24/03/2025
My review of Grand Princess after ship inspection which I recently did at Long Beach port before its departure to 16-day cruise to Hawaii
The Grand Princess, a mid-sized cruise ship from Princess Cruises, has been sailing since 1998 and was last refurbished in 2019. While it offers classic cruise experiences, it does show its age in some areas.
Pros:
✅ Affordable Pricing – Often offers great value, especially for first-time cruisers or budget-conscious travelers.
✅ Friendly & Attentive Crew – Many guests praise the staff for their service.
✅ Relaxed Atmosphere – Not as crowded as newer mega-ships, making for a more laid-back experience.
✅ Decent Food Options – The main dining rooms and specialty restaurants (like Crown Grill) generally receive positive reviews, and my lunch there was also good
✅ Scenic Itineraries – Often sails in Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, and the Pacific Coast, which are beautiful destinations.
Cons:
❌ Aging Ship – Despite renovations, some areas (cabins, bathrooms, and public spaces) feel outdated compared to newer ships.
❌ Limited Activities & Nightlife – Entertainment is not as flashy as on newer ships, and nightlife options can be quieter.
❌ Basic Pool & Spa Facilities – Pools are small, and the spa isn’t as modern as on newer Princess ships. But i actuallyy liked the acailsbility if the infoir pool
❌ Slower Internet – MedallionNet Wi-Fi is available but may not be as fast as on newer ships.
Best for:
• Couples and older travelers looking for a relaxed experience.
• First-time cruisers wanting an affordable introduction to cruising.
• Scenic cruise lovers (Alaska, Hawaii).
Not ideal for:
• Families with kids looking for lots of activities (limited water slides, no go-karts, etc.).
• Those wanting a high-energy party atmosphere (better on Royal Caribbean or Norwegian).
• Travelers who prefer modern, high-tech cruise ships.
