detail in the beautiful ship design is constant.

There are 2 main pools, a spacious adult only pool area and a much smaller pool at the very back of the ship (which is on Regal and not on Royal Princess).

The central part of the lido deck had 2 pools (one larger and one small), with a platform with fountains in the middle. It also housed the Movies Under the Stars Screen. There were also quite a few hot tubs, including a couple on the upper deck above the pool. There is ample seating and space around the entire pool area.

This was definitely the busiest area of the ship. It may have been due to the fact that the holidays just brings so many people and families, but we didn’t enjoy this area much during this cruise.

Some great things about it, are that the grill and pizzeria are in this area, and there is a lot of lounge seating as well as tables and chairs to eat outdoors in the shade. It’s really beautiful with the Seawalk and bar, however the movies (from Movies Under the Stars) were extremely loud so we opted not to stay in this area.

My personal preference is the Crown Class of ships where the two main pools are separated so that the Movies Under the Stars is at one pool, and music and games are at the other.

That said, families with kids looked like they were having a great time, and we spoke to many people who love watching movies and videos all day.

Adult Pool (Retreat)

The Retreat Pool was so relaxing and just perfect. We loved it!

The rectangular shaped pool was spacious. The lounge chairs and cabanas surrounding it gave the feeling of being at a high end resort with a 5 star sea view! It was honestly never overcrowded and for us it was the perfect spot to spend a sea day. There were 2 good size hot tubs as well.

Cabanas were available to rent for 50$ a half day and 80$ for a full day, and they included a nice special menu, which I believe was the same as the Sanctuary.

This is something I really appreciate about Princess Cruises – there is something for everyone that feels just right.

The Sanctuary

Just off the Retreat adult pool, is the private adult only Sanctuary. An oasis of quiet located at the very front of the ship. We did a little tour on our first day, and it is luxurious and beautiful. However, we like a bit of a action and don’t usually go for the quietest spaces. That may change one day, but for now it wasn’t a huge temptation.

Regal Princess Cabins

Having cruised in inside, oceanview and balcony cabins, I particularly like the overall practicality of Princess cabins. On this cruise we had an obstructed balcony cabin.

When you walk into the cabin, there is a front area with an open closet that acts as a wall or separator from the rest of the cabin. There’s also a good size long cupboard with about 5 shelves to place clothes, and the stateroom safe is there as well. Right across from the open closet is the bathroom. With a couple of full size mirrors, it makes a great spot to get dressed and ready while others in the cabin are doing their own thing.

In our cabin, we had our bed as well as a pullman bed (bunk that came out of the ceiling), for our son, as we were 3 in the cabin. Finally, a desk and chair, as well as a small low cupboard and fridge were also in the cabin. The cabin wasn’t super large, but does have pretty comfortable space and great storage which I find really helps to keep a cabin organized .

We had an obstructed balcony cabin on Deck 8, and if you’re wondering how obstructed it is, it will depend on the cabin location. I would not suggest anyone get this type of cabin if having a full ocean view is very important to you.

In our case, we felt that the obstructed balcony cabin was a good value, and we were glad to have the outdoor space and view when we stood up. However the view when sitting was almost 100% blocked, by an orange lifeboat. Our neighbor however just had a low beam and wire obstructing his view. I say this only to give a realistic review of the cabin. Personally, I believe we’re not likely to be disappointed if we know what to expect.

We did still get an incredible view of the ocean and islands though (when standing lol) see video on Life Well Cruised facebook here .

Our mattresses were comfortable, and overall we were very happy with our cabin. Our cabin steward was amazing! Honesty so helpful and nice, and she did a wonderful job.

Funny story

On the morning we arrived in Falmouth, Jamaica, I went out on our balcony and was admiring the sun hitting the water and the landscape, when suddenly, out popped a head from the lifeboat about 6 feet in front of me.

Oh… they were doing some maintenance on the lifeboats that day, I came to find out. ”Hello” said the crew member shyly. ”Good morning”, we laughed… and went inside and about our day. I have to say, I’m one of those people who could never be inconvenienced by ship maintenance and safety drills, right?

Regal Princess Dining

Casual food

If you’ve followed any of my Instagram or Facebook posts, you’ll know how highly I speak of the casual food on the Regal Princess. From the buffet, the grill and pizzeria on the pool deck, the International Cafe and Alfredo’s Pizzeria in the Piazza, and room service, I couldn’t suggest any way they could improve. The casual food choices, quality and taste were fantastic.

Alfredo’s Review:  Princess Cruises Alfredo’s Pizzeria Review with Menus

We really enjoyed a couple of fun experiences that I recommend. If you have not yet done this, give it a try next cruise.

1. British Pub Lunch: This was held on a sea day, so check your Princess Patter for it. Basically, we had a yummy lunch of fish and chips and prawns in the lounge at the Crown Grill. It gets pretty busy as it is popular, so show up on time (hours are in the daily schedule). It was really good!

2. Afternoon Tea: This was the first time we went for afternoon tea in the diningroom, eve though we’d been meaning to do it for years. We really liked it and enjoyed scones with cream and jam, little sandwiches and cookies. It was really quite nice.

In the Piazza, the International cafe has some delicious salads and sandwiches, and we enjoyed lunch there instead of the buffet a couple of times. I particularly like the shrimp fennel salad, while my husband enjoys the Greek salad. Sandwiches were delicious as were bowls of fruit salad for something healthier. We would often end the evening with a little dessert from the International Cafe – it’s just so good!

Tip: One of our favorite places to eat was Alfredo’s Pizzeria in the Piazza, not to be confused with Pregos, which was poolside. Why not head to Alfredo’s for lunch, instead of the buffet, on the first day of your cruise ? It will be much less busy and you’ll be one of the first to try it.

Recommended reading: Princess Cruises Alfredo’s Pizzeria – the Best Pizza at Sea

Main Dining Room

We found the main dining rooms to be quite beautiful and elegant and enjoyed a feeling of spaciousness in that one table wasn’t glued to the other. We had Anytime dining and for the first time, felt that maybe going back to traditional dining might be an idea.

Let me explain. Firstly, our servers were hard working and nice and we can’t complain. However, perhaps due to the fact that the Regal Princess is a very large ship and it was sailing very full due to the Holidays, it often felt like a bit of a hectic overall dining experience. If you’ve cruised with Princess and had an experience either similar or different please do let me know so we can decide for next time.

In terms of the food and menu, most of our meals were very good and there are items I really like, such as the salmon which is available every night. M husband really enjoyed the prime rib and my son the shrimp cocktail as well as other shrimp appetizers available on the menu. The desserts, especially chocolate journeys were delicious and some very memorable.

One thing to note, is that on the menu we’ve always appreciated having a few choices that varied nightly, while others were ”always available”. There have been changes to the ”always available” portion of the menu, and some items are no longer offered. While I’m so happy my salmon is still there, it was disappointing for my husband and son that the everyday steak and fries was removed. I do hope Princess considers how some people really liked this option and will return it to the menu.

Entertainment

There was a lot to do and many choices on the Regal Princess. Cruise Director Dan Falconer and his activities staff did a great job at connecting with guests and providing a lot of fun activities.

Some of the evening entertainment worth mentioning is Born to Dance, which was very good as a production show. There were a couple of others with singing and dancing, however it’s just not our preference, so we often opted to to hang out in the Piazza where there was live music.

The live music was truly phenomenal with Xcite the Band and Ella Ryan performing, as well as other talented musicians. This was a real strength of this ship.

The Voice of the Ocean really looks like the set of the Voice and was pretty incredible. We caught a few minutes of one show, however since this was during the day we unfortunately didn’t make it any other times.

In the evening, there were also fun game show style activities in Princess Live as well as in the Piazza, which were a lot of fun. We did miss the illusionists and guest entertainers we’ve seen on past Princess cruises, although there was a comedian I can’t recall the performance.

However, one thing we really like about cruising with Princess, is that there’s really something for everyone. We always found something we enjoyed.

Ocean Medallion

We were, I believe, the first full Ocean Medallion cruise, which was still in the testing stages. While it wasn’t 100% functional, most important elements were in place. The staff was very helpful at assisting passengers with any set up or internet questions and issues.

You can read about our experience here: Hello Ocean Medallion!! A Cruiser’s Perspective on the Best New Tech at Sea.

Speaking of Ocean Medallion, along with this new technology, came Medallion Net, basically the ship’s internet or wifi. Let me tell you, this is amazing, fast and affordable wifi.

We were also able to share between devices, as long as you use one device at a time. For those that don’t really want to be on the internet a lot but still want or need some access (as I know many, including myself, like to unplug when they cruise), this is fantastic for the price.

Updated Ocean medallion info:  21 Things You Need to Know About Ocean Medallion

Sports Deck and Fitness Center

The amazing large sports deck really surprised us, as it’s just not a big focus on other Princess ships we’d been on in the past. My husband and I loved to walk most mornings on the large walking and jogging track. There were outdoor Zumba classes and other activities going on in the sports court. Mini-golf and shuffle board were on upper decks above the sports court. All this at the aft of the ship made for a gorgeous sea view.

The fitness center had great equipment, although I really use the treadmill and elliptical machines. I joined a couple of classes and the instructors were super.

I highly recommend doing a class or two while on a cruise. I usually pick a stretching class as I know I can do it. It’s so great for getting some of the stress of our daily routine out and it’s also nice to carve an hour or so out of the day just for you.

We really find that Princess has some of the most professional,  warmest and friendliest staff around. Our cabin attendant was so helpful and did a phenomenal job. Guest services were helpful when we had any small issues.

Shopping on board

I don’t often point this out in my cruise reviews, but I felt this warranted mentioning. Shopping on board in the jewelry and other shops can be a tremendous value. We were able to purchase a brand name watch which we were eyeing before the cruise, and knew our prices, for less than 50% of the cost elsewhere, including the islands. As well, the salesperson was so informative and helpful that it was a very pleasant buying experience.

Celebrating Christmas and New Year’s on the Regal Princess

Christmas on a Cruise: Decorations and more

From the moment we boarded the ship on December 23, the atmosphere was festive and beautiful. There were carolers performing in the Piazza, there was a visit from Santa for the kids Christmas morning, there was a storytime for the little ones – and more. Truly magical for anyone on board.

