Holiday Aloha on the Island Princess 12/22/05 to 1/6/06: A Review

this is a long report, so grab some popcorn, a beer, and a comfy chair.

I have to say we had one sight we weren’t expecting and one we were hoping for that we did get, as well as one major disappointment.

On this cruise, the Captain was Andrea Poggi who has sailed on various Princess ships in the last 15 years or so. David Cole was the cruise director.

Thursday, December 22 – Day 1 – San Pedro

Pre-port

Bags are ready, the crickets and rolly-pollies have been released into the garden, and the water to the house turned off.

After a little snag (their computer system pinpointed our home in the wrong location), Clint from Cool Rides showed up to pick us up before 11 am. He managed to get our two suitcases, two plastic bins (bottled water, Pepsi, ginger ale, snorkeling gear, etc), guitar case, box with the ukulele, three backpacks, my new backpack style purse (which worked out great for the cruise) into the car while I was installing the booster seat for our little one (we also took a large duffel bag to carry the unassembled seat onto the ship). He headed for the World Cruise Center while telling us that he often drives Princess personnel (his company is based in Santa Clarita, which is also the home to the cruiseline’s main office).

Despite the usual holiday traffic on the 405 of those heading to LAX, we managed to get to Pier 93 by 12:15pm. When we entered the building, someone directed us to the Express check-in. After a few signatures and a check of our info, the young man behind the counter wistfully told us (he has yet to go on a cruise) we could board right away, instead of the 1pm time listed on our tickets. So we proceeded to the security check and then moved outside to wait to take our embarkation photo. Minutes later, we took our ship card photos and then actually stepped on the ship. We got a personal escort to our cabin.

The Cabin

As usual, we booked an inside cabin, C517. We were exactly midship on the Caribe deck (deck 10). The cabin seemed smaller that the one we had on the Sapphire. (IP’s inside cabins range from156-166 square feet vs. the Sapphire’s 168-182, per princess.com)

Upon arrival, we found the first day Patters, as well as an insert that summarized the 15 days, and the Pirateers schedule. Every night, the next Patters is inserted in the in-box next to each cabin. Even if one isn’t into activities, someone in the cabin should read the info on the first page regarding the dress code for dinner, any time zone changes, laws regarding what to need to take or leave behind in the ports, navigational info. On the second page is a chronological listing of the activities for the day. The third page will list the evening entertainment. On the last page are the "specials" -- basically what they’re telling to sell (boutiques, casino, drinks of the day, spa and salon).

Each cabin on the IP has a mini-frig, a TV, closet with hangers, drawers, a safe (passenger programs in the number), hair dryer, bathroom with at least a shower (some suites may have bath). One thing I noticed is that the quality of the toilet paper was not exactly luxurious and if you didn’t care for the sandpaper in the bathroom facial tissue box, head for a restroom where you can find more nose-friendly paper. A big disadvantage to an inside is that it’s nearly impossible to dry bathing suits in the bathroom.

One funny thing happened when hubby was taking a shower. He left the door to the bathroom open. A short time later, the phone rang. Someone from the bridge said the heat sensor had gone off in our room and asked if someone was taking a shower with the door open. (Our upstairs smoke alarm at home sometimes goes off if someone is taking a shower with the bathroom door open.)

We unpacked our carry-ons and were ready to explore our temporary home by 1:15.

The Ship

The IP has 12 decks that passengers are able to go to. The Gala (deck 4) is the lowest and is where to go for tender embarkation and the infirmary. The Plaza (5) has staterooms and the Bordeaux Dining Room for those with "anytime dining." It also has Passenger Services (Purser’s desk) and the La Patísseríe coffee bar.

The Fiesta Deck (6) has the Provence Dining Room for Traditional Dining, which along with the boutiques, is located in the Atrium. Nearby is the Casino, which has a Paris theme. Walk down the hallway past the Photo Gallery to get to the Universe Lounge in the stern where movies, shows and other activities are held. The two-story Princess Theater is located at the very bow.

The Promenade (7) is the place to be to view the scenery outside. A walking track surrounds the ship with three laps roughly equal to a mile. On windy days, however, taking that walk can be quite difficult. On this deck you’re find the Wheelhouse Bar. Surrounding the atrium is Crooner’s Bar, which is an open space bar, and Churchill Lounge, a room where cigars are permitted. Move down the hallway and you’ll find the Wedding Chapel, where some classes are held, the Art Gallery, and the two dining rooms with cover charges, The Bayou Café and Sabatini’s.

The next five decks have staterooms. Emerald (8), which also has the Internet Café (access is $10.50 per 30 minutes; elite passengers have free Internet), the library (you can check out books), and the cardroom, where often a bridge game is in progress; Dolphin (9), Caribe (10), Baja (11) and Aloha (12). Aloha also has the kids areas in the aft. On each deck with staterooms, a small self-service Laundromat awaits your clothing and coins.

Lido (14) features, from bow to stern, the Horizon Court buffet, Princess Pizza, the Lido pool, Sundaes Ice Cream Bar, Lotus Pool with retractable roof, Lotus Spa and Salon, The Gym. On the Sun Deck (15), one would find a splash pool, The Grill, table tennis, Pottery Studio and Princess Links. Getting to these locales usually entail climbing up stairs. Above is the Sports Deck (16) with Center Court where basketball and other sports are held. A miniature golf course is open 8am to 8pm. Harvey and Jen also discovered a giant chess set but unfortunately when they went up there to play, it was much too windy.

During the afternoon, many areas had open houses: the Fun Zone, Pottery Studio, the gym and the Lotus Spa.

Kids Area:

The Kids program packet left in our cabin said open house/registration was ongoing in the afternoon so we made our way to Aloha Deck aft. At the very back of the ship, there’s the Fun Zone for the Pelicans (3 to 7) and Pirateers (8 to 12) as well as Off Limits for the teens. The area was decorated for the holidays with a Naughty and Nice List containing the names of all the passengers under 18 aboard the ship, approximately 250. We found out there was 16 eight-year-olds, including our Jen. We also found out registration was later on, this was just the open house.

From age eight and above, the parents can decide if kids can sign themselves out or not but we decided we’d drop and pick our girl up. Parents must show a photo ID each time they sign out their child. Port day supervision is available 8amto 5pm if you sign up the day before.

Place to avoid if you don’t like tobacco

Here’s one of our basic complaints about the design of the IP. The Churchill’s Cigar room is right next to Crooners and you can smell the cigars, even with the doors closed. Smoking is allowed on the port side of Crooners and between Churchill’s on the Starboard side of the bar and the smokers on the other side, it’s not a clean smelling spot. Often the smoke drifts throughout the Atrium, creeping down a few floors and up a floor.

Holiday Décor

The ship was all decked out for the holidays. Gingerbread houses in the Horizon Court. Snowy villages set up in the Grand Atrium. Menorahs with electric "candles" graced the Purser’s desk and in the Atrium (with a little sign explaining the holiday for the goyum).

A madrigal group, The Voices of Christmas, sang holiday songs (even O’Hanukkah) in the Atrium. J told them that she had learned "Jingle Bells" in piano class so they asked her to sing with them. She sang the first verse but stepped away after that after they sand the other verses.

Many crewmembers got into the holiday mood by wearing Santa caps. The only things missing were the hunt for parking spaces and long checkout lines.

Muster Drill

Before heading out to our station in the art gallery at 4:15, we quickly took our usual photo of us wearing our life jacket. It’s also funny to watch people not follow directions (on Princess ships, they ask that you carry the life jackets to the muster station and not don them until told) or try out their whistles that have been in others’ mouths just two weeks ago from the last drill.

Meet and Greet

Before the cruise, our roll call had decided to have a quick meet after the drill. So my family put on the leis I brought with and showed up at the Crooners Bar. We hadn’t decided on a way to tell us (I think some roll calls have used rubber band bracelets) so it was a matter of catching other people’s eyes. I told everyone to look for the threesome with the balding husband and the skinny daughter. Rooster on Board (Gary with wife Linda) and 1932 Canal (Paul with wife Mary and daughter Gina) had shown up. We discovered that Paul’s family will be sharing table 170, late seating with us.

