Returning passenger ??

[panama pete]

I have not sailed with princess for 4 or maybe 5 years ,but considering a January 2015 sailing on sapphire princess in the far east. Would like any thoughts on whether things have gone down hill since then or are things still of the same standard and any views on sapphire . Many thanks

[jsiegel]

Things are different. Some better, some not. Simpler menus but some items are excellent. Other favorites have gone missing (such as Harlequin souffle) Portion sizes in MDR are smaller, but I think that is a very good thing, much less waste.

 

I liked the addition of the International Cafe.

 

Pizza slices on the pool deck are as good as it gets.

 

Free soft serve frozen dessert is OK, miss the daily 3 p.m. house made ice creams in the Horizon Court.

 

Like the addition of lemonade in Horizon Court for lunch.

 

Service seems better and friendlier.

 

Princess still delivers a very good cruise experience.

 

Jackie

[caribill]

Entertainment in the main theater is now about 30 minutes long instead of the previous 50 minutes long.

[Pam in CA]

I have not sailed with princess for 4 or maybe 5 years ,but considering a January 2015 sailing on sapphire princess in the far east. Would like any thoughts on whether things have gone down hill since then or are things still of the same standard and any views on sapphire . Many thanks

There are a lot of changes. Have things gone downhill? That depends on each person's expectations.

 

As said, food portions are smaller but I think that's a good thing. I have tried in the past to have less put on my plate so for me, it's good. You can always ask for more. The menus are more mainstream to appeal to a less sophisticated passenger. You'll find hamburger every night, Mac 'n cheese, meatloaf and other "homestyle" entrees.

 

Dress at dinner is more casual than it used to be, both on Smart Casual and formal nights. The buffet is no longer open 24/7, closing at 11:00pm. The Sapphire has an International Cafe in the Atrium which is open 24/7 with lots of goodies.

 

Entertainment and activities are the same old, same old. CDs haven't gotten smarter or more creative with a few exceptions.

 

Smoking is no longer allowed in cabins or balconies. There are smoke-free nights in the Casino.

 

There are kiosks near the Passenger Services Desk where you can swipe your cruise card and get your folio printed. Soon, you'll be able to check everything on your tablet or smartphone.