There was also Christmas movies on the big outdoor screen and lots of Christmas music.

If you’d like to read more about what to expect from a Christmas Cruise in greater detail, you may enjoy this post .

A short anecdote

I like Christmas music. It’s festive, it’s fun, it’s nostalgic. I totally get into the Holiday spirit!

However, once Christmas is over, I start to tire of the music – quickly.

So, on December 26 we were in the buffet in the morning, where festive and very traditional Christmas music played over the speakers, and I asked my husband, quietly, ”so… when do you think they’ll stop the music?”.

He thought likely they were leaving it for December 26, after all it was the day after Christmas. Then the 27th, it would be either finished or reduced – like maybe a mix of Christmas music and other songs, he explained. That made sense…

So, on the morning of December 27th we were sitting outside in the back of the buffet, our favorite spot to eat, and we heard this… ”Ì’ll be home for Christmas…”. In 363 days I thought… oh no!

Yep, there was Christmas music (and traditional at that) pretty much until at least the 29th, maybe 30th of December. In fairness, it wasn’t played everywhere – basically the buffet seemed to be the spot to keep the Christmas spirit alive through song.

I probably could have fared better if the Christmas music had been in Reggae ;-),  just sayin’.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

What a party! I cannot think of anything better than celebrating New Year`s on a cruise. We’ve celebrated New Year`s with Princess Cruises 3 times, and we love it!

Their was a special New Years’ dinner and as we entered the dining room, ladies were given festive tiaras and men fun top hats, and we were all given blowers.

There were 2 bands playing and the house DJ all at different parts of the ship. There was a party with a balloon drop in the Piazza and fireworks on the big screen at the party on the pool deck. It was a fun night!

If you’d like to read about our New Year’s Cruise on the Crown Princess, you may enjoy this post:   Princess Cruises New Year’s Eve Multi-Generational Cruise Review

Cruise Ports of call

Since we were on a Back to Back cruise, we did Eastern Caribbean ports first and then Western Caribbean cruise ports.

Eastern Caribbean ports

Princess Cays

Our first stop was Princess Cays, where we tendered and had a great beach day at the ultimate Love Boat Island. There is a nice beach barbecue on the private isalnd, however we decided to go back to the ship in the early afternoon and eat on board at the poolside grill.

St. Thomas, USVI

In St. Thomas we docked in Havensight and it had been years since we’d been and we were happy to be back. Since we had a nice long day in St. Thomas, and were in port until 10 pm, we booked an afternoon excursion with Princess.

In the morning we let our Prince Charming sleep in (our son is 18 so he had some late nights) and my husband and I shopped and walked around right at the port. After having a quick bite on the ship, we went off for a boat excursion which included snorkeling with turtles at Buck Island and a beach break at Honeymoon Beach.

The snorkeling was nice and clear, and we saw 4 turtles as well as some fish swimming through the coral. Sometimes there are more turtles we were told, however it was still a great experience. This excursion came with an excellent, albeit potent rum punch, once the snorkeling was done. Honeymoon beach was simple but very pretty.

Philipsburg, St. Marteen/St. Martin

In St. Martin, our first thought was to go to Orient Beach on the French side of the island, as we have enjoyed that beautiful beach in the past. However, since the hurricane of 2018 really affected the island, the infrastructure wasn’t yet ready to accommodate large amounts of tourists and we were cautioned about heading there.

So, what did we do? We went to Maho Beach on the Dutch side of course finally experience THE airplane beach. Although not a relaxing beach, it was definitely a memorable and fun day and something to see even once. I was actually expecting sand to really blow, however it wasn’t overly blowy, perhaps because of the size of the aircrafts.

If you head to Maho Beach, stop in at the Sunset Bar for drinks. If you can sit at a table near the water, you’ll get a gorgeous and unique view. Clear blue ocean, sand and sky, and then quite suddenly, a plane appears coming in for a landing. Although I’ll probably do this just once, it was worth seeing.

Fort Lauderdale/Turnaround day

Since we had a B2B cruise , we were able to get off in Fort Lauderdale and visit and re-board the ship. We decided not to, as we thought we’d enjoy a quiet morning on the ship. However, in hindsight it could have been a nice thing to do.

While normally we are told the process to get off and re-board (there is a process due to customs) should be easy and take about 15 minutes, there was an issue that day that we were unaware of. It actually took more than 2 hours. Unfortunately, we had some bad luck here as we were told it was a very unique situation.

We did re- board and had a nice day as new passengers embarked.

Western Caribbean Ports

Since we’d been at Princess Cays the previous week, we decided to stay on board – best decision ever! While we like cruise ports and getting off the ship, it’s amazing to be one of a small percentage of people staying on the ship itself. We loved having the (delusional) feeling that the ship was all ours.

Tip: On occasion, stay on the ship instead of getting off at a port of call. It’s a pleasure to have so much space wherever you go. Often, things like spa services are reduced or have an extra promotion, so it’s worth doing sometimes.

Falmouth, Jamaica

We hadn’t been here since 2012, and at that time, little was built in the port area itself. Falmouth is growing into a really nice cruise port.

We really like Jamaica and have gone to Dunn’s River Falls in the past, as well as an all-inclusive beach resort day on past cruises. This time we decided to walk around the port both outside and inside the gates.

While we didn’t feel unsafe outside the gates, we did keep our walking to a few blocks where there were many tourists. I think in the future it would be worth taking a tour to discover more. I wouldn’t want to go to far on our own.

When we returned to the cruise port area, we went to Margaritaville ( 3 minutes from the ship) for the afternoon and had a great time. It`s always such fun and the drinks are great. Do come with a bathing suit and enjoy a great pool day.

Jamaica Love Locks – we purchased a love lock to place on the large art display ONE LOVE. It’s fun to know that a little bit of us is part of it.

We also went through the craft market and bought a couple of wooden pieces for our sun room, which we decorate with things from our holidays.

Georgetown, Grand Cayman

What’s not to love about Grand Cayman? Clean, beautiful, with incredible beaches and shopping, it’s the quintessential Caribbean Cruise port of call! After tendering, we met our excursion group, which we booked through Princess, for our Stingray snorkeling excursion. Although it was very crowded over at Stngray City Sandbar, it was a great experience nonetheless and I highly recommend it.

In the past we’ve also enjoyed the day at 7 Mile Beach. For more great ideas of what you can do in Grand Cayman, you might enjoy reading about these excursions, plus some tips on what to expect in Grand Cayman.

Cozumel, Mexico

This is one of our favorite cruise ports, as it’s just so easy to have a great beach day, and we pick up any little souvenirs we need right at the little shops at the cruise port. On this cruise itinerary, we were in Cozumel until 10 pm. Although we didn’t stay out very late, it’s always nice not to rush back.

We went to our favorite place in Cozumel, which we have been going to for years, Paradise Beach. However there are a lot of other beach experiences and other activities in Cozumel , which makes it a great place to visit on a cruise.

Recap: Regal Princess Back to Back cruise review

We really had a wonderful cruise on the Regal Princess and I think she is a gorgeous ship! The Seawalk, retreat pool and Piazza are all so beautiful. Other venues like the theater and lounges are also elegant. Princess has really created a beauty.

On a personal level, I usually prefer a bit of a smaller ship, however there are always trade offs for that. Smaller ships can’t have all the choices this ship has, nor as much space. For a large ship, there was much more open space than we’ve experienced on other very large ships..

So, all in all I recommend the Regal Princess and think this is a great ship for couples, families as well as multi-generational trips. There’s really something for everyone!

Have you cruised on the Regal Princess? What did you like best? Do you prefer bigger or smaller ships and why? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising,

P.S. If you’ve found this post helpful, please share on Facebook or PIN to save for later on Pinterest. Thanks so much!

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I dream of the day we can do a back-to-back. I am pretty loyal to RC but I need to branch out and check out some of the Princess Itineraries. It seems that Royal Caribbean favors the 9-5 port times and I’d love to change that up a bit.

We sailed in early December and I remember how odd it felt to hear Christmas music when we are so used to hearing “island” music all week. Strange but cool (until 12/25 at midnight).

I have felt the same way about my time dining, especially if it’s just the two of us sailing. It is just not the same experience as the MDR for traditional dining. I attribute it to getting to know your servers over the course of the week vs. having someone different each night. Thanks again for the great post!

For sure we felt the same way about doing a B2B – honestly a cruiser`s dream come true!! I`m so glad you liked the review – I agree the late port times on this itinerary were fantastic!

So, you had the same experience with dining eh? Ya, I think you’re right that having the same servers makes a huge difference!

Thanks so much for taking the time to comment!

I enjoy cruising to. But being single I usually have to get one of my friends to go with me. Were not out on the prowl looking to hook up, just enjoy cruising. As we’re both single the maitre D, I think was trying to do us a favor and seated us at a large round table full of women in their twenties and thirties, being that we’re in our sixties we ran out of possible conversations on the 1st night so decided to switch to anytime dining and it worked much better for us. We even met a couple of other single guys who were traveling the same way and we had several nights together – was very nice

What a great story, Steve. It is fun to socialize on a cruise, and I agree the anytime dining can be perfect for connecting with others who have similar interests.

Thanks for sharing!

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Princess Christmas Cruises

Princess Christmas Cruises offer a festive atmosphere with holiday decorations and carolers on board their ships. Passengers can enjoy Christmas activities, gingerbread house competitions, Christmas Eve services, and a special Christmas dinner.

Princess cruise ships are known for their merry ambiance, making them a great choice for a Christmas getaway. Planning a Christmas cruise can be a stress-free and memorable way to celebrate the holiday season.

Table of Contents

Why Choose A Princess Christmas Cruise?

Experience the magic of the holidays on a Princess Christmas Cruise. From festive decorations to special Christmas activities, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season at sea.

Experience The Magic Of Christmas At Sea:

• Festive celebrations on Princess Christmas Cruises create a magical experience for all passengers.
• Enjoy a unique and enchanting holiday celebration at sea with friends and family.
• Immerse yourself in the joyous ambiance of Christmas aboard a Princess cruise ship.

Unmatched Festive Atmosphere On Princess Cruise Ships:

• Princess cruise ships are renowned for their festive atmosphere during the Christmas season.
• Join in the holiday spirit as the ship comes alive with joyful decorations and lively entertainment.
• Experience a warm and welcoming environment that captures the essence of Christmas on board.

