ROYAL PRINCESS: PART TWO

ABOARD ROYAL PRINCESS – We are anchored off Princess Cays and the weather gods aren’t smiling on us. The view from our balcony is gray and rainy, and the forecast is more of the same. The wind isn’t helping matters, and our captain has cautioned we may have to abort this port.

After some deliberation, he decides to let the tenders go ashore, but advises everyone to be extra mindful. Having seen firsthand the hazards of boarding a bobbing tender, we know to take heed.

In the meantime, more time to explore and get to know this crown jewel in the Princess fleet.

Sabitini's, a specialty restaurant (Photo: Gerry)

Uppermost on the minds of every cruiser is food. And as you might expect, Royal Princess has plenty of options, including specialty venues like the Italian-inspired Sabatini’s and the Crown Grill, a steak and chophouse. Passengers have the option of choosing a set dining time, early or late, or anytime dining, which is nice. We opted for late dining in the Allegro.

There are two formal nights on this voyage – Tuesday and Friday. Time to dust off the old tux. It’s an option of course, but it’s nice to “put on the dog” and recapture some of the splendor of old school cruising.

Finding a dark corner for an after-dinner nightcap is something of a challenge. There are a number of bars aboard, but many are located in the brightly-lit areas. The Vista Lounge fits the bill, and also features different music theme nights. There’s also the Seaview Bar on deck 16, but the blow-me-down winds have waved us off so far.

Looks like we have a break in the weather, so we decide to take the tender over and see what the island is about. Unfortunately, by the time the tender arrives, the skies have gotten dark and the rains return. We all wait patiently for a departure, but 20 minutes later, we are still holding.

Well, maybe next time to see Princess Cays. Hopefully we’ll get a break as we make way to our next port, St. Thomas. Wish us luck. -- Gerry and Pam