princess cruise from galveston reviews

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Cruises from Galveston

An island full of art, architecture, and boutiques.

Princess® returns to Galveston, sailing once again from this city tucked within a quaint Gulf Coast barrier island. Explore the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and grab some local cuisine, or visit Moody Gardens with attractions and entertainment ranging from a world-class aquarium and a living rainforest to the Discovery Museum and Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, before you embark on a cruise to exciting destinations in the Western Caribbean and Mexico such as Costa Maya, Cozumel and Roatan.

Caribbean cruises

On a cruise from Galveston to the Western Caribbean, explore the beauty of unspoiled coral reefs and underwater caves as well as visit the ancient Mayan ruins throughout the region. One moment you can be walking among the vast ruins of this mighty civilization and the next delving into the culture of the Yucatán Peninsula or simply unwinding on beaches that offer some of the best snorkeling in the world.

What to Know About Cruises from Galveston

Known for its history, beaches and outdoor adventures, Galveston is truly a gem in Texas. Here’s everything you need to know about your cruise from Galveston. 

Galveston at a glance

• Language:  English
• Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD)
• Time Zone:  Central Time (CT)
• Docking:  Your cruise from Galveston docks at the Port of Galveston located in the city’s historic downtown district.
• Attire:  Galveston’s temperatures throughout the year typically range from 48 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning it’s never too hot or too cold to spend the day at the beach.
• Transportation:  You can get around the island by Uber, Lyft, shuttle, limousine, or rental car. There are also unique transportation options such as surreys along the beachfront and horse-drawn carriages in the historic downtown district.

Things to do in Galveston

Before getting on a cruise from Galveston, start your vacation with a visit to the city’s museums, historic neighborhoods, and cultural icons. Take a walk along the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, home to family-friendly rides, games, and other attractions. Then relax on one of Galveston’s many iconic beaches and enjoy the 32-miles of coastline. Whether you are traveling with family, a group of friends or your significant other, this laid-back island has something for everyone.

Cruise Ship Sailing from Galveston

Join our Princess fleet to sail on some of the best cruises from Galveston. Find the comforts of home along with the luxuries you deserve on board any of our ships. Discover what makes our fleet so unique.

Learn more about: Regal Princess®

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7 Night Caribbean - Western Cruise

Best known for the Pacific Princess on the Love Boat, Princess Cruises has been a leading name in cruising and visits a wide range of destinations.

Investigate Mayan ruins and rough it off-road in the tropical paradise that comes along with a Western Caribbean cruise.

Indulge in the local flavor with fresh Gulf shrimp, Galveston Bay oysters and pristine Gulf coast beaches as you relax in southern comfort in Galveston, Texas.

• Regal Princess - Passenger Capacity: 3,560 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2014 Last Refurbished:  2017

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Galveston, Texas

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Galveston, Texas , Roatan, Honduras , Belize City, Belize , Cozumel, Mexico

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7 Night Caribbean - Western Cruise sailing on the Regal Princess

Departure dates: oct 2024 - mar 2026.

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*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

Rates & offers are subject to select dates & categories, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars, & include government taxes & fees. All rates & offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability & confirmation, & may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary.

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Disney Magic

The 2,713-passenger Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet (it first launched in 1998). It was last refurbished in May 2023, when it received updates like a "Soul"-themed lounge, concierge-level upgrades and a new Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Stor y live show. The ship also features family favorites such as the AquaDuck waterslide, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique dress-up shop and Edge, an interactive game center for tweens.

Disney Magic features diverse entertainment, including live shows, an open-air Wide World of Sports deck, three pools and a splash area for children younger than 3. Tweens and teens can enjoy games, music and theme nights at Edge (ages 11 to 14) or Vibe (ages 14 to 17). When it comes to dining, the ship offers seven eateries, including an adults-only specialty restaurant and buffet options. Recent cruisers gave the food quality mixed reviews.

In terms of lodging, 70% of cabins offer ocean views or verandas. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, sitting areas and bathrooms with separate showers and tubs. Suites include extra perks such as concierge service and media libraries. Past cruisers noted that the service on this ship is up to Disney's standards, but so is the price tag.

Disney Magic sails from Galveston, Texas ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida ; Port Canaveral, Florida; and  San Juan, Puerto Rico . It visits destinations across the Bahamas , the Caribbean and Mexico.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once per sailing, guests are invited to watch Tangled: The Musical in the Walt Disney Theater. This Broadway-style show retells the story of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider with three new original songs, puppets, and beautiful costumes. This show is very popular, so it's best to get to the theater about an hour before the show starts to get a good seat. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Allure of the Seas

The 6,826-passenger Allure of the Seas, unveiled in 2010, is among the largest cruise ships in the world. There are a whopping 2,054 crew members on board to cater to passengers' needs. Along with signature line amenities like rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with a variety of activities, shows and dining options. The ship underwent a $165 million refurbishment in 2020, which added approximately 50 new staterooms, the Ultimate Abyss (the tallest slide at sea), redesigned kids and teens spaces, new dining venues and more.

Other standout features include a zip line that descends 10 decks, two surf simulators and a science lab. Plus, with 19 dining options – and a Starbucks at sea – every member of the family will be satisfied.

In terms of lodging, about 65% of cabins feature balconies, and all staterooms are appointed with TVs and minifridges. Interior staterooms are the most economical option, but those who splurge on Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service. Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the outrageous capacity of the ship, but some recent cruisers praise the nonstop activity and entertainment. 

Allure of the Seas departs from Miami, Orlando, Florida, and Galveston , Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean.

Harmony of the Seas

Welcoming up to 6,687 passengers and 2,200 crew members, Harmony of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. Launched in 2016 and tuned up in 2021, the ship features Royal Caribbean staples like surf simulators and rock climbing walls, as well as innovative amenities like the Ultimate Abyss (a 10-story slide) and three multistory waterslides. Plus, while younger passengers play in the arcade or at age-appropriate clubs, adults can relax at the spa or sip cocktails at multiple bars and lounges.

After working up an appetite, guests can choose from 20 dining options. Past cruisers especially praised the multitude of specialty restaurants, which range from Mexican to Japanese fare and require reservations and an additional fee.

When it comes to lodging, Harmony of the Seas offers a wide variety of cabin categories, with more than 70% of cabins featuring balconies. While Interior staterooms are the most economical choice, those looking for a little more space and luxury should consider upgrading to a Suite, which range from Junior Suites to four-bedroom Villa Suites. While all cabins offer flat-screen TVs and minibars, suites include access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

Harmony of the Seas sails from Miami and Galveston, Texas , to destinations throughout the Caribbean.

Regal Princess

Unique features – including a glass walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship – make Regal Princess stand out among competitors. Guests can expect quality service on the 3,560-passenger, 1,346-crew-member ship, which debuted in 2014 and was most recently updated in 2017.