Decked Out Holiday Decor In Every Corner:

• Princess cruise ships transform into winter wonderlands with elaborate holiday decorations.
• Marvel at the stunning Christmas displays throughout the ship’s public areas.
• Every corner is adorned with festive trimmings, creating a visually delightful experience.

Strolling Carolers And Musical Delights:

• Listen to the sweet sounds of strolling carolers as they serenade you with classic holiday tunes.
• Enjoy live musical performances featuring festive melodies and joyful songs.
• The enchanting music adds an extra layer of holiday cheer to your Princess Christmas Cruise.

A Princess Christmas Cruise offers a unique and enchanting way to celebrate the holiday season at sea. With a festive atmosphere, decked out holiday decor, and musical delights, it’s the perfect way to create lasting memories with loved ones. Experience the magic of Christmas on board a Princess cruise ship and make this holiday season truly special.

Activities And Entertainment

Experience the magic of Princess Christmas Cruises with a host of activities and entertainment for the whole family. From gingerbread house competitions to interdenominational Christmas services, there’s something for everyone to enjoy onboard.

When it comes to holiday cruises, Princess Christmas Cruises ensures that there is something for everyone. From fun-filled activities for the whole family to festive celebrations and entertainment, your Christmas at sea will be a memorable one. Let’s explore the exciting activities and entertainment options available onboard:

Christmas Activities For The Whole Family:

• Gingerbread House competition: Unleash your inner pastry chef and participate in the Gingerbread House competition. Show off your creativity and compete for the best design. It’s a fun-filled activity that the whole family can enjoy.
• Port Decorations: Experience a touch of Christmas in every destination. Princess Cruises ensures that each port is beautifully decorated, creating a festive atmosphere wherever you go. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as you explore different ports of call.

Princess Kids Club: Fun And Games For Little Ones:

• Princess Kids Club offers a wide range of activities tailored for children of all ages. From arts and crafts to interactive games, your little ones will have a blast participating in age-appropriate activities. They can make new friends and create lasting memories during their holiday cruise.

Christmas Eve: Celebrate The Night Before In Style:

• On Christmas Eve, Princess Cruises hosts special events and celebrations to get you into the holiday mood. Enjoy festive decorations, live music, and entertainment throughout the ship. You can gather with your loved ones and indulge in a delicious Christmas Eve dinner.

Interdenominational Christmas Services: Spiritual Nourishment At Sea:

• Princess Cruises understands the importance of spiritual nourishment during the holiday season. They offer interdenominational Christmas services onboard, allowing passengers to celebrate their faith while at sea. Join fellow passengers in a meaningful service and find solace in the tranquility of the sea.

Christmas Day: Festive Celebrations And Joyous Moments:

• Christmas Day on a Princess Christmas Cruise is filled with joy and celebration. Wake up to beautifully decorated surroundings and enjoy a traditional Christmas feast with all the trimmings. Expect visits from Santa Claus, carolers, and live entertainment to make your Christmas at sea truly magical.

Embark on a Princess Christmas Cruise and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. From fun-filled activities to festive celebrations, there’s no better way to make your holiday season truly special. Get ready for a Christmas cruise like no other.

Tips And Recommendations For A Memorable Christmas Cruise

Discover tips and recommendations for a memorable Christmas cruise with Princess Cruises. From festive decorations to special holiday activities, Princess ships create a merry atmosphere for an unforgettable holiday experience at sea.

Christmas cruises offer a unique and festive way to celebrate the holiday season. If you’re planning to go on a Princess Christmas Cruise, here are some tips and recommendations to ensure you have a memorable experience:

What To Bring With You On A Christmas Cruise:

• Warm Clothing: While cruises offer plenty of indoor heating, it’s a good idea to bring some warm clothing for outdoor activities or if you’re sensitive to cold temperatures.
• Festive Attire: Don’t forget to pack some festive clothing for Christmas-themed events and parties onboard.
• Christmas Decorations: If you want to add a personal touch to your cabin or common areas, bring along some small decorations to make it feel more like Christmas.
• Stocking Stuffers: Surprise your loved ones by bringing small gifts or stocking stuffers to exchange on Christmas morning.

A Guide To Enjoying Christmas Dinner Onboard:

• Make Reservations: Check with the cruise line in advance to secure a reservation at one of the specialty dining venues for a special Christmas dinner experience.
• Traditional Menu: Many cruise ships offer traditional Christmas dishes like roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, and festive desserts. Don’t miss out on trying these holiday favorites.
• Festive Atmosphere: The dining venues are usually beautifully decorated, creating a magical ambiance for your Christmas meal.
• Special Entertainment: Some cruise lines even have live performances during dinner, adding to the festive spirit.

How To Make The Most Of Your Holiday Experience:

• Participate in Festive Activities: Take part in onboard activities like gingerbread house decorating, Christmas craft workshops, and holiday-themed trivia games.
• Attend Special Events: Check the cruise itinerary for special events like Christmas concerts, caroling sessions, and Santa Claus meet and greets. These events are perfect for capturing the holiday spirit.
• Explore Festive Ports: If your cruise stops at ports of call during the Christmas season, take the opportunity to explore local Christmas markets, festivals, and decorations.

Downsides To Consider Before Booking Your Christmas Cruise:

• Crowded Spaces: Christmas cruises are popular, so expect larger crowds onboard. If you prefer a quieter cruise experience, consider other dates.
• Higher Prices: Christmas cruises tend to be more expensive compared to other times of the year due to high demand.
• Limited Availability: As Christmas cruises are popular, it’s essential to book well in advance to secure your desired cabin and itinerary.

Saving Money On A Cruise: Bringing Items From Home:

• Decorations: Rather than purchasing onboard Christmas decorations, bring your own to save money and add a personal touch to your cabin.
• Stocking Stuffers: Buying small gifts or stocking stuffers in advance can help you save money compared to purchasing onboard.
• Snacks and Drinks: Bringing your favorite snacks and non-alcoholic beverages can help you save money on onboard purchases.

Embarking on a Princess Christmas Cruise can be a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday season. By following these tips and recommendations, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a memorable Christmas cruise experience.

Princess Cruise Ships: The Perfect Holiday Setting

Escape to a magical holiday wonderland aboard Princess Cruise Ships. Experience the joy of Christmas at sea with festive decorations, enchanting activities, and heartwarming celebrations.

Royal Princess: Discover The Allure Of Luxury

The Royal Princess is a stunning cruise ship that offers a truly luxurious experience. Here’s what you can expect on board:

• State-of-the-art amenities: The Royal Princess boasts elegant and modern facilities, ensuring that every moment on board is a treat for the senses.
• Exquisite dining options: Indulge in a variety of culinary delights at the ship’s world-class restaurants, offering a range of international cuisines.
• Spa & Wellness: Pamper yourself at the exquisite spa, where you can relax and rejuvenate with a wide array of treatments.
• Entertainment: Experience top-notch entertainment with Broadway-style shows, live music, and a thrilling casino.
• Luxurious accommodations: Enjoy the comfort of well-appointed cabins and suites, designed to provide the ultimate retreat.

Coral Princess: Immerse In The Wonders Of Nature

For those seeking a more nature-focused experience, the Coral Princess is the perfect choice. Here’s what makes this ship unique:

• Wildlife viewing opportunities: With its specially designed open-air observation decks, the Coral Princess offers unparalleled views of the surrounding natural beauty, allowing you to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures.
• Destination-focused excursions: The Coral Princess takes you to stunning destinations, allowing you to explore pristine forests, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs.
• Enrichment programs: Learn from expert naturalists and marine biologists who provide insightful lectures and workshops, enhancing your understanding of the ecosystems you encounter.
• Alaskan heritage: Immerse yourself in Alaskan culture with onboard activities such as authentic regional cuisine, indigenous performances, and storytelling.

Emerald Princess: Unforgettable Adventures At Sea

For those seeking adventure and excitement, the Emerald Princess is the ship for you. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Skywalkers Nightclub: Dance the night away at this stunning nightclub with panoramic views, giving you a unique and unforgettable experience.
• Casino and gaming options: Try your luck at the lively onboard casino, where you can enjoy a variety of games and activities.
• Movies under the stars: Watch your favorite films, concerts, and sporting events on the outdoor movie screen, while lounging under the starlit sky.
• Fitness activities: Stay active during your cruise with various fitness classes, including yoga, pilates, and Zumba.
• Family-friendly amenities: The Emerald Princess offers a range of activities and facilities for children and teens, ensuring that the whole family has a memorable experience.

Sky Princess: Elevate Your Christmas Experience

The Sky Princess is the perfect setting for an elevated Christmas experience. Here’s what makes it special:

• Festive decorations: The ship is beautifully adorned with holiday-themed decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that will fill you with holiday cheer.
• Special holiday events: Enjoy special Christmas-themed shows, concerts, and parties, designed to celebrate the season in style.
• Gourmet dining experiences: Indulge in special holiday menus at the ship’s top-notch restaurants, offering a variety of delectable dishes made with seasonal ingredients.
• Holiday activities for all: From gingerbread house decorating to Santa visits and holiday crafts, there are plenty of activities for both kids and adults to enjoy.
• Memorable Christmas traditions: Participate in time-honored holiday traditions such as carol singing, tree lighting ceremonies, and midnight Mass services.

Embark on a Princess Christmas Cruise and make unforgettable memories in the perfect holiday setting. Whether you choose to sail on the Royal Princess, Coral Princess, Emerald Princess, or Sky Princess, each ship offers a unique and memorable experience. From indulging in luxury to immersing in nature or seeking unforgettable adventures, there’s something for everyone on a Princess Christmas Cruise.

So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready for an extraordinary holiday onboard a Princess cruise ship.

Other All-Inclusive Adult Cruises To Consider

Consider other all-inclusive adult cruises, such as Princess Christmas Cruises, where you can celebrate the holiday season on the high seas. Experience festive decorations, Christmas activities, and delicious holiday meals while enjoying the amenities and entertainment of a Princess cruise.

Are you looking for an unforgettable and luxurious escape at sea? Look no further! Check out these other all-inclusive adult cruises that offer incredible experiences and top-notch amenities. Whether you’re seeking indulgence and elegance, a trendy and vibrant atmosphere, or a world of enchantment, these cruise lines have got you covered.

