Grand Princess Roundtrip San Pedro 16-Night to Hawaii
February 25-March 2, 2025
Embarkation--
Another exciting day as we were boarding the Grand Princess in San Pedro for this 16-Night Hawaii Cruise. Medallions received at home so our check-in was effortless and quick. Soon we were inside the VIP Lounge waiting to board the ship.
Ready to go!
Having priority boarding means we were the first ones to get on the ship! First thing first, checking in at the Muster Station and watched the safety video using our phones. Worked great! Originally, we planned on having lunch at the MDR, but they won't open until late so we went up to the buffet instead. It was quite empty at that time but we were hungry! With all the excitement, I forgot to take pictures of the food!
After lunch, we went down to our cabin on deck 8, the Emerald Deck, and to our surprise, our luggage were already delivered. Unpacking and settling in before we went on to explore the ship. I particularly wanted to checkout the 'Secret Deck' at the bow of the ship, so that was where we started. We found the door and went outside, and sure enough we had some beautiful views of the port greeting us.
The empty parking right outside with the fountain in the background.
From deck 8 going down to deck 7.
We went through the inside of the Sanctuary by accident, I really did not want to deal with all the sales pitch so we quickly found our way out to their pool area. Beautiful!
Then we went up to deck 15 and found a shady spot where we could watch the Sail-Away party below.
Brother Dan and SIL Mary were with us on this trip.
What a beautiful day for sail-away!
The ship was suppose to set sail at 3:00PM, but it did not move until much later. We then went back to our cabins to get ready for dinner. I was able to see the restaurant manager earlier and arranged a table for 5 at 5:00 everyday at Michelangelo Restaurant. A little early for us, but we managed. I personally like the traditional dining with the same table and wait staff throughout the cruise. Making things a lot easier and feel like being well-taken care of.
Our dinner on embarkation day.
Cold soup for me.
Fish for hubby.
Banana Flambe
Our ship did not leave port until after 5:00, then a few minutes later, it went back to the cruise terminal because someone needed medical attention. By the time we left port again, it was around 7:30.
Sea Days--
With 5 sea days straight going from San Pedro to Hawaii, there were many hours that need to be filled so we won't get bored. We were fine just relaxing in our stateroom, and watched some movies or TV programs, which they have many, including all the episodes of the "Love Boat" series. We also attended some activities on board and fill up with all the delicious food that was available at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Destination experts giving lectures on Hawaiian culture. They also sang, danced, and taught Hawaiian arts and crafts everyday at sea.
Dance Class at the Vista Lounge
First Formal Night
and Captain's Welcome Cocktail
Four of the officers were leaving the ship in Honolulu.
The Naturalist lectures were informative and interesting.
More exploration and ship tour.
I was going to play some ping-pong, but never got a chance to after all.
The covered swimming pool.
Pool at the aft of the ship.
Many quiet areas for people who prefer to be farther away from the crowds.
First Sunday, we joined the Interdenominational Church Service led by the Captain.
About 200 in attendance.
Our home for 16 days.
An obstructed oceanview cabin.
Not a bad view afterall!
On the evening of February 28, we went up to deck 15 to see the rare phenomenon of the 7 planets showing up at the same time. We really did not understand much but at least we can say 'we tried'. Of course this picture doesn't tell the whole story.
Movies Under the Stars were much clearer.
For videos of these days, please click here.
"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever."
Isaiah 40:8
