I have to admit, before going on my first cruise I was one of those naysayers who likened cruise ships to a floating RSL.
However, after completing my seven-night journey around the western Mediterranean aboard the luxurious Sun Princess, I can now say, I’m an officially certified cruiser.
Anchors away
First of all, the ship itself – which is the largest, most advanced vessel in the Princess Cruises’ fleet – was like staying in a luxurious five-star hotel.
Every amenity you’d expect a five-star resort to have was there on the Sun Princess: five pools, a fitness centre, spa and salon, 30 restaurant and bar venues, a casino and five entertainment spaces, all literally at your fingertips. But be sure to conserve your energy though, as you’ll need it to visit each of the seven stellar ports you’ll be visiting over eight days!
Med marvels
While the prospect sounds daunting, it was so incredible arriving in a different city (or country) each day, and with all of the various ship-organised excursions on offer, there’s not a pocket of each port that you’ll miss. The hard part is just choosing one.
If you decide on the western Mediterranean trip, I implore you to visit Aix-En-Provence and the gorgeous little Lourmarin village in Marseille, France. You can do this as part of the On Your Own excursion for less than $100 per person. Another must-see isthe picturesque Cinque Terre villages. A personal highlight was Corniglia, a quaint village perched 100 metres high on a rocky cliff – just be prepared to walk the 400 steps to get to it – which can be easily accessed at the Genoa and La Spezia ports in Italy.
I thought by the end of each day exploring the ports I’d be crawling back onto the ship a shell of a human being, but knowing there was so much to do (and eat and drink) on board, my brain simply would not allow it.
Dinner & a show
Every night, I could be found devouring a mouth-watering three-course meal at one of the speciality restaurants. My faves were Love by Britto, an intimate experiential dining experience where the meals look like works of art, and Umai Teppanyaki, as delicious and entertaining as any live theatre experience.
Then I took in one of the many big-budget shows on offer before crawling into bed around midnight – and I loved every minute of it! However, to get the most out of the experience you certainly don’t need to go at my pace.
Cruise control
If a more chilled-out experience is what you’re after, there are so many options on this beautiful vessel. The heavenly Sanctuary Lounge is offered to guests who have purchased suites (if you can afford it, do it!) and offers a private pool, bar and, yes, even a bell you can ring for instant champagne. Or try The Enclave, located within the ship’s very own day spa, the Lotus Spa, which features a wet and dry sauna, a hydro-therapy pool, sensory showers, and a Himalayan salt room. The heated stone loungers were my favourite feature – I actually nodded off on one while waiting for my massage – which, quite honestly, was one of the best I’ve ever had (shout-out to my masseuse Ying).
Also, be sure not to miss Spellbound, a hidden magic-themed speakeasy which costs a little extra ($45 per person) but that gets you two theatrical and delicious cocktails (try the Escape from Houdini’s Chest) and a ticket to a mystifying and quite jaw-dropping magic show performed by a world-renowned magician.
So what are you waiting for? Book in your cruise right now at princess.com and I’ll see you on board!
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