About this time was Sailaway, 5 to 5:30, so we went outside on the Promenade deck. Jen spotted a group of seals hanging out on a buoy and started barking. The seals barked back. I spotted the Vincent Thomas Bridge, which was outfitted with lights since our last cruise from San Pedro. It wasn’t like I expected (for the amount of money spent I thought it would be really lit).

Dining Options

Princess touts its Personal Choice Dining with different options available for dining.

Traditional Dining: Two seatings (5:45 and 8) in the Provence Dining Room. Each group is assigned to a time and table. It seems that on many cruises there’s a waiting list for TD. Our table was a round table for eight, which seemed like a good size for holding conversation.

Anytime Dining. You can reserve times in the Bordeaux Dining Room or drop by and see if there’s a wait. Some passengers discover a waiting staff they like and try to request them for the rest of the cruise.

The Horizon Court (buffet; opened 24 hours/day)

Sabatini’s Trattoria -- $20 per person cover charge; multi-course Italian feast. A menu was posted outside showing a predominance of seafood, with options of other meats too.

Bayou Café - $15 per person cover charge for Cajun and Creole style of dining.

Room Service – limited menu

The Pizzeria and the Grill (hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken) both are open during the day only and are located by the pools

Sundae’s – ice cream for at a charge – only opened during the day

Dinner

Besides Paul and his family, we were joined in the Provence Dining Room by Doris, who’s from Oakland. She was traveling with his brother but he didn’t make it to dinner this first night. Our waitstaff was from Romanian, which is where my fil had been born.

One thing that bothered me was the lack of info about what time the traditional dinners were. In the first Patter stated "Your Cruise Card will indicate your designated dining room, table number and dinner sitting" but didn’t actually state the times and my card said: "Provence/2nd/170" without referring to a specific time. The "Quick Reference Card" also mentioned on the same page didn’t list the times for traditional times either. I asked my room steward and he told me 8pm. I’m glad I asked: the previous cruise, the late seating was at 8:15pm. Maybe other passengers complained about the lack of info as the times were listed in the 12/23 Patters.

Discussion on this board sometimes obsesses on dining room attire. The Patters stated smart casual as "shorts and t-shirts are not permitted in the Dining Room". No mention of jeans. Whether or not the maitre’ D dismissed any jeans wearer, I don’t know. I saw a couple of sweatshirts in the room so I imagine one could have gotten away with denim.

Horizon Court

We had lunch in the Horizon Court everyday but you can also dine in one of the dining rooms. Jen decided she liked the enclosed room just off each side where she could eat by herself so we would try to get a table near her.

The buffet is set up with two entrances (while the food is being changed out on one side, a sign directs you to go past the elevators and use the other side). But it is also set up different from the Sapphire and the Star. On those two ships, the food serving areas is set off to the side. You use the hand sanitizer and then a crewmember usually hands you silverware wrapped in a napkin. Then you can move into the food lines.

On the Island Princess, however, you find yourself in the service areas as soon as you enter. You can use the hand sanitzers right out side the door or use the pump next to the basket containing the napkin/silverware packages. (But I think many people don’t even notice the dispensers.)

The first bank of food for the lunch/dinner/snack buffets contains the salad bar fixings. Besides the greens, there’s usually onions, zucchini, corn, other veggies, Parmesan cheese and the dressings.

There’s also a variety of breads and rolls, fruits (ate my share of pineapple), cold cuts/pates (lunch/snack buffets), main courses/sides, carving station, desserts (including at least one sugar free cake/pie/mousse).

Harvey said he liked the selection. Picky little me usually found something to eat most of the time. If not, I was okay with a salad and fruit. A few times, the pineapple looked a little peaked. Jen was fond of the rolls and breadsticks.

A few times a Sushi Bar was set up, which Harvey tried out. I imagine many passengers wouldn’t see it as it’s separate from the other food.

Every afternoon around three to five, you can find two different ice cream flavors, sauces and toppings for make-it-yourself sundaes.

There’s a breakfast buffet with boxes of Kellogg’s cereals, pastries, English muffins, breakfast meats, eggs. Harvey took advantage of the made-to-order omelets.

Unfortunately, trays are not available which can make it difficult to carry your plate, salad bowl, silverware, glassware while trying to find an available table. Harvey asked our room steward for a tray to deliver breakfasts to Jenn and me on those days we slept in. He would stash the tray in the closet so he can reuse it.

Another thing I would recommend changing is putting a sign listing the specific items available above each of the main course/sides banks. Many times I would be standing in a line and discover I didn’t want any of the items in that area. Add to that, the waiting for someone to stand there deciding what they wanted while the line builds.

One day, we sat with a family from London who had been on Princess before to Alaska and Europe. Their cute five-year-old daughter, Courtney joined Jenn in her little room to play.

At 10:30pm, the weather was foggy, 59 degrees with 4-7.5ft waves. We had sailed 96 miles and had 2,165 miles to go before reaching Honolulu.

Friday, December 23 – Day 2

At 8:30am, it was foggy outside with 4 to 7.5 waves.

We had a second Cruise Critic meeting but only the same people showed up. Later on Harvey and Jen tried out the Lotus Pool. I stayed on the deck chair, reading "Memoirs of a Geisha."

At 4:30 p.m., it was 65 degrees.

Entertainment

The IP has some resident musicians performing throughout the day. The Pat Juneau Trio performed by one of the pools for Sailaway and many other afternoons. "The Mariachi Jalisco Musicians" performed during the stay in Ensenada.

Previous IP passengers have recommended Duncan Tuck so we went to his first performance ("Country to Classical via Comedy"). His guitar playing impressed Harvey. He told jokes about the Midwest and rednecks, among other subjects. Among his musical selections were extended versions of "Dueling Banjos" and "California Dreaming." Jen liked his rapid-fire summary of the Wizard of Oz.

We also saw one of the big production shows: Curtain Up – A Salute to Broadway. Among the musicals featured: Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Oklahoma, Grease, 42nd St., Sunset Blvd., and others. The gimmick was that dancers and singers would obtain their costumes from lockers on-stage and change as they’re singing the first tune from each play.

Other productions featured on the IP (that we never made it too):

"Let’s Rock", "Tribute," "Piano Man" (we saw that on the Sapphire: features the music of Neil Sedaka, Barry Manilow --gag, Billy Joel and Elton John.

Some crew members staged a performance of "The Christmas Stranger."

Other entertainers included Kevin Hughes, Ross Bennett", "recording artist" Donnie Abraham, "West End Star Soprano" Philippa Healey, "Big Daddy" Jeff Wayne, Jonathan Stamp, Jeff Peterson (hilarious comedy and amazing magic), Will Tyler and Lester (I actually remember seeing this act on variety shows)

"Grand Adventure Showtime," "PMS Party: A Hilarious Scaventer Hunt" and then "London Pub Night" were other shows.

There was also audience participation activities at night. The talent show, "Princess Pop Star" featured passengers. There was also the All-Star Passenger Talent show (didn’t go to either so I don’t know if some passengers participated in both), Lip Sync show, Newlywed Not-So-Newlywed game.

A few non-holiday parties such as "Dance through the Ages." Karaoke and disco were featured in the Explorers Lounge.

I noticed that many of the entertainment programs were scheduled for earlier in the evening (7 and 8:45 instead of the traditional 8:15 and 10:15). I don’t know if this is a recent development for all the Princess ships or just with this itinerary. I much prefer the later times, as at 7pm, we’re usually dropping off our girl at the fun zone and then dressing for dinner. If she wanted to see a show, that would mean rushing from the show (if it lasts an hour) and dropping her off and then rushing to dinner. On previous cruises, we can pick her up at ten and take her to the performance. Or if we’d pre-reserve kid-sitting, we can leave her in the fun zone and pick her up after the show.

Another aspect that was different is that on some previous cruises, the big production shows were often repeated in the afternoon, the next day or two. On this cruise, the shows were not repeated, which meant if there was a conflict with another activity or if one of us wasn’t feeling up to post-dinner shows, too bad.

