beachlvn

As the OP I really want to say that my original post does mention that the staff was great, food very good, we loved Vines, high tea, and International Cafe. I was only criticizing the entertainment. We DID have a great time. And we weren't looking for a party boat (we, too, are in our 60's). We just felt the ship was "stuffy" a little. I also felt there was a much older crowd, more so than in the past. Maybe they are leaning toward an older group and less in the way of entertainment. I said we were going to look into another cruise line. There's nothing wrong with doing that. There are many out there that friends and family of ours love. We might try another to compare. Sort of like going to the same hotel or restaurant all the time. Have your favorites you go back to, but try others as well.

And I forgot to mention that the Kamakazee duet was awesome. They were in the Piazza a couple of times. Just that compared to other Princess cruises, this ship's entertainment was lacking.

I will give you an honest review of the Princess Emerald. We've cruised 5 times with Princess so we do have some experience with them. The staff was excellent and food was as well. We ate one night at Sabatini's and although the food was very good, I don't think it's worth the extra $50 a couple. We love Vines and the International Cafe. Having the coffee card was the best thing we do! Afternoon tea is always enjoyable.

BUT, the ship should be re-named the SNOOZE CRUISE! The most boring cruise we've taken. Other people we talked to onboard agreed as well. Only one comedian and one show for him! At the pool...nothing. At least pipe in some Bob Marley music. Elevator music is better than what they had. You could hear a pin drop. There is the sanctuary where you can have a quiet atmosphere if that's your choosing. But, the other pools need some entertainment. Finally, the last day there were a couple of things going on. First, an ice sculpture (although excellent talent, it was dull) and then much later a men's leg contest. After that was over...nothing. No music. Where was the entertainment director? The band on board was mediocre at best (Wavelength). Certain "contests" in the past were always fun because the staff knew how to get the audience involved and laughing, even if it was corny! This cruise...so dull we left during several shows.

I am writing this review so that anyone going on the cruise will be aware that although a relaxing time, it has changed dramatically. My party will not go on another Princess ship. We are looking into another line now. Which is sad because we've all built up some perks.

The only issue is during the boatshow, the local roads and the port

entrances will be very, very crowded.

 

It is not unusual for 17th street to be stopped back to the Embassy

Suites.

 

If I were doing this --- I would arrive early, and then walk out to

Panera Bread for breakfast, and walk back closer to boarding time.

Thank you for your suggestion. We'll get there early!

OK, we will also check the Park-n-GO. I sort of like the idea of reservations. I am aware of the boat show, that's one reason we are driving down, but I didn't realize it would affect parking at the pier.

Thanks again for all who responded!

Just 4 more days till we are cruisin'

Thank you very much. I didn't realize this was on the cruise personalizer. Your info is exactly what I needed.

Thanks again!!!

We will be driving down for the first time. We have always flown. How do we find out which terminal the Emerald will be leaving from on Nov 7th? And where do we park for long term? Do we need to make a prior reservation?

THank you for helping!

Thanks. That smell always reminds me of the Princess Cruises. I will miss it, but glad they do have some lotion. I hate carrying anything extra!

I apologize if this was discussed already. I tried to do a search but didn't come up with anything.

I understand EMERALD now has the shampoos & conditioners in auto dispensers in the shower (UGH) but what about the cream/lotion that was always in the cabins? I love, love, love them. It was a eucaplyptus spa lotion. I need to know cause I hate to have to bring anything extra that I don't need to. Thanks in advance!

I LOVE the afternoon teas. I believe it's at 3pm and on sea sailing days. Those little scones with cream and jam...oooooh delicious. And little tea cakes. YUM!!

Dollar Store nightlights. They come 2 to a pack so you can always open each up and throw one in each couple's bag

Thank you very much for the replies. Can't wait for our cruise!!!

Is there an advantage to carrying on your own luggage? We will have one large suitcase and one carry on size.

And when do they check for the amount of wine you bring on?

We are coming in on the Princess Emerald week of Nov 7th. We don't snorkel, just like to relax, swim, walk the beach, and have a cocktail. Sounds like Sapphire would be the beach for us?? And how do you find out what ships will be in port?

If it isn't too much trouble please email me the code

GO7980@hotmail.com

Thank you!

Ahhhh...I now understand better. I LOVE the pizza at the pool and unless I tip them personally, they wouldn't get anything if I opt out. So, I will stick to the auto grautuities and tip additional to steward and anyone else that goes over and above. We also go once on the cruise to the high tea. They wouldn't be getting any tip either unless I personally gave them something. I can't keep track of all of these so I will just keep things the way they are!!!

I've been on 5 Princess cruises which we have thoroughly enjoyed. Never had any problem in any way, and we were treated very nicely by entire staff. We automatically had the gratuities deducted each day. We gave additional to our room steward and wait staff.

Can someone explain where the tips go and percentage? Do the buffet employees get a percentage? Or is it just the dining room staff? And stewards?

Also, someone said they don't do the automatic deduction but leave their own. Well, then, who do you tip??

Thank you for clarifying.

Thank you all for your responses. I will go ahead and book. I called Princess yesterday and expressed one of my concerns, and that is that some sales have restrictions that they are only for new bookings only. I was a little concerned about booking and then finding if I didn't I could get better pricing. But, the rep did tell me that happens occasionally, not often. I will then keep my eye out for a good TA. Hopefully I will get a good deal and save some money from the advertised price!

Ooops, didn't know this post would be against regulations, so if it is removed I will understand.

To explain further, I used this TA 4 times, and each time had an issue. Yes, he finally relented, but not easily. And, to tell you the truth, I just didn't care for him. That's all really.

I am generally a very easy to please person. I have nary a complaint about my cruises.

Thanks again. :)

Do you use a TA? Or do you just book yourself online or by phone with Princess. What are the advantages or disadvantages in your opinion.

The last 4 sailings I booked with a TA and this last time I was so thoroughly disgusted with them. I found a discounted price and called my TA. He wasn't quick enough and I didn't get it. I fought with him stating this was not fair and I told him I would call his supervisor, as it was several hundred dollars worth of savings. His company finally honored it, out of their own pocket. I reported it timely. He just didn't take care of it timely (although he blamed the dept that takes care of pricing and stated he did give in the info in time.

Thank you all for your help. I am going to book soon since I want a Caribe balcony room (larger balconies) and can pick that out when I book. I do appreciate all the answers.

We want to go on the RUBY in the spring of 2015 (Caribbean). Right now prices seem a bit high. When do you all book? Do you wait for a sale or do you just book? Thanks.