Crown Review 4/19-4/25 (long!)

[Familycruzer11]

Just back from an amazing week on the Crown Princess. I soaked up every review before I set sail, so hope this is helpful to you future cruisers.

 

Background - we are a family of 6 traveling with three of us having been on the Southern Caribbean Explorer Itinerary last year on the Crown and 2 first time cruisers in the group.

 

OLD SAN JUAN - We arrived a day early and stayed at the Sheraton Old San Juan. We chose it for the convenience to the pier. The hotel was 'ok' and we found it to be very loud (either the casino or senor frogs next door), and if you are a light to medium sleeper, I would avoid this place. We enjoyed our Marriott hotel better last year which was further, but quieter and nicer. IT was in the heart of Old San Juan and it was a healthy walk to things, but not worth the bad night sleep, poor internet (worked, didn't work, worked), and other buggy things. We did drag the bags over to the ship the next day (still wonder if a cab right to the 'door' would not have been better - the better price for hotel would have made up for the cab ride).

 

We ate dinner at Barrachina - home of the Pina Colada. There was a flamenco show (which again was 'ok'), and the food was 'ok', and the pina coladas were good.

 

EMBARKATION DAY: We had hoped to get there early - 11:30 and get on early, but had some last minute shopping (Coach - great prices) and were delayed. I feared a terrible line when we arrived at 12:30, but there was no line at all! We turned in our luggage, and proceeded to the check in area. Again, we feared long lines that we say the year before at the same time - but there were no lines at all. We checked in and were on board by 1:00 - 1:15. It was a pleasure!!

 

We got off again to stop at the duty free and enjoy the free-samples (one of the best mojito samples I ever had) and make some purchases. The key is to put the purchases in your carry on. They will take it from you when you board if it is in the duty-free bag.

 

We went back to our Cabins on Caribe deck and met Vic, our Stateroom attendant. He was very pleasant. Even though we pre-ordered the egg crates and extra pillows (for all 6 of us), they were not there. We asked Vic and he said he wasn't sure he had enough for all of us :( . I showed him the printout that showed I had pre-requested them, and he said he'd try. He succeeeded and we all got our very comfortable egg crates that made the bed nice and cozy.

 

My next order of business was to confirm our traditional seating table to be near a window. Again, a request I made wayy in advance when calling Princess. I spoke to a women who confirmed,that yes, our dinner table (#83) was near a window.

 

Lastly, we made our reservations for the Crown Grill. With all business taken care of, we headed for the buffet. We always found somethign to eat and had no complaints with the food. There are 2 sides to Horizon Court and 2 sides to Cafe Caribe.

 

We hung out on our balconies, unpacked and got ready for dinner. Everything was great so far. Then we got to our table #83 and it was in the middle of the room - nowhere near a window. I wouldn't have minded if I wasn't told 3 hours earlier that it was. I waited on line to speak to the Maitre D, who told me that there were no window tables left and he would let us know if one openedup during the cruise. I believe this would have been easier for him and me if I wasn't lied to when I had phoned earlier. I did stop by the Boticellii before phoning, but it was closed. I should have gone to the dining room that was open during the day to sort it out, instead of calling. I could have looked at the chart myself instead of taking someone's (who I think was a bit rushed and harried) word for it.

 

Took the kids to teen club and kids club for orientation and both seemed excited for it.

 

After meeting WanPen and Sofa, our senior and junior waiters, we went back to the maitre D and canceled our 'wait' for a table near the window - we would make the best of it and stay where we were. WanPen and Sofa were marvelous and took great care of us. Each night our drinks were waiting along with specials that we always liked (jello for desert for grandma).

 

My husband (vegetarian) and mother in law (diabetic) were greeted each night by the head waiter with special menus to choose from for the upcoming night. Both were extremely satisfied with the choices and quality.

 

I found the food to be much improved from the prevoius year's cruise and some of the fish dishes were the best I have had (and we regularly enjoy fine dining).

