A regal view of the Caribbean - cruise aboard the Regal Princess

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), May, 1993 by Laurel F. Lehrer

Most commendable on Regal Princess was teatime, presented daily in the English tradition at 4:00 p.m. in the Palm Court. Besides drinking a mid-afternoon pick-me-up refreshment of regular, herbal, or specialty tea or coffee, I was treated like royalty by the white-gloved waiters who carried trays of freshly prepared ham, cheese, and turkey finger-sandwiches, followed by other trays of crunchy cookies, biscuits, and scrumptious chocolate and cream cakes.

As background to this relaxing and enjoyable respite from everyday activities, melodious popular and classical music sprung delightfully from the stringed instruments of a talented quartet.

While I never was hungry to eat at the midnight buffet, such spreads were inspiring to behold. Featured one evening in the dining room was a gracefully arched dolphin sculpted from clear ice through which was infused a blue light. Nearby were platters of layered shrimps, cold salads, breads twisted into anchors, an imaginatively carved Picasso-like watermelon head, bowls of fresh fruits, enticing cookies, artfully iced cakes, and rich, dark, melt-in-your-mouth chocolates.

Not to be missed was Bravo, the crowd-pleasing pizzeria aboard ship. At noon one day, as I climbed the forward staircase to Lido deck, I detected the unmistakable aroma of melting cheese, garlic, basil, and oregano. A young waitress led me to a table with lovely views of the sea and my shipmates splashing in a pool called Waves. But my attention went to the solitary pizza baker, wearing a white uniform and tall chef's cap, pounding rhythmically the individual 12-inch pies.

Although the Bravo menu offered seven varieties, I rated my crisp pie of pepperoni and roasted bell peppers five stars. It was delivered within 15 minutes and at no charge, but refreshments of wine, beer, or soda did incur a nominal fee.

Adjoining Bravo on Lido deck were two whirlpool spas, usually filled with relaxing occupants. I managed to submerge my toes into the hot soothing waters as I observed swimmers enjoying the large on-deck pool. As a convenience for them, bar stools were built right into the water so, when thirsty, they did not have to leave the pool.

For passengers desiring meals alfresco or unwilling to change from bathing suits, the Lido deck's casual Cafe del Sol was ideal for a buffet breakfast or lunch. While I preferred the more formally served luncheon in the main dining room, I did appreciate the Cafe del Sol's drink dispensers on hot humid days. With the touch of a finger, I instantly could serve myself iced tea, coffee, or juice.

Unquestionably, life aboard ship was relaxing, refreshing, entertaining, and certainly uplifting for the spirit. Although ports visited by this roaming resort were extremely interesting and stimulating experiences, Regal Princess was undeniably the best destination of all.

The author, a travel writer for USA Today, has published her observations on such far-flung adventures as the Panama Canal, Alaska, Hawaii, Mediterranean, Black Sea and Russia, Europe, and North Africa. Recently, she completed a trilogy devoted to the South Pacific, including Tahiti, the South Seas, and Australia.