Regal Princess offers plenty of onboard activities, from an indoor driving range to a photography studio to educational programming through Discovery at SEA events. While adults sip cocktails at one of the onboard lounges, kids and teens can enjoy age-appropriate youth clubs. Come mealtime, the whole gang can choose between the main dining rooms, a number of specialty restaurants (including Sabatini's Italian venue) and multiple laid-back eateries.

All cabins come appointed with minifridges and flat-screen TVs. While Interior cabins measure between 158 and 162 square feet, larger Balcony staterooms occupy 214 to 222 square feet. The ship also features Mini-Suite category cabins, which offer two flat-screen TVs, bathtubs and furnished balconies. Each guest aboard Regal Princess receives an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Regal Princess sails to Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe and beyond.

Mariner of the Seas

Introduced in 2003 and overhauled in mid-2018, Mariner of the Seas features passenger favorites like the Escape Room, the Izumi Japanese restaurant and a surf simulator. During the ship's refurbishment, Royal Caribbean also added 100 new staterooms, updated cabins and public spaces and added fan-favorite restaurant Jamie's Italian by chef Jamie Oliver.

Though the 4,000-passenger ship features a 1-to-3 crew-to-passenger ratio, recent cruisers said the vessel still maintains a high level of customer service. When it comes to dining, the ship offers 11 venues, including a multilevel main dining room. The ship's 10 bars and lounges and onboard entertainment, which includes Broadway-style shows, earn a consistent nod of approval from past cruisers. Kids have plenty of age-appropriate entertainment, too, including youth programs and teen lounges. Mariner of the Seas touts three pools and six whirlpools. These areas of the ship attract a high concentration of children.

Past travelers were generally complimentary of the staterooms. Similar to its sister ships, Mariner of the Seas offers four stateroom categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. All staterooms include flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi accessibility. 

Mariner of the Seas departs from  Orlando , Florida, and Galveston, Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the  Bahamas .

Carnival Miracle

Like other Carnival ships, Carnival Miracle boasts activities and entertainment geared toward travelers of all ages. Thanks to a renovation in 2020, the ship features upgrades like Guy's Burger Joint, WaterWorks, RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Cantina and more. The ship also received a minor refresh to interior and exterior spaces in 2022. Carnival Miracle carries 2,124 passengers at single occupancy, 2,680 passengers at double occupancy and 934 crew members.

Even with the added venues, a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio ensures service is a priority. And compared to other Carnival ships, Miracle offers a higher percentage of cabins with ocean views. While Interior staterooms provide more wallet-friendly digs, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category cabins offer more space and scenery. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service.

During days at sea, grown-ups can enjoy poolside lounging or the adults-only Serenity Retreat, while kids ages 2 to 17 can play at age-specific programs.  There are also entertainment options like the Punchliner Comedy Club, the SkyBox Sports Bar and the Seuss at Sea program. Once the family works up an appetite, they'll have their pick of the main dining room, the Lido Marketplace, a specialty steakhouse (for an extra fee) and more.

Carnival Miracle departs from Galveston, Texas ; Rome and  San Francisco  to destinations in the Caribbean, the Panama Canal,  Hawaii ,  Europe and Alaska . 

Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima first set sail in October 2022 and can hold 3,099 guests and 1,506 crew members. The latest ship in the fleet includes many of the cruiser-favorite amenities and activities that are standard across Norwegian , plus a few more exciting additions.

Accommodations include Studios (perfect for solo travelers), and Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, Club Balcony Suite and Suite staterooms. The Haven aboard the Norwegian Prima has been redesigned, with more spacious suites, upscale decor and The Haven's private sun deck. Outside their rooms, travelers will find plenty of dining options, including pub fare at The Local Bar & Grill, classic fare at the main dining room Hudson's, fine dining at The Commodore Room, international cuisine at Indulge Food Hall, casual eats at the Surfside Café & Grill and 24-hour room service, in addition to several specialty dining venues.

As far as activities go, cruisers can enjoy mini-golf, a racecar track, the water park and waterslides, plus games like darts, shuffleboard and pickleball. Those looking to relax can snag a lounge chair by the pool or book a treatment at the spa. Other options for fun include a casino, numerous bars and lounges, and a theater to enjoy musicals, concerts and The Price Is Right Live.

This Norwegian ship offers itineraries through the Mediterranean, northern Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean in the coming years.

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape debuted in 2015 and was refurbished in 2022. It carries 4,266 passengers and 1,733 crew members. Highlights include the District Brew House and Norwegian's wine bar, The Cellars. Guests can choose from a total of 18 dining venues, including 11 specialty restaurants.

When it comes to activities, the ship appeals to multiple generations. Children can play in age-appropriate clubs or in the kids aqua park, while adults can sip cocktails or get treatments at the Mandara Spa. Nighttime entertainment includes live musicals, acts at the Headliners Comedy Club and table games at the casino.

Accommodations are just as diverse, ranging from Studio staterooms designed for solo travelers to Inside, Oceanview and Balcony cabins. There are also larger Club Balcony Suites, as well as The Haven (exclusive cabins that offer elite perks like 24-hour butler service and access to a private sundeck). 

Norwegian Escape departs from Miami , Orlando ,  New York City ,  Rome , Barcelona and Venice , Italy for sailings in Bermuda , Canada, the Caribbean and Europe.

Carnival Breeze

The 3,690- double occupancy passenger Carnival Breeze was introduced in 2012 and last updated in 2017. The ship carries 1,386 crew members. On board, cruisers will find outdoor activities like a water park and a SportsSquare with games like mini-golf, as well as supervised (and free) age-appropriate programs for kids and teens. While the younger passengers play, adults can relax at the adults-only Serenity retreat, get treatments at the Cloud 9 Spa and sip cocktails at one of the ship's bars. 

As far as dining goes, cruisers can choose between several food options, including sushi, Mexican, 24/7 pizza and more. Guy's Burger Joint and Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, in partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, are passenger favorites. Nighttime entertainment ranges from karaoke to shows at the Punchliner Comedy Club.

Carnival Breeze offers a variety of cabin categories, all of which include flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. The ship maintains a nearly 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. While some recent cruisers appreciated the family atmosphere, others were disappointed by long lines and wait times during dinner service. 

Carnival Breeze cruises to the Caribbean from Galveston, Texas . 

Norwegian Jade

The 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade was renovated in 2022. The updated ship is geared toward a diverse set of ages and traveler types. Plus, with 1,037 crew members, the service exceeded recent cruisers' expectations.

Aboard Jade, guests can choose from a spectrum of lodging options. While Inside cabins range from 138 to 278 square feet, the ship's Haven suites and villas measure between 440 and 4,719 square feet. These larger accommodations feature living and dining areas, balconies and private access to an exclusive courtyard.

Norwegian Jade features 13 restaurants (including seven specialty eateries) and a variety of bars, lounges and nightclubs. During the day, guests can take advantage of a wide array of activities, including a variety of sports, a spa and age-appropriate youth clubs. 

