A Symphony of Regal Elegance, Gastronomic Delights and Moments Tailored for the Soul.
I recently had the extraordinary privilege of embarking on a journey aboard the Royal Princess, sailing from the vibrant heart of Sydney to the picturesque haven of Hobart. This voyage was not merely a cruise; it was an exquisite symphony of regal elegance, gastronomic delights, and moments meticulously tailored to my soul's deepest desires.
Boarding Process for Royal Princess
Checking in at the port was a breeze. You receive your Medallion at the cruise terminal. Until you have your Medallion, you remain in the ‘Blue Lane’. You will only join ‘Green Lane’ once you have your Medallion. From the moment I stepped onto the Royal Princess, I was captivated by its regal interior, a prelude to the extraordinary experiences that awaited me. My sanctuary for this voyage? A twin room with a balcony, I couldn't resist the allure of savouring the ocean breeze as we traversed the captivating seas.
On board the Ship
The ship, a floating haven for passengers of all ages, embraced me with its warm, family-oriented atmosphere. Laughter echoed through the corridors, enhancing the delightful ambience that made every corner of the cruise a joyous experience. It is very spacious in the areas of lifts, so you were not really waiting for too long for a lift either onboard the ship as there were several midship, allowing free movement within the ship.
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Dining on board
The ship spoiled guests with a plethora of dining options, from freshly baked pastries and expertly crafted coffee to tantalizing pizzas and melt-in-your-mouth sushi. Truly, there was something to satisfy every craving and tantalize every taste bud.
As I embarked on my culinary journey aboard the Royal Princess, my senses were awakened to a feast of delectable delights. Specialty restaurants like Sabatini's and Crown Grill, coupled with the International Café's global offerings, transformed each meal into a crafted masterpiece. Yes, these specialty delights came with a surcharge, but trust me, every bite was worth the indulgence!
Wine Tasting & CanapesThe drinks flowed gracefully, the prices comparable to those on land, and the food selections bespoke to every nuance of my palate. A standout moment was the Wine Selectors Wine Tasting Class, where each sip was paired with delightful canapés, culminating in a guessing competition where someone in our group joyously snagged a free bottle of wine!
Sabatini's proved to be an irresistible temptation, exceeding all expectations with its exquisite courses and aperitifs. Here's a tip from me to you: embark on this culinary adventure with an empty stomach to fully savour the experience.
You can make your evening dinner reservations through the Medallion Class App and can connect with fellow travellers using their booking number if you would like to dine together. If you want to experience Speciality Dining, I recommend pre-booking this.
Beverage and WiFi Packages
If you are looking to elevate your cruise experience, consider adding the Premier Beverage Package and the Internet package. These packages provide access to a variety of beverages and seamless connectivity, allowing you to indulge in your favourite libations and stay connected with loved ones while exploring the high seas with Princess Cruises.
It's essential to review the specific terms and conditions associated with each package and inquire before booking to ensure that they align with your preferences and budget. Princess Plus & Princess Premier offers great value, including a Drinks Package, Wi-Fi and more.
Onboard activities
Evenings aboard the Royal Princess were a kaleidoscope of captivating activities, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy. The Princess Theatre brought Broadway to the sea; its stage alights with captivating performances.
Live music serenaded the night, creating an atmosphere of pure enchantment. And for those seeking a touch of light-hearted fun, the whimsical bingo comedy was sure to leave everyone in stitches. The music quiz, despite my lack of victory, was a joyous affair, especially with the host's amusing singing.
Feeling a touch of luck, I decided to try my hand at Bingo, and to my surprise, fortune favoured me! A sweet $179 AUD and a certificate became my rewards, all while relishing some corny jokes and enjoying the camaraderie of my fellow passengers.
Amidst the vibrant energy and excitement, I discovered moments of tranquillity and rejuvenation at the Lotus Spa. Rejuvenating treatments melted away stress, and on a port day, I indulged in a half-price facial and massage—a perfect unwind at the day's end.
Royal Princess Shore Excursions
Shore excursions became a revelation, as the Royal Princess offered a myriad of choices to suit every adventurer's spirit. From exploring the majestic Mount Wellington to wandering through the serene Royal Botanic Gardens, or venturing to the enchanting Bruny Island, there was something to captivate every curiosity and ignite every passion.
In Hobart, the ship gracefully docked in the heart of the action, treating me to a vibrant array of local markets and stalls upon arrival—a delightful introduction to the rich tapestry of Tasmanian treasures. Whether you seek the thrill of adventure, the serenity of nature, or the allure of local culture, Tasmania has something to offer every explorer.
Smart Technology
Staying connected was a breeze aboard the Royal Princess. High-speed internet, smart stateroom features, and the medallion's almost psychic ability to open doors before I reached them! These amenities transformed the ship into a true home away from home, providing a seamless blend of convenience and connectivity.
Reducing Environmental Impact
Princess Cruises demonstrated a commendable commitment to environmental responsibility, from mindful towel usage to avoiding disposable bathroom amenities. This commitment to sustainability resonated deeply with me, reminding me that responsible tourism is a shared responsibility.
Embarking on the Royal Princess was not merely a mini break; it was a canvas painted with strokes of luxury, adventure, and moments carefully crafted just for me. It was a journey that transcended the ordinary.
I highly recommend the Royal Princess for anyone seeking a plethora of activities, a large range of dining options and also a family-friendly ship, there were many multi-generational travellers on board enjoying family time.
As a cruise expert, I enjoy assisting you with finding the best ship, stateroom options and itineraries for your next cruise! Please get in touch here.