Get ready to set sail and create lifelong memories.

Virgin Voyages: A Trendy And Luxurious Escape

• Depart from the ordinary and embark on a journey with Virgin Voyages. This innovative cruise line offers a trendy and luxurious experience like no other.
• Experience the adult-only atmosphere with unique onboard amenities, including a tattoo parlor, vinyl record shop, and a nightclub with world-class DJs.
• Indulge in culinary delights at over 20 onboard eateries, ranging from upscale restaurants to casual food joints, all included in the cruise fare.
• Enjoy a variety of entertainment options, including live performances, immersive theater productions, and wellness activities like yoga and meditation.

Marella Cruises: Unforgettable Moments On The Open Sea

• Dive into the beauty of the open sea with Marella Cruises. This cruise line offers a wide range of itineraries to suit every traveler’s preferences.
• Discover stunning destinations around the world, from the Caribbean and Mediterranean to the Baltic and Asia.
• Enjoy all-inclusive cruising with meals, drinks, onboard entertainment, and gratuities included in the fare.
• Take advantage of the onboard activities, such as swimming pools, fitness centers, spas, and evening shows featuring talented performers.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Indulgence And Elegance Combined

• Indulge in a luxurious escape with Regent Seven Seas Cruises. This cruise line offers unparalleled elegance and top-notch service.
• Experience all-inclusive cruising with unlimited shore excursions, gourmet dining, premium beverages, and onboard gratuities included.
• Discover exotic destinations, including the Mediterranean, Asia, the Caribbean, and more, with a variety of itineraries to choose from.
• Immerse yourself in a world of elegance with spacious and beautifully appointed suites, personalized service, and enriching onboard activities.

Windstar Cruises: Sail Into A World Of Enchantment

• Set sail with Windstar Cruises and embark on a journey into a world of enchantment. This cruise line offers a unique sailing experience like no other.
• Explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations, such as small ports and secluded islands.
• Enjoy the intimate ambiance of small, elegant ships, where you can truly connect with fellow travelers and the stunning natural surroundings.
• Indulge in gourmet dining experiences, exceptional service, and a variety of onboard activities, including watersports, cultural immersion, and more.

Viking Ocean Cruises: Explore The Wonders Of The Ocean

• Embark on a journey of exploration with Viking Ocean Cruises. This cruise line offers a refined and enriching experience for discerning adult travelers.
• Discover the wonders of the ocean with a focus on cultural immersion and destination-focused itineraries.
• Experience the comfort and elegance of spacious accommodations, world-class dining, and thoughtfully curated onboard activities.
• Enjoy unique onboard enrichment programs, including talks by experts, cooking classes, and performances showcasing local traditions and talents.

Choose one of these all-inclusive adult cruises for your next vacation and embark on an unforgettable journey at sea. With luxurious amenities, captivating destinations, and exceptional service, these cruise lines are sure to exceed your expectations. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Bon voyage!

Cruise Kids Free: Family-Friendly Options

Experience an unforgettable Christmas at sea with Princess Christmas Cruises. Enjoy family-friendly options and cruise kids free, with festive holiday decor and activities for all ages.

Royal Caribbean International: Endless Fun For Kids Of All Ages

• Royal Caribbean International offers an array of family-friendly amenities and activities for kids of all ages.
• The Adventure Ocean Youth Program provides age-appropriate activities and entertainment for children from 6 months to 17 years old.
• Kids will love the Royal Babies and Tots Nursery, where trained staff members provide care and entertainment for the little ones.
• The onboard ice skating rink, FlowRider surf simulator, and rock climbing wall offer endless excitement for older kids and teens.
• Families can enjoy thrilling water slides, mini golf, and even a zip line, ensuring that there is never a dull moment on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Adventure Awaits Young Explorers

• Norwegian Cruise Line offers a wide range of activities and amenities for families, ensuring that children are entertained throughout the cruise.
• The Splash Academy provides age-appropriate activities for kids from 3 to 12 years old, including arts and crafts, sports, and interactive games.
• Teenagers can hang out at the Entourage Teen Club, where they can socialize with peers and participate in age-appropriate activities and events.
• Families can bond over exhilarating experiences like the onboard rock climbing wall and ropes course, or relax at the pools and water parks.
• Norwegian Cruise Line also offers engaging entertainment options like Broadway-style shows and themed parties for the whole family to enjoy.

Msc Cruises: A Perfect Blend Of Relaxation And Excitement

• MSC Cruises offers a wide range of family-friendly options that cater to all ages, making it an ideal choice for a Princess Christmas Cruise.
• The kids’ clubs onboard provide a variety of activities for children of different age groups, from arts and crafts to video games.
• MSC Cruises also offers family-friendly staterooms that are specifically designed to accommodate families, ensuring everyone has a comfortable space.
• Families can enjoy thrilling water slides, swimming pools, and sports activities like mini golf and bowling.
• For some relaxation time, parents can indulge in the MSC Aurea Spa, while kids have fun at the onboard aqua park or watch movies at the 4D cinema.

Crystal Cruises: Luxury And Entertainment For The Whole Family

• Crystal Cruises offers a luxurious and entertaining experience for the entire family, ensuring that everyone has a memorable Princess Christmas Cruise.
• The Crystal Adventures program provides age-appropriate activities and excursions for children, allowing them to explore and learn about different cultures.
• The Fantasia kids’ club offers supervised activities for kids aged 3 to 17, including arts and crafts, video games, and movie nights.
• Families can enjoy the onboard swimming pools, sports facilities, and even take part in cooking classes together.
• The Crystal Cruises fleet also features Broadway-style shows, live music performances, and movie screenings, providing entertainment options for all ages.

Embark on a Princess Christmas Cruise and create lasting memories with your family. With kid-friendly options offered by Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Crystal Cruises, there will never be a dull moment on your holiday at sea.

From endless fun for kids of all ages to exciting adventures and luxurious amenities, these cruises offer something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Christmas celebration on the high seas.

Best Cruise For A Magical Christmas In Mexico

Experience the ultimate Christmas magic on a Princess Cruise in Mexico. Celebrate the festive season onboard with beautifully decorated ships and joyful carolers, creating a merry atmosphere that will leave you enchanted.

Carnival Cruise Line: Unforgettable Moments In Paradise

• Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas on a Carnival Cruise Line.
• Explore stunning destinations in Mexico while celebrating the festive season.
• Enjoy a wide range of onboard activities, from holiday-themed shows to culinary delights.
• Experience the joy and wonder of Christmas in a tropical paradise.
• Create lasting memories with your loved ones on a Carnival Christmas cruise.

Disney Cruise Line: Create Cherished Memories With Loved Ones

• Embark on a Disney Cruise Line adventure for a truly magical Christmas experience.
• Delight in festive onboard decorations and holiday-themed activities.
• Meet your favorite Disney characters dressed in their finest holiday attire.
• Enjoy exclusive Christmas shows and entertainment for the whole family.
• Indulge in delicious holiday treats and special menus designed for the season.

Celebrity Cruises: Elevate Your Christmas Experience At Sea

• Experience luxury and elegance on a Celebrity Cruises Christmas voyage.
• Immerse yourself in a sophisticated and festive atmosphere onboard.
• Enjoy world-class culinary experiences with special holiday menus.
• Unwind and pamper yourself at the onboard spa with holiday-themed treatments.
• Celebrate the holidays surrounded by stunning ocean views and top-notch service.

Carnival Miracle: The Perfect Escape For A Festive Getaway

• Step aboard the Carnival Miracle for the ultimate Christmas escape.
• Sail to breathtaking destinations in Mexico while enjoying festive onboard activities.
• Delight in enchanting holiday shows and live entertainment.
• Indulge in a wide variety of dining options, including festive feasts.
• Create lifelong memories with your loved ones on a Carnival Miracle Christmas cruise.

Disney Magic: Experience The Wonder Of Disney During The Holidays

• Set sail on the Disney Magic for a magical Christmas at sea.
• Be enchanted by the festive decorations and holiday-themed activities.
• Meet your favorite Disney characters in their holiday attire.
• Enjoy world-class entertainment, including Christmas-themed live shows.
• Savor delicious holiday meals and treats designed for the whole family.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Unleash Your Holiday Spirit At Sea

• Unleash your holiday spirit on a Norwegian Cruise Line Christmas cruise.
• Experience the joy of holiday decorations and festive activities onboard.
• Enjoy live entertainment, including holiday-themed shows and performances.
• Indulge in delectable holiday feasts and special menus.
• Celebrate the season with your loved ones in a truly unforgettable way.

Frequently Asked Questions For Princess Christmas Cruises

Do princess cruise ships decorate for christmas.

Yes, Princess cruise ships decorate for Christmas with holiday décor and carolers creating a festive atmosphere.

Are There Any Cruises At Christmas?

Yes, there are cruises available during Christmas where you can enjoy holiday festivities.

Is It Cheaper To Go On A Cruise On Christmas?

Yes, going on a cruise on Christmas can be cheaper.

Is Christmas Cruise A Good Idea?

Yes, a Christmas cruise is a good idea for a unique and enjoyable holiday experience.

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with Princess Christmas Cruises. These cruises offer a unique and memorable way to celebrate the festive season. Step on board and be greeted by the enchanting sight of the ships adorned in beautiful holiday decorations.

From dazzling Christmas trees to joyful carolers, the atmosphere onboard radiates warmth and happiness. Indulge in delicious holiday feasts, attend interdenominational Christmas services, and participate in exciting activities like gingerbread house competitions. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, Princess Christmas Cruises provide an incredible opportunity to create lasting memories.

Escape the stress of the holiday season and embark on a magical journey that combines relaxation, entertainment, and holiday cheer. Cruise to breathtaking destinations while enjoying the comfort and luxury of Princess Cruises. Join us on Princess Christmas Cruises for a truly joyous and unforgettable experience.

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• Princess Cruises

review of our Discovery Princess pre-Christmas cruise (12/19-23/23

By travelin.sisters , January 6 in Princess Cruises

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travelin.sisters

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Post 1: Discovery Princess California Coastal–December 19-23. 2023

I figured a 4-day cruise (especially because we had my sissy’s granddaughters with us) was too short to do a live, so I am switching it up to a review. It’s a little late (because of the holidays & life stuff) but will have lots of photos & documents for those who are interested. 

