4/14/07 Crown Princess Review - We are back!

[joyride]

We are just back from the Crown. It was a great cruise, perfect weather (actually pretty HOT and humid), and it went by WAY TOO FAST!

 

We flew down to SJU 2 days early from Oakland to Houston to San Juan. There were 3 of us, myself, DH, and our good friend Connie. We booked our own airfare using FF miles, and booked the Princess pre-cruise hotel package including transfers.

 

I usually book my own hotels and I should have this time. We paid too much, as the same rooms were much cheaper on the Internet; I simply went this route because I was being lazy. When we arrived at the airport, Princess did not meet us - so we had to take a cab. We stayed at the Marriott Stellaris Hotel & Casino. The rooms, lobby bar area, casino, and pool/beach area were all very nice. We didn't have a good view from our room due to construction next door - but the re-furbished rooms are nice, cool and quiet. Service at this hotel was excellent from the front desk, bar, bell service, concierge, etc.

 

On our day in San Juan we spent the AM poolside and then went to OSJ for shopping. Connie and I had a great time at the Coach outlet and got some awesome bargains! We joined another CC couple for drinks at the Sheraton and then walked to the Parrott Club for dinner. The food and atmosphere were excellent.

 

On sailing day we put our luggage out for Princess to pick up and then walked to the Walgreens down the street and bought supplies to carry on the ship - bottled water, sodas, etc. We decided to not wait until 1 PM for our transfer bus and took a cab to Pier 4 at 11:15 or so. I brought an extra empty small expandable luggage bag and used this as my carry on. We put our sodas and munchies in there and just rolled it onto the ship with us! When we arrived at the pier there was a line of about 15-20 people at the entry. We joined the line and waited about 20 minutes and were then allowed into the terminal. Once inside we got in the Priority Boarding line and we were about 3rd in line. It was about 15 more minutes until the Princess reps. started embarkation - and we were checked in 5 minutes later. We stopped at the Duty Free Liquor store prior to going through security - I bought a big 1.76L Bottle of Bacardi for only $13.95. Definitely buy your liquor here - they also have champagne and a small wine selection. We just added our bottles to the stuff in our carry on and breezed through security no problem.

 

This was my 12th Princess cruise, and I decided to splurge and stay in an AFT Premium Suite, A751. It was awesome, especially the balcony and the bathroom. We LOVED it and it was worth every penny. Staying in a Suite made this trip very different; we spent more time in the room, ate more meals in the room and had people over several times. I loved the free laundry and dry cleaning, I brought everything home clean!!

 

DINING –

 

We ate in the Da Vinci dining room only twice for dinner. Both of our dining room experiences were very good, once we ate with some friends and the second formal night

We had a table for the 3 of us. The last night of the cruise we tried the Crown Grill and it was excellent, I had a rib eye and it was yummy. The other nights we either ate at the Caribe Café or ordered from the dining room menu and ate on our balcony (a very nice suite perk!). But the BEST, most AWESOME experience was our Ultimate Balcony Dinner ($50 each).

 

We decided to do this on the first formal night. I called and set it up the day we got on the ship and we ordered Cosmos for our cocktails and Surf & turf for dinner. The waiter and assistant showed up at about 7:20 and served us cocktails and canapés inside while the table was set on the balcony. We moved out to the balcony and a ship photographer showed up and did a little photo shoot of us (we got one 8X10 free and ended up buying a second picture). The waiter served our appetizer (crab cakes), salad with pears, candied walnuts, cheese, etc, and then the filets and lobster. OMG, the lobsters were huge! The food was so good – but we couldn’t eat it all! We were also served champagne with dinner and our dessert was a variety of chocolate and white mousse with berries. The waiter was wonderful and knew just when to appear and then disappear while serving us. I will do this EVERY cruise in the future.

 

The international café was a great place for a quick snack. We went there several times for a little sandwich or freshly baked cookie. This is like a little sidewalk café where you can relax and people watch. We also tried the Trident grill for a burger and the pizza. I usually love the pizza on the ship – and the Pizza on the Crown was tasty but a bit soggy.

We also visited Vines and tried the Sushi, which was pretty good.

 

Overall, the food was good to excellent. The Ultimate Balcony Dinner and Crown Grill were our best meals. I always find something I like, but I am happy to hear that Princess is changing their menus because a new variety of choices will be nice.

 

SPA-

 

My spa experience was one of the best I’ve had. I had read some recent complaints regarding high pressure product sales, etc. – but I did not experience this. I had reflexology, a deep tissue massage, and the couple’s massage. We booked the couple’s massage outside at the Sanctuary and it included one hour in the Sanctuary after the massage. This was very relaxing. No one tried to sell me any products at any of my visits. I think maybe the pushing of products happens more when you get a facial or skin treatment…Our suite included free access to the thermal suite, but we never used it. It was just too warm and humid on this trip to ever want to go lie on a warm bed or take a steam! We did pay $10 and spend a quiet afternoon in the Sanctuary and it was really nice, I think we all just read and fell asleep on those comfy loungers!