 

Kids went off to their clubs, and we finished the night watching Bee Movie under the stars and then to the sun deck above the Neptune Pool for sailaway.

 

DAY AT SEA: 8:00 am it was off the gym for a 60 minute workout. No problem getting the machines we liked and we were very happy with teh gym. We started every day this way - with all the food we ate - we had to!

Then off to Breakfast at teh Horizon court - again, plenty of choices and no complaints. Grapefruit juice was not available, but all we had to do was ask and we got it.

 

It was a bit touch to get chairs by the pools - I can't say it was chair hogs, as I didn't get there until about 12:30. I did find a spot though. I found the bar service to be plentiful, friendly and not pushy. I used a coke card and no problems getting refills when I needed them. I liked the band at Neptune pool area and the music too. Neither was deafening and 'just right' to me. The thing about Crown is there really is somethign for everyone. This was the area that suited me. I loved watching people walk by, break into a little dance, then walk on again. We were all on day one of our vacation and it was nice to see everyone so happy.

 

Dinner was formal night and was great again and we hit Explorers loungs to see James Michael #13, magician/comedian. Our family completely enjoyed him - the 9 yr old, 13, 17, grandma and husband and I - we all laughed so hard, and the magic was impressive. We told the teens - just come with us, if you don't like it, you can leave. They ended up not only staying for this, but coming and staying for all the shows! Nice way to set the tone. We did not go to the Princess Theater. Didn't care for it last time - too crowded and shows were so/so. Again, Exploreres just suited us.

 

We had the roll call meet and greet at 10pm at Adagio. It was fun to meet everyone. We couldn't stay too long -we were completely out of steam! We did meet Laurie and family (hi Laurie if you are reading this!) with boys about the same age as ours, and were fortunate to see them on other tours throughout the week.

 

BARBADOS - We took a taxi to The Boatyard beach. We decided to pay the $15 per person so the kids could use the water trampolines, etc. Everyone had a nice time. We had arranged for our cab to come back, so the Boatyard gave us a discount, since we wouldn't be taking their cab back. Unlike everyting I had read on the boards, our cab driver did NOT return for us! We waited an extra 5 minutes, then had no problem finding another.

 

Dinner was fabulous and we went to see the hypnotists in Explorers. My husband and 17 yr old volunteered. He came off about half way through but the teenager stuck with it. It seemed they were all hypnotized, but I knew she was acting and suspected they all were. In any case, it was entertaining, if not authentic.

 

ST. LUCIA: We did the Sea Kayak to Pidgeon's Islands. The tour was a lot of fun and perfect for beginners. We kayaked for 40 minutes to a nice beach. Chairs weren't included, so just threw the towel down and chilled out for almost an hour before going back.

 

We got back in the early afternoon and got spa treatments for the girls - hot stones and swedish. My 13 year old was allowed to have a massage,but I had to be with her - so they booked as a 'couples' massage. They made sure to fanagle what they had to in order to accommodate us time-wise and choice wise. We all were very pleased and they navigated the girls who had slight sunburns perfectly. We did not get a hard sell afterwards at all. We deserved it after all that kayaking!

 

Tonight we had dinner at the Crown Grill and all gave it a big thumbs up. They will bring you what you want, when you want it. Our waiter stood by as we cut into the steaks to make sure we were happy with their preparedness. We were. The best steak I ever had? No. A very good and tasty steak? Yes. He also brought us all the extra sides, and extra corn because it was so yummy.

 

In Explorerers we saw comedian" Tien Cha (somethign like that). He was not as entertaining as James Michael, but was had fun anyway.

 

Went to see Night at the Museum at MUTS with popcorn and a blanket - just great!.

 

ANTIGUA: We took the Pirate Boat excursion and had a BLAST! The kids jumped the rope swing, walked the plank and then spent time on the beach. They danced and had fun. We saw Laurie and her family, so the boys hung out and also had fun being with each other. The rum punch defnintely flowed.

Dinner was great and had to tell WanPen and Sofa - no champagne for me tonight -too much Rum PUnch . WE just went back to the room, sat on the balcony and made it an early night (which was also a treat).