Saturday December 24 – Day 3

Rougher seas in the morning 7.5 to 12 feet. It was 64 degrees. I was still a bit dizzy from the day before and was relying on Ginger Altoids a great deal. Harvey and Jen were not affected at all by the rocking and rolling.

Harvey and Jen braved the pools today even with the water sloshing. I relaxed on a deck chair with "Memoirs of a Geisha." Later on, the two main pools were closed and roped off because of the sea conditions.

This was the first of three formal dinners. I put on a long burgundy silk dress that I hadn’t worn in years and we checked out the end of the Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Party.

The Christmas Gala Dinner:

Crackers decorated each place seating in the dining rooms and provided entertainment as diners checked out the contents. The main courses available for this meal: Porcini and Veal Stuffed Ravioli, Lobster Thermidor, Slow-Roasted Young Vermont Tom Turkey, Hickory Smoked Sugar Cured Ham, Tournedos of Beef Tenderloin.

We couldn’t wait to see what John would wear to the dinner. The night before he wore a Raiders shirt – guess what his favorite team is? This night he wore a suit with a Raiders tie. During the course of the cruise, he told us with much pride that his sister, Doris, was once a Jeopardy contestant. As someone who once interviewed for a proofreading job on that show and just four years ago, took and passed the written test to get on the show (I don’t think I got invited on the show as I was a bit too "Wheel of Fortune" hyper as I had taken migraine pills that morning).

We took turns popping the cracker to discover a tissue hat and a little trinket (keychain or inexpensive bracelet).

Then Harvey, Jen, and I went to see "Curtain Up" in the Princess Theater.

Sunday, December 25 - Day 4

Still 7.5- 12 foot waves. We had traveled 829 nautical miles from LA with 1415 miles to go and now at 30’10"N, 134 W. It was a little warmer today.

As the kids partied in the Wheelhouse Bar, the cruise director made an announcement that the bridge was "tracking something on the radar". A short time later, they got a "visitor" who gave each kid a beanie baby. The kids also got a driedel. The steward left a small Christmas stocking filled with candy on my pillow.

Because this was a holiday cruise, there were services with officiants aboard. On Christmas Eve, a midnight mass and midnight Protestant worship services. The next morning another mass and another Protestant service. That night was the first night of Hanukkah and the rabbi onboard invited anyone who brought a menorah to bring in up so he can supervise the kids lighting it as the assembled said the prayer. He also said he asked Princess to provide latkes and jelly doughnuts for eating at the end of the service. I never heard of a doughnuts-Hanukkah connection. We stayed for a while.

I think there were Catholic services every day of the cruise and there was a lighting service each night during Hanukkah.

Monday, December 26 – Day 5

23N, 152W, 70 degrees and sunny at 7:45am. Slight waves and swell action. We’re now on Hawai’i-Aleutian time, two hours behind Los Angeles.

Jen took the ukulele class, which was taught one of the poolside musicians. He gave each participant a chord sheet and a page with a song. He also lent out ukes, which he admitted were cheap Wal-Mart types. He recommended anyone serious about getting one should expect to pay about $60 and up for a really decent one (J’s, which she brought onboard, was brought at a musical instrument store near home). She was already familiar with many of the chords so she had an advantage over the non-musicians in the group.

The Pirateers

This program for cruisers 8-12 features hands-on science activities, in conjunction with the California Science Center (which originally was the California Museum of Science and Industry). These included: Corals Galore (building a mini coral reef), Deep Sea Explorer (making a mini aquarium), Planet Patrol (creating a miniature solar system), Shark Attack (making a shark tooth necklace), Float that Boat, Chemical Concoctions, Just Squidding Around (dissecting a squid), Carnival Science (building a roller coaster).

The kids also had a fun time making arts and crafts such as a reindeer marionette, a santa marionette, lanyards, Christmas wreaths, beadie buddies, Christmas dove, New Years Eve masks, friendship bracelets, totem poles, model magic mania, pipe cleaner animals.

They got to play many games include bingo, alphabet scavenger hunt, team scruples, charades, celebrity heads, brain teasers, Outburst jr., Pictionary, fact or fiction, autograph hunt, Scattegories, Pirateer Jeopardy.

Other activities included t-shirt coloring, ice cream time, the Christmas party, the Halau Hula Olana Show, Island Night party (which was held the night before the ship’s Island Night party), a couple of Kids’ dinners, pajama party night, New Years’ balloon drop (the scheduled party with the tweens and teens was called off), Pirates Night, mini Olympics night, and movies.

Princess offers in-port kidsitting with prior notice if you want to explore the port without your child. There’s plenty for the little ones to do on the ship: Playstation, games, crafts.

One thing to remember is that when there’s a lot of kids (this cruise had about 250 passengers under 18, 18 eight-year-olds alone), there is the regular program of activities. When there’s fewer kids, the program is pared down. And more ages grouped together with fewer activities offered.

Tuesday, December 27 – Day 6 - O’ahu

Early in the morning, the IP docked at Pier 11 next to the Aloha Tower in Honolulu.

Leaving the ship, each party posed for a photo with a male and a female "native."

We had pre-booked the Sea Life Park excursion. If you want to go on your own, there are buses from Honolulu, but we figured it’ll be less hassle if we spend the extra bucks to go through Princess. Everyone booked for that one and the Dolphin Swim (not really a swim but an "encounter") waited outside the terminal building for our bus. As I did in each port, I grabbed at least one those "This Week" type of brochures. I also picked up a copy of one oriented toward cruisers entitled "Hawaiian Shores Magazine Cruise Visitor Guide". Finally a Princess rep told us we needed to walk down the street. The driver was apologetic: for some reason, his bus wasn’t allowed to stop by the terminal. That seemed kinda weird. Maybe some development in tourism wars or something. Hopefully Princess will resolve that before the next cruise.

The driver was pretty funny with deadpan humor, describing the sighs we were seeing and also telling us about the current political climate regarding an influential women’s group in the state called the "Outdoor Circle that basically controls development here.

We were dropped off at the Park, located on the southeast corner of O’ahu near Waimānalo Bay and told our return bus will be there at 2:30.

We were told that the exit was through the gift shop. Turns out even the food are was through the gift shop. Perhaps, the park wanted us to drop some bucks there????!!!!!

I would describe this attraction as a very small scale Sea World -- just 62 acres.. There was a 300,000-gallon aquarium with various tropical fish, stingrays, and other aquatic critters. Sea Lions, penguins and other animals had outside areas. There was a bird sanctuary where sick and injured birds have been taken to live out their lives unless they recover enough to be set free. The famous wholphin wasn’t to be seen or mentioned so maybe it’s no longer there.

We also spent time at the penguin enclosure. On one end, there was a see-thru area where one can view the birds if they went for a swim. One penguin teased us by staying at the very edge of the water. We kept waiting for him to jump in (he probably waited until we left). We didn’t make it to the touch pool,

Besides encounters and viewing the creatures in their environments, the park features shows. We saw the end of the seal one. Then we grabbed seats for the Dolphin show, a corny little program in which a group of ragtag pirates threatened (wink wink) a couple on a tropic island for their gold and video games. The head pirate enlisted the aid of a little boy in the audience who got to feed the dolphins. The last show we saw was located in a covered pavilion, featuring dolphins, parading penguins and promenading sea otters.

J tried out shaved ice (that was her big desire on O’ahu). She got to pick out one item in the gift show (an inexpensive necklace). The store also stocked many stuffed animals, little kids’ books, jewelry, and toys. The area that I found lacking was Sea Life Park tee shirts. A very small selection. Don’t know if that was because it was a couple days after Christmas and their stock had been depleted or that they just don’t feature apparel as other tourist attractions would.

We returned to the bus area and waited. Doris, our dining tablemate who participated in the dolphin swim, said that she got to pet them, dance with them and kiss them.

Jen made friends with a five-year-old boy, Jack, and discovered his family’s cabin was down the hall from ours. A couple of times, with her father’s help, she called his cabin and came over for a visit.

Looking at the buses for Japanese tour groups, I was reminded of that scene in "If It’s Tuesday, It must be Belgium" (a must movie for anyone who travels) where Norman Fell’s wife is feeling a bit sick and says she’s going back to the tour’s bus. But she unknowingly boards the Japanese bus and comedy ensues for the rest of the trip while Norman and his tour group keeps trying to reconnect with her new tour.

