Discovery Princess offers a host of new features after redesign, Phil Davies finds on his sailing
Overview: Princess Cruises’ sixth and final Royal Class ship has been designed from scratch with the line’s Medallion device in mind – adding innovative technology to create a seamless, more personalised experience. This means the new tech-heavy flagship includes many new features to discover.
Cabins: The ship’s full range of 1,830 cabins are topped off by two enormous Sky Suites, which overlook the main pool and giant outdoor cinema screen. Mini-Suites with balconies are a popular option, sitting in size between Balcony cabins and the main suites. These have more than enough room for two, with ample storage and bathroom space, and a seating area with a desk.
Food and drink: Discovery Princess has 25 bars and restaurants. The best dinner of my five-night cruise was in Ketchikan Dining Room, which is included in the price. The service was top class and my scallop starter and pork belly main course were equivalent to fine dining on rival lines.
Popular Italian restaurant Gigi’s serves scrumptious freshly baked pizzas at its alfresco tables and carries no additional charge other than for drinks. However, speciality French Bistro Sur La Mer, where menu options included ‘Le fish and chips’, left a lot to be desired for the almost $30 cover charge.
The two tiny meal options costing $18 in the Salty Dog Grill also underwhelmed. The Crown Grill was better value, with copious extras alongside its steak and seafood. More could have been made of the sushi bar in the multi-deck atrium.
Facilities: Finding the complimentary Retreat adult-only pool and bar near the front of the ship was an unexpected bonus, while the aft Wakeview infinity pool and bar were a dramatic draw at sundown. There’s also a golf putting course.
The new Take Five jazz venue’s strange layout meant the band having to contend with people walking between them and the audience. Yet a visit to the Princess Theater led me to one of the best shows I’ve seen at sea: the new production Spotlight Bar. Also on top form were Irish duo Aileen & Sticks, who created a heady vibe mixing Laurel Canyon with County Clare at Crooner’s Bar.
USP: Technology is the selling point here: interactive maps are simple to use, and the game-changing new Medallion gadget – the size of a 10p piece – does away with traditional cruise cards. The wearable device enables passengers to access their cabins and order drinks and meals.
While the link to an associated app proved problematic at times, it was otherwise a seamless experience. The fact that bar staff recognise you almost immediately, knowing in advance your favourite tipple, emphasised the effectiveness of the personalised tech.
Book it
Princess Plus fares start at £829 per person, based on two people sharing an inside stateroom for a seven-night Mexican Riviera on Discovery Princess roundtrip cruise from Los Angeles, departing on April 15, 2023.
princess.com
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