Sea Princess The Sea Princess originally started life in the Princess fleet but transferred to P&O in 2003 as the Adonia, sister ship to the Oceana. After a successful couple of years as Adonia she has now undergone a complete refurbishment and in April 2005 she returned to the Princess fleet. Kathy was recently invited for a guided tour of the Sea Princess while the ship was docked in Southampton. Read Kathy’s report to find out more or call her on 0121 250 2211 or 01543 412768 to book your Sea Princess cruise.
First Impressions We boarded the ship on plaza deck and were greeted by a bright and airy atrium complete with palm trees, glass lifts, coffee bar and a large reception desk. The ship had a pleasant, informal feel, which is usual for American style cruises.
Swimming Pools We proceeded straight to Riviera deck to view the main swimming pool, which was a good size and had plenty of sunloungers. The Sea Princess has three pools, six whirlpool spas and a children’s splash pool. Also on Riveria deck, above the Riviera bar, is the brand new poolside theatre which is a large movie screen used for “Movies Under The Stars”, this screen is also sometimes used in the day if there is a major sporting event.
Other Amenities Next we viewed the well-equipped gymnasium and large beauty parlour and hairdressers before heading to the children’s centre, still on Riviera deck, which is divided into three age groups with specially devised programs starting at age three up to age 17. Princess accepts infants from six months of age and the Sea Princess does have a crèche on board.
Cabins Unfortunately because the cruise was due to depart that day we were only able to view one cabin, this was a BF grade on Caribe deck (deluxe with balcony), in my opinion the cabin was of a standard size but the balcony was rather small with only space for a small table and two plastic chairs.
Public Rooms On making our way to Promenade deck we went into the Princess Theatre then walked the full length of the deck and viewed the nightclub, library and vista lounge which was very nice in décor. The ship has a wide variety of bars and lounges including a wine and caviar bar and wheelhouse bar with dance floor.
Casino As the Sea Princess offers American style cruising an important feature is the large Grand Casino located on Dolphin deck with a player’s bar and ample seating.
Dining Another feature of Princess Cruises is that they offer an anytime dining option as well as the traditional fixed sitting option. In addition to the two main restaurants the ship has a 24-hour buffet and bistro, the Stirling Steakhouse (extra charge), a pizzeria, patisserie, poolside hamburger grill and ice cream bar. In line with current trends, Princess do also provide a Healthy Choice menu if desired.
Summary Following lunch we sadly had to disembark although I would have liked a little free time to wander round at my leisure. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the visit and would certainly recommend the Sea Princess, especially to those who prefer a more informal cruise experience. I feel Sea Princess would also be a good introduction to first time cruisers.
