Southern Caribbean Cruising on the Sapphire Princess
The Sapphire Princess first set sail in 2004 as the second Gem-class ship in the Princess fleet. With 700 of its 1,337 rooms offering private balconies, it accommodates 2,670 passengers in style. This 18-deck marvel is brimming with traditional cruise ship amenities, including four pools, an indoor conservatory, a fitness center and spa, three dining rooms, four casual cafes and specialty restaurants, a casino, four bars, a nightclub, and a two-level theater.
This itinerary took us to the tropical, sun-drenched ports of Princess Cays, St. Thomas, Dominica, Martinique, St. Kitts, and Antigua in the West Indies. The West Indies comprises 13 independent island nations and 19 dependencies, forming part of the broader Caribbean region, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
The West Indies
Day 1: Embarkation in Fort Lauderdale
Embarkation was seamless and stress-free. Upon arrival, luggage was whisked away by a porter, and thanks to our pre-ordered Medallion, we breezed through the Green Line. By 11 a.m., we were warmly welcomed onboard, even though passengers from the previous voyage had disembarked just moments before.
This cruise was particularly special—our stateroom was comped, courtesy of the Princess Players Casino Team. We enjoyed a balcony mini-suite with complimentary drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities included. Paying only the taxes and port fees felt like a deal! (Even though we know the casino was using money we played in machines on previous cruises!)
Readers often ask how to qualify for comp casino rooms. There’s no exact formula. It seems your play is evaluated in comparison to other guests’ averages on each cruise. Be sure to log in with your Medallion while playing to accumulate points.
Our mini-suite was spacious and we received sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries as a welcome from the casino team. Our steward’s attentiveness made us feel pampered. A beautiful bouquet of flowers also adorned the room, a thoughtful gift from my husband to celebrate my 15 years cancer-free!
Day 2: Princess Cays, Bahamas
Having visited Princess Cays before, we chose to spend the day exploring the ship’s amenities while most passengers ventured ashore. Our day began with a blissful massage at the Lotus Spa, as we took advantage of discounted rates for spa treatments on port days. Heaven.
Next, we booked lounge chairs in The Sanctuary, a tranquil adults-only retreat at the ship’s bow. This serene haven offers comfortable seating and attentive servers ready to deliver drinks and light bites. With the Medallion’s tracking system, ordering food and beverages from “At Your Service” is effortless—as they can be delivered to guests anywhere on the ship.
The afternoon offered some “intellectual” enrichment with a lecture titled 30,000 Years of Art in 30 Minutes. Though the presenter admitted she couldn’t possibly condense so much history into a half-hour, the fascinating discussion showcasing many of art’s masters prepared me for the next day’s lively art auction.
We wrapped up the day with a comedy show by Doug Funk and a soulful performance of classic hits by singer Trish Kelly in the Princess Theatre.
Day 3: At Sea
The first sea day was brimming with activities. After a port lecture, I visited a few boutiques, then registered for the Park West Art Auction. Though I typically prefer buying art directly from local artists that I meet, I was intrigued by the diverse collection of originals, limited prints, and lithographs. The event included a glossy catalog featuring artist bios and their signature works—a collector’s dream.
Later, the Martini Mixology demonstration turned out to be equal parts education and entertainment, with guests dancing as they helped bartenders “shake it up.” The bartenders have serious martini flair as you see below!
The evening’s Formal Night gave passengers a chance to dress up for professional photos. The festive atmosphere began in the Piazza, where the officers were introduced, followed by watching guests fill the iconic Champagne Waterfall.
We ended the night with Bravo, a unique production show blending opera and contemporary music, followed by Doug Funk’s hilarious adults-only comedy show.
Day 4: St. Thomas, USVI
Since I have visited St. Thomas many times, I opted for a low-key day onboard, avoiding the midday rain showers. When the weather cleared, we strolled to the nearby Havensight shops and grabbed lunch at Smokin’ Rooster BBQ and Bar. Their jerk chicken wings and homemade fries were delectable. The lively staff, along with U.S. football on the TV’s, made the experience even better.
Back on the ship, we enjoyed an evening filled with live music in the ship’s various lounge venues. From piano music to electric violins and 80s dance hits to country music by Jonathan Scott Roth, each performance offered a unique vibe, ensuring there was musical entertainment covering every genre.
