The Caribbean Princess:  Another Good Reason to Sail to the Caribbean

Of the 17 ships that make up the Princess class, the Caribbean Princess is considered the 'granddaddy' because of its carrying capacity.  It actually belongs to the Grand Class series and is the largest in its line.  The Caribbean Princess is also a first in many ways – it is the first cruise ship in modern times that offered a spectacular outdoor cinema, a trend that became a standard in today's cruise lines.  But that's not the only reason why the Caribbean Princess is considered a favorite among vacationers.

Accommodation

The cabins in the Caribbean Princess are designed to replicate the luxury and comfort of those in the Grand class.  Cabins come with personal refrigerators and a TV with access to several movie and news channels.  Standard balcony cabins are bigger and well equipped.  You can also choose mini-suites, which are more spacious and include a separate living area.  But if you want the most luxurious accommodations, go for the Grand Suite, which has an area over 1,200 square feet and more luxurious facilities and furnishings.

Dining

There are three dining rooms that offer traditional cruise ship amenities – one offers only fixed-time dining while the rest allow open seating, letting you to eat any time you like.  Expect some crowding during peak hours, but don’t worry, because service is efficient and fast.  The menu selections are also well chosen and often incorporate special cuisines that are appropriate for the trip.  Don’t be surprised if you find Caribbean dishes on some special nights.

If you prefer to take your taste buds elsewhere, the Caribbean Princess also offers specialty restaurants.  One is Sterling Steakhouse, a Chicago-style dining experience that serves prime ribs and steaks along with delicious side dishes.  If you prefer Italian, there's Sabatini's Trattoria, one of the Caribbean Princess' biggest hits.  Its popularity is such that it's often booked solid from the second night to the rest of the voyage.  That's probably because Sabatini's offers a 7-course dinner that has everything on the menu (albeit in bite-size), enough to keep you full for one whole day.

There are also numerous other dining choices on board, with food ranging from pizza, burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches, even ice cream.  If you like more privacy, have your dinner served in-cabin, complete with a lobster meal for two, flowers and a bottle of champagne.

Entertainment

Aside from the elegant Princess Theater, the Caribbean Princess also offers a lot in terms of entertainment.  Bars such as the Wheelhouse, Churchill's and Explorers feature lounging comfort and entertainment.  If you want to go dancing, you can also check out Skywalkers.  Another bar you might want to be in when you're on a Caribbean Princess cruise is Club Fusion, which offers the latest in sound and light entertainment.

And what is a Caribbean cruise without a casino?  The Princess' Grand Casino is impressive and you can enjoy nights playing on the tables with new friends.  The Caribbean Princess also offers Internet facilities in case you need to check your email, so you never feel you're missing out while you're away.

Recreation

Those who have experienced the Caribbean Princess rave about its spa services.  You can choose from a menu that allows you to pick only the treatments that you find most appealing.  With each purchase of their spa treatment, you can also enjoy a session in the spa's steam room.  You might also be glad to know that there are separate spa menus catering to men and teens.  Better yet, the prices are surprisingly friendly, even offering lower prices for port-day treatments.

For sports buffs, the Caribbean Princess features several dedicated areas for basketball, mini-golf, ping-pong and more.  For those who prefer swimming, there are three swimming pools to choose from: the loud and lively Neptune's Reef, the more laid-back Calypso Pool and a smaller and calmer pool area.  All pool facilities have whirlpools.

Itineraries

Not too surprising, The Caribbean Princess offers cruises throughout the Caribbean.  As itineraries always vary, you may choose a trip that goes to the islands that interest you.  Just to name a few islands included on some of the trips are St. Maarten, St. Thomas, San Juan, Bermuda, Ocho Rios, and more.

Cruising with Family

The Caribbean Princess is a great cruise for families.  First, the outdoor movie theater has family movies each night at 6pm, so you can all have fun being entertained.  There are also kids clubs for kids of different ages.  They separate the groups into ages thee to five, six to nine, ten to thirteen, and teenagers.  So no matter what age your children are, they will be able to have fun on the ship with others the same age as them.

If you’re looking to have a fun family vacation, The Caribbean Princess will be something you’ll want to come back to again and again.