We were on the December 19-23 California Coastal sailing of the Discovery. I was glad to sail the Discovery before we head out to Hawai’i on her in March & love seeing all the Christmas decorations on a holiday cruise. 

The short review is we were very happy with our cruise, the food, the ship & especially the crew! I always think the crew is the best part of a Princess cruise, but the crew on the Discovery was outstanding even by Princess standards. We only had one less than wonderful experience (first night dinner–in the dining part of my review if you are interested) & so many delightful interactions.

If you want all the details (& anyone who has read one of my lives knows I can get really long-winded & lost in the details) keep reading. If you are just interested in one thing or another, I will do titles for each post & a list of posts at the end. Or just skip though & look at the photos. If you have any questions, please ask & I will do my best to answer.

We didn't really go anywhere, pretty much just sailed around in loops, didn't even get off at any of our ports!

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New2cruise2022

Looking forward to reading your review! We leave on the Discovery at the end of February. TIA for the pictures and info you share!

PS — Long-winded and detailed, highly-parenthetical and often hyphenated writing is what I prefer. If you write it, I’ll read it. 

Post 2: Boarding & Embarkation Lunch

Surprisingly we boarded at terminal 92 as the Norwegian Bliss was also in port. Boarding was slower & more hectic than usual. I found out later that there were x people on this cruise (compared to x the cruise before) and almost 600 children (compared to 15 on the previous cruise), so lots of families & extra people. We were slowed down because even though I entered the birth certificates for the grands in the app, they had to be reentered at check in & that took several tries. Also even though the pre-boarding information didn’t list it, the granddaughter that wasn’t old enough to have a driver's license still needed an official photo ID (fortunately she did have her school Id with her & they accepted that). We had notarized permission to take them on the cruise & out of the country, but no one asked to see that. 

When we did get through the line & to the boarding area, we had to wait even with our elite/platinum status as they were not letting people with mobility devices board at that time. Finally we were allowed to board. We were on the ship by 11:30 & our rooms were ready. I quickly decorated the girls’ room with the Christmas blankets, stockings, tree & other decor & we were ready to head to the Skagway dining room for lunch.

The dining room had a line & was busy by the time we got there but we were soon seated & ready to enjoy what always feels like the start of the cruise, embarkation day lunch in the MDR. As always, service was a little slow, but the food was delicious.

(random food comments: sadly they are using pre-made salad dressings instead of making them & they aren't great; immediately post-covid the beef quality declined, but it was quite good on this cruise; after many Princess cruises I have decided that most of their desserts look much better than they taste so I often chose ice cream/sorbet or wait to get cookies from the International Cafe)

Great food menu pics. Your decorations were next level. Good job!

Post 3: Christmas Decorations & Getting Settled

After lunch we went to our Muster Station, headed to the Customer Service desk to get all our Medallions set to open all our doors, get the minibar switched out & had all the room charges put on my credit card so I could monitor for unusual charges & we could share OBC. Again there were lines but once we got to the desk Melissa was able to help us efficiently.

As we wandered from place to place, the ship was beautifully decorated for Christmas. Sadly, as we headed back the electricity went out (a problem with the shoreside power connection & they had to switch to shipside power) & my sissy & I had to climb a lot of stairs back to our room! It was soon back up & running & my BIL was able to wait for an elevator.

 The ship felt well decorated & festive without being overdone. Late the night before we disembarked, they added more decorations for the actual Christmas cruise, including these gingerbread villages:

Post 4: Exploring the Discovery Princess–Starting at the Top: Deck 19–Vista

After I got everyone back to their cabins, I headed out to explore the ship. I always like to take time the first day to get myself oriented to what is where on a new ship. I didn’t make it through the whole ship before sailaway since I had to stop & make sure everyone did all the muster drill steps & get them hooked to wifi but since this is a review & not a live I will just share the ship from top to bottom not in the order I explored...

The only public space on the Vista deck is the mini golf course in the aft which you have to climb stairs to get to. It is a nice little space with great views. There are golf clubs & balls available to use.

(photos taken early AM the 21st--wet morning on our way into San Diego)

43 minutes ago, New2cruise2022 said: PS — Long-winded and detailed, highly-parenthetical and often hyphenated writing is what I prefer. If you write it, I’ll read it. 

you figured me out...except you left out the ellipses I like those too...thank you for all your kind comments, let me know if you have any questions before your cruise, she is a wonderful ship with a stellar crew.

Post 5: Deck 18–Sky

The Sky deck is split into 2 unconnected sections, front & aft.

Taking the stairs down from the Vista deck in the aft, you find the ball court, walking/running track, spots for selfies & photos in front of various different displays & more gorgeous views. There are steps far aft & part way around the jogging track down to the Sun deck. 

The forward elevators will take you to the other section of the Sky deck. Here we find an open area around the adult only Retreat Pool which is reached by steps down to the Sun deck. The two Sky Suites are also in this area.

Beyond this is the Sanctuary. I have never been in the Sanctuary on a Princess ship but on embarkation day they were open & letting people wander through. Two things that surprised me were all the big screen tvs & the fact that there was no pool in the Sanctuary area. There was a hot tub inside & two outside in the area that is open to all passengers. 

Post 6: Deck 17–Sun

The Sun deck runs from forward to aft & often overlooks the Lido deck.

Going down from the Sanctuary in the front of the ship there is the adult only Retreat pool & bar. There are cabins & suites in this area of the ship.

Moving to midship, there are hot tubs , showers & loungers overlooking the Sky pool on the lido deck. This is also a good place to watch Movies Under the Stars. A band stand in the middle of this area is used for various events including the Sailaway  party.

Continuing aft, on the portside is the Youth area.

Starboard is the fitness center which is open 24/7.

At the very end of the Sun deck is another area with seating that overlooks the Wake View pool.

Post 7: Deck 18–Lido

Finally,  the food & the pools! Descending from the Sun deck to the Lido furthest aft is the Wake View pool & bar area. This is a nice place with a lot of different seating options (individual, tables & groups). It leads into the World Fresh Market (aka the buffet) which is huge & will get its own post.

Beyond this we find probably the busiest part of the ship, the Lido deck pool area. I was actually surprised that a ship as large as the Discovery had only one general pool area. I don’t swim or sun on ships so it isn’t an issue for me but I wonder if it is enough? 

There are two pools with a hot tub area in the middle (sadly they do not have the light & fountain show like the Majestic does). There is a bar on either end in addition to Swirls, Slice & the Salty Dog Cafe. On such a short cruise I only tried a slice of pizza, which was good.

Forward of this are the Lido deck cabins.

Post 8: World Fresh Market

I know the World Fresh Market (WFM) is controversial, in fact our family was divided on it. I like all the choices & don’t mind going through first to peruse my choices before grabbing a plate. Others in our group found it overwhelming & didn’t want to have to walk so much to find something they wanted. I guess everyone will have to decide for themselves. I am thinking that on a longer cruise you would be able to figure out where the things you like are usually found. I did like (although we never had dinner in the WFM) that they put a list of the nightly themes in our room upon embarkation. 

The WFM is huge with tons of options. Entering from midship (the pool area) there is a smaller buffet section, then the Pastry shop, then further along a larger double rowed buffet section. We only did breakfast & lunch in the WFM. There are multiple hand washing stations at the entrances. Beverage stations & service are available.

I always prefer breakfast in the buffet  on Princess ships because I look forward to the design-your-own omelets. They were superb on the Discovery! When my sissy was having trouble walking because of the ship’s movement, I was able to order my omelet, grab her oatmeal & fixings & some baked goodies, drop those off & go back to pick up my omelet. Meanwhile she would grab a table (sometimes a challenge, but never impossible) & order our morning beverages. Sometimes getting someone to bring us drinks was challenging & one morning I had to go & snag silverware from another table but mostly it was good. We didn’t ever have to go to the MDR one morning so she could have eggs benedict because in addition to the omelets they have stations that make poached, fried & benedict eggs to order. We were happy, the rest of our group went to the IC for breakfasts.

Lunch had so many options! There were always tons of salad bar options & giant salad bowls. Burgers, hotdogs & fries were always available, as well as pastas, a carving station, make your own & premade sandwiches, international dishes & so much more. A variety of desserts & cookies were available everyday.

Post 10: Middle Decks

On the Riviera deck (14) is the Concierge lounge & the Wedding Chapel.

We prefer the Aloha deck (12), it makes me smile when the elevator greets me with aloha upon arriving on our deck. I was sad that Princess made the choice to put the same carpet in both the port & starboard hallways as it always takes me a while to figure out which way to turn out of the elevators & the different colored accents on some of the carpets is helpful. I do like the hallways with little jogs in them as it feels less like you are walking for miles down a boring hall. I also like that the newer ships have a variety of photos lining them.

The Discovery has large, nice laundry rooms & currently is not charging to use the machines.

We cruise with balcony & inside staterooms & these seemed comparable to others. I do like the layout of the cabins in the newer ships with the refrigerator cabinet facing the desk & no strange spots where the tv used to be. The inside cabin was one with the bed perpendicular to the door & seemed very spacious compared to previous ones. The balconies are small but we were comfortable with two people on ours. The only noise problem was from our own teens next door. Our steward was delightful as always.

posting the photos is taking way longer than expected, so its time for a break...more to come.

@travelin.sisters  Thanks so much for the review and pictures!  My DW and I will be on the Discovery later this month for a 7-day Mexican Riviera cruise and then we will be on the Discovery with you for the March Hawaii cruise.  

Thank you for the very thorough review and all the wonderful pictures. I'm excited to read and see more. We sail in two weeks so it really helps.

@travelin.sisters  Thank you for the time you are investing in this. The pictures are stellar and the organization of your review is so very welcome. Did you happen to see the self-serve soda on the Lido deck? It’s possible this hadn’t been installed at the time of your sailing. 

Thank you for your review.  I'm on the Discovery in February.  Looking forward to it, my first time on one of the newer ships.

1 hour ago, New2cruise2022 said: @travelin.sisters  Thank you for the time you are investing in this. The pictures are stellar and the organization of your review is so very welcome. Did you happen to see the self-serve soda on the Lido deck? It’s possible this hadn’t been installed at the time of your sailing. 

