Posts Tagged ‘Princess’

What is a Cruise Line Private Island?

So what exactly is a cruise line private island?

A private island is a section of an island in the Caribbean or Bahamas that is designated and operated by one particular cruise line.  It is not available to the public or local population. When you are at a private island you are the only ship in port.

The island will have plenty of beaches to bum on with chairs and loungers available to use for your entire visit, and they are free.  You don’t have to worry about heading back to the ship for lunch as there is usually a barbecue provided by the cruise line. Don’t forget to sip on your favorite umbrella drink either at your lounger or sitting at the beach bar! One thing you will NOT see on a private island is someone asking if you would like your hair braided or nice purse.

If you are like me and can’t sit still, there is plenty to do on the islands. You rent snorkeling equipment (or bring your own like I do). You can sign up to take a wild banana boat ride (you’ve got to try it…you will laugh so hard!).  Or rent a three-wheel aqua bike. If you like to sail, rent a boat or kayak.  Some islands have wave runners for those that like speed.

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My Secret Obsession

I don’t know what it is but I love ships.

Now I’m not talking about the experience of cruising, which I definitely love, but I am talking about the ships themselves. My wife makes fun of me (and maybe sometimes gets a bit impatient waiting for me), but I have to take a picture of our ship (and any others in port) from every possible angle, with or without her or anyone else in the picture.  People are almost an afterthought. They are important, but they are not the ship in her full glory.

My obsession began back in 1991, at the beginning of my cruise career working for Royal Caribbean, with the introduction of the Monarch of the Seas cruise ship.  While “working” onboard for several weeks, I began my ship photo homage with a series of pictures with three of my favorite cities (Boston, New York and Miami) as a backdrop to the true star, the ship.

I took so many pictures, day, night, close, far.  You name the type, I took it.  If only my skill matched my desire (they still sit in a box in storage begging me for their debut).

Now, I am very thankful for the transition from film to digital cameras.  Instantly, I know if I have a winner or not.

One deeply disappointing day back in 1996, I picked up my film from the 1-hour film developer, only to find out all of my fantastic shots of the Splendour of the Seas cruise ship in port at some of Europe’s most beautiful cities were dark!

Picture, if you will, the newest, most modern ship of its time perched majestically with the architecturally appealing city of Hamburg, Germany in the background, shot from every angle of course.  It was a spectacular sight, this old, historic city, being graced by this modern marvel.  If only you could see it!

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Escape on Princess With the WHOLE Family!

Cruising with Princess is a great way to escape with the WHOLE family, including the kids!

Good to Know:

  • Princess welcomes all children, but facilities may vary depending on the ship. The Pacific and Ocean Princess do not have a dedicated youth and teen center. Programs are only available when 20 or more children are sailing.
  • Let Princess’ staff know of all medical and/or special needs for your children. They will make every effort to accommodate them. Please be advised that Princess Youth staff may not offer individual one-on-one supervision.
  • All youth activities are fully supervised by a Youth Activities Coordinator.
  • The ‘Junior Cruisers’ will also participate in 2 special dinner evenings where they can enjoy dinner without their parents, but get to enjoy time with their new friends and counselors.  The teens will have a formal get-together during 1 of these 2 dinner evenings. This gives them a chance to dress their best and a photographer will be available to take individual and/or group photos.
  • Please note age groups may vary depending on the ship.

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Dining Options Onboard Princess Cruises

Specialty dining on premium cruise line, Princess Cruises, is well, special. You also have your choice of anything from the main dining room to Princess’  Ultimate Balcony dining.

Let’s go over all of your dining options and let you know which venues have a cover charge, or as Princess says, a ‘nominal fee.’

There are dining options to match any mood, whether it’s pasta – served with freshly prepared sauces- or grilled halibut, complimented by a chilled glass of chardonnay.  Even if you have a hankering for pizza, there’s plenty right by the pool.  I do believe my son left enough for the rest of you!

Whatever your craving is, Princess is sure to have it!

In the Main Dining Room, Princess offers two types of seating–traditional and anytime.

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In the Know: Princess Cruises Alcohol and Beverage Policy

Unwind in the comfortable elegance of your Princess Cruises ship. Whether you’re having cocktails with friends or are curled up under a warm fleece blanket enjoying scenic cruising, their ships are upscale but never stuffy, designed for you to escape completely.

Princess Cruises will allow you to bring your favorite non-alcoholic beverage onboard such as soda, juice or water the first day of embarkation. You are also permitted to bring one 750ml bottle of wine and/or champagne per person on board to consume in the privacy of your stateroom, but it is not permitted in public areas of the ship.  If you wish to consume the wine with dinner a $15.00 corkage fee will be charged. Wine in the box is discouraged.

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