NAPLES TO BARCELONA (18TH JUNE 2007)
Review of Princess Cruises Emerald Princess by martinpayne (13 Aug 07)
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Overall Rating
After a bumpy landing at Naples (I think the runway is very short) and collecting my luggage I boarded the transfer shuttle to the ship.... And boy, what a Ship. You actually caught first glimpse of the ship from miles away (she is very big), and it was amazing to see her just get bigger and bigger the closer you got, and then when you are parked in a coach just under the ship I think you get the big picture of really just how large she is.
Anyway, I managed to get off the coach and on to the ship where I had my picture taken and was given my cabin key card (really quick and straight forward), and made my way to my cabin. I had a cabin with an obstructed view, and thankfully it was situated between two lifeboats (as it was in the brochure, so always worth a look), although I knew the lifeboats were there, I could still see out, and got plenty enough natural light when I wanted it (the blackout curtains work wonders in the mornings). The cabin itself was a good size, big enough to be comfortable, small enough to feel homely, with plenty of hanging space, and space to keep your folded belongings and shoes. The cabin had an electronic safe which was easy to use (as long as you remember the number you put in!!). The toilet and shower room was funtional and clean, a little cramped, but then, I'd rather have the extra space in the rest of the cabin than the other way round. The decor was nutural and clean. Our cabin steward (stalker) was Noli, very pleasent man, a lot of fun for a cabin steward (normally you don't really see them), sometimes felt like he was chasing you down the corridors. I had nothing to complain about in the cabin.
OK, so having seen the cabin, it was time to look around the ship..... First port of call... A Drink!!! Having sampled most (probably all!!!!) the bars on the ship I can safely say that they are all fantastic, and actually reasonable value for money (around £2.00 for a Large Beer), best bars were found on the pool decks though, where you can drink and soak up the rays at the same time, you can even watch the ship sail out of port and listen to the talk that they give about the port you have just visited. Beware of the people behind the bars though, most of them are crazy, and will do anything (almost) to put a smile on your face and make sure you are having a good time.
The restaurants on the ship were all of a fabulous standard....4* I think not, they should be equated to 5* restaurants (certainly when comparing with uk restaurants anyway), large variety of food in both the Buffet and standard restaurants, and it is well worth paying the small cover charge to eat in Sabatini's or the Crown Grill (Mmmmm, mouth watering just thinking about it, make sure you book though). Two of the main restaurants are Freedom dining (turn up and eat when you feel like it), with just the one restaurant offering set dining (two sittings).
The Swimming pools are fantastic, and plenty of sunbeds on board to accomodate, plus I am not sure if I have mentioned the bars!!!!!
The shows in the Theatre were of a high standard, and I would certainly recommend taking them in whenever you can. The Casino was large with lots to do for all levels of gambler. and as for the Movies under the stars.... What a fantastic Idea, sit on a chair or sun lounger, watch a Movie, they bring you round Blankets and Popcorn!!
The Spa, Gym and sports facilities were excellent, although I must admit I managed somehow to avoid the use of these.
The shops on board were plentiful, and a paradise for those that love cheap shopping.
Finally I'll finish with Skywalkers Night Club (which is where I became so used to finishing). Fantastic place, keep dancing until the last person leaves the dance floor. A little disapointed that it does not hang over the rear of the ship like on some other princess ships (wonderful view from those), but still a lovely place to be.
So, Overall, a fantastic ship, by far the best I have been on, large enough to give you plenty of space, not so large that you feel lost in any way. Made the sea feel like a Mill pond so very impressed here (didn't really notice you were moving). Staff were all very friendly, and I have to say, I had no complaints what-so-ever, at all, couldn't fault it!! Been there, done it, didn't buy the T-shirt (could have done though, but bought a china miniature of the ship instead!), Would I do it again??????? Without a Doubt!!
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