Apr2013_TRAVEL TOPIC

Princess Cruises

11 Nights Sun Princess 07 Nov 12

My Impressions and Criticisms by Martyn Chapman

By the time 07 November arrived I was looking forward to my cruise for some rest and relaxation.  When I announced I was going on the cruise and Sun Princess, I think some people looked at me skeptically and thought:  Was I going on the right boat with a young family as cruising definitely gives the impression that you need to be 65+ to want to go on a cruise ship?

 Well let me dispel that rumor by saying that 30% of the clients on board were 40’s or below.  Whilst this is a small percentage, it is growing all the time.  Think about it.  You have a family with 2 children and you have a limited budget.  Well, with a family cruise, most of your concerns are catered for.  On Sun Princess the Horizon Court buffet restaurant is open from 5.30am to midnight daily, a wide selection of different food available even my 10 yr old child who is a very fussy eater found plenty to his taste.  So there is the first concern taken care of, FOOD and with this comes an unlimited supply of lemon cordial, water, tea and coffee all day, but I hear you say my children like to drink coke.  Aha but this can be solved as well.  You can pre-purchase a soft drinks package for $5.00 per day which gives your children, and you if you like that, unlimited soda all day. 

The other great facility for kids and adults alike with the sweet tooth, is unlimited ice cream from 11am to 9pm.  Great for hot days relaxing in the sun by the pool.  

Next, I hear you say, “If I am to relax, what do my kids do all day?”  Again, sorted.  The kids clubs on board are really good and kept my 10 yr old and teenager entertained throughout the day.  On sea days this service is a bit limited, when you are off the ship enjoying the ports that the ship is visiting.

I said in my title that there are criticisms and these are purely my own opinions.  The cabins are small, and 4 people in 1 cabin “very stuffy”, but having said that, how much time do you spend in the cabin?  Also I found the entertainment very much geared to the 65+ person and not enough was done to meet the needs of the younger generations, but don’t let these deter you from enjoying a very nice ship and if you like food you will be in paradise.     

If you consider going for a cruise on Sun Princess, or Dawn Princess her identical sister ship, then here is a tip:  Aim for a cabin on Deck 8 or Deck 9.  When it comes to a good night’s sleep these decks are insulated from the noise that may emanate from the Pool Deck or the Lower Decks.

The Cruise option is a great idea for the family holiday and now there are so many good ships visiting Australia that the possibilities are endless.  So why not consider this for your next family holiday?

Don’t forget at Maverick Travel you can redeem your American Express membership reward points to pay for your trip.  We are the local team with the most experience and best deals 3289 3700.  Martyn Chapman is our Cruise Maitre d and is located in our Everton Park store, their phone number is 3355 3700.