Norwegian Jade sails throughout ports in Tampa, Alaska, Europe and Caribbean.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Short Review of Regal Princess Cruise out of Galveston Jan 28, 2024

By SAKay , February 8 in Princess Cruises

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We returned from our Regal Princess 7 day cruise this past Sunday, 4 Feb.  We were a group of 3, 60 year olds, doing our 7th Princess Cruise.  We stopped at Costa Maya,  Roatan, and Cozumel.  We stopped at all 3 ports.  Overall, we enjoyed the cruise.  As everyone on here says, any cruise is better than being at home cooking, cleaning, and working !  It was our first time on the Regal.  It was newer than any other Princess ship we'd been on, and it was very pretty and clean.   Last year we were on the Caribbean and the Ruby.  I actually enjoyed many things on them more than the Regal.  

Before leaving on our cruise, I read many Live and Reviews of the Regal cruises.  I will just comment on our likes and dislikes of this cruise for anyone going on a future cruise.   

Embarkation - It was easy.  After having read about long lines to get on, we arrived around 10:30, and were onboard by about 11:05 I think.  We sat in the Platinum/Elite/Suite area for about 10 min after checking in, and then right on the ship.  On the ship, someone said you could drop off your bags in your rooms, but not stay in them yet.  We went and dropped off our bags.  The stewards were still working on the rooms and the doors were all open, but we left our carry on size bags anyway.  A little hesitant since the doors were open, but all was OK.   Just an FYI.  I tried to bring on a 6 pack of waters.  I had read on here people saying you could bring them, and I'm pretty sure I've brought them on in Galveston before.  I know the website says you can't but I've read on here people saying you can.  They confiscated them, along with the 6 pack of bottled Diet Coke I tried to bring.  We also brought 2 cases of soda in our carry on.  No problem with those.  I read on here right before the cruise a lady said that at Galveston they actually opened her soda cases and took out her sodas to inspect.  They did not do that to us.

Entertainment:  We enjoyed all 3 production shows.  The singers and dancers were very good.  They had a guest soprano for Bravo, Carolyn ??.  That was my favorite show !  We also saw the other shows each night.  We enjoyed them all, the illusionist less.  We also enjoyed the comedians this cruise.  We really enjoyed the games and shows put on by the Cruise Directors staff.  They were mostly all Brits and Australians and quite fun. We enjoyed the game shows after the Production shows each night that were held in the Princess Live Lounge.  Unfortunately, as many others say, the chairs and room are horrible !  The chairs are so small and uncomfortable and too close together.  The Explorer's lounge on Ruby and other ships is so much nicer !  I wish they'd change the chairs at least. They also have the Vista Lounge which is bigger and more like Explorers.  They used it during the day for Bingo and meetings occasionally, and for Comedians at night.  I don't know why they can't use it for the game shows as that would be better.

Internet:  Slow

Food:  As always, food is subjective.  We usually eat dinner in the MDR on each cruise.  We again did this.  I had booked us the same time and restaurant for the entire cruise on the App.  When I did this in Apr 2023,  I was able to speak with the Maitre' d after dinner the first night and get the same corner table and wait staff we had that night.   This time we arrived the first night and found we had been assigned a table for the entire cruise.  Unfortunately, it was not a table we liked - in the center of the room, surrounded by many people.  I asked to switch to a corner table as far from people as possible.  They took us to another table, in an equally crowded area.  They didn't seem to understand what corner meant !  We sat there anyway.  After dinner I asked the Dining mgr to change our table to a less crowded area with a corner table.  He assured me he would for the next night and rest of the cruise.  Unfortunately he did nothing and we arrived the next night and were given the same bad table from the night before.  We eventually ended up with the 2nd table we got the first night.  We weren't happy about it and did not enjoy our dinners for the rest of the cruise.  We did have the same wait staff the entire time and they were very nice and did a great job.  Food in the MDR was OK.  As others say, you can always find something on there to eat.  Just some nights there was only one thing I liked.  The beef on this ship was not very good.  I'd say low quality.  The tenderloin on the first day lunch was very good, the only day it was good.  I don't think we had tenderloin again.  On our Ruby cruise last year, they had tenderloin almost every other day.  We were surprised.  This time there was strip loin one day, prime rib one day, and beef Wellington.  None of them were particularly good.  And it is pointless to ask for your beef to be cooked a particular way.  I don't know why they bother asking - you get what you get !   We didn't go to any specialty restaurants on this cruise, so I can't comment on them.  The layout of the buffet was nicer on this ship with many choices.  We don't usually eat at the buffet but had lunch there a couple of times.  It was OK. Service was quite slow in the buffet area.  If we asked for something, sometimes it never came or we had to ask a second server.   One thing I found interesting was they have things behind the counter they don't put out, but if you ask them they will give you some.  For instance, one day they had Mexican food out, but no guacamole.  I asked if they had any.  The guy said yes, pulled out a big bowl of it from under the counter, gave me some then put it under the counter.  I'm not sure what that was about. Same with cookies another day.   Food at the pool, pizza and grill, was good, but sometimes quite a wait to get it.

Things we particularly didn't like:

 - No real promenade deck.  Deck 7, promenade deck had just a little bit of walking space.  It was not wide like on other Princess ships.  The walking space didn't even run the entire length of the ship.  The lifeboats hang down in the way, so in some places the walking width is barely wide enough for one person.  You of course can't go all the way around on it.  We particularly didn't like that they don't have chairs along the sides to sit and look out after walking for a while.  On deck 7 they did have a few spots where they just had straight chairs lined up by the rail, but it wasn't like a normal Promenade deck.  They had a walking/running track on Deck 17, but it wasn't very good for just a leisurely walk or sit.  And it was not covered.

 - Piazza.  While bigger than the one on Ruby is was not laid out like Ruby's.  And it was always so LOUD and crowded !  They had many games, classes, and activities going on there all day long that on other ships are in different locations.  You couldn't sit and just talk and enjoy a drink, it was so loud.  Also, even the background music was loud with singing, as opposed to MUSAK type music.  We found it difficult to find anywhere on the ship to just have some quiet to sit and read.  We really missed Skywalkers on the Ruby.  We liked going up there on sea days and reading and having lunch or a snack.  There was really no where on this ship to do that.  Really missed that ! 

- Service.  Everything was Ok, but we didn't feel it was as good as on other Princess ships.  We found ourselves having to ask multiple times for things.  For example I tipped our room steward on the first day and asked him to keep our ice bucket full and give us 2 Patters each day.  He did it the first day, but didn't do either the next 2 days.  I said to him I meant every day, not the day I tipped you !   As I said we had to ask multiple times in the buffet for things.  Another thing that we noticed were the stewards in the hall.  On all our other cruises, they would always say hello or how's your day going, etc.  On the Regal I felt like some of them looked the other way not to have to speak to you.  They are usually so friendly !  Not a big deal, but an observation.  

