I was thrilled with the opportunity to visit Princess Cruise Line’s Crown Princess while she was in port for the day in Norfolk, Virginia. I’m a vacation support specialist at Covington and I was joined by my experienced cruise colleague, Cindi Brewer, as well as seventy other travel advisors from eastern Virginia, for lunch and a tour of this beautiful ship.

In my job, I’m constantly exposed to information about sumptuous cruise lines and their exciting itineraries, although I’ve never personally been on a cruise. Even though I wasn’t going to actually sail during this ship inspection, my excitement started the minute I laid my eyes on the mammoth ship pulling into port.

As we approached, I saw many buses waiting for passengers to disembark for their shore excursions. Because I review cruise documents for accuracy and completeness before Covington clients travel, I’m knowledgeable about the shore excursion process but to see it “in action” was great! The procedure was very smooth and organized and in a short time, the cruisers were on their way to visit local points of interest.

When we boarded, IDs were checked against the guest list and handbags went through an x-ray to ensure shipboard security. By then the ship was quiet with most of the passengers ashore, except for a few staying on board to take advantage of the quiet atmosphere.

We enjoyed a fabulous lunch of Chateaubriand in the beautifully appointed dining room. Guests actually sailing would have a choice from the menu of the day, including vegetarian and heart-healthy options. The waiters were very engaging – one commented on how I didn’t eat all my meat but was very happy I ate all my vegetables! Of course, dessert is offered at every meal (one of the “hardships” of a cruise vacation). Ours was a delicious chocolate hazelnut soufflé served piping hot and the waiter personalized the presentation for each of us.

The Crown Princess is truly a magnificent vessel. All 1,541 suites and staterooms were occupied during our tour, so, unfortunately, we couldn’t peek at a stateroom. With a deck plan in hand, Cindi and I set off on our own exploration. Starting with the Lotus Spa and the adults-only sun deck called The Sanctuary on Deck 17 and ending on Deck 5, my eyes were always wide open in amazement! The gym was well equipped – and positioned so that while exercising, you have a beautiful ocean view. The pools, hot tubs, and lounge chairs were spotless.

We saw all the dining venues, each nicer than the one before. With Princess’ Anytime Dining policy, guests can dine with a group or request a table for two as they wish. Entertainment venues on board include a theatre, casino, art gallery, cigar lounge, library, speakeasy, and clubs – with all these choices, you’ll always be busy. On the other hand, I noticed many little nooks and private areas where you can do nothing at all. I saw one couple sitting on a couch, each reading a book… ahhh, so relaxing!

The staff was friendly, always acknowledging me with wide, welcoming smiles. Lots of cleaning and scrubbing was going on as well. With so much to do, or not, I can’t wait to experience a cruise that actually leaves the port!

To book your own cruise on Crown Princess, contact my cruise specialist colleagues.