Day 5: Dominica
This day was all about adventure! We hired a driver to explore Dominica’s natural wonders, starting with the Emerald Pool, a serene waterfall nestled within lush greenery. Next, we visited Titou Gorge, where visitors don life vests and swim through a series of natural stone “rooms” with high cliff walls on each side and rain misting down from the canopied trees above. It was amazing.
Our journey continued to Trafalgar Falls, twin cascades set amidst a verdant backdrop. A short hike led us to a viewing platform perfect for capturing photos.
The day concluded at Screw’s Hot Springs, where a series of sulfur pools and a mud bath provided an ultimate experience surrounded by nature. The minerals left my muscles relaxed, my skin rejuvenated and my spirit refreshed.
Back onboard, we laughed through comedian Mike Siegel’s show and rocked out to the production show Born to Be Wild. Another smashing hit by the production cast.
Day 6: St. Lucia
Due to civil unrest in Martinique, Princess replaced the stop with St. Lucia. Disembarking late morning, we braved the heat and took a taxi to the St. Lucia Rum Distillers, the island’s last remaining rum distillery. After an interesting tour of the facility, we were invited to taste any or all of their outstanding spirits, about 15 rums, ranging from sweet to spicy. St. Lucia Rum Distillers’ diverse selection of flavored spirits are quite impressive.
Before dinner, we attended the Good Spirits at Sea cocktail demonstration, savoring craft cocktails paired with fascinating stories of cocktail history. Though we initially planned to watch an ABBA tribute in the theatre, we opted for an early night to recharge for St. Kitts.
Day 7: St. Kitts
Just a short walk from the cruise dock in St. Kitts, we discovered Palms Court Gardens and Restaurant. This former colonial home turned oasis, features a restaurant, a stunning infinity pool overlooking the harbor, and serves poolside food and drinks. Their charming boutique, Shell Works, offers handcrafted shell jewelry and décor hand crafted by its artistic owner. It was the perfect spot for a relaxing day.
Dinner at Sabatini’s, the ship’s specialty Italian restaurant, was a highlight of the evening. Homemade pasta, including decadent lobster ravioli, and tiramisu paired with a rich Pinot Noir made for an unforgettable meal.
The evening’s entertainment was a dazzling Elton John Tribute by pianist and vocalist Jeffrey Allen, whose spot-on performance had the audience singing along.
Day 8: Antigua
Our morning began with a tour of Stingray City, where guests swam and fed graceful stingrays in crystal-clear waters. The 30-minute ride to and from the site also offered scenic views of Antigua’s charming countryside. Back at port, we explored shops at Radcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay before returning to the ship.
The evening’s Halloween festivities transformed the ship into a spooky spectacle. Over two hundred guests took part in the costume contest! We dressed as Neptune and a Mermaid, placing second to a romantic Prince Charming and Cinderella. Dancing and live music in the Explorer’s Lounge capped off a spirited, fun-filled night.
Day 9: At Sea
After a morning Zumba class, which was a blast, we spent the day unwinding. A highlight was the Marriage Match Game, a hilarious take on the Newleywed Game. The evening’s production, Let Me Entertain You, highlighted contemporary songs performed with impeccable energy and talent by the production cast and orchestra.
Day 10: At Sea
The final day at sea led me to the International Wine Tasting Experience. Tables representing the U.S., Italy, France, Spain, and Australia offered a curated selection of wines that guests could taste to their heart’s content while enjoying a variety of cheese, meats and biscuts. The interactive event also included raffles and a silent auction, where I snagged two exceptional bottles to take home!
The day culminated with the Farewell Variety Show, introducing a new cast of entertainers who promised to continue the Sapphire Princess’ stellar entertainment legacy.
Day 11: Disembarkation in Fort Lauderdale
Disembarkation was swift and well-organized, with taxis lined up to take passengers to the airport. This cruise aboard the Sapphire Princess was a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and entertainment—a true Southern Caribbean dream. The crew was wonderful and the production shows were top notch!
Sapphire Princess
Come along with me on my next voyage aboard the Scenic Jasper when we embark on a Danube River Cruise to visit some of Europe’s most popular Christmas markets.
My winter journey begins in Prague, then it’s on to Nuremberg, Regensburg, Salzburg, Melk, Vienna, and Budapest.
Till then, keep cruisin’ through life, discovering your own special Things!
CHEERS!