Disembarkation.  They had said they'd clear the ship at 8:00.  We went to breakfast in the MDR at 7:00 thinking we'd be done and ready to get off at 8:00.  At around 7:15 they announced people carrying their own bags could now get off.  We were off the ship and on the way by 8:05.  Easy ! 

That's all I can think of right now that might help others.  Overall, we enjoyed our cruise.  If you have any questions, I"ll be glad to answer ! 

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Thanks for sharing. We leave in a week and sail Feb.18 th on the Regal.

What did you do in the ports?

Paula_MacFan

4 hours ago, SAKay said:  I read on here right before the cruise a lady said that at Galveston they actually opened her soda cases and took out her sodas to inspect.    We enjoyed the game shows after the Production shows each night that were held in the Princess Live Lounge.  Unfortunately, as many others say, the chairs and room are horrible !  The chairs are so small and uncomfortable and too close together.  The Explorer's lounge on Ruby and other ships is so much nicer !  I wish they'd change the chairs at least. They also have the Vista Lounge which is bigger and more like Explorers.  They used it during the day for Bingo and meetings occasionally, and for Comedians at night.  I don't know why they can't use it for the game shows as that would be better!    - Piazza.  And it was always so LOUD and crowded !  We really missed Skywalkers on the Ruby.     

I think I may the 'lady' that said they actually opened my soda in Galveston 🙂   We were on the Regal 2 weeks ago and I reported that upon boarding.

We completely agree with you about the Princess Live venue being horrible and that Explorers is sorely missed.  The Vista Lounge isn't used to its full potential on the Regal which is a shame.  Also agree with the volume in the Piazza during the day for games and activities, and missing Skywalkers like the Grand class ships.

Overall it sounds like you had a good cruise and thanks for taking the time to write up your review!

I will respond to this post since we are going on the Regal again on Feb 18th - obviously I love this ship. We were on the sailing from FLL to Galveston - Oct to Nov, 2023, then again Dec 10 to 17th and again Dec 27th  to Jan 7th so many , many trips on this ship. We are counting the days to return on the 18th of Feb.

On every one of them, I have found the room stewards always to be super friendly even when one is just walking by, exp the ones on Caribe deck. We were on Emerald deck last time but often went back to say hello to the steward on Caribe.... We never tip the steward on the first day - it is totally unnecessary...they always do a great job  - we tip on the last day!!

The piazza is a great fun place to be - we enjoy the diversity and the music....It is quiet in the area off the Crown Grill near the library - often people will be found there sitting and reading. It is quiet up at the Retreat pool for adults only.....The Vista Lounge is open when there are non events and it is quiet there.

We are not foodies so we are more than happy to eat at the buffet or the International Cafe. On sea days, the grill is open inside the buffet and the food is wonderful.... it is gyro type meat with wonderful grilled veggies..On the Friday before the cruise ends, they have a phenomenal dessert

buffet on at the Lido buffet...they also had longostino lobsters and other seafood...it was great.

Regarding the Internet - it was great. The new Starlink provides excellent internet access.

So her is my differing opinion from the original poster.  We are not crazy about these western caribbean ports -we just like to cruise- obviously after 53 on Princess. I do recommend the Tabayana beach excursion - the snorkle site is great and a nice buffet lunch on the beach...Massages are inexpensive and it is a short 30 min ride from port. The beach at Mahogany Bay is wonderful...a trip to French Key is nice.

We have been to Belize so manyh times taht we just stay on the ship but if you like to snorkle, the reef there is very nice. We have a special place we go to in Cozumel - not willing to share it.

See you on the next one!!!

I will also add it is well documented that plastic water bottle cases are not allowed. You are only allowed to bring on canned sodas and they will check. You may order your water by the case prior to boarding on your personalizer - it is $7.08 for a case of 12 bottles and much easier than trying to lug a case on board.

like2cruise

Did the Regal have canned diet coke as part of the Princess Plus?  I know the Discovery & the Royal did for us last year, but wanted to double check.  I am a canned diet coke addict and will bring my own if not.  It is my one and only bad habit...wink-wink!  

22 minutes ago, like2cruise said: Did the Regal have canned diet coke as part of the Princess Plus?  I know the Discovery & the Royal did for us last year, but wanted to double check.  I am a canned diet coke addict and will bring my own if not.  It is my one and only bad habit...wink-wink!  

Yes, we got it as part of the Plus package 2 weeks ago.  

Wow @eclue   You certainly have a different opinion !  And expressed so politely !!  I guess to each their own. I merely expressed my opinion.   

As I  stated, I said I know it is written that you aren’t supposed to take bottled drinks on Princess ships. But I also said I’ve done it before at Galveston & read on here other people have also. It was a 6 pack. I wasn’t “lugging” anything  around. I merely was passing on info to others of what happened to me.   

Maybe in the future it would be more beneficial to everyone if you wrote your own review vs coming on here to contradict everything I had to say. I merely expressed what we experienced.   

Thanks @Paula_MacFan   We did have fun. I didn’t mean to contradict you about the cases of soda ; just reporting it didn’t happen to us. I was worried it would after reading your review. I wouldn’t have liked that.   

Hi @dog  We didn’t do much in the ports as we’d been to all of them before. In Costa Maya we just got off the ship and walked around the port. At the port talk onboard they had said the chairs at the pool in the port were free. But they weren’t. So we just walked around and shopped a little. In Roatan we purchased the ship “tour” for the chairlift to the beach. It was $12 each, cheaper than buying a ticket at the port.  It was nice, better  for us than walking. They were nice and stopped it for a minute for you to have time to get off & on. At the beach we rented 2 chairs with an umbrella for $30, the going rate. The beach was nice, but the water was too cold for us. In Cozumel my friend wanted to go on an excursion to see the ruins as she’d never seen them before. I can’t find the name of the tour right now but it was through the ship. $59. We picked it because it had the shortest ride to the ruins. The guide was nice but I wouldn’t do it again. We drove around town a little bit, then about 20 min to the ruins I think. The  entry fee to the ruins was only $5 and we saw people arriving in taxis, if you are adventurous, I think you could do it on your own. We had a stop at a beach lookout with opportunity to buy a drink and a stop at a supposed chocolate factory. Not much to see there except opportunity to buy $9 candy bar. Very expensive. Like I said, I wouldn’t recommend this excursion. We didn’t go to Belize as I said,  so not sure why it was mentioned above. 

32 minutes ago, SAKay said: Thanks @Paula_MacFan   We did have fun. I didn’t mean to contradict you about the cases of soda ; just reporting it didn’t happen to us. I was worried it would after reading your review. I wouldn’t have liked that.   

No worries!  I didn't take your comments as contradictory at all 🙂   I just wanted to share that info with others as it had never happened to us before either and we've sailed from Galveston many times since 2004. 