Our new driver didn’t say much on the return. He went a slightly different route, past the Honolulu Zoo (you can see the giraffes from the street).

When we got back, we went through security. First, at the door to the terminal, everyone had to show photo ID and cruise card. Then, putting your items on the conveyor belt while going through the metal detector.

We ate a late lunch in the Horizon and then it was back off the ship to check out the Aloha tower. Ten years ago we had walked there from our honeymoon hotel and bought a matching Aloha dress and man’s shirt at an outside boutique. We have worn them on every cruise we have gone on. This time, we went upstairs and checked a few stores before selecting another dress and shirt. J made it clear she didn’t want to get any outfit that would match ours; instead she picked out a Hello Kitty tee.

Then we went over to the observation area and watched the sunset. On one side of us was the IP, and at a different berth, the Celebrity Summit. A Japanese family came by and were excited by the ships, taking shots of each other with the IP as a backdrop.

We returned to the terminal. This time my sandals set off the alarm so I had to remove them and walk barefoot through the scanner. Walking back to the ship, we passed a couple that looked like a photo that was posted on the roll call so I said, "Kim?" It was mommykim. We had started talking online months ago. She lives maybe 20 or so miles away from me, but this is the first time we met in person.

We returned to the ship, dropped J off at the Fun Zone and then went back through the terminal again. When you go through there, take a look at the murals (scenes of old time fortish cruisers arriving in Hawai’i). We had wanted to pick up somethings such as water and Pepsi so we had a taxi driver take us to a Longs Drug Store. The prices were pretty reasonable – the soda was on sale --- and we also picked up madamia notes and souvenirs.

When I turned on my cell to call the cab company for a pickup, I couldn’t get a signal (Virgin mobile is served by Sprint and I thought I had checked months ago the Hawaiian service area) so I had to use a pay phone.

When we picked up J, we discovered that the kids, as well as any adults, saw a performance of the Halau Hula Olana Folkoric Show. The adults who saw it, gave it a rave. These talented kids of 20 from the ages of 6 to 18 have traveled extensively, winning many competitions and have performed for presidents and heads of state, along with performing on many cruiseships. After sharing their message of aloha on the IP, they were going to fly to LA to participate in the Rose Bowl parade the next week.

We went up to the Lido deck and watched as the Summit pulled away from the dock, then the IP.

It was a nice day, probably 80 at the warmest, sunny part of the day, cloudy later on.

The Ports

We were warned that if anyone who disembarked the ship in Hawai’i and don’t sail through to Ensenada would be in violation of the Jones act "with fines up to $5300 per person." One guy from Chicago insisted that he had talked to some immigration people in Honolulu who told his that the ship is only fined a few hundred dollars for each violation. His son apparently needed to return home to work right after Kona or else risk losing his job.

As we couldn’t get into Kona, I guess his son is visiting the unemployment office now.

It seems that if you’re in that kind of situation, you either pass on the trip or make sure you have really reliable, airtight info about a law that could cost you big bucks. Of course, even if he had a signed letter from the President excusing him from Jones Act fines, he wouldn’t have been able to leave in Kona.

Another thing is that we couldn’t take food items off the ship, most likely to protect the ports from agricultural problems. We were warned that we could be fined. A couple of times I put a couple pieces of breadsticks in a ziploc bag just in case the girl got hungry (when she gets hungry, she gets hungry) but either security didn’t care or didn’t see it while searching my purse.

Wednesday, December 28 – Day 7 - Kaua’i

We traveled NW during the night and entered the port of N wiliwili. At 8am, it was 75 degrees. The water was smooth. At noon it was 77 degrees and partly cloudy.

After exiting the terminal, we were greeted by shuttles for various stores, including Hilo Hatties, Walmart, and Kmart. We grabbed one that was going to the Anchor Cove Shopping Center as I noticed there was a beach nearby on the map. A good choice. It was a short walk from the drop-off point to a very nice little beach, Kalapak , behind the Marriott. J hasn’t had a lot of experience with beaches, despite our living in LA (it’s a bit of a bother driving from the Valley unless you luck out with traffic, parking, crowds, and weather). Our girl hooked up with a little boy and they had fun chasing the waves. From there, you can see the Island Princess nestled against the green mountains.

We caught the shuttle back, which had to stop prior to the gated area outside the terminal. A security person boarded and asked to see everyone’s ship cards. Then we went into the terminal and the security check. No x-ray scanner so everything was hand checked. I turned and saw one guard waving the wand over Jen. He was smiling. I guess this is a standard thing – the kids ask for the wand!

After changing out of our bathing suits, we returned to the shuttle area and boarded the bus to Hilo Hattie’s. After a shopping spree, we walked down the street to the McDonalds so Jen could have a happy meal.

We returned to the store and caught the shuttle back to the ship and the Horizon Court as chicken mcnuggets isn’t on Harvey’s or my diet. We ran into Misha and Molly, two sweet six-year-olds, who Jen was playing with the pool earlier in the week. The girls were originally from Africa and Texas and now live in Washington State with nice parents. Their mom was telling me about the ping pong table incident (read the "So the Drama" part of the report later on), which I had already knew about, thanks to cruise critic.

Port Day Activities:

For those staying aboard, there are a few activities: games/trivia, ping pong, movies on the big screen in the Universe Lounge (for example "Bewitched" while we were in Honolulu), the Daily Mass, Hanukkah candle lighting ceremony (the last two in the late afternoon). Ceramics classes (with materials fee). The miniature golf course was open but the casino closed down on the 26th and didn’t open until the 31st (sometime after the our day in Kona got cancelled). The Spa and Salon offered specials. Kids in-port supervision 8-5 as long as the parent signs up by the day before. And it was the easiest time to grab an available washer in the self-serve Laundromat.

Thursday, December 29 – Day 8 - Maui

Over night the ship traveled through the Kalohi Channel and anchored off of Lahaina, which was once the lusty, bawdy whaling capital of the Yankee Pacific Fleet. The sky cleared to just party cloudy and in the high 70s during the day.

We had booked the Molokini Snorkeling trip. A crater island of only 18 acres, Molokini is three miles off of M kena and is said to be one of the top snorkeling sites in the Islands. Our shore excursion tickets instructed us to be at the Princess Theatre at 7:45am. A Princess employee was telling the V-1’s to go to one side and the B-1’s to the other until it was pointed out that V-1 and B-1 sounded alike.

A short time later, we were led to one of the first tenders (NOTE: if you’re planning an independent tour that starts early in the day in a tender port, you may want to be aware that passengers with a ship tour get first dibs on tenders). While speeding to shore, we saw the Amsterdam, which looked so small. One of the Norwegian ships was also anchored there.

After reaching the pier, we were directed toward the Lahaina Princess just yards away. Anyone wishing to drink alcohol aboard needed to show his or her IP to get stamped. Then we boarded the 65 foot boat and found a table. A continental breakfast of guava juice, coffee, muffins and fruit were served and snorkeling masks, gear and fins were handed out to those needing them.

The engines were revved up sometime around 8:50am and at this point the safety speech given, drowned out by the motors. I guess it was at this time the guide explained that conditions precluded the original destination, Molokini Crater. Harvey thought they said we were traveling to "Coconut" (whatever that is). I think we went to Coral Garden.

At one point, the boat stopped and the guide pointed out some male whales battling it out for a female’s attentions. We saw splashing (aggression) and fins flying in and out of the ocean. This is called a peduncle throw in which the wale lifts its rear portion in and out of the water to slam down sideways on either the sea or another whale.

Then we reached the site and those wishing a snorkeling lesson were directed to the top level. People lined up to drop off the back of the boat. At times, the line moved so slowly, someone suggested a ten-second rule – you jump or you’re pushed. H & J waited until just about everyone else was in the water. J was hesitant and a crewmember had to help her into the water. H had gotten on e of the boogie boards (with a little window) for J to use. A woman with a little girl and (I stayed on the boat. I had torn out a few pages from a puzzle magazine and packed it along with cameras (including a waterproof disposable camera) and sunscreen.