I did see it, guess I missed adding the photo, I thought it was a very neat idea...it is aft, out toward the wakeview bar on the starboard side....I never did find the bottle refiller that I had read about though

good morning...I was having so much trouble getting the photos loaded & in order last night that I have decided to break this up into smaller segments to make that easier (I wish it was easier to load photos directly where I want them on CC, but it is what it is) so here goes...next is the Promenade deck in lots of little segments: 

Post 11a: Deck 7–Promenade

Now down to the busy inside decks! The promenade around the outside of the Promenade deck is pitiful. It is blocked off at both ends & doesn't even have steps to go up or down & continue around. It is a narrow walkway squeezed between the walls & the lifeboats, not nice for walking at all. There is a little outdoor seating area with tables midship but not much space for loungers or much of anything else.

Post 11b: Deck 7–Promenade

Inside forward is the top level entrance to the Princess Theater. I thought the theater was very nice & the seats have enough room to sit comfortably. My sister was sad that they do not have the retractable tables that the older ships do. At the very top there is a section with tall tables & stools. I did not see any beverage service in the theater the two shows I went to see. 

(because it makes sense to me, here are the Fiesta deck Princess Theater photos too)

Again, well done. Thanks for taking us on this journey. 

Post 11c: Deck 7–Promenade

Moving aft are the Shops of Princess. I like the layout of shops on the newer ships. With seating outside & not being all squeezed around the Piazza like the older ones. I am not a big ship shopper & didn’t buy anything,  but they are nice shops. There is also a corner in this area where someone form Future Cruise/Captain's Circle sometimes has hours.

Post 11d: Deck 7–Promenade

Next is the area above the Piazza. Portside is the newly opened Catch by Rudi. Much of the time walking around this area on the port side is blocked off for that restaurant & my poor sister was chastised for trying to walk on that side. On embarkation day I was able to walk through & take photos of that area.

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What to Expect: My Princess Alaska Cruise Review from Seattle

W e’ve just set sail and I’m typing this while onboard my very first Princess Cruise. I’ve been on many other Alaska cruises so I’m writing this guide for you about my Princess Alaska cruise to help you know what you can expect.

What’s Included in this post:

• Tips for Sailing from Seattle
• Onboarding & My Room
• Premier Package & Specialty Dining Reviews (including Caymus Winemakers & 360)
• My Shore Excursion Recaps from Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan

Our Itinerary – Discovery Princess (June 2024)

• Glacier Bay
• Victoria, BC

Sailing from Seattle

We’re local to Seattle, and so just drove down to Pier 91 to board the Discovery Princess . Our boarding time was 10:30 am to 2:00 pm. All passengers needed to be onboard by 2:00 pm for a 3:00 pm departure. If you’re a non-local, here are a few things to note about sailing Princess from Seattle.

• Pier 91 is about 3 miles north of the downtown Seattle corridor. So, if you’re planning to visit the city beforehand, you’ll need to use rideshare, taxi, or shuttle to get to the cruise port from the main tourist area downtown. It’ll take you about 10-15 minutes to travel by car from downtown to Pier 91.
• If you want to stay a day beforehand to tour the city, my favorite downtown hotels near popular attractions are the Thompson Hotel, Inn at the Market, and Four Seasons Seattle. The Westin Seattle and Motif Seattle might be slightly more price friendly and are close to the monorail, but further from Pike Place Market and the waterfront. The monorail can take you from downtown to the Seattle Center district where the Space Needle and other popular attractions are located.

Onboarding with Princess

When we arrived at Pier 91, we were able to be dropped off right by the cruise ships. There were two ships in port, a Holland America Line ship and our Discovery Princess cruise ship. There were bag tags available for those who hadn’t printed them in advance and a long line for bag drop and check-in.

There was a separate, shorter, line for those with no bag drop who were carrying on their bags (which we did). Although the bag drop check-in line was extremely long, it seemed to be moving quickly. It can be chilly and windy waiting outdoors for the bag drop line to move indoors, so be sure to have a jacket handy.

From the time of drop off until we were onboard was probably only 40 minutes when we boarded around noon. Everything moved extremely smoothly. We had checked in via the app in advance and so simply scanned our check-in app QR code and showed our passport at the first step.

Next, we had to go to the blue lane to get our Princess Medallions since we missed the shipping date. I HIGHLY recommend you download the app and check-in as soon as you’re able (at least more than 14 days before) and have your medallion shipped to you to save time.

Plus, you have the opportunity to personalize your medallion with special occasions and celebrations and preorder medallion accessories if you want. If you check-in early enough you can skip the blue lane and go to the green lane which had no line and was simply an ID and photo check point before heading on the ship.

Since we had missed the medallion shipping date, we went to the blue lane, which honestly moved extremely quickly and so it wasn’t a huge issue. We had our passports checked again and received our medallions which had our names and sailing date listed on them, which was very nice. The whole process was smooth and moved quickly. Getting 4000 passengers onboard a ship at a single point of entry could be a logistical nightmare but we were very impressed with how smoothly it all went.

We got onboard and headed to our room which was actually ready! They say that rooms aren’t guaranteed ready until 1 pm, but ours was. So we dropped our bags and headed to the buffet to get a little bite to eat. If you don’t want to eat at the buffet, make sure you board early and can make it to the restaurant before 1 pm.

Day 1 is a busy day! We had to confirm and make dining reservations and soon we were setting sail with a windy music sail away party happening on decks 16 & 17 at the pool. I also highly recommend if you want to enjoy the private Sanctuary retreat space (added cost) make sure to go book that on day 1.

Our Balcony Stateroom L129

Since I was hosted on this cruise, I didn’t choose our cabin, it was simply assigned to us. We were booked in a Category BF – Balcony Stateroom (Guarantee) and were assigned a room on deck 16, the Lido deck, towards the front of the ship. Since I’ve never sailed Princess, I wasn’t sure what to expect from our room; a balcony stateroom number L129.

Initial impressions: I was shocked we didn’t have a sitting/couch area in our balcony stateroom. Our room is simply a queen bed with a desk, one chair, and a mini-fridge cabinet. We did have a very spacious open closet space that is right next to the bathroom. The bathroom doesn’t have an enclosed shower, which is a first for me on a cruise ship.

Space wise, it’s fine for two people, however I miss having a couch and sitting area. The closet had ample hangers which I appreciated and there is a small shelf cabinet in the closet that worked well for my packing cubes. I unpacked, hung some items, left others in my packing cubes, then simply slid my suitcase under the bed.

The bathroom seemed small compared to what I recall from other cruises. I have a slender build and felt I had to keep the bathroom door open when drying off and getting ready simply to have room to move and breathe.

I was worried about being on the busy Lido deck 16, the same deck as the pool and buffet. However, the forward rooms on these decks are nicely separated and due to the fact that there is no forward stairs or elevators in front of the rooms, it hasn’t been an issue with excessive noise and foot traffic.

Personally, I’d avoid the L301 and L302 rooms in this section near the elevators as there is a lot of activity in this area. Also it’s worth noting that deck 17 overhung our deck, so many of my photos looking out from our balcony do show a white floor above us. You can see this in the image with my conclusion paragraph at the end of this post.

Being on the right (starboard) side of the ship was fine most of the time, however, in Glacier Bay we did hear the park ranger mentioning the left (port) side to see some of the sights. The ship does turn and pass all the spots again, you just don’t have the ranger audio commentary.

Thankfully when you reach the end of Glacier Bay and view Margerie Glacier, the ship spins a few times so that both sides of the ship can see the famous glacier.

The Discovery Princess Ship

I was a bit surprised to discover that this ship can carry about 4300 guests, for our sailing I was told it was at 4003 guests, which seems like a lot! The ship was built in 2022, and still feels nice and new.

The layout of the ship is a little odd and not as free flowing as I’m used to on other ships. You’ll occasionally find elevators hidden behind walls and getting to a restaurant on the back of deck 5 means you have to go up to deck 6 to cross to it as you can’t cut through another restaurant on deck 5. It just wasn’t as free flowing and easy to orient myself as I’ve experienced before.

Discovery Princess does have a great three floor midship atrium where you’ll find shopping, bars, and dining. Plus, this open area is where many of the entertainment competitions and mini-shows take place. There is some seating on all levels around this space and many people would stand at the overlooking edges on decks 6 and 7 to watch the performances happening on deck 5.

One of my favorite spaces I discovered is the Retreat and Sanctuary on decks 17 and 18. The retreat is an adults-only pool, two hot tubs, and lounge space. This leads to the Sanctuary space which is a paid for private lounge deck with glass viewing over the front of the ship.

You have to reserve access to the sanctuary in advance for $20 for half a day and $40 for the full day, or rent a cabana with a tv and mini-fridge for a varying price. When we asked if we could book a day they were already sold out. So, if you think you’ll want some lounge time in a quiet area with a view, book a spot in the Sanctuary right when you board.

Princess is soon debuting a Sanctuary Collection package that will be included with some upgraded stateroom fares. It will launch on the Sun and Star Princess ships in Fall 2025.

Our Premier Package

We did have the Princess Premier Package (an added $80 per day per guest) as part of our booking which includes a few extra amenities:

• WiFi 4 devices per guest – text, share, stream and video chat with the best Wi-Fi at sea
• Premium Drinks, Bottled Water, Specialty Coffee, and Juice Bar – Top-shelf spirits and craft cocktails up to $20 each, in addition to what’s included with Princess Plus
• Pre-paid crew appreciation (tips) – this is included in Plus packages as well
• Professional photos included – unlimited downloads and three printed images
• 2 Specialty meals included (per sailing) – dine at one of three specialty restaurants on the Discovery; Crown Grill (steak & seafood), Catch by Rudi (seafood), Sabatini’s (italian).
• Unlimited dining at casual restaurants: Gigi’s Pizzaria, Ocean Terrace Sushi Bar, Salty Dog Gastro Pub, Gelato
• Unlimited premium desserts at Gelateria, Swirls or Coffee and Cones
• OceanNow® (delivery anywhere onboard) fee waived – order drinks and food on the app and it will find you anywhere on board
• Unlimited Room Service
• Unlimited Fitness Classes: Classes by Xpotential: Pure Barre, Yoga Six and Stretch Lab
• Reserved Theater Seating (we really LOVED this perk!)
• Princess Prizes – during casino hours, win prizes like wine tasting, onboard credit and more (we didn’t really understand or experience this perk)
• Blue Medallion Clip On

Having the Premier package truly gives you more of an all-inclusive feel. You’re allowed to eat and order whatever you want at the extra dining spots. You have access to the top label alcoholic drinks, for example I could order a $19 glass of Pinot Noir where the Plus package was limited to a $15 glass.