34 minutes ago, SAKay said: Wow @eclue   You certainly have a different opinion !  And expressed so politely !!  I guess to each their own. I merely expressed my opinion.    As I  stated, I said I know it is written that you aren’t supposed to take bottled drinks on Princess ships. But I also said I’ve done it before at Galveston & read on here other people have also. It was a 6 pack. I wasn’t “lugging” anything  around. I merely was passing on info to others of what happened to me.    Maybe in the future it would be more beneficial to everyone if you wrote your own review vs coming on here to contradict everything I had to say. I merely expressed what we experienced.    Thanks @Paula_MacFan   We did have fun. I didn’t mean to contradict you about the cases of soda ; just reporting it didn’t happen to us. I was worried it would after reading your review. I wouldn’t have liked that.    Hi @dog  We didn’t do much in the ports as we’d been to all of them before. In Costa Maya we just got off the ship and walked around the port. At the port talk onboard they had said the chairs at the pool in the port were free. But they weren’t. So we just walked around and shopped a little. In Roatan we purchased the ship “tour” for the chairlift to the beach. It was $12 each, cheaper than buying a ticket at the port.  It was nice, better  for us than walking. They were nice and stopped it for a minute for you to have time to get off & on. At the beach we rented 2 chairs with an umbrella for $30, the going rate. The beach was nice, but the water was too cold for us. In Cozumel my friend wanted to go on an excursion to see the ruins as she’d never seen them before. I can’t find the name of the tour right now but it was through the ship. $59. We picked it because it had the shortest ride to the ruins. The guide was nice but I wouldn’t do it again. We drove around town a little bit, then about 20 min to the ruins I think. The  entry fee to the ruins was only $5 and we saw people arriving in taxis, if you are adventurous, I think you could do it on your own. We had a stop at a beach lookout with opportunity to buy a drink and a stop at a supposed chocolate factory. Not much to see there except opportunity to buy $9 candy bar. Very expensive. Like I said, I wouldn’t recommend this excursion. We didn’t go to Belize as I said,  so not sure why it was mentioned above.   

Thanks to all who are kind enough to share.

fedexretiree

15 hours ago, eclue said: I will respond to this post since we are going on the Regal again on Feb 18th - obviously I love this ship. We were on the sailing from FLL to Galveston - Oct to Nov, 2023, then again Dec 10 to 17th and again Dec 27th  to Jan 7th so many , many trips on this ship. We are counting the days to return on the 18th of Feb. On every one of them, I have found the room stewards always to be super friendly even when one is just walking by, exp the ones on Caribe deck. We were on Emerald deck last time but often went back to say hello to the steward on Caribe.... We never tip the steward on the first day - it is totally unnecessary...they always do a great job  - we tip on the last day!!   The piazza is a great fun place to be - we enjoy the diversity and the music....It is quiet in the area off the Crown Grill near the library - often people will be found there sitting and reading. It is quiet up at the Retreat pool for adults only.....The Vista Lounge is open when there are non events and it is quiet there.   We are not foodies so we are more than happy to eat at the buffet or the International Cafe. On sea days, the grill is open inside the buffet and the food is wonderful.... it is gyro type meat with wonderful grilled veggies..On the Friday before the cruise ends, they have a phenomenal dessert buffet on at the Lido buffet...they also had longostino lobsters and other seafood...it was great.   Regarding the Internet - it was great. The new Starlink provides excellent internet access.   So her is my differing opinion from the original poster.  We are not crazy about these western caribbean ports -we just like to cruise- obviously after 53 on Princess. I do recommend the Tabayana beach excursion - the snorkle site is great and a nice buffet lunch on the beach...Massages are inexpensive and it is a short 30 min ride from port. The beach at Mahogany Bay is wonderful...a trip to French Key is nice. We have been to Belize so manyh times taht we just stay on the ship but if you like to snorkle, the reef there is very nice. We have a special place we go to in Cozumel - not willing to share it. See you on the next one!!!

How did you get to French Key and are the beaches nice there?

5 minutes ago, fedexretiree said: How did you get to French Key and are the beaches nice there?

Go to Littlefrenchkey.com....they offer several packages with transport from the port and back. It is beautiful.

Thanks so much.   How long does it take to get there?  Do shuttles to the island run all day or just at certain times?

Just got off the Regal yesterday.  I will add one thing.  Get to the shows at least 20 minutes early, whether it is in the Princess Theater, Princess Live or Vista Lounge.  Everything fills up early and there are nowhere near enough seats on the ship in these venues.

@bergie33  I totally agree ! 

TexasCruisers2015

My husband and I enjoyed our 11 day cruise on the Regal Princess in late December.  We had such a good time we are going again on Mar.3 for a week.

While we had a good time on the ship, we were sadly disappointed to find out a few weeks prior to embarkation that instead of docking at Mahogany Bay, we would be at Coxen Hole.  And if you know the difference between these two ports, you will know exactly why it was disappointing! The reason given to us by Princess was “Port congestion.”  Now, I’d like to know how a port can be congested when the schedules are made way in advance.

So, just today, we received this SAME notification for our Mar.3 cruise. I am livid, and am wondering what the true story is.  When I looked online to see ships scheduled for Mahogany Bay on the day we arrive, only 2 are listed: the Regal Princess and Carnival Spirit.  Of course, that is now obsolete, since it changed.

When it happened in December, I just accepted it, but now a second time!?  Something is fishy!    

Just curious if this has happened to anyone else since the Regal started out of Galveston in the fall?

2 hours ago, TexasCruisers2015 said: My husband and I enjoyed our 11 day cruise on the Regal Princess in late December.  We had such a good time we are going again on Mar.3 for a week.   While we had a good time on the ship, we were sadly disappointed to find out a few weeks prior to embarkation that instead of docking at Mahogany Bay, we would be at Coxen Hole.  And if you know the difference between these two ports, you will know exactly why it was disappointing! The reason given to us by Princess was “Port congestion.”  Now, I’d like to know how a port can be congested when the schedules are made way in advance.   So, just today, we received this SAME notification for our Mar.3 cruise. I am livid, and am wondering what the true story is.  When I looked online to see ships scheduled for Mahogany Bay on the day we arrive, only 2 are listed: the Regal Princess and Carnival Spirit.  Of course, that is now obsolete, since it changed.   When it happened in December, I just accepted it, but now a second time!?  Something is fishy!     Just curious if this has happened to anyone else since the Regal started out of Galveston in the fall?    

We were on the Regal the week of Jan 21 - 28 and the same thing happened to us.  From reports it's happened quite a few times.  Our port was replaced with Belize which IMO was even worse that Coxen Hole.  Belize is a tender port with no easy beach access contrary to Mahogany Bay. To make it worse we missed Costa Maya too due to high winds.  So we only got 2 ports, and only 1 was on the original itinerary (Cozumel).

There have been a few threads with upset people about this 'port congestion' excuse, wondering the same as you -- how does this happen when the schedules are published months in advance.  

