We took a 10 days cruise to Panama Canal on the Coral Princess, visiting Aruba, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica and Jamaica. This 91,627-ton ship, built to travel the Panama Canal, with 1,970 passengers and 900 crew members. The two lower decks, Fiesta and Promenade, that are dedicated exclusively to lounges, entertainment venues, alternative dining restaurants, boutiques, an art gallery and a wedding chapel. The centerpiece of the ship is a 4 level atrium, with boutiques; Crooners, a retro martini bar; a card room; a library and two banks of Internet computers. On either side of the Promenade and Fiesta Decks are the ship's two entertainment venues: Princess Theater and the Universe Lounge. Tucked between those, are the majority of bars, restaurants and shops, including Explorers Lounge, Wheelhouse Bar and a casino. Jane and Mama enjoyed the penny slots, while Bill relaxed with a cold beer and watched. There was something for everyone, from Vegas-style shows, movies, karaoke, virtual golf and casino gambling. Pick just about any spot in the public areas the lounges, atrium, pool decks and there's live music. Jane and Mama enjoyed the Promenade deck for a walk (2.8 circles = 1 mile). For dining, there's the traditional 5 course meals in the 2 grand dining rooms, Provence and Bordeaux. We found that lunch took almost 2 hours and dinner almost 3 hours. Every meal we had appetizers, soup, salad, main course and then double deserts. The 10 day cruise had 2 formal nights. The other evenings were "smart casual," with jeans, shorts, T-shirts and tank tops not permitted. Horizon Court, the 24 hour buffet, was unbelievable for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Horizon is up on the Lido deck, sharing space with the two large swimming pools surrounded by hot tubs. Near the pools are a hamburger and hot dog grill, a pizzeria, and an ice cream bar. Mama said that now she knows how the rich and famous people live.