After a while people came back aboard. An immensely overweight man struggled to climb up the little steps. H & J were ready to come onboard at this time but after watching the guy, H realized this was going to take a while and they swam to the other stairs. Finally that man made it to the relief of all of us watching. I had thought all of the crewmembers would have to go into the water and push that guy up. (I had recently checked cruisejunkie.com and saw there had been a few incidents – including death – on recent snorkeling excursions...so be sure you’re in reasonably good health on the more active excursions.)

The barbecue was ready so H made some plates of grilled chicken for our table and I got some potato chips for J (there was a choice of the standard chips and Māui onion chips). H said they saw some black and some yellow fish while in the water.

The boat then motored over to another location, maybe Olowalu Reef, that would have green turtles. People jumped back into the water. I looked on one side and saw black fish but not turtles.

After we returned to shore around 3:30, we had about an hour to check out Lahaina. We ran into Jack (J’s little friend) and his family eating some ice cream, so we got Jen some too. Saw Kim and Jim walk by. Then I bought a tee-shirt, H got a coffee and then we walked across the street and checked out the famous Banyan Tree (planted in 1873).

We got in line to catch the tender back. Everyone’s bags were hand checked. One of the security persons told me that they like to play games. I thought she was telling me that they like to guess what’s in everyone’s bags. But then she handed me a sudoku puzzle. She had noticed the puzzles in my purse and was giving me a copy of another puzzle.

On the way back, those on our side of the tender got splashed from water coming inside. At one point the driver came over and checked out the window and then returned to his seat, apparently satisfied everyone was safe.

While having an afternoon snack in the Horizon we watched the sunset. The ship was supposed to leave around 6pm but left later than that. By now, I’m on my second book, a chick lit entitled "Fashionistas."

At dinner, we discovered from tablemates that the lines for the tender were quite long the last hour or so. Apparently that had caused the delay in our ship’s leaving. Gina told us a story about someone who almost missed the ship because it was taking longer than he thought to get back to the town. His party had booked an independent excursion or taken the bus and then had to hire a taxi to get back (whatever they saved from booking the cheapie tour, they spent on the taxi).

Laundry

There’s a laundry room with self-service, coin-operated washers and dryers on every deck that has staterooms. You may want to get change at the Pursers Deck or take a chance that the change machine is not out of quarters. There’s an ironing board and iron in the room. You can also buy detergent in the machines. Hours are 8am to 8pm.

Harvey’s biggest complaint is that the clothes, especially if you have heavier clothing, do not dry in the cycle given. You have to return and put in more coins for additional drying, perhaps inconveniencing those waiting for a free dryer. He feels there should be an option for a longer drying cycle (say a heavy duty drying cycle for $2 or $2.50). That way, when one returns to their machine, the clothes are dry and ready for folding.

If you want the ship to do your washing, check your closet for the order form and bag to use. Pressing only and express service are also available.

Friday, December 30 – Day 9 - Hilo

Now, the ship sailed through the Alalakeik Channel, rounding the northern tip of the Big Island. The island is a picture of contrasts, featuring 11 of the earth’s 13 climatic zones. Both rainforests and snow can be found on the eastern side of the Big Island.

The seaport of Hilo, the government seat of this island and the fourth largest city in the state was mostly destroyed by tidal waves in 1946 and 1960. This tsunami swept an organ console out the door of a theater, deposited fishing boats in the street. Hilo has the claim as the wettest city in the US with rainfall over 100 inches annually. We lucked out with partly cloudy skies and a temperature in the high 70s.

We had breakfast in the Horizon before heading for the terminal to catch our "Windward and Waterfalls" excursion. Ten passengers, including Doris, climbed aboard a van for our scenic tour.

After noting the few hotels in Hilo, the guide drove on a scenic road and stopped on a tiny bridge, describing the various vegetation such as the wild ginger, plumeria, bottle brush that flourish here.. He described how many people looking to buy a house first checkout the type of bamboo growing next door. Some bamboo plants are very invasive. Another thing we learned is not to give plumeria as a gift to people in some cultures as it can signify death.

Our guide told us about how the two major tsunamis in the 20th century hit this side of the island. The first one hit on April 1, 1946. When some residents noticed the water being sucked away from the shore, they called others who thought it was an April Fool’s Day joke. When the water crashed back, it wiped out much of the Eastern side of the island. Items were found as far away as Kona on the western side.

When we reached ‘Akaka Falls State Park, our guide showed us one type of flower known as a cup of gold that should not be touched as it is toxic. When we were walking a half mile into a rainforest to see the 400 foot waterfalls, our guide would see people reaching down to the flowers and stop them. We didn’t travel the other path to see the Kahuna Falls.

We stopped at Laupahoehoe each Park. This area once was a thriving town. The school kids had planted a tree back in 1905 as a gift to the town. Then came the tidal wave that wiped out the school, killing the students and teachers. The tree is still there. And the park with coconut trees. We stood by the rocks where the waves crashed around. Definitely not a beach for swimming. Our guide also warned about falling asleep under coconut or breadfruit (not a fruit, more like a potato) trees.

We went as far north as the Waipi’o Valley ("the Valley of the Kings") where we had a picnic lunch. One artisan working with coconut fronds made for Jen a gift with origamied fronds (with a flower handle at one end and a "bird" at the other). Adventurous hikers can walk down into the Valley that’s bounded by the Kohala Mountains. It’s less that a mile down but a steep climb up -- 2,000 foot cliffs. There’s also a road for the adventurous, experienced drivers operating four-wheel-drive vehicles only. Shuttles run excursions if you really want to head down there.

We visited a former macadamia-nut and sugar processing town, Honoka’a, basically a one main street place. An ice cream parlor and stores (Jen and Harvey checked out a new-agish store when Jen noticed the display of crystals) line one side. A doctor settling in years ago renovated the theater situated across the street. On the bill: pretty recent movies (one of the two movies at this time, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire"). The guide said he was coming here for New Year’s Eve as a band he likes will be playing.

On our last stop we went to the 300-foot Umauma falls. It’s located in the World Botanical Gardens, which used to be a sugar cane plantation. There’s also a visitor center and a variety of gardens with 5,00 species of plants.

We returned to the terminal with just a short time to go in this port.

Around 9:30pm, probably just about every passenger and several crewmembers aboard the IP stationed themselves on the starboard side to catch the much anticipated nature show of the cruise. K lauea was putting on a show. In the dark, we could see a glow line that reminded H and me of a wildfire that was within a mile or so of our home two years ago. This line of fire fascinated us, with every drop of lava into the ocean. We went over to the fun zone to see if Jen wanted to see it. Turns out all the Pirateers were on the deck above, checking out the volcano.

The Island Night party had been scheduled to start at 9:15 but didn’t get into full swing until passengers made their way to the Lido Deck after the volcanic show. Streamers were passed out as the cruise director tried to convince people to join in on a hula lesson.

Saturday, December 31 – Day 10 - Kona

We rounded the southern tip Ka Lae of the Big Island. We were looking forward to this port as a free day. Shopping, including hot chocolate mix (it’s over $2 on the ship so we told Jen we will head to Wal-mart and get a box; also there’s a McDonald’s there so she can get another order of McNuggets). Maybe the ukelele shop that I was checking out on its website. Not too far away from Kailua-Kona is the monument on Kealakekua Bay marking the spot where Captain Cook died.

Kona is a town in …"This is the Captain…" No, this is not a dream but the voice of Captain explaining that the high waves will prevent us being able to tender in to Kona and he has made the decision to proceed to Ensenada.

I threw on some clothes on and went down to the Promenade deck where many passengers were looking over at the waves crashing against the Kona shore. Many expressing disappointment over the turn of events.

While returning to the cabin, I heard another announcement. This one said that a revised Patters with additional activities is being prepared. Anyone with an excursion booked through Princess will get an automatic credit on one’s account. The ones who pre-booked an independent activity was probably on their cell right at this time, cancelling.