Thank you for your review of the Regal, as the 8 of us will be doing it for the first time, in less than 2 weeks. I know this was YOUR review, with some negativity, as you were comparing it to other Princess ships, which is fine too. As for myself, I always like to READ everyone's opinions when it is in regard to a ship that I have never done, good or bad, and then I go with my "thinking" (I have been blessed to do over 20 cruises on different cruise lines) that this IS going to be a great cruise, and if something happens, we just deal with it. 🙂

On 2/8/2024 at 7:27 PM, eclue said: I will also add it is well documented that plastic water bottle cases are not allowed. You are only allowed to bring on canned sodas and they will check. You may order your water by the case prior to boarding on your personalizer - it is $7.08 for a case of 12 bottles and much easier than trying to lug a case on board.

Not true in Ft Lauderdale.

Every time we board we have numerous plastic bottles in our suitcases & breeze right through security. 

On 2/8/2024 at 2:45 PM, SAKay said:  Unfortunately, it was not a table we liked - in the center of the room, surrounded by many people.  I asked to switch to a corner table as far from people as possible.

Many of the tables you wanted could have been reserved on the first day by others, thereby limiting the head waiter from reassigning one to you.

Thank you @MissP22  for your comment about plastic bottles. I know I’ve seen others comment that they too have no problem bringing plastic bottles on. That’s why I wrote my comment on what happened to us at Galveston.   

I agree about the tables being reserved in the dining room. But I was asking at 5:00 on the first night, hoping there would be a corner table available that they could change us to. On our next cruise in 6 weeks on the Regal I’m going to try and check at lunch on the first day to see what table we’ve been assigned. If it’s not to our liking, maybe they can change it at that time. Worth a try !  The assistant head waiter helping us on the last cruise took our info for the next cruise and said he’d arrange us a corner table for the next one, but I’m not holding my breath ! He was very nice and tried to help.   

@TexasCruisers2015   I guess we were lucky that we did get to stop at Roatan, as scheduled. I’m sorry you’ll miss it again. I agree it’s hard to see what’s going on. 

4 hours ago, MissP22 said: Not true in Ft Lauderdale. Every time we board we have numerous plastic bottles in our suitcases & breeze right through security. 

I was referring to a case of plastic water bottles. Whatever...security seems to be a toss up in different ports....

1 hour ago, eclue said: I was referring to a case of plastic water bottles. Whatever...security seems to be a toss up in different ports....

A case of water is a little much to carry for us. At that point I'd consider buying it on the ship. 

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First look: Sun Princess, the giant new ship from Princess Cruises

Editor's Note

Call it a new era for Princess Cruises .

The California-based line's new ship, Sun Princess, is its biggest ever by far . But it's not just size that sets it apart.

As I am seeing this week during one of the first sailings of the still-not-quite-finished, 4,300-passenger vessel, its design marks a turn for the line as it tries to appeal to a younger audience and more "new to cruise" customers who might not have considered the brand before.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Sun Princess is more lively, more kid-friendly and more chock-full of dining, drinking and entertainment options than any other Princess ship that has come before.

It's also the first Princess ship with a separate suite complex aimed at the growing number of big-ship-loving vacationers willing to pay big bucks to be extra pampered while at sea.

Will it be a hit? Only time will tell. Princess regulars know what they like, and what they like isn't necessarily giant, activity-packed vessels. But that might not matter if Sun Princess succeeds in drawing in a new wave of Princess fans.

Here are my first impressions of the ship after three days on board.

It's more kid-friendly

Princess has never been known as a family brand. Until recently, the average age of a Princess cruiser was nearly 60, and its ships catered heavily to older couples and retirees. But with Sun Princess, the line is making a big move to make families with younger kids feel more welcome, even if they're still not the target market.

Notably, a large chunk of the top deck of Sun Princess is covered with a family-friendly play zone called Park19 — the sort of thing that, until now, Princess just hasn't done. Park19's marquee attraction is Sea Breeze, a hang-gliding-like ride experience that is billed as a first on a cruise ship.

The area also has a ropes course with swinging bridges and balance beams and a climbing wall-like experience that will take visitors to a lookout at the very top of the ship, with slides that will take them back down. There's a splash zone with water jets, too.

Alas, none of these attractions were open this week, as they weren't quite ready — despite the ship being on its second sailing with paying passengers. I thus didn't have a chance to try them. But from what I saw, it will be a major upgrade to the family-fun experience on a Princess ship.

In addition, younger travelers will find major new tween and teen hangout zones (called Neon Grove and The Underground, respectively) within the ship, plus a large playroom for the littlest Princess cruisers called Firefly Park.

Neon Grove and The Underground have all the sorts of games your tweens and teens will love, from PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch consoles to foosball and air hockey tables, and they're home to movie and disco nights, scavenger hunts and the like. Firefly Park is set up for arts and crafts, themed parties and group games aimed at the little ones.

Another major family-friendly upgrade for Sun Princess is the addition of far more connecting cabins (100) than is typical for a Princess ship, as well as a new category of larger Cabana Mini-Suite cabins that will appeal to families looking for more space.

In adding all the above, Princess is doubling down on a market that is already in its wheelhouse: multigenerational groups that often include the grandparents, their middle-aged children and their younger grandchildren. It's giving that demographic just enough family fun to make sure the younger set in those groups feels at home.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises

That said, Princess isn't trying to be a family line like Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line . You won't find the truly over-the-top family attractions such as giant water parks, go-kart tracks and water coasters that those lines offer sprawled across Sun Princess' top decks. And for the typical Princess cruisers, that's probably just fine.

It's got a lot more options for foodies

Are you the sort of cruiser who never likes to eat in the same place twice? Sun Princess is the Princess ship for you. The vessel has a far more diverse array of eateries than any Princess ship to date — a conscious effort by the line to offer its customers more options.

In addition to the two specialty restaurants found on almost every Princess ship (the Crown Grill steakhouse and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria), Sun Princess is home to the Butcher's Block by Dario, a new meat-focused grill designed in partnership with celebrity Italian butcher Dario Cecchini (if you've seen Netflix's "Chef's Table," you know who he is).

It also has three new Asian dining options: Makoto Ocean, a sushi eatery designed by James Beard Foundation honoree Makoto Okuwa; teppanyaki-serving Umai Teppanyaki; and hot pot venue Umai Hot Pot (the latter two outlets share the same space).

In addition, Sun Princess is just the fifth Princess ship to get a version of the new Princess seafood eatery, The Catch by Rudi, designed by Princess head of culinary arts Rudi Sodamin. (Holland America fans know Sodamin as that line's longtime master chef.)

Yet another new venue, Love by Britto, is coming to the ship soon. Billed as an "artistic-inspired dining experience" designed in partnership with the artist Romero Britto, it'll overlook the wake of the ship in a space that isn't quite ready.