 

TORTOLA: We took a cab to Cane Garden Bay. It was an adventerous ride over the mountain roads. Not really my cup of tea, but the driver was excellent. The beach was great. We saw Laurie and family there and the boys played. My husband rented a kayak as did the girls ($8/30 min for him on a single, $15/30 min for them on a double). Then the girls did the banana boat thrill ride - $15 each. Chairs were also $5 each. Have I mentioned that the weather was perfect so far, and today was no exception. This time, our cab driver did come back for us!

 

Dinner was the second formal night and we again had a great time. We had our pictures taken again and did not encounter any pushiness or attitiude. No complaints.

 

In Explorers we saw another comedian - not Danika who was in the Princess Theater and I can't believe I don't remember his name (it is in my patter though). He was very very funny. It was the 8:30 so only a little edgy. He did warn the later show would be more edgy. He was the improv comedian. Our kids loved to be up front to get picked on, and we/they did. My 13 year old was 'fixed up' with a 12 year old near by and sat with him the rest of the show. We all had many good laughs. It, like so many nights in Explorers, was such a great family time - somethign we really never get to do.

 

We tried our luck finally at the Casino (had to support non-smoking night) and found I had no luck! I was next to someone who BATHED in some kind of perfume/cologne and gave me a headache (defeated the no-smoking perk).. so we didn't stay too long. Husband won $3.00 in video poker!

 

ST THOMAS: We took the tour to St. Johns Trunk Bay beach and snorkel. The ferry ride was nice, a little bumpy, not too bad. We saw many celebrity homes on St. Thomas and got an informative tour along the way. We were very pleased with the beach and the snorkeling. It was not teh best snorkelying we have done, but not the worst either. The kids LOVED doing the snorkel trail and thrilled by the fish they saw. This would probably not impress a very avid snorkerer, but it was fine for us - we had fun and loved the beach. First time to St. John, and now we can say we did it.

 

Back on ship, my husband and I had a port special "scalp and feet" massage. It was in the salon. We both had different experiences,but both nice (I had the feet/pedicure style wash, he didn't). After the service, we had use of the Thermal Suite and really really enjoyed it - all of it. We tried it all.

 

Then back to pack and get ready for dinner.

 

Landfall dinner was great again, but we didn't have time to stay for the baked alaska (it looked AMAZING) as we had to get to Bingo for the big jackpot. Did my luck change? Almost --- ONE number away from $2000 grand prize. There were about 5 of us standing up there.. and it was a "B" and I needed a "B" - only 4 "B" weren't called yet. I had a 1 in 4 chance!.. And and.. it wasn't my "B"..:( . SO CLOSE! The man next to me cried Bingo! Oh well. THe kids were really excited - we had so much fun!! The whole way home I would look at the kids adn say "don't say it" and they would say "B4!" (that's what I needed).

 

Decided to try the casino again, and still no luck, but had a lot more fun. I found the casino more crowded on non-smoking night than this night and was glad to see that.

 

I have to say I don't rememember exactly which night was which show at Explorers, so anyone on the ship and notices the mistakes, please forgive me. I am trying to write while most is fresh in my mind, but am surprsied how the details are slipping !

 

WE did manage to stop one afternoon for sushi at Vines and a flight of Wine and milk and cookies at international cafe.

 

Having been on the Crown before, I still found many "firsts" and still did not do everything. We put our FCC down, of course, for the next time.

 

We loved the ship and the trip!. The girls didn't really do too much in the teen club - teen rebellion I guess as it looked really cool to me. THey just met other teens and hung around. The 9 year old boy LOVED the kids club and wanted to be there all the time. There were about 300 kids on the ship. I found it to be quite peaceful and under control. We had rules and check ins and curfew, all were observed.

 

Sorry for the painfully long review - I just relived a wonderful week! Ask any questions and I'll do my best!