My husband and I are both heavy internet users and thought the Princess WiFi was truly the best we’ve ever experienced. We could facetime with our kids and even streamed a couple of hockey games while onboard! I was easily able to download shows from my streaming accounts as well.

And we loved the reserved theater seating since some people would show up an hour before showtime to start getting good seats!

There are three main restaurants onboard, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway that are open for dinner; and for our cruise, Ketchikan was open for breakfast and lunch as well. In addition to those there is a World Market buffet, Salty Dog Pub, and Gigi’s Pizzaria. 

Discovery Princess has added fee restaurants as well if you want a smaller, upscale dining experience. There is the Crown Grill steakhouse, Catch by Rudi seafood, and Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria. We also had the chance to experience two limited dining experiences, The Caymus Winemaker’s Dinner and 360 Dining Experience 7-course tasting.

I’ll be honest that we found the food in the main restaurants pretty standard for a large cruise ship. Everything was good, but not extraordinary. We enjoyed the meals but felt they were a little under-seasoned and the fish was repeatedly overcooked.

However, the specialty dining restaurants were a better experience. Which makes sense as the main dining rooms need to feed around 4000 guests and the specialty restaurants are only feeding a small seating of maybe 20 tables during the night. I’ll say that the 360 dinner was one of the absolute best experiences I’ve ever had onboard a ship, and I highly recommend you splurge on it if you enjoy experiential dining experiences.

The Caymus Winemaker’s Dinner

I was told in advance to request the winemaker’s dinner experience and so I did on day 1. It isn’t a set scheduled event, so we had to wait to be told when our dining experience would happen. There was no publicity about this meal while onboard. It seems to be arranged by request or offered to guests who speak with the sommelier and show an interest in wine. I was told that it typically happens twice per cruise.

You’ll meet in the atrium and be escorted to a private table inside one of the main restaurants. For our seating we had 10 guests, which were 5 couples. We had a host and sommelier for the night and we ate and drank through 6 courses. The couples chatted during the meal and the sommelier shared information about the Caymus family of wines and their history.

The food was tasty and very unique; it was a great break from the standard main dining experience and the wine pours were generous and truly paired well with each dish. I’ll mention that the ship also did an AMAZING job accommodating Paul’s pescatarian diet and my sensitivity to mushrooms, including creating different plates for each of us at this meal when the dish included meat or mushrooms.

If you’re a person who enjoys private dining experiences and wine, this would be an excellent splurge for the cruise – just make sure to talk to the dining team on day 1 to arrange.

360: An Extraordinary Experience

If you only want to splurge on one upgraded dining experience while sailing with Princess, 360 is the one I would recommend. Beyond the food being wonderful, the whole evening was unique and truly experiential.

You’ll meet in the atrium where you’ll be served a cocktail and have a photo taken against the 360 Princess Cruises backdrop, then you’re led into the back kitchen area of Catch by Rudi to a hidden room with a circular table that seats 20 guests.

The evening starts with a host greeting you and starting the story by grabbing a journal from the wall. Then Brooke Shields takes you on a travel journey around Europe tasting and drinking through a 7-course meal.

The lighting and table effects, the private servers for each couple, the energetic host, and the amazing makers storytelling videos immerse you in the food and drink you’ll consume. We loved it and so did the couples sitting around us!

Entertainment & Shows

There are a lot of activities happening on the ship to engage guests. Each day you’ll check the app or the daily sheet left the night before to find out times of activities. Paul and I were both surprised at how it seemed there were quite a few announcements made over the speakers through the day about events and activities.

There were maybe three a day? Compared to Norwegian where it seems there’s only one a day, it’s something to keep in mind if that’s something you want or don’t. The announcements do not get broadcast in your rooms.

Some of the events were things like egg dropping contests, paper plane flying challenge, music trivia, group workouts, art auctions, bingo, as well as skin and shopping events each day at the spa and shops.

The main theater had a show each night that featured two stage shows during the week and the other nights were acts like comedians, singers, and magicians.

The bars all had live music each evening, with the same performers each night but with different set lists. We felt the first stage show we attended was pretty good, not Broadway level but definitely enjoyable. The reserved seating for Premier guests was a useful perk.

TIP: if you know you want to watch a lot of the main theater shows, make sure you plan your dining accordingly. Paul and I often had dining times around 7 pm, which meant we had to go to the 9:30pm late show (first show is at 7:30 pm) and sometimes we were too tired to go after a busy day out. :)

Paul and I felt like there were a lot of things you could do, although some of the activities seemed to be somewhat aimed at selling you something. But overall, if you’re the type who doesn’t want to hang out in your room and love to pop into things, Princess seems to really try to have some kind of fun activity happening throughout the day.

Lotus Spa & Enclave

After having a few spa services on cruises, I’ve decided it might just not be my thing. I feel that you’re either pushed in and out quickly, which was my facial experience on Princess, or a big chunk of your treatment time is spent trying to upsell you on other services or products, which was my recent facial experience with Holland.

I did get a day pass for the spa Enclave area which is a special water therapy area not included in spa services. I believe the rate is around $49 a day. I’ve tried one of these areas before on the Norwegian Bliss ship, so was looking forward to checking this out.

Enclave has a large center jacuzzi pool with special jet areas around the pool. There are heated tile lounge benches throughout the edges of the space. And there are three heat therapy rooms as well as some water therapy cold/hot showers.

I visited in the late morning one day and didn’t feel the space was overcrowded, but did feel like my two hours was plenty of time. I tried each of the rooms and relaxed on a heated bench to read a few times. The space isn’t overly large so could easily get crowded.

Shore Excursions and Ports of Call

I’ve been on quite a few Alaska cruises, as I’ve mentioned, and shore excursions are extremely popular with guests. I recommend booking early! Some popular excursions sell out months in advance. And most shore excursions happen rain or shine, so be prepared to pack accordingly.

One thing to note, if you’re not interested in any of the excursions or activities, the ships become extremely empty during port calls. You’ll find the pools, hot tubs, and restaurants clear and quiet, so keep that in mind if you’re just looking to relax. Of course, you’ll have to count on good weather to get people off the ship and to make you want to spend time in the pool or hot tub. :)

My Juneau Excursion:

Alaska’s Whales & Mendenhall Glacier Trail: Small-Group Experience

The most popular activities in Juneau are seeing Mendenhall Glacier and whale-watching. I’ve done bus transfers to Mendenhall, rented a Jeep to self-tour around the sites, and on this trip I finally did a whale-watching trip.

Our small group tour was two groups of 20 people and we were separated onto small shuttle buses that took us on a drive of about 15 minutes to the port where we boarded a small boat at a marina. There was time to quickly use the bathrooms which were at the marina and do get busy.

The boat had an interior closed cabin with bench seating that just fit all 20 of us. There was a small front and back deck where we could go out when we weren’t moving. Plus the window walls of the interior of the boat could be pulled up and locked into place to allow the whole interior cabin to have open viewing.

We headed out onto the water and after traveling for about 15 minutes we came upon our first pod of humpback whales. There were quite a few of them feeding, and we even had the opportunity to see bubble net feeding, which is pretty rare!

In addition to the many seagulls flying over the feeding whales, we also spotted a bald eagle. I really wished I had my DSLR camera with a strong zoom lens as my iPhone photos just couldn’t capture the amazing details and size of these creatures.

If this is a bucket list trip experience for you, I HIGHLY recommend you bring a good zoom camera. There are point and shoot cameras for reasonable prices that would work well. I’d recommend something with a high optical zoom like the Panasonic FZ80 series or a Canon Powershot like the SX740 .

After spending a bit of time with that group of whales, we left again to look for more and passed a group of five Steller Sea Lions hanging out on an ocean buoy. We soon found another group of humpback whales that were feeding and shooting their breathing mists high. We spent another few minutes with this pod and then had to head back to the marina.

Once in the marina, we boarded our shuttle again to go to a bus parking area for Mendenhall where we split into two groups of ten. Our guide led us through a short hike through the woods, sharing some of the local fauna, and we ended up at a beach across from Mendenhall Glacier.

This was the first time I ever viewed the glacier from the vantage as I’ve always visited it from the main visitors entrance and done the hike to the waterfall near the glacier. So, just know that this visit to the glacier is simply a visual stop and not the standard visitor’s center experience.

We headed back to the bus and we passed over a creek that does get salmon running in it, although not this time but we did see them in August 2022. This time we spotted a porcupine high in the trees!

Our bus driver offered to drop us in the main area of Juneau for shopping, but the original drop off point is just slightly down from downtown at the dock. It’s only about a 10 minute walk along the dock. When we cruised on the Norwegian Bliss we docked farther away at the A1 dock which is a mile away from downtown. Our Holland America ships have always ported at the main docks in port.

Our Skagway Excursion

Sip & Summit: White Pass Scenic Rail & Skagway Brewing Company

The most notable excursion in Skagway is the White Pass Scenic Railway. This is a historic train route and even some of the cars and engine are historically important. The purpose was for trade and moving products to the Canadian border. The train only operates during the peak summer season, so be sure you check the dates if you’re traveling in the shoulder season.

For our excursion it included more than just the train, and we started our day meeting in a parking lot after tendering to shore from the ship. Recent landslides have made tendering and shuttling mandatory for some larger ships.

A large tour bus soon came to the parking lot and we loaded onto it with guests who seemed to be from another pier – a Holland ship. The bus took us to an overlook viewpoint where we were able to see the town as well as the cruise ships in port. Then we traveled back to town and were dropped off at Skagway Brewing Company in town.

Our group had a private seating area on the patio of the pub and we were all served a flight of beers and a pretzel with beer cheese. The manager came to each of our tables to chat for a few minutes, and there was plenty of time for us to enjoy our beer tasting as well as the chance to shop in their gift shop. One of the big features for this brewery is their Spruce Tip Ale which was their first beer made with Sitka Spruce tree tips which contain vitamin C to help prevent scurvy.