Among the hastily arranged activities: Police and Fire Fighters Get Together, Masonic and Eastern Star Get Together, P.E.O. Sisterhood (never heard of this group), Adults arts and crafts – Hawaiian Straw Hat, United Kingdom New Years Eve countdown, karoke. I took part in the Simpsons Trivia Challenge along with MommyKim, her husband, a kid (you need a kid for this) and the kid’s father, who seemed to be the one person who didn’t mind spending more time in Ensenada.

Let’s not forget though, it was the last night of the year and a reason to celebrate. And a formal night at dinner. Time to put on the Little Black Dress that I bought for this trip.

New Year’s Eve Dinner:

At every place setting were noisemakers and hats/tiaras

The dinner menu included the following:

Appetizers:

Caviar, Golden Fresh Fruit, Royal Pheasant

Entrées:

Broiled Alaskan River Salmon, Twin Broiled Lobster Tails, Medallions of Muscovy Duck Breast, Herb Crusted Legs of Veal, Loin of Pan Roasted Lamb

Deserts included:

Special Golden Soufflé with White Chocolate Sauce, NYE Mascarone Mousse Cake

Willie Tyler and Lester performed at 7 and 8:45. After 10pm, there were a several official parties going on. In the Universe Lounge was the Black and White Ball. Swing music. The Masked Ball was scheduled for the Plaza Atrium. Red Hot 20006 Party was in the Explorers Lounge (rock music but the cloud of smoke drifting out dissuaded us from venturing inside). In the Wheelhouse Bar was the Mardi Gras 2006 – a jazzy NYE celebration with the Vinnie Knight Quartet.

What amazed me was that Princess didn’t pass out free champagne. Considering that this specific cruise was one of the highest priced ones of the season, it would have been a nice touch on the part of the cruiseline.

First, we stopped at the Bayou Café and listened to a guitar player. Then we checked out the other parties. We ended up at the Wheelhouse Bar, where the jazz band was playing and waited awhile for a couple of chairs to get free. A short time before midnight we made our way to the atrium.

At midnight, the net dropped over the atrium, releasing balloons. Immediately, most of them were popped right off the bat. We were astonished; wouldn’t this be the time to play around and bat the balloons around?

When we picked up Jen, she was ticked off. She said the kids did a tiny balloon drop at the Lido pool and that was it. After ten, it was just regular kidsitting. We felt bad; if we had known, we would have retrieved her in time to see the big balloon drop. I assured her it wasn’t what I thought.

Her mood didn’t change when we said that people started popping the balloons. I did go down to the bottom of the atrium and found her an unpopped balloon.

Sunday, January 1, Day 11

This morning was a sleep-in day for much of the ship. Even some of the crew. The morning show that is usually hosted by the CD was basically a loop of the boutique and casino managers plugging their areas. Over and over again. A dining room had a brunch instead of a breakfast.

At least for the heavy drinkers, the sea was pretty calm.

We finally had our official Cruise Critic Get-Together. The CD had emailed me a few weeks before that he was setting up two meets for us – one on the way to Hawai’i, the other on the way back. We just had to look in the Patters. Well, I didn’t see any CC meet before the islands.

I left a note at the Passenger Services desk for David during one of our port days. Soon after there was a reply, he had set up a champagne party for the first sea day coming back. So I quickly wrote up notes for each person on our roll call, except for one who hadn’t mentioned his cabin number. I left these notes in the inboxes.

So finally on the January 1st Patters, our group got our official Princess party. Someone from the cruise director’s staff poured us champagne. There were still some missing faces but the rest of us got to know each other.

At one point, one of the youth security guards came by so we talked to him a bit. He told us about the extended family that was causing problems. He said he had gone up to the gang and one of them greeted him with "what is it now?" He replied that they hadn’t but the boy was being rude to him. The guard tried to talk to one of the fathers about the lack of supervision and the man replied "I’m on vacation." So the guard answered with "You’re not on vacation from parenting." Our group agreed with him and I added that why should anyone else’s vacation be ruined by his kids.

He said he was just on the Caribbean Princess and that he has a background with kids (he looked as though he was still in college). He also told us a few stories, such as places passengers use for assignations (lifeboats, one of the hot tubs that people think it’s secluded – but it isn’t)

***more on the "gang" further along in this report***

Activities During the Cruise:

Daily or nearly daily: trivia (name that TV tune, morning trivia, name that Broadway tune, "sound bytes" movie challenge, scene this, Simpsons, Hollywood Hits, Scene this TV Show, Name that TV Tune 2000 ).

Newlywed/Not so Newlywed Game, charades, couch potato challenge, Scattergories, scavenger hunt, charades, Battle of the Sexes, Liars Club

Bingo

Get Togethers: Dr. Bob & Bill W., Red Hat Ladies, Friends of Dorothy, Veterans, Barbershop and Sweet Adelines, service club, Golden Hour (married 50 years or more), Cruise Critic, singles mingle

afternoon tea

Bridge, Library (you can borrow books)

Sports such as ping pong, basketball, golf , shuffleboard

"Health and Wellness" lectures, for example "Recharging Yourself," "Managing Anxiety Before it Manages you"

Financial lectures, such as "Planning for Retirement," "Global Investing," "Ten reasons to play your estate," "Financial strategies for success"

Ballroom dance lessons – Viennese Waltz, East coast swing, night club two-step; Hula dancing; Country Line dance class

Adult’s art and crafts: Bookmarks Xmas Origami Cards, photo frames, NYE masks, small island gift box

Aerobic studio (Pilate’s and spinning classes have fees)

"Wild and Wacky" pool games, scrapheap wars shipbuilding regatta, Princess Survival

ice carving demo, martini demo, margarita demo

port talks

religious services (Christmas and New Years, Hanukkah)

lei making by the Lido pool (materials costing between $6 and $15)

some spa classes were free (I’m guessing that products are pushed or expensive procedures recommended)

gallery tour, backstage tour

lip sync show, all-star passenger talent show, Princess Pop Star

Monday, January 2 – Day 12

The IP continued an east north easterly course, back at 26N, 140 W. Cloudy skies, about 68 degrees at noon.

Harvey and I worked out on the treadmills this morning. Seems easier this trip (compared to our Alaskan cruise) to find available exercise equipment on sea days. There were also lifecycles, step machines (not sure of the exact name), weights, exercise machines. You can also sign up for Pilates and spinning classes for a fee. I think you can also pay to have an evaluation.

At lunchtime, I heard a familiar voice. Jen, accompanied by PeeWee, one of the counselors, were taking part in a game. She was to collect signatures from passengers who fit a category. Harvey signed for "likes to play chess." She struck out with me on "allergic to pineapple" and "wears dentures." So, she continued on to other tables in the Horizon. She said later on that she found someone who admitted to the dentures.

The Sugar Bowl was shown but according to John from our dining table, the satellite coverage was off and on.

That secondary onboard revenue (ways the cruiseline tries to get additional money):

Scholarship@sea program (culinary arts, computers, visual and creative arts), Renewal of Vows, wine tasting, photography (process on board, offloading digital memory onto CD-ROMS, besides the standard embarkation and port photos, formal portraits, and recent developments – as far as I know – "casual portraits" and "canvas prints").

The Boutiques (Facets, median Bay, Calypso Cove, Essence – selling the usual souvenirs, overpriced medications that you forgot to pack, perfumes, booze, cigarettes, jewelry), art auctions (yes, there were announcements for these), bingo, Lotus Spa/Beauty Salon (lots of selling of the teeth whitening, cellulite removal, etc), flowers, future cruise sales, Martinis of the Day, Unlimited soda card/sticker ($52.50 for the fountain drinks for the cruise)

The Casino (one can charge up to $1500/day, $5000 per cruise to onboard account; there’s also ATM machine in the casino). Golf aficionados can take advantage of a golf pro who will also be going on the ship’s golf excursion. I’m guessing this instruction came at a price. The golf simulator had a fee, but I didn’t check that out.

