Ship Visit - Ocean Princess

I attended a day visit to Ocean Princess* in Dover.

My visit was a few months before the ship moved to Oceania, however it gave me the opportunity to get a taste of the Princess Cruises experience.

Throughout the ship, staterooms and communal areas, there is a very traditional feel. Real wood features prominently, be it furniture or wall panelling. Combined with the upholstery and decoration the ship offers a stately home feel.

I viewed a number of stateroom types.

The suites are well proportioned and spacious. The Owners suites are located in an aft position and have double terrace with hardwood steamers and table and four chairs. A bedroom separate from the lounge gives an added sense of space. The large marbled and tiled bathroom has Jacuzzi bath with shower above, basin and WC.

The mini suite is approximately 1.5 times the size of a regular oceanview stateroom. It features a large sitting area with sofa, occasional table and wood armchairs. The bathroom is of ample size and has shower over the bath, basin and WC. The balcony has a small table and two texteline chairs.

The ocean view and interior staterooms viewed were of similar size to those found on other cruise ships. The same decoration and furnishing is repeated through all room categories.  All offer a sofa, small table and writing desk. A TV, telephone and wardrobes also feature through the staterooms.

The meal served during my visit was of good quality and an example of the dinner served during a Princess cruise. For a starter I had smoked salmon with crayfish tails, Chateaubriand of beef and chocolate and hazelnut soufflé.

On board there are ample places to enjoy a meal, drink or snack. The buffet area was light and airy, in pastel shades and food offered a choice of meat, fish and vegetarian options. Pizzas, along with a daily special, are also served in the buffet. At the time of writing, an all-inclusive beverage package was available at $49 per person, per day.

The reception and main staircase area is furnished in regal fashion with generous gold, brass and red colours.

The cabaret lounge provides entertainment such as Broadway style shows and live bands.  The casino offers a selection coin machines, black jack and roulette. A small card room gives privacy if you want a quiet session of your favourite game. An internet room allows connection on a pay-as-you-go or package basis.

Swimming pool, spa and gym, golf practice net, table football and table tennis are available.

I enjoyed my tour around Ocean Princess and, though no longer part of the Princess fleet, I have knowledge of the standard our guests can expect. I would compare it overall feel of the ship to Holland-America Line. The food was comparable to many other cruise lines including Cunard and Fred. Olsen.

*Ocean Princess now sails for Oceania Cruises as Sirena