 

ENTERTAINMENT –

 

We only went to one show – SARGE. He was pretty funny. I really enjoyed MUTs. One night we ate early and then went to the early show (7PM) of Dreamgirls and enjoyed the popcorn with our drinks. It was really nice – the sound is actually quite good. Connie and I also watched a movie out there on sea day. Other than this, we didn’t go to any of the shows, Princess Idol, etc. Connie and I like to gamble and we went to the Casino for blackjack, roulette & video poker. It was enjoyable, but we didn’t come home rich. A lady did actually win a BMW on a 2 cent slot machine on our cruise!!! Wow. Now that would be cool!

 

PORTS –

 

St. Thomas – I have been to St. Thomas many times, but never to Trunk Bay. We booked the ship tour to Trunk Bay for snorkeling. The ferry ride over and back was nice and the beach was beautiful – much like Megan’s. The snorkeling was disappointing – I didn’t think it was all that crowded, but there just weren’t many fish.

 

St. Kitts – We booked a private Tour with Royston (a local). We went all over the island; saw several beaches, Turtle beach, lots of wild goats & cows, monkeys, plantations, etc. It was a pleasant and relaxing day and my DH took a ton of pictures.

 

Grenada – Got off the ship for about 45 minutes and bought a couple of souvenirs. It was really HOT & humid, we were dripping. So, we got back on the ship and went to the Sanctuary. It is true that they are very aggressive here. We must have had 15 people ask us to buy their spices or if we wanted a cab.

 

Bonaire – A beautiful island, great snorkeling!! We booked direct with Woodwind and spent 4 ½ hours out in the water with them. The snorkeling here was fabulous, very good visibility and an abundance of fish. Our guide was great for pointing out various items to us. Our group saw a school of squid, a turtle, and trumpet fish. Bonaire was my favorite.

 

Aruba – We did the Jolly Pirates tour – booked online. This was really fun. It was a bit windy, so the snorkeling was a little rough. We went to a shipwreck that was awesome. Lunch was really tasty and everyone had fun with the rope swing.

 

OTHER IMPRESSIONS –

 

I have never really had a “bad” experience with the Purser’s desk. However, I must agree that I felt the Purser’s staff on the Crown was not all that helpful. I went to the Purser’s desk regarding our missed transfers from Airport to Hotel. They agreed to reimburse me for the cab ride (I had my receipt), but they would not reimburse us for the price of the Princess Transfers (which I think was more - $15 each for 3 of us). Anyway, I asked to speak to the supervisor and was told that she was busy. The second thing that happened was when I called with a question about the Captain Circle party. I was told I needed to “talk to Donna” but no offer was made to transfer me or to even tell me who “Donna” was. Anyway, they just weren’t very helpful or informed.

 

The Crown is beautiful. I love the décor of the ship and I really like the new additions of MUTs, the Sanctuary and the International Café & Vines. We did not have any problems with motion on the ship. Our last night going back to San Juan (I think the seas were moderate, but we were moving at a good clip) there was a little more motion, but it didn’t bother me. Overall, I would rate this cruise as excellent, and I think for us the Suite made it even better!

 

Let me know if you have any specific questions and I will try to answer.

[many cruises]

Thanks for your rest review. We are considering sailing on the Crown next year!

[swom]

Did you have beach time with Royston in St Kitts?

Do you remember what kind of beer they had at the liquor store in San Juan?

Thanks for posting. I've been waiting on you. LOL

[GOBOLTS]

Do you know what kind of vodka they had at the duty free store and the prices? Thanks

[nycglitter]

Glad your trip was great! Your review made me excited once again for our upcoming cruise!

[mycruz]

Welcome back, looking forward to the pictures!

[Toledosfinest]

Was wondering if the duty free store at the pier had coke or pepsi products to buy and take on the ship?

[JXR]

thanks Joyride for the wonderful review.

 

We are leaving this Saturday to do the Crown, same itinerary.

 

How did you like Royston in St. Kitt's. We are booked with him too.

 

Joanne

[flarad]

Hi joyride, I'm glad you had a great cruise. We loved the Crown also. The one area I felt like I had poor service was the pursers desk also. They just exhibited no empathy for my problem at all. They had a policy and that was it. Definitely not the customer comes first. But other wise the ship is terrific and I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[ck53]

Thanks Joyride for the fun review, I'm glad you had a wonderful time. I would love to have a full suite sometime, must start bribing the hubby!:D

 

We like to gamble too, was the casino on the large side and did you notice if it has a Texas hold'em table?

 

Thanks!

