We took a 7 day Eastern Caribbean cruise on November 7 aboard the Crown Princess. Having just experienced the 2 day Inaugural sailing onboard the Ruby, we had high expectations for the Crown, as we had really enjoyed our experience on the Ruby.
It was easy to get around, as the ships are almost identical in lay out. We were in an EE ocean view cabin located right off of the Piazza area behind the art gallery. If you are booking an ocean view cabins, these are in the perfect location. I have to say it was my first time in an ocean view room, and I really miss the balcony and the extra room in the mini-suites. My husband hogs the TV, and the mini-suites have 2 tvs in the room as well as a comfortable couch, versus sitting on the bed on 1 chair provided in the ocean view cabin. Oh yes, and being on a lower deck, if seas are rough you do hear the waves hitting the side of the boat.
We found the entertainment in the Piazza to be a bit disappointing. It was a highlight for us on the Ruby, and there were less variety of entertainers in the Piazza area. The main shows in the Princess Theatre were good, as well as some of the comedians and singers in the Explorers Lounge.
Food was average throughout the cruise. Not bad, but not great, hence the word “average” is the only one that seems to work. Overall, we were impressed by the selection in the buffet. On seafood night for example, the buffet had chowder, king crab legs, shrimp and oysters as part of the buffet so if you were not in the mood to eat in the dining room, you still had plenty of seafood to choose from. In the main dining rooms you can choose traditional dining or personal choice. We had the personal choice, and even during peak dining times (7 to 8 p.m.,) we never waited more than 15 minutes for a table for 2. Other dining options included an outdoor hamburger and hot dog grill, pizzeria and ice cream bar. The pizza usually has a long line, but it is well worth the wait. You can also order a full pizza delivered to your room for $3. The International cafe in the Piazza area serves a variety of sandwiches, cold salads and freshly baked pastries. Gelato is also served here. Vines is a casual and classy wine and seafood bar with a nice selection of wines, and a great place to hang out before dinner. Cafe Caribe is a fun place to get an after dinner liquor. The Crown also has a 24-hour buffet/bistro in the Horizon Court or round-the-clock room service.
The Cigar lounge was spacious, located right off of the casino. The Casino had a good selection os slots and tables. You no longer cash out when going from one machine to the other, instead credits go onto your key card.
We tried out Sabatini’s and the Crown Grill. Sabatini’s took about 2 1/2 hours so don’t go in a rush. There were several courses involved – some better than others, but it is a unique dining experience with a wonderful view of the ocean if you arrive before sunset. The Crown Grill had excellent steaks and Brazilian lobster tails.
I personally loved the Movies Under the Stars. New movies were shown each night. The pool chairs are covered, and blankets are provided. The smell of freshly popped popcorn fills the air, and depending on where you sit, the pizza smell is intoxicating. Waiters will bring you pizza upon request. Make sure and arrive early, as the seats do fill up. For sports buffs, football was on both Sunday and Monday nights.
The cabin was fine, however we find the bathrooms to be small compared to other ships unless you are in a min-suite or above. Wifi worked great in the cabin and throughout the ship.
We loved the Sanctuary, and felt it is well worth the $10 for a half day to be away from the crowds. You can pick seating in the shade or in the sun. Waiters offer chilled towels, and serve water with either fresh fruit or cucumber in it for the spa feel. It is a great place to read and relax, or enjoy the designated pool and hot tub one deck down.
Service throughout the ship was good. Around the pool we noticed plenty of staff who were always attentive. We had a soda card and still receive the same service as if we were ordering alcoholic drinks.
The ports were great (Grand Turk, Princess Cays, St. Thomas and St. Maarten).
Boarding the ship as well as disembarkation were very smooth.
Overall, the Crown provides a good cruise experience. Princess offers an excellent passenger loyalty program and has some great specials available until February 28th with their balcony bonanza sale.
I have almost 200 photos of the Crown and ports of call if you would like to see them on my Flickr account.