Tuesday, January 3 – Day 13

At this morning’s ukelele lesson, Harvey met another musician, who also brought his guitar. While he and Ray decided to jam together on the Promenade deck, I participated in trivia and tea. So I decided to check out the trivia contests. First Hollywood Hits and Scene this TV Show (I never played this game that’s available in stores. We split up into three teams, NBC, CBS, and my team FOX. At one point the DVD player accidently reset). I followed Kim and Jim to afternoon Tea in the Bordeaux, and then, the trivia fans returned to Name that TV Tune 2000 (my claim to fame was being the only person in the room to recognize the theme from "Third Watch". I may have been the only one who had even heard of the show). We missed the Seinfeld Trivia quiz as that started while Scene This was still going on. Kim and Jim are big trivia buffs and earlier gave Jen the Princess sports bottle they won days before.

The Orange Bowl was shown in the Explorers Lounge.

In Cabin TV:

Besides three channels of music (which was all Christmas music for the first week – I wished they had taken pity on us and leave one channel for some other music), there was CNN International, CNN headline news, a satellite news feed (which seemed to be on British sports every time I tuned in, hoping to get weather), ESPN, TNT, Cartoon Network, a compilation channel (AFI Specials, off network airings of Friends/X Files/Simpsons/I Dream of Jeannie, etc.), one channel that offered Boomerang – a spin-off of Cartoon network that features classic cartoons – or one of the featured movies.

There was a movie channel offering a rotation of four movies. A few days during the cruise, this last channel ran Hawai’i-themed movies.

One channel presented info about the current conditions: sea conditions, navigational info, weather. Another channel always shows the bridgecam, just as you would see on the Princess website. Other channels plugged the shore excursions available through the cruiseline, the cruise video/DVD, port talks, activities/avenues of spending (the morning show offered hosted by the cruise director is one such show).

Furthermore, one channel presented some of the movies in French (I’m guessing because there were a group of French passengers, including next door to us). J was watching "The Incredibles" in French but then she knew the story very well so she didn’t need the words.

The movies we ended up: "Ray," "Charlie and The Chocolate Factory," "Anchorman", and "Finding Neverland." We saw part of: "Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants, "Bewitched," "In Her Shoes" "Wallace and Gromit in the Curse of the Were-Rabbit", "Ice Princess," "Stepford Wives," "The Aviator", "The Incredibles," and "It’s a Wonderful Life."

Other movies available included: "The Polar Express", "Mr. & Mrs. Smith," "Island", "Must Love Dogs," "How the Grinch Stole Christmas", "War of the Worlds," "The Santa Clause, "Monsters in Law", "Cinderella Man," "The Interpreter", "Batman Begins," "Must Love Dogs," "Spanglish," "Kicking and Screaming," "Something’s Gotta Give" "National Treasure," "Shall we Dance" "Shark Tail," "Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Universe, " "Madascagar, "Oceans 12", and "Calendar Girls," "Fever Pitch," "DeLovely," "Collateral," "Meet the Fockers," "Pirates of Caribbean," "Terminal," "Alexander", "Phantom of the Opera," "The Pacificer," "Million Dollar Baby." I haven’t seen about 90 per cent of these movies unless it’s a kids’ movie. .

The movies in which Hawai’i figured as a setting: "Lilo and Stich," "from Here to Eternity," "Pearl Harbor," "Gidget Goes to Hawai’i," "50 First Dates," and "Blue Hawai’i."

Some of the above movies were also shown in the Universe Lounge and the Princess Theater on a big screen, along with a Sing along "Wizard of Oz."

Wednesday, January 4 – Day 14

We’re now back on Pacific Standard Time. Our location is around 30 degrees N. 123 degrees south. The seas are much smoother on the way back.

I went to the "After Holiday Sale" in the Provence dining room. Mostly Caribbean and Alaskan cruise stuff, such as tee shirts. Also purses, watches, bathing suits. I bought a few key chains at $1 each.

The Hawai’i port tees and caps were on sale on a table in the atrium so Harvey and I selected a few to buy (I picked out a Kona one in honor of the missed port).

In the afternoon the nautical chart that was displayed outside one entrance to the Horizon Court was auctioned off, proceeds to benefit hurricane victims and other charities. Someone told us that it fetched about $3000.

Football fans didn’t have to miss the Rose Bowl game. The ship arranged for a special feed from ABC (the CD explained on his morning show about the feeds) which was fed into the Universe Lounge and Explorers Lounge on a big screen.

This was the night of the Captain’s Gala Farewell Cocktail Party right before the last of the formal dinners. I put on my really short lacy green dress and went with hubby to the atrium. Both of us decided to eschew our dressy shoes as our tootsies were hurting.

In the atrium on several decks, waiters bustled about with trays of drinks. Unfortunately, I must have been wearing my invisibility cloak as the servers glided past me and offered drinks to other passengers. I finally asked someone if the drinks were free. I was assured that they were and I should just ask one of the waiters.

As none of them seemed to be even looking for people without glasses in their hand, I decided to take action. I tackled one. No, actually I went up to one and asked sweetly what kind of drinks were on their tray. After he told me, I took one of the rum drinks and said, "this is what I want, thanks." After finishing that one, I set it down and still wasn’t offered a drink. Someone near me was taking a drink so I reached and took one too.

Usually the only alcoholic drinks I’ve had in the last few years have been on cruises. The freebie drinks on these cruises tend to be watered down, which is fine by me: the stronger drinks usually give me migraines. It’s just the principle. If I’m on a deck chair by the pool, I’ll be asked by several waiters if I want a drink. Usually when I’m busily reading (BTW now reading "Double Homicide" by Faye and Jonathan Kellerman; I’ve read almost everyone of Faye’s books, most of them about a police lt. working out of the police station that serves my area) or talking to someone. Another BTW, the servers in the Horizon Court will place small "no beverage service necessary" signs on your table if you don’t want drinks. I think that’s a great idea.

Around 11pm the maître d’ Hotel and the dining staff started setting up the Champagne Waterfall on the bottom floor of the atrium. We got up close and watch them position the glasses carefully, using plastic wrap. We wondered why there was a net overhead. We discovered a short time later what it was for. When they finally completed their masterpiece, a signal was given for those with streamers to toss them, and then people were invited to help pour. The first participant was a young girl, then Jen was brought up the steps.

Then waiters circulated with glasses of champagne. This time, one offered me a drink without me asking. I also saw a waiter go up to a man standing there with some teenaged boys, all with champagne glasses. He chastised them and took away the minors’ drinks.

Boutiques on Board

Meridian Bay: tax and duty free, expensive tschokes as I call them as well as fragrances and overpriced schmatas (matronly women’s clothing)

Calypso Cove Princess logo ware, glassware, novelty, overpriced-because-you-forgot-to-pack-it medicines and toiletries.

Facets – fine jewelry

Thursday, January 5 – Day 15 - Ensenada

Normally the IP makes a service stop briefly on the last night to fulfil the Jones Act. This time, because we lost Kona, we got Ensenada from 9 to 6.

One more thing about the Jones Act, here’s how it’s described in the Patters:

"All passenger vessels not leaving the United States during their cruise must us a non-American port before arrival."

I kid you not.

On our way here, I only heard one passenger express joy about the change of plans. When some of us pointed out there’s not much to do other than shop for silver jewelry (at the risk of being besieged by overaggressive street merchants) or hang at Husseins (if you’re a college kid), this guy suggested going on a movie studio tour.

As someone who’s already been on four cruises to Ensenada, I could not get excited by any activity here. Harvey wanted to go to the port stores to find some jewelry for his mother, so the three of us got off the ship. Within yards, there’s a "New" marketplace in which you can buy some trinkets without heading into town. While Harvey was in one stall, Jen and I were in the next where she checked out mood rings. After a while, the seller offered to drop the price by a dollar. I guess she overestimated Jen’s interest (and piggybank). No sale here.

There were stalls selling t-shirts, jewelry, purses, medicine, booze, toys. When Harvey finished making his purchases, we looked around for a short time and then returned back to the ship. Had lunch and then we decided to change into bathing suits and head for the pools.

A bit later, I started packing. (Harvey did a bit in the morning.) All passengers were to put whatever luggage -- that they didn’t want to carry-off on their own – outside their cabin between six and eight. I wasn’t too happy with that as I was used to doing so around 10pm. That meant you had one extra outfit to stuff into your carry-on or else wear the same thing on disembarkation day as at the last dinner. But then it’s a bummer any time you pack up – it means your vacation is ending.

