Caribbean Princess Embarkation Day – First Impressions Of A 20-Year-Old Cruise Ship

Embarkation day is always one of the most exciting parts of any cruise, and boarding the Caribbean Princess for our 12-night Caribbean and Central America adventure was no exception.

With Florida sunshine overhead and that buzz around Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, it really felt like the start of something special.

Check-in And Boarding

The embarkation process itself was smooth and well organised. The check-in process was efficient, and before long, we were stepping onboard the Caribbean Princess. We were greeted by some friendly crew and the unmistakable atmosphere that only a cruise ship can deliver.

Our first impressions of the public areas were genuinely positive. Despite the ship’s age, the spaces felt well-maintained and inviting. The atrium, in particular, still has that classic cruise elegance, with polished finishes, comfortable seating, and a lively energy as guests begin exploring. Bars, lounges, and open decks all looked clean and ready for the journey ahead, and there was a sense that the Caribbean Princess, while older, is still very much loved and cared for.

The Cabin

However, once we made our way to the cabin (an oceanview room on Deck 5), the contrast became more noticeable. While everything was clean and functional, the décor definitely felt dated. The colours, furnishings, and overall style reflect the ship’s age, and it lacks the modern feel you might expect from newer ships.

One pleasant surprise was the technology onboard. Princess Cruises had updated these features. The TV and in-cabin tech were actually better than expected, with a more modern interface and useful features that made it easy to access information about the ship, itinerary, and daily activities. It’s a nice reminder that even older ships can still keep up in certain areas.

Exploring The Ship

As we explored more of the ship throughout the afternoon, it became clear that this cruise is going to be about balance. The Caribbean Princess may not be the newest ship at sea, but it offers a classic cruising experience, smart public spaces, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Ultimately, we booked this cruise for the incredible itinerary through the Caribbean and Central America, and embarkation day confirmed that while the ship shows its age in places, it still has plenty to offer. The big question now is whether it will win us over completely by the end of the 12 nights—but for now, the adventure has officially begun.