During my sailing, I've only had a chance to try Makoto Ocean and Umai Teppanaki. Makoto Ocean serves up the Edomae-style sushi that Okuwa showcases in his restaurants in Miami, Brazil, Mexico City and Panama. (You might also know Okuwa from his stint on The Food Network's "Iron Chef.")

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess cruise

Overlooking the ship's central Piazza, Makoto Ocean wows with a tasting menu of well-presented and quality sushi and handrolls (at a fixed price of $45 per person).

Alas, it's a venue marred by its location, as the noise from entertainment in the Piazza is overwhelming. While I dined, there was the cacophony of a live game show with cheering crowds taking place just steps away, followed soon after by a high-volume tribute to Motown. If you're sensitive to sound, bring your noise-canceling headphones.

Umai Teppanyaki (also $45 per person, fixed price) is a classic Teppanyaki eatery, complete with chefs yukking it up while they cook in front of you in a way your kids will love.

Among other dining changes, Princess has shaken up its no-extra-charge main dining room format with the debut of Sun Princess to offer more diversity. The top level of the three-level venue is now known as Americana and offers a speedier meal service with an all-day menu of comfort food items such as fish and chips, chicken wings, fried chicken and breakfast burritos. (Yes, you can order the breakfast burrito and other breakfast items for dinner.)

Related: This major cruise line is now serving breakfast for dinner

It's a great option if you want a quick bite without braving the madness that is The Eatery, the ship's too small and crowd-packed buffet.

The middle level of the main dining room (called Horizons) offers come-when-you-want anytime dining with the normal drawn-out service. The lower level (also called Horizons) offers the more traditional fixed-seating dinner format that once was de rigeur at Princess.

I was impressed with the presentation and quality of the Horizon menu items. It was a step up from what you'll find in the included restaurants on some other big, mass-market ships.

Taken together, the additions and changes to dining on Sun Princess as compared to earlier Princess ships amount to a major new direction in dining for the line. Unlike such rival big-ship lines as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, Princess has never been known for offering a lot of dining choices on its ships.

It's bustling at night

Sun Princess has the liveliest night scene of any Princess ship in the fleet. And that's a saying a lot, as Princess ships are traditionally lively at night. Princess has long been known for having lots of entertainment running at once in multiple venues.

On Sun Princess, a trip down the vessel's main entertainment drag on Deck 7 in the evening takes you past one bustling nightspot after another, from an Irish pub with live music to a comedy club that doubles as a karaoke lounge.

Among the biggest changes as compared to earlier Princess ships is that the main theater (at the front end of Deck 7) has gotten a major upgrade to allow for more high-tech shows. Dubbed the Princess Arena, it's an innovative, 990-seat space that can be configured three different ways: As an "in-the-round" theater, a 270-degree "keyhole" theater and a traditional proscenium theater.

Princess is calling the arena the most technologically advanced entertainment venue at sea ever, though we're sure Virgin Voyages and Royal Caribbean (two lines known for some very high-tech shipboard theaters) would quibble with that.

Related: The 3 classes of Princess ships, explained

The Princess Arena will eventually be home to four mostly new production shows, none of which are ready. For now, the line is using the space for performances by feature entertainers such as magicians and vocalists.

Among other big changes, the ship's central hub, The Piazza, has been transformed into much more of a showroom (more on that in a moment), and there's yet another major new entertainment space at the top of the ship in The Dome — an unusual glass-covered venue. Princess is promising aerial shows in The Dome, but those, too, aren't quite ready to go (if you've noticed, this a theme with this ship; lots of its most notable new venues aren't ready).

The Dome itself felt smaller than it looked in the drawings the line released in advance of the ship's debut. There was also a limited amount of space for seating during nighttime shows or lounging during the day (when it serves as a solarium-like lounge and pool space). For shows, it's billed as having a capacity of just 250, about a fourth the amount of the Princess Arena.

The Dome on Sun Princess isn't anything close in size (or impressiveness) to the massive new glass-covered dome atop Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas — the new world's biggest cruise ship.

One other new entertainment venue, a magic-infused nightspot called Spellbound by Magic Castle , debuts Wednesday. Stay tuned for a full report here at TPG later this week.

Its pepped-up Piazza might turn off regulars

If Princess ships have a signature element, it is The Piazza, a central atrium-like space found on most Princess ships that serves as a sort of town square. You'll typically find an espresso drink-serving, conducive-to-conversation cafe at the base of each of these spaces and other venues for conversation, such as wine and Champagne bars, plus a few shops. Some of the piazzas are surrounded by pizzerias and seafood bars, too.

For many longtime Princess fans, The Piazza has always been a lovely place to relax with a coffee, as you would at a square in Italy, and talk with friends or take in the occasional low-key entertainment that Princess has traditionally put on — violinists, guitarists, jugglers and the like. It is, as Princess says on its website, a "diversified and relaxing experience" — to me, relaxing always being the operative word.

It is relaxing no more. On Sun Princess, The Piazza has been turned into much more of a full-blown entertainment space, one that is home to an almost nonstop rotation of musical performances, game shows and group activities like line dancing, that is broadcast across speakers at sometimes ear-splitting decibels.

Rising three decks, the circular space features stadium-like seating around its second and third levels that gives it the feel of a theater in the round. It has a large LED screen at one end and a stage that can rise from the floor.

It's also rigged for aerial performances, which were not running when I was on board as they weren't quite ready. But they'll be coming.

There's also a DJ booth, from which a DJ was blasting music at close to dance club levels on the first day of our voyage.

Related: Don't miss these perks when sailing with Princess

As a longtime Princess cruiser, I find it all a bit much. I miss my quieter atrium, and I suspect other Princess regulars will feel the same. That said, The Piazza as a bigger entertainment space might be just what Princess needs to draw in younger, more entertainment-driven customers, particularly the coveted "new to cruise" crowd that hasn't sailed with the line before.

Judging from the fact that The Piazza has often been packed with onlookers this week during the many performances taking place in it, it might be that Princess has played this move to more piazza pizzazz just right.

Its cabins get the basics right ...

The standard rooms on Sun Princess aren't flashy, but they get the basics right — more than right. In many respects, they are superbly designed. And you can't ask for much more on a mid-priced cruise ship.

While the finishings aren't luxurious, Deluxe Balcony Staterooms (the type of cabin that I was in and the most common cabin category on the ship) have an inviting, modern look with the right amount of furnishings and amenities, all in the right places.

Measuring 200 square feet, not including the balcony space, the Deluxe Balcony Staterooms are just big enough to fit in a queen size bed flanked by two small nightstands and an adjacent sitting area with a sofa and a (very) small coffee table.

There's also a built-in desk area across from the sofa with a chair and a generous amount of built-in closet storage near the entryway. The closet is deep enough to contain my large-size men's shirts and jackets on hangers without crushing them sideways, something that isn't always the case with built-in closets on newer ships.