[play21cw]

Awesome review.

 

When do you plan on posting pictures?

[Crown08]

Thanks Joyride for the review!! I'm so happy you guys had such a great time.

 

Did you tell Princess your flight numbers? I know the only time we've had problems with transfers is when we spaced out calling those in. Totally our fault!

[M&MCruisin]

This is wonderful! I am booked on this cruise for April 2008! I cant wait to go...only 354 more days!

 

Anyone know if the mini suites have room enough on the balcony for the ultimate dinner? That sounds like just the special treat I would like to do for our 15th wedding anniversary on our cruise!

[timbuk]

Thanks for the review.

The ability to order from the lunch and dinner dining room menu is a major perk for me. We'll be on the Crown next week.

I wondered if you were pleased with the process of ordering from the dining room? Specifically with the speed and temperature of the food once it arrived? Also, if you don't mind me asking... what would you normally tip when they would bring your order?

Last question is; when you went to the specialty restaurant on a formal night, is the dress code formal in them as well?

Any inside info you can provide is appreciated. Glad you had a great trip. We're looking forward to our first suite very much.

[joyride]

Duty Free store - I don't remember seeing beer. Honestly, we popped in there for our Rum and scooted right out. My friend Connie bought a bottle of Kettle One Vodka and I don't know the price - but it was cheap. I think they had Grey Goose too and also cheaper brands. I don't think they had soft drinks, we bought ours before hitting the port. Princess serves Coke products, so if you are a Pepsi lover (I am) you have to buy it and carry it on.

 

Royston on St. Kitts was very nice and friendly. My DH is big into photography, and I think Royston thought it was funny that we took so many pictures of the animals. We had monkeys running across the road in front of us and there are wild goats and cows everywhere!! The beaches were beautiful and some were completely empty. I'm sure if you want to stop at the beach for awhile you can do that. This was our NON water day, so we didn't wear our suits. It's really hot and humid down there right now, so dress light - Royston doesn't have AC. We really did like him. Lunch was Subway sandwiches, which disappointed a bit - I would have rather enjoyed some local fare, but other than that - we had a great time with him.

 

The SUITE - it was just great!! There are so many little perks that you don't even think about. We had people over and ordered ice and glasses from room service and ended up with Guacamole & chips & Chocolate Strawberries complimentary. Room service also brought us a cheese & cracker appetizer, complimentary toward the end of the cruise. This may have been because we did the ultimate balcony dinner & tipped well ($40). Not sure... Also, when we did just order from the Dining Room menus for dinner, they brought a tablecloth and everything and set the table up nicely for us. We typically tipped $5 for room service delivery. The service was excellent, right on time or sometimes early, and they always got it right. One time I called in the morning and asked for our dinner to be delivered at 6 PM so we could make it to MUTS at 7 - and they were right on time.

 

Missing the Transfers - My TA faxed Princess our flight information several months ago. They failed to meet us at the airport. We got reimbursed for the Taxi Fare on the ship, so I probably won't pursue it any further...

 

Ultimate balcony dinner - yes, I think you could do this on a regular balcony with no problem. Connie joined us for this and we had a table for 4 on our balcony - but 2 people could do this OK in a mini.

[play21cw]

Duty Free store - I don't remember seeing beer. Honestly, we popped in there for our Rum and scooted right out. My friend Connie bought a bottle of Kettle One Vodka and I don't know the price - but it was cheap. I think they had Grey Goose too and also cheaper brands. I don't think they had soft drinks, we bought ours before hitting the port. Princess serves Coke products, so if you are a Pepsi lover (I am) you have to buy it and carry it on.

 

Royston on St. Kitts was very nice and friendly. My DH is big into photography, and I think Royston thought it was funny that we took so many pictures of the animals. We had monkeys running across the road in front of us and there are wild goats and cows everywhere!! The beaches were beautiful and some were completely empty. I'm sure if you want to stop at the beach for awhile you can do that. This was our NON water day, so we didn't wear our suits. It's really hot and humid down there right now, so dress light - Royston doesn't have AC. We really did like him. Lunch was Subway sandwiches, which disappointed a bit - I would have rather enjoyed some local fare, but other than that - we had a great time with him.

 

The SUITE - it was just great!! There are so many little perks that you don't even think about. We had people over and ordered ice and glasses from room service and ended up with Guacamole & chips & Chocolate Strawberries complimentary. Room service also brought us a cheese & cracker appetizer, complimentary toward the end of the cruise. This may have been because we did the ultimate balcony dinner & tipped well ($40). Not sure... Also, when we did just order from the Dining Room menus for dinner, they brought a tablecloth and everything and set the table up nicely for us. We typically tipped $5 for room service delivery. The service was excellent, right on time or sometimes early, and they always got it right. One time I called in the morning and asked for our dinner to be delivered at 6 PM so we could make it to MUTS at 7 - and they were right on time.