[Colo Cruiser]

Excellent review, thanks for taking the time to write one. :)

[BuzzF117]

Just back from an amazing week on the Crown Princess. I soaked up every review before I set sail, so hope this is helpful to you future cruisers.

 

Background - we are a family of 6 traveling with three of us having been on the Southern Caribbean Explorer Itinerary last year on the Crown and 2 first time cruisers in the group.

 

OLD SAN JUAN - We arrived a day early and stayed at the Sheraton Old San Juan. We chose it for the convenience to the pier. The hotel was 'ok' and we found it to be very loud (either the casino or senor frogs next door), and if you are a light to medium sleeper, I would avoid this place. We enjoyed our Marriott hotel better last year which was further, but quieter and nicer. IT was in the heart of Old San Juan and it was a healthy walk to things, but not worth the bad night sleep, poor internet (worked, didn't work, worked), and other buggy things. We did drag the bags over to the ship the next day (still wonder if a cab right to the 'door' would not have been better - the better price for hotel would have made up for the cab ride).

 

We ate dinner at Barrachina - home of the Pina Colada. There was a flamenco show (which again was 'ok'), and the food was 'ok', and the pina coladas were good.

 

EMBARKATION DAY: We had hoped to get there early - 11:30 and get on early, but had some last minute shopping (Coach - great prices) and were delayed. I feared a terrible line when we arrived at 12:30, but there was no line at all! We turned in our luggage, and proceeded to the check in area. Again, we feared long lines that we say the year before at the same time - but there were no lines at all. We checked in and were on board by 1:00 - 1:15. It was a pleasure!!

 

We got off again to stop at the duty free and enjoy the free-samples (one of the best mojito samples I ever had) and make some purchases. The key is to put the purchases in your carry on. They will take it from you when you board if it is in the duty-free bag.

 

We went back to our Cabins on Caribe deck and met Vic, our Stateroom attendant. He was very pleasant. Even though we pre-ordered the egg crates and extra pillows (for all 6 of us), they were not there. We asked Vic and he said he wasn't sure he had enough for all of us :( . I showed him the printout that showed I had pre-requested them, and he said he'd try. He succeeeded and we all got our very comfortable egg crates that made the bed nice and cozy.

 

My next order of business was to confirm our traditional seating table to be near a window. Again, a request I made wayy in advance when calling Princess. I spoke to a women who confirmed,that yes, our dinner table (#83) was near a window.

 

Lastly, we made our reservations for the Crown Grill. With all business taken care of, we headed for the buffet. We always found somethign to eat and had no complaints with the food. There are 2 sides to Horizon Court and 2 sides to Cafe Caribe.

 

We hung out on our balconies, unpacked and got ready for dinner. Everything was great so far. Then we got to our table #83 and it was in the middle of the room - nowhere near a window. I wouldn't have minded if I wasn't told 3 hours earlier that it was. I waited on line to speak to the Maitre D, who told me that there were no window tables left and he would let us know if one openedup during the cruise. I believe this would have been easier for him and me if I wasn't lied to when I had phoned earlier. I did stop by the Boticellii before phoning, but it was closed. I should have gone to the dining room that was open during the day to sort it out, instead of calling. I could have looked at the chart myself instead of taking someone's (who I think was a bit rushed and harried) word for it.

 

Took the kids to teen club and kids club for orientation and both seemed excited for it.

 

After meeting WanPen and Sofa, our senior and junior waiters, we went back to the maitre D and canceled our 'wait' for a table near the window - we would make the best of it and stay where we were. WanPen and Sofa were marvelous and took great care of us. Each night our drinks were waiting along with specials that we always liked (jello for desert for grandma).

 

My husband (vegetarian) and mother in law (diabetic) were greeted each night by the head waiter with special menus to choose from for the upcoming night. Both were extremely satisfied with the choices and quality.

 

I found the food to be much improved from the prevoius year's cruise and some of the fish dishes were the best I have had (and we regularly enjoy fine dining).

 

Kids went off to their clubs, and we finished the night watching Bee Movie under the stars and then to the sun deck above the Neptune Pool for sailaway.

