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 Cruising has come a long way since the Titanic went to its watery grave. Once the sole preserve of the blue rinse brigade, joining a cruise ship today has never been so appealing. The different Cruise Lines have all got something different to offer. From high class dining on the Cunard Ships to anytime buffet style dining on Ocean Village.
There really is something to suit every taste and budget. A week around the Caribbean or the Mediterranean. Or a Round the World cruise taking in every possible destination.
The beauty of cruising is the one stop destination. Board at Port Everglades in Florida and wake up in the Bahamas. After enjoying your day on shore board once more and watch Cozumel in Mexico hove into view. Combine this with every excursion imaginable and you begin to see why people catch the cruising bug.
We joined our ship The Star Princess at Port Everglade for an eight night cruise round the Caribbean.
Our cabin was a pleasant surprise - finding there was more than enough room to swing a  cat! A double bed, separate closet and en-suite shower room with A/C was more than expected.
After exploring the ship that was to be our home for the next week we came to the conclusion that it was reminiscent of a Vegas at sea. Everything on board was inclusive except for your drinks. But at duty free prices even these were very reasonable. Two of the restaurants did incur a small additional fee.
 The Steakhouse and Sabatini’s is a 10 course Italian extravaganza that was worth every cent.
There is entertainment on board, musicals, films and a Casino. Also a nightclub 12 decks above the ocean. Trust me there’s enough to keep you entertained day and night.
After leaving port we sailed through the night to our first destination, Princess Cays. This is Princess Cruise Lines’ own private island. Here we made the most of barbecued fare and delicious cocktails on the beach. Onward then to Cozumel in Mexico where we explored a Mayan ruin with a locally escorted tour.
Our next port of call was Grand Cayman. With nothing more strenuous to do than sunning ourselves on a deserted stretch of beach and nursing an ice cold beer. The day ended all too quickly and we watched the sunset from the deck of the ship whilst eating pizza from the onboard wood burning oven. Heavenly.
The following stop was Ocho Rios in Jamaica. The highlight of our day ashore was the climb up Dunns River Falls. I can truly say I’ve never laughed so much at watching my fellow passengers get ducked and soaked as we all clambered to the top. The final call was Port Everglades where we disembarked and made our way to our transport to take us to the airport.
We could only watch jealously as the Star Princess turned around to head out on the second leg of her journey around the Caribbean.
The ship was full of all nationalities, American, Canadian, British and European. Everybody seemed to get along. I met people on that cruise that will remain friends for life. It was a grand voyage aboard a true Princess. Superb staff that spoiled you from the moment you came aboard till the moment you left. These people are the real stars of any cruise as without them and their dedication to us it wouldn’t be plain sailing.
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Carribean Cruise