 

Missing the Transfers - My TA faxed Princess our flight information several months ago. They failed to meet us at the airport. We got reimbursed for the Taxi Fare on the ship, so I probably won't pursue it any further...

 

Ultimate balcony dinner - yes, I think you could do this on a regular balcony with no problem. Connie joined us for this and we had a table for 4 on our balcony - but 2 people could do this OK in a mini.

 

 

 

 

Joyride, once again, great review! Your enthusiasm for the crown has gotten me even more excited for my cruise aboard her. 99 days and counting!!!!

Anyways, I was wondering when the pictures are going to be posted to webshots ( I know I asked before but my posts sometimes go unnoticed :( )

OH, I was looking at your pictures of past cruises and saw a picture on the grand princess (I think) Any who, is there a 'streamer' party poolside on the crown?

[joyride]

I will try to get some pics up on webshots soon. My DH is actually still working on our Europe pictures from 6 months ago, we took over 2100 pictures! Now that he is editing with photoshop and stuff, it's taking longer for me to get the webshots up. I will try to just get some raw ones from the Crown trip up soon. We didn't go around the ship and take photos, as so many folks have already done that.

 

The "Streamer" party was the island night party on the Grand. There was an island night party on the Crown, but we did not attend. I don't know whether they had the streamers or not. But, it is always very lively and fun.

 

The biggest problem during the cruise is not being able to participate in everything! There is so much going on - it's really hard to choose each night!

 

You will have fun and I'm sure the Crown will not let you down. I really loved this ship!

[jamscckmc]

Glad to hear positive Crown review. Going on her out of NYC 8-10-07. Have been on the Star twice and the Golden. Looking forward to MUTS and the sancuary. Had heard about alot of noise on the aft decks mostly baha and caribe(we are in C748, also a PS) We wonder if you heard any noise out there,also any sewage smell as previous reports? Any trouble getting seats for muts with all the chair hogs? We will probably skip the productions shows since Princess tends to have the same shows for years, on all their ships. Welcome Home!:o

[Seal]

Joyride--Great review--was great meeting you and Rod--loved the blender party!!!

 

Yes--There is plenty of room on the balcony of a mini-suite for the Ultimate Balcony Dinner--we were on Dolphin--This was great--Where did those Lobster Tails come from--not from the dining room or the Grill--we ate in the grill at least 4 times

 

I'm sure we will have the Ultimate Dinner on our TP cruise this May--wish we had done this earlier--John loved the idea of the balcony dinner on the last formal night--he could wear shorts for the dinner--making him very happy

 

 

Nancy:D

[joyride]

After 2 days back at work, I'm sooooooo missing the Crown. It sounds like several from our CC group got to enjoy the Ultimate Balcony dinner. If you do anything, do this!! Biggest lobster tail I have ever had!

 

Nancy & John - it was great meeting you 2. I wish we had the opportunity to spend more time together!

 

Jams - no noise, no smell, it was really perfect!! Aft was so great, pretty much no wind, even when windy elsewhere on deck. I can't think of a negative! We had no problems with MUTs seats or Sanctuary seats. I guess we just had good timing. The only day I couldn't get a chair was sea day at the AFT adult pool at 9 AM - already full. But, we ended up at MUTS instead and got to watch a good movie while sunbathing, so that was even better!

 

I really can't understand why some folks don't like MUTS. It is such a novelty and the sound is good and picture quality is amazingly good. I don't find time for movies much at home, so it was really nice for me on this trip to watch Dreamgirls and Akeelah and the Bee while lounging on a deck chair with a foo foo drink. It was vacation, and I liked it!!! :):)

[Coral]

Seal an Joyride - I didn't realize you 2 were on the same sailing....

 

Glad you both had a fabulous cruise! Joyce - glad you enjoyed your suite!

 

Seal - have a great time on the Tahitian!

 

-Theresa

[terri1020]

Thanks for the great review! Going on the Crown 10-20-07 and just can't wait. I was especially excited to read about MUTS while sunbathing! Sounds like MY plan!

 

Thanks again, you made me smile today!

Terri

[Seal]

Hope all is well with you--I think the last I remember--were you going to Russia--or is my mind a real muddle????

 

Nancy:D

[skf]

Pete & I will be on Crown Princess Oct 20-Nov 4, b2b. Loved your review. Can you tell us what the dress code is for Crown Grill?

Thanx, Steve

[Seal]

Dress Code for the Grill is usually what you would wear to the dining room--smart casual--if you choose to go on a formal night--they don't care if you dress formal or not--pretty easy--

 

Hope you enjoy it--we ate there several times on the b2b 4/7--4/21

 

Be sure to get the Ultimate Balcony Dinner--You'll love it

 

Nancy:D