I’ve just returned from an unforgettable 16-day transatlantic repositioning cruise with Princess Cruises - @princesscruises Departing from Florida and docking in Southampton, England, this journey aboard the Regal Princess was my first experience with a transatlantic cruise and my inaugural voyage with Princess Cruises.
If you’re contemplating a cruise with multiple days at sea and wondering if boredom might set in, stay tuned—I promise you won’t be disappointed!
As a solo digital nomad, I decided to take the plunge into cruising after my husband passed away a year ago. I sold everything and hit the road to create new memories. I’m not an expert on cruising, but I’m here to share my insights and tips on Princess Cruises.
Princess Cruises: A Stellar First Impression!
Princess Cruises truly made my first transatlantic cruise an exceptional experience. From the amazing staff to the delectable food, everything was top-notch. A special shout-out to our cruise director, Allie, who seemed to be everywhere, entertaining us and making us feel at home. The Regal Princess is a magnificent ship and the 16 days we spent at sea were filled with endless activities and fun.
Staying Entertained on the Regal Princess:
One of the most common concerns about a transatlantic cruise is how to spend those long days at sea. I’m here to tell you that boredom is not an option on the Regal Princess. Every night, a schedule of the following day’s activities was delivered to my cabin. For those who prefer digital convenience, an app provided access to the schedule, ship layout, dining menus, and communication with other passengers.
Here are some of the highlights of what you can do aboard the Regal Princess:
Shopping Galore: The Regal Princess offers a variety of shops, from jewelry and clothing stores to an art gallery. Even if you’re not a big shopper, it’s fun to browse and see what’s available.
Education: Enrich your mind with lectures and classes. On our cruise, Bill, an aviation expert, made complex topics fascinating. Other speakers covered port history, excursions, and practical travel tips. There were also cooking classes, wine pairings, dance lessons, and health and wellness seminars.
Officer Q&A Sessions: Meet the ship’s officers and learn about their careers. The captain, chief chef, entertainment director, and chief mechanical officer shared their stories and answered questions, providing a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at cruise ship operations.
Culinary Delights: Princess Cruises dining is legendary, and the Regal Princess didn’t disappoint. From gourmet restaurants to casual eateries, there was something for everyone. And with all that delicious food, the onboard gym and fitness classes were a great way to stay active.
Relaxation and Recreation: For those looking to relax, there are plenty of options, from lounging by the pool to visiting the spa. The ship offers a running track, a golf driving range, and various sports courts. You can also join in on trivia, bingo, karaoke, and other group activities.
Evening Entertainment: The Regal Princess excels in evening entertainment, with performances in two theaters, featuring musicians, magicians, comedians, and Broadway-style productions. If you prefer movies, the top deck’s massive screen plays different films nightly.
Socializing and Meeting New People: Cruising is a social experience. Whether dining, attending shows, or participating in activities, you’ll meet fellow passengers and hear about their travel experiences and favorite destinations.
Navigating Rough Seas:
One of the unique aspects of a transatlantic cruise is the possibility of encountering rough seas. Our journey included navigating 20 to 30-foot swells. While the Regal Princess is equipped with stabilizers, rough weather can still make for a bumpy ride. Seeing barf bags appear in elevators and stairwells was a clear sign of the choppy conditions. But even this challenge added to the adventure, making the experience all the more memorable.
Conclusion:
In all my days at sea, I never felt bored. The Regal Princess and Princess Cruises provide a plethora of activities and experiences that made every day enjoyable.
If you’re considering a transatlantic cruise with Princess Cruises, I highly recommend it! Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer like me, the adventures on the Regal Princess will leave you with memories to cherish.
Final Tips on Princess Cruises:
1. Stay Informed: Use the daily schedule or app to keep track of activities. 2. Try New Things: Don’t be afraid to join in on new activities or classes. 3. Meet People: Engage with fellow passengers—you never know who you’ll meet. 4. Stay Active: Balance out the delicious food with some physical activity. 5. Embrace the Adventure: Whether it’s smooth sailing or rough seas, every moment is part of the journey.