The desk area is just about as perfectly designed as can be, with a large-for-a-cruise-ship work surface, a large lighted mirror, three useful built-in drawers, and more outlets and USB ports than even the most device-laden traveler could want. (We're talking multiple U.S.-style outlets, a European-style outlet, multiple USB ports and even USB-C ports!)

Related: Everything you need to know about Princess cabins

More power points are above the nightstands next to the bed — a U.S.-style outlet, a USB port and a USB-C port on each side. Plus, the nightstands have little drawers and shelves that augment the room's storage.

The bed itself is cloud-like comfortable, with high-thread-count cotton sheets that had me drifting into a deep slumber in no time. For those of you who want to watch a show before bedtime, a large and crisp TV is positioned perfectly on the wall just beyond your toes.

Among the room's little touches, I loved the hidden nightlights under the nightstands that snap on as you walk to the bathroom in the middle of the night, illuminating your way just enough so you don't crash into the wall. Another nightlight in the bathroom flips on as you approach. Why don't more cruise lines add these?

The bathroom itself is a lesson in everything-in-its-place efficiency. Sleek and modern, it offers a glass-walled shower just big enough to let you get all soapy in comfort without any wasted space and a just-big-enough sink area topped with a large lighted mirror.

If there is one flaw to the rooms (and this one is a head-scratcher), it is that their "do not disturb" buttons are on the outside of the cabins. In other words, when you're ready to go to sleep or otherwise be left alone, you have to open your door and reach around to switch on your "do not disturb" light. To me, that's just weird. Why not have the button on the inside?

Nearly 1,000 of the 2,157 cabins on Sun Princess are Deluxe Balcony Staterooms. Several other cabin categories on the ship, including Premium Oceanview and Interior cabins, have a similar look and features but lack a balcony.

... but its new suite zone is a miss

Princess is nearly 20 years behind some of its big-ship competitors in adding suite zones to ships. But the line is finally acknowledging it might have made a mistake in not jumping on the trend.

Sun Princess is the first vessel in the line's 59-year history to have a large grouping of suites — 50 in all, ranging in size from a relatively modest 304 square feet (for what's known as a Signature Penthouse Suite) to a sprawling 1,260 square feet (for a Signature Sky Suite).

Even more notably, all of these suites, dubbed the Signature Collection, come with exclusive access to a private restaurant, a two-deck-high lounge overlooking the ship's wake and an outside sun deck — a first for Princess.

These exclusive suite-only areas represent Princess' first move toward offering the sort of upscale "ship within a ship" luxury zones that have been a mainstay on many of the big vessels operated by Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises for years and that have more recently been popping up on Royal Caribbean ships and Celebrity Cruises vessels, too.

Unfortunately, Princess didn't cluster all the new suite features in one area, which seems odd given the line's executives said they started from a blank slate when designing this new class of vessels.

The Signature Restaurant, exclusive to suite guests, is in a busy (and noisy) public area off the ship's central Piazza on Deck 7, far from most of the biggest suites. Those accommodations are at the back of the ship on decks 15, 16 and 17.

And while the Signature Lounge is logically nestled among the biggest suites on Deck 16, it's relatively modest in size and not well tied into the suites around it. While you'll need a suite keycard to get into the lounge, the suites themselves are not within a keycard-access-only area and thus can be reached by any passenger on the ship — a turn-off to privacy-seeking suite guests. This is not the way most other cruise lines do these special suite areas.

The Signature Sun Deck, meanwhile, is just above some of the biggest suites. But it's just a breakout section of The Sanctuary, the extra-charge, adults-only lounge area found atop Princess ships. It also seems small given the number of people staying in Signature suites (100, assuming two people for each of the ship's 50 suites).

The suites themselves, while big in many cases, lack the sort of high-end design that you'll often find in top cruise ship suites. Each of the Signature Sky Suites, for instance, has an enormous master bathroom, but the space is poorly used with a bizarrely small shower in one corner, a narrow bathtub laid out sideways along the wall next to it, an almost amusingly tiny toilet jammed into the far corner and a narrow sink area, all on the edges of what is a huge empty space in the middle of the room.

It's as if the ship's architects forgot to specify what was going to go into the bathroom until it was too late, and the shipyard just stuck in whatever it had.

My take: Princess still has a ways to go if it wants to offer a truly world-class suite experience.

Bottom line

Sun Princess is the first of an all-new class of ships at Princess Cruises that are far bigger and more venue-packed than any vessel the line has debuted before. For vacationers who like a lot of choice when they travel, whether it be for dining, drinking or entertainment, it'll no doubt be the best Princess ship yet. For those who prefer an older-style, more intimate Princess experience, it might be a ship to skip.

That said, as I am seeing this week, there's still a lot on Sun Princess that Princess regulars will recognize. It's a ship designed to be evolutionary for the brand, not revolutionary.

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14 - Day Southern Caribbean from Galveston, TX

Cruise itinerary.

Carnival Journeys

Some take vacations… and some take their vacation further. Carnival Journeys is a limited series of special sailings that’s made to amaze, starting with great destinations and less-traveled routes to get you there. Board a Carnival Journeys cruise and you’re on course for enriching experiences aboard, amazing destinations ashore, classic cruising flair and more.

Day 1: Galveston

Day 2 & 3: Fun Day at Sea

Day 4: ocho rios.

Day 5 & 6: Fun Day at Sea

Day 7: barbados, day 8: st. lucia, day 9: st. kitts, day 10: san juan, day 11: amber cove.

Day 12, 13 & 14: Fun Day at Sea

Day 15: galveston.

Get to Know Carnival Dream

It's one thing to be fun, but it's another thing to be first. Carnival Dream was at the forefront of a recent wave of amazingly innovative and fun Carnival ships. As the genesis of the Dream class, Carnival Dream set the direction for the ships that followed in her footsteps — first Carnival Magic and then Carnival Breeze. But back to Carnival Dream: the ship itself is a unique experience with the way-fun RedFrog Rum Bar ® and the very cool BlueIguana Tequila Bar ™ . Get your appetite ready, because you're gonna need it. Carnival Dream features two dual-level dining rooms, a gourmet steakhouse and dedicated sushi spot Bonsai Sushi ™ . It's also got a full menu of our latest and greatest casual spots for a bite: BlueIguana Cantina ™ , Pizzeria del Capitano, Guy's Burger Joint ™ and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse ™ . (That's Guy as in Guy Fieri, by the way — so you know the food's delish.) Carnival Dream also features the borderline-magical Alchemy Bar ® and Ocean Plaza, which combines tasty treats with perhaps even tastier entertainment. Entertainment options are all up and down the ship, and so is soaking-wet fun, from the heart-racing waterslide action at Carnival WaterWorks ™ to the soul-soothing Thalassotherapy pool at the Cloud 9 Spa ™ . Despite its name, Carnival Dream is definitely a reality. Can't believe it? Pinch yourself... and book your dream cruise today.

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