After the brewery we loaded back on the bus and were driven a short distance to a parking lot near the train where we were assigned a train car for our group. We had researched in advance and knew the right side of the car was best; however, the train does turn around at the top and everyone stays in their same seats, so the left side of the car will see the sites coming back down the mountain.

There are about 10 rows of seats, fitting two people in each bench seat on each side. So a train car probably holds about 40 people. There is a bathroom in each car, and there are very small viewing platforms on each side of the train car, which you’re allowed to access if the conductor feel it’s safe. The trip will take about two and a half to three hours.

If you happen to get a clear weather day, this excursion is amazing. The views are unbelievable and you truly appreciate the challenge of mining and trade in this region. I will say that it can be a little unsettling if you’re afraid of heights as you’re often on train tracks right next to gorges; so keep that in mind if you don’t like heights. You’ll be given a route map on the train and it will help you keep track of the main sights along the way.

Glacier Bay National Park

While not a cruise excursion, I did want to mention our stop in Glacier Bay as it’s one of the main draws for many cruisers. Some cruise ships and itineraries do not go to Glacier Bay since there is a permit limit each year. So if you really to visit this National Park, be sure to pick a cruise itinerary that has Glacier Bay included.

Glacier Bay is typically a one-day special experience. You’ll sail into the bay early in the morning and a couple of National Park Rangers will board the ship at the mouth of the bay. Throughout the day you’ll cruise up the bay to the end and the featured site of Margerie Glacier. The rangers will give audio commentary about sights along the way, and there are typically education events onboard including Junior Ranger badge programs.

Whether the weather will give you a clear blue sky day or a cloudy, rainy mess, is anyone’s guess. Keep in mind that the whole bay is gorgeous and it’s worth spending some time enjoying the views on one of the decks while cruising the bay. This would be a perfect day to reserve time in the Sanctuary.

Our Ketchikan Fishing Excursion

Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining – Discovery Exclusive

I actually did this exact excursion with my daughter Mia on our Holland Alaska Cruise, and we loved it so much I knew I had to book it for Paul, too. You’ll meet up on shore with a guide from Baranof Fishing and be led to their pier spot to have your fishing licenses checked or purchased.

With Holland we didn’t have any info to buy a license in advance; however, Princess did a great job having a sheet in our room upon boarding telling us what to do. So when we got to the pier we were able to just print off our licenses, meaning we got onboard a boat quicker.

Our guide took us out to one of his favorite spots to start fishing for rockfish. When I went with Mia in August, we were on a six-person open skift boat, but this time there were five of us on a small boat with a small cabin and back deck for fishing. They’ll loan you boots for the trip, and depending on weather they may give you waders. I can’t recall if they have coats for loan, but I wouldn’t count on it.

We had to chase the rockfish quite a bit this time, whereas when I fished with Mia, we all immediately got two fish each when we dropped our hooks down. So it was kind of fun having two different experiences. We also caught a few different types of rockfish, with Paul catching a tiger rockfish which had to be returned and I caught a fair sized yelloweye rockfish which we kept for lunch!

After we all caught a couple of rockfish, we headed to a different spot to go for salmon. With rockfish, we all were dropping lines into the water, whereas for salmon you’ll troll fish and have to watch rods for bites, then someone has to grab the rod and hope to reel in a fish. Salmon can be tricky and we have had a few pop off the hook when we’d try to reel them in. But in the end we came away with a lovely Pink Salmon to keep while we had to let a King Salmon go since it was too small.

With our fish onboard, we headed to a private island for some lunch. You’ll be brought ashore; keep in mind that you have to hop off the boat into very shallow water to go ashore, so you’ll need to be a little nimble. But they have a step stool and will help you get on and off the boat.

Onshore there is a campfire going and you can help yourself to fireside coffee in pitchers or use hot water to have some hot chocolate. Your guide will clean your fish and hand them off to the chef who will prepare the fish with amazing seasonings and a cioppino tomato soup. Our salmon was prepared with teriyaki sauce on a cedar plank board and it was all tasty. There was also blueberry cobbler for dessert. We finished eating and headed back to our boat to go back to the cruise ship.

Keep in mind, you’ll be fishing and sitting by a campfire; so consider packing a special outfit and/or jacket for this excursion. Or plan on having some laundry done on the ship; perhaps even pack some travel febreeze , hand wipes and sanitizer.

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Be sure to read my Alaska Cruise Packing List post which includes a free printable packing list! A few important notes:

• Pack layers for clothes, weather can vary and wind and rain are a reality just as much as sunny 70 degree days. A good flannel, fleece, puffer, and raincoat could be ideal for varying weather.
• Pack shoes that will accomodate your various excursions and dress, i.e. walking, hiking, or formal night.
• Pack a pair of good binoculars – we had a cheap pair and they were worthless.
• Pack some playing cards or travel board games if that’s your lounge style.
• Don’t forget a day pack for shore excursions.

Taking a cruise to Alaska is definitely something I’d recommend. Things to keep in mind is that bigger ships might not be able to port right at the pier and you’ll have to tender or shuttle ashore. Itineraries matter and you should carefully look at the ports of call as well as the amount of time in each port of call which choosing your line.

This was my first Princess Cruise and I loved the medallion “key” technology as well as the great WiFi at sea. The specialty dining experiences were better than the main dining and the 360 dining experience is something I’d recommend to all my friends. Princess cruise staff onboard were all kind and helpful, from the servers in the buffet to the room stewards.

The ship size was bigger than I expected and did come with some extra lines for getting off and on at cruise ports. While I didn’t love the layout, overall it was a gorgeous ship and I did enjoy all the different venues and lounge seating areas. There weren’t a lot of “active” areas onboard like a ropes course or waterslide, but that might have been what helped keep the family quotient lower and as a traveling couple, that was enjoyable.

I asked two different couples that mentioned they had sailed 10+ times with Princess why the loved it so much, and both gave me the same response: because they know what to expect. So, if consistency is something that appeals to you, it certainly seems like Princess might be a great line for you to cruise.

Very Merrytime Disney Christmas Cruise Review

Are you looking for reviews from a Disney Very Merrytime Christmas sailing? My family and I sailed during the month of December on the Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Magic.

Since this itinerary was themed as one of the Very Merrytime cruises, we were able to experience extra special Christmas decorations and activities while onboard. Sailing on one of these Merrytime voyages is a great way to experience the magic of the holidays.

With festive holiday decor, themed food, Christmas activities, holiday merchandise, and more, the Disney Christmas cruises in November and December are a great time of year to set sail.

In this post, I’ll walk you through all the fun entertainment options that go along with Disney Cruise Line’s Christmas cruises so that you can enjoy a magical holiday too. We’ll discuss the Christmas decor, shows, and activities you’ll find while cruising with Disney on a Very Merrytime Christmas cruise during the holiday season!

Disney Christmas Cruise Information

Before you book a Disney Christmas cruise, you may be wondering what happens on the Very Merrytime cruises. Disney Cruise Line goes all out in their holiday decorations and entertainment.

They even turn their private island in the Bahamas into a winter wonderland! While on a Disney Christmas cruise, some of the themed activities you could find include:

Disney Characters in Holiday Attire

Guests on a holiday themed Disney cruise are able to enjoy their favorite Disney characters dressed up in their holiday best. You’ll have lots of opportunities to pose for photos with Mickey Mouse and the gang in their festive Christmas outfits no matter which of the Disney ships you choose to sail.

Holiday Fireworks

Disney Cruise Line provides so many magical moments at sea, but one of my family’s favorite things is the fireworks show. During the Christmas cruise sailings, DCL features a festive fireworks display complete with Christmas music that’s sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Christmas Stories with Mrs. Claus

Story Time with Mrs. Claus is a super cute event that occurs on select days of the Disney Christmas cruise. Kids love sitting in the beautifully decorated atrium near the ship’s Christmas tree to listen to Mrs. Claus read a Christmas story.

Christmas Crafts

If you check out your personal navigator or Disney Cruise Line app while on the ship, you should see lots of options for holiday crafting like creating gingerbread houses. And don’t forget to check out the life-sized gingerbread house in the atrium!

Christmas on Disney Castaway Cay

Disney Cruise Line doesn’t just go all-out on the Christmas decoration on the ship, they decorate their private island too! As you disembark in Castaway Cay, you’ll notice a giant Christmas tree, snow flurries, wreaths, and snowmen.

Mickey’s Tree Lighting Magic Ceremony

During the first night of our cruise, guests were welcomed into the lobby atrium for the official tree-lighting ceremony. Mickey and friends dance and sing to popular holiday songs as the giant tree is lit.

Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball

Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball typically occurs later in the evening on holiday cruises. Cruisers will get to experience Mickey and friends introducing their special guests. Santa Clause and Mrs. Claus, to the ship.

Santa Meet and Greet

Another special holiday extra is a special visit from Santa Claus himself! You’ll want to get in line early for this character meet and greet as the lines get long quickly. It’s all worth it once you meet Santa though.

Caribbean Weather in Winter

You may be wondering what the weather in the Caribbean is like during the Disney Christmas cruises. The truth is that the temperature can fluctuate each day, but we’ve always lucked out with warm weather.

↓↓ Visit My Etsy Shop ↓↓

Although the temps are obviously cooler during the months of November and December, you can still often swim and sunbathe without feeling cold. In fact, I strolled my toddler around the Disney Magic jogging track at around 5:30 each morning of our last December cruise.

The temperature was perfect (around 70 degrees) outside during these walks even though the sun hadn’t even come up yet. Additionally, our stops at Castaway Cay and Grand Cayman both produced sunny skies with temps in the mid 80’s and really warm ocean water.

Is a Disney Christmas Cruise Worth It?

We always have an amazing time on a Disney Cruise Line vacation. The Very Merrytime Christmas activities made the trip even more special. The Disney Magic cruise ship looked so magical lit up with holiday decor.

And the Christmas decorations at Castaway Cay were icing on the cake! No matter which ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet you are sailing, the whole family will have a blast experiencing the Christmas season with a hint of tropical flair.

Since we lucked out with balmy temperatures and beautiful weather in December, we totally think a Disney Very Merrytime Christmas cruise is worth it!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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