 

DAY AT SEA: 8:00 am it was off the gym for a 60 minute workout. No problem getting the machines we liked and we were very happy with teh gym. We started every day this way - with all the food we ate - we had to!

Then off to Breakfast at teh Horizon court - again, plenty of choices and no complaints. Grapefruit juice was not available, but all we had to do was ask and we got it.

 

It was a bit touch to get chairs by the pools - I can't say it was chair hogs, as I didn't get there until about 12:30. I did find a spot though. I found the bar service to be plentiful, friendly and not pushy. I used a coke card and no problems getting refills when I needed them. I liked the band at Neptune pool area and the music too. Neither was deafening and 'just right' to me. The thing about Crown is there really is somethign for everyone. This was the area that suited me. I loved watching people walk by, break into a little dance, then walk on again. We were all on day one of our vacation and it was nice to see everyone so happy.

 

Dinner was formal night and was great again and we hit Explorers loungs to see James Michael #13, magician/comedian. Our family completely enjoyed him - the 9 yr old, 13, 17, grandma and husband and I - we all laughed so hard, and the magic was impressive. We told the teens - just come with us, if you don't like it, you can leave. They ended up not only staying for this, but coming and staying for all the shows! Nice way to set the tone. We did not go to the Princess Theater. Didn't care for it last time - too crowded and shows were so/so. Again, Exploreres just suited us.

 

We had the roll call meet and greet at 10pm at Adagio. It was fun to meet everyone. We couldn't stay too long -we were completely out of steam! We did meet Laurie and family (hi Laurie if you are reading this!) with boys about the same age as ours, and were fortunate to see them on other tours throughout the week.

 

BARBADOS - We took a taxi to The Boatyard beach. We decided to pay the $15 per person so the kids could use the water trampolines, etc. Everyone had a nice time. We had arranged for our cab to come back, so the Boatyard gave us a discount, since we wouldn't be taking their cab back. Unlike everyting I had read on the boards, our cab driver did NOT return for us! We waited an extra 5 minutes, then had no problem finding another.

 

Dinner was fabulous and we went to see the hypnotists in Explorers. My husband and 17 yr old volunteered. He came off about half way through but the teenager stuck with it. It seemed they were all hypnotized, but I knew she was acting and suspected they all were. In any case, it was entertaining, if not authentic.

 

ST. LUCIA: We did the Sea Kayak to Pidgeon's Islands. The tour was a lot of fun and perfect for beginners. We kayaked for 40 minutes to a nice beach. Chairs weren't included, so just threw the towel down and chilled out for almost an hour before going back.

 

We got back in the early afternoon and got spa treatments for the girls - hot stones and swedish. My 13 year old was allowed to have a massage,but I had to be with her - so they booked as a 'couples' massage. They made sure to fanagle what they had to in order to accommodate us time-wise and choice wise. We all were very pleased and they navigated the girls who had slight sunburns perfectly. We did not get a hard sell afterwards at all. We deserved it after all that kayaking!

 

Tonight we had dinner at the Crown Grill and all gave it a big thumbs up. They will bring you what you want, when you want it. Our waiter stood by as we cut into the steaks to make sure we were happy with their preparedness. We were. The best steak I ever had? No. A very good and tasty steak? Yes. He also brought us all the extra sides, and extra corn because it was so yummy.

 

In Explorerers we saw comedian" Tien Cha (somethign like that). He was not as entertaining as James Michael, but was had fun anyway.

 

Went to see Night at the Museum at MUTS with popcorn and a blanket - just great!.

 

ANTIGUA: We took the Pirate Boat excursion and had a BLAST! The kids jumped the rope swing, walked the plank and then spent time on the beach. They danced and had fun. We saw Laurie and her family, so the boys hung out and also had fun being with each other. The rum punch defnintely flowed.

Dinner was great and had to tell WanPen and Sofa - no champagne for me tonight -too much Rum PUnch . WE just went back to the room, sat on the balcony and made it an early night (which was also a treat).