When we were ready to start putting out luggage, we discovered that the hallways next to us on both sides were filled with our neighbor’s luggage. Every inch. So we had to wait until the luggage handlers carted away those bags before we can set out ours. This is a time when you really notice how narrow the hallways are.

The fun zone wasn’t going to be open until 8 but we went up there a little early anyway. I gave Jen some calling cards that I had made on the computer before the trip. She handed out while we waited for the door to get unlocked. But whoever had the key was late. PeeWee, a counselor who was working this cruise only, said she didn’t have the key. About five minutes after eight, she told us she will sign in Jen for us so we can get to the dining room.

The last dinner finished up with a Baked Alaska parade – the waiters held up trays with the traditional cruise desert and marched around the room to the tune of the Marcarena. While our waiter sliced off the cake for us, I mentioned that I hadn’t seen the Love Boat Dream listed on the menus (this is a very rich chocolate lover’s delight not to be missed). He said it had been offered. I wish I had thought to ask earlier in the cruise when it would be (with all my luck, it was on the day we ate dinner in the Horizon).

At dinner, John told us that the family that has been the subject of discussion by so many on this cruise had a major mishap in Ensenada. He told us that one of the kids was clowning around when the family was going down the gangway onto the pier. Somehow this little girl was dropped over into the water. (The way he said it made it sound as if the boy had done it) Crew members jumped into the water and rescued the girl. (See more on the next part)

We said our goodbyes to our tablemates and our waiters and left to pick up Jenn from the fun zone. We had already left our tip envelope with Pee Wee earlier so it was back to our cabin for our last night at sea.

And now, as promised,

So the Drama

First the backstory:

The major complaint of the passengers on the 12/20/04 Island Princess cruise to Hawaii was that there was an extended family from a Latin American country who wreaked havoc on the other passengers as well as the crew.

These parents in this group decided to do their own – casino, etc., while the children remained unsupervised. These kids apparently were inconsiderate, rude and very destructive.

They ran up and down the halls at all hours of the night, pounding on other passengers’ doors, waking them. They entered the elevators and pressed all the buttons and then left the elevators much to the consternation of anyone wishing to actually use the elevator.

They took over the pools, jumping in (against the posted rules). They threw a ping pong table overboard – an action that could had potentially injured or killed anyone below if the kids had missed the ocean.

A group of passengers were so angry because the Princess staff refused to do anything that they "lawyered up." We don’t know the final act in that drama. But since then, Princess has hired a crew of "youth security" for cruises with a large number of children aboard.

Cut to the 12/22/05 cruise. (not correct script format)

FADE IN:

EXT. Princess ship - DAY - establishing shot

INT. Aloha Deck

CU on a tally sheet that indicates 250 children aboard with breakdown per age group.

CUT TO:

INSERT of an activities sheet that indicates many activities planned for that day for the Pirateers

CUT TO:

EXT Lido Deck - Lotus Pool - DAY

JEN, a friendly eight-year-old, is swimming. She notices a group of kids and swims over to them. The other kids talk to each other with a sneer on each face. One boy holds out his hand and shoves Jen in the face.

ANGLE on HARVEY

Jen’s dad is signaling for her to swim to the side of the pool and get out. She does so as tears are streaming down on her face.

HARVEY

Let’s get out? Stay away from those kids. They’re not nice.

Jen runs over to PATTY, who wraps her daughter in a blue striped towel.

PATTY

What’s the matter?

JEN

A kid pushed me in the pool.

CUT TO:

A short while later, Misha and Molly, two six year olds, stepped into the pool. Jen runs off to join her friends. Patty moves to the pool’s edge to watch.

JEN

(Calling out)

Mom, that’s the kid who pushed me.

Patty looks over in the direction Jen is pointing and sees a boy, around 7 or so, in the hot tub. She approaches him.

PATTY

You pushed that girl in the pool. You need to say you’re sorry.

BOY

No speak English.

PATTY

You know what I’m saying. You apologize.

BOY

No speak English.

PATTY

You tell her, "lo siento".

The boy remains silent. Harvey walks over. Patty exits. Harvey starts talking to the boy in Spanish. Patty turns to watch the girls swimming together. The other girls’ mother has heard the exchange.

MOTHER

(shaking her head)

Last year there were kids running around causing problems. They even threw a ping pong table overboard.

CUT TO:

INT. Dining Room - Night

Patty and Harvey and sitting with Paul, Mary, Gina, Doris and John.

GINA

Those kid are terrible. They’re mowing down people. They’re running around the hallways at 2am. What kind of parents would allow their kids to run around like that?

CUT TO:

Patty and Harvey are standing by an elevator.

PATTY

What’s wrong with that clock?

HARVEY

One hand is bent. I wonder who did that?

CUT TO:

Staircase. A group of kids are sitting. Just sitting, spread out to take up the entire width of staircase. They’re the same ones who were in the pool scene earlier.

CUT TO:

Horizon Dining Room.

s people carry plates, the same kids are running around them.

You can see more examples of the ways this family hassled other passengers and crew members on the 12/22/05 IP roll call and in the review that Viva02 posted.

Does dropping tons of money in the casino give these parents the right to ignore their kids? This doesn’t speak well of Princess.

And lest you think this is a slam about Hispanics, my daughter’s school is half Hispanic (through the mandate for the LAUSD for magnet schools in this area). Her schoolmates are well-behaved, friendly, caring...unlike the gang mentioned. I would imagine these parents would expect their kids to be polite to everyone else onboard and participate in the kids’ program, which exists, in my view, to keep kids active in the cruising experience and keep them from becoming bored, as well as giving parents the chance to enjoy time alone or indulging in adult activities such as the gambling, adult-oriented show, dancing, etc.

The only time I read anything about rules regarding children (besides no kids in the first few rows during shows) as I can remember was in the first day’s Patters about the pools: "Children must be supervised by an Adult at all times."

No wonder people are kvetching about not wanting to be on a cruise with many kids. I have never ever had a problem with children on a cruise before. And it makes me mad that this group of kids will make it difficult for the great kids who behave on vacation.

In the light of last year’s problems, Princess came up with the youth security. But Princess did not grant them any real authority. Princess should have come up with a policy about unsupervised kids and communicated it to any parents in the cruise docs. As I said before, make parents sign a pledge that their children will not be damaging property, will not be out of their cabin after midnight (New Years Eve can be an exception if they’re at the parties or with parents), and will be respecting other passengers and crew members.

And if this is the same family as was on the 2004 cruise, shame on Princess for inflicting them on a whole new group of passengers. They would know if it’s the same people so that wouldn’t be an excuse.

I would bet 99 per cent of the members of this board feel a major part of their cruising experience is meeting new people from all over. This family seemed more interested in themselves. Maybe someone should advise them just to rent a yacht for themselves so they don’t have to associate with the rest of us. And they can torment the crew without it affecting anyone else.

Patty,

Enjoying your review. Thanks so much.

Thought I was going on this cruise but my friend is now going to the Golden. Was so looking forward to the 9 sea days.

Cathy

I still have a summary to write up but we actually did enjoy ourselves. I also have PTA minutes to write up and a kid's book report to help with tonight so hopefully tomorrow I'll be able to concentrate.

What an amazing review! Thank you so much!

Cruisin Chick,

Thank you for such a comprehensive review. We will be taking this cruise on April 21st and you have given me a great deal of information about what to expect.

Did you happen to get the assistant cruise director's name?

Roberta

It s too bad about the gang of kids. Glad you enjoyed your cruise in spite of them.

Your review caused my anticipation for my 4/21 cruise grow to great hieghts.

Bill

Cruisin Chick,

 

Thank you for such a comprehensive review. We will be taking this cruise on April 21st and you have given me a great deal of information about what to expect.

 

Did you happen to get the assistant cruise director's name?

 

Roberta

Hi,

The Assistant Cruise Director was/is Leah Hemsley. A very funny lady from Manchester, England. She was a riot at the 'British Pub Night'.:D

From what I understand, the CD - David Cole was to be leaving to another ship after our 12/22-1/06 cruise. If you were on the 01/06 cruise, can you tell us if he was still there? Just curious. Leah was definitely a riot!