Emerald Princess – Our First Ever Cruise……

The September cruise to the Canaries from Southampton was our first ever cruise and in addition, this was the first time we had ever gone away with friends. Although we thoroughly researched and considered this significant change of holiday style, naturally we just did not know exactly what we were about to experience.

In a nut shell….. It was an absolutely fantastic experience on all counts. Although easy going, we are reasonably particular about our holidays but cannot talk anything other than positive about the trip.

Out of over 3000 passengers we were the slightly younger group of what was in the majority a quite ‘senior’ clientele however this was no issue at all. The ship catered perfectly for all styles. The ships style was sufficiently ‘classy’ without being stuffy and this continued throughout the staterooms, restaurants, bars, boutiques and public areas.

Although there was several bars on board we fell in love with Crooners cocktail and martini bar…. This became the place to meet every evening. What a fantastic bar menu sufficiently covered by the all inclusive drinks package but a special mention to the bar staff Johnny, Emmerson and the team who just make this bar special. (See picture)

We dined each evening in Botetcellis which again was fantastic. Margit, Juan and Carlos made this great. One evening we dined in the Share by Curtis Stone speciality restaurant at additional cost and without doubt it was worth the money. Great food, great atmosphere and great staff Hector, Gerry and Giorgio.

After dinner we generally attended the show which was superb then up into Skywalkers nightclub where the real fun began. Skywalkers is one of two clubs on board but we never went to the other as it was just great up there. Resident DJ…. JT was a top bloke and absolutely great fun.

The shore excursions were great doing everything from the dune buggies, whale watching and the isle of Cies plus some more.

In summary, given this was our first experience of cruising we will definitely do it again. Our only concern is, could the next time live up to this….. It will be a tough act to follow!! Emerald Princess….. Do it..!

John.