 

TORTOLA: We took a cab to Cane Garden Bay. It was an adventerous ride over the mountain roads. Not really my cup of tea, but the driver was excellent. The beach was great. We saw Laurie and family there and the boys played. My husband rented a kayak as did the girls ($8/30 min for him on a single, $15/30 min for them on a double). Then the girls did the banana boat thrill ride - $15 each. Chairs were also $5 each. Have I mentioned that the weather was perfect so far, and today was no exception. This time, our cab driver did come back for us!

 

Dinner was the second formal night and we again had a great time. We had our pictures taken again and did not encounter any pushiness or attitiude. No complaints.

 

In Explorers we saw another comedian - not Danika who was in the Princess Theater and I can't believe I don't remember his name (it is in my patter though). He was very very funny. It was the 8:30 so only a little edgy. He did warn the later show would be more edgy. He was the improv comedian. Our kids loved to be up front to get picked on, and we/they did. My 13 year old was 'fixed up' with a 12 year old near by and sat with him the rest of the show. We all had many good laughs. It, like so many nights in Explorers, was such a great family time - somethign we really never get to do.

 

We tried our luck finally at the Casino (had to support non-smoking night) and found I had no luck! I was next to someone who BATHED in some kind of perfume/cologne and gave me a headache (defeated the no-smoking perk).. so we didn't stay too long. Husband won $3.00 in video poker!

 

ST THOMAS: We took the tour to St. Johns Trunk Bay beach and snorkel. The ferry ride was nice, a little bumpy, not too bad. We saw many celebrity homes on St. Thomas and got an informative tour along the way. We were very pleased with the beach and the snorkeling. It was not teh best snorkelying we have done, but not the worst either. The kids LOVED doing the snorkel trail and thrilled by the fish they saw. This would probably not impress a very avid snorkerer, but it was fine for us - we had fun and loved the beach. First time to St. John, and now we can say we did it.

 

Back on ship, my husband and I had a port special "scalp and feet" massage. It was in the salon. We both had different experiences,but both nice (I had the feet/pedicure style wash, he didn't). After the service, we had use of the Thermal Suite and really really enjoyed it - all of it. We tried it all.

 

Then back to pack and get ready for dinner.

 

Landfall dinner was great again, but we didn't have time to stay for the baked alaska (it looked AMAZING) as we had to get to Bingo for the big jackpot. Did my luck change? Almost --- ONE number away from $2000 grand prize. There were about 5 of us standing up there.. and it was a "B" and I needed a "B" - only 4 "B" weren't called yet. I had a 1 in 4 chance!.. And and.. it wasn't my "B"..:( . SO CLOSE! The man next to me cried Bingo! Oh well. THe kids were really excited - we had so much fun!! The whole way home I would look at the kids adn say "don't say it" and they would say "B4!" (that's what I needed).

 

Decided to try the casino again, and still no luck, but had a lot more fun. I found the casino more crowded on non-smoking night than this night and was glad to see that.

 

I have to say I don't rememember exactly which night was which show at Explorers, so anyone on the ship and notices the mistakes, please forgive me. I am trying to write while most is fresh in my mind, but am surprsied how the details are slipping !

 

WE did manage to stop one afternoon for sushi at Vines and a flight of Wine and milk and cookies at international cafe.

 

Having been on the Crown before, I still found many "firsts" and still did not do everything. We put our FCC down, of course, for the next time.

 

We loved the ship and the trip!. The girls didn't really do too much in the teen club - teen rebellion I guess as it looked really cool to me. THey just met other teens and hung around. The 9 year old boy LOVED the kids club and wanted to be there all the time. There were about 300 kids on the ship. I found it to be quite peaceful and under control. We had rules and check ins and curfew, all were observed.

 

Sorry for the painfully long review - I just relived a wonderful week! Ask any questions and I'll do my best!

 

I wasn't real impressed with the baked alaska there were no real flames just little flickering LED fake candles

[dforeigner]

Thanks for taking time to write a review.