One of my most memorable travel experiences was a 4 days long cruise from Dubai, U.A.E. to Kochi in India. For a change, the journey here was more important than the destination. There was so much to do/see/eat in the luxurious Majestic Princess cruise that I and my friends wanted it to continue for eternity. Alas, all good things come to an end and I am now left with fond memories of this trip. Majestic Princess is one of the finest ships of Princess Cruises, one of the leading players in the market.
More and more Indians are choosing cruise experiences off late. Bollywood Films like Dil Dhadakne Do have helped create awareness and a demand in the market. Since Indians traditionally enjoy traveling with family and friends, a cruise experience is the perfect excuse to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Below are the highlights of the Cruise from Dubai to Kochi
Luxurious Sea facing Rooms:
I stayed in a room the balcony of which faced open sea. On all the days I enjoyed sunrise and sun sets from the comfort of my room. It was a priceless experience to be in the middle of the sea and admire nature’s wonders.
The rooms were well appointed with all the luxuries and also had a television. Due to reception issues, one could see DVDs of Hollywood films like La La Land, Inception, Fury etc.
Amazing variety of Food on Majestic Princess:
Since the Majestic Princess cruise attracts citizens from countries like India, China, Australia, Europe etc, it offered an eclectic variety of cuisines. From pastas, to au gratins, to authentic Chinese food to continental entrees, the massive buffet of cruise had something for everyone. I was delighted to find samosa, aalu bonda, Indian curries and sweets in the buffet every day. There were many restaurants; my favourite being the Italian restaurant. One of the café served food 24 hours while another allowed you to eat all you can for the entire duration of the stay. What more could one ask for?
Entertainment galore aboard Majestic Princess:
Something or the other is going on in the Majestic Princess all the time. From art appreciation and grooming workshops to saxophone performances and karaoke nights, there are entertainment options galore. What takes the cake is the original Broadway musical show. It was so good that I attended it again for a repeat show. The list of entertainment options is shared on the mobile phones of the guests. The same is also shared on printed sheets of paper every morning. No wonder, with so much going around, I hardly stayed in the room and enjoyed the offerings of the Majestic Princess to its fullest.
Personalized service touches a chord:
And if it is your birthday and marriage anniversary, expect to open the doors of your rooms to discover balloons and decorations. They remember small details about you. Personalized services like these win hearts. Special attention is given to all the guests. No demand is small or silly. It is this attention to detail which impressed me. The high standards of hospitality amazed me. Every evening during the turn down service, chocolates were presented on my bed.
Kids Zone:
There is a kids’ zone too which has something for all the age groups. From crafts sessions to gaming consoles, the large kids’ zone has something for everyone. Parents can leave the kids under the supervision of trained personnel while they let their hair down. The safe and secure kids’ zone keeps the kids engaged meaningfully all day.
There is a gym too:
The Majestic Princess has a large gymnasium for fitness freaks. State-of-the-art equipments fill the gym where fitness conscious guests sweat it out. The cherry on the cake is the fact that all the treadmills face the ocean. Professional trainers guide you to the machines.
Other activities you can do aboard Majestic Princess.
There is a binocular at two ends of the deck. You can enjoy the view of land while approaching or leaving a destination. There is also a mini golf course in one corner of the cruise. A large basket ball court also attracts sports enthusiasts. There are also many shops where you can by duty free luxury products.
Deck 16 is every one’s favourite!
Deck 16 of the majestic Princess was the place most people love to chill out at. Movie under the stars is the most popular attraction here. A large screen plays Hollywood movies and even sports. Guests can enjoy the movies from the comfort of their reclining beds or swimming pool or even the al fresco Jacuzzi pools. Watching the movie under the open sky was an experience of a lifetime. The guests can also order food from many outlets around the open pool area. For those who like indoor pools there is another pool a little away.
Cost- For the base cabin category, the price begins at US$ 100 per person per day. Of course this includes not only the cost of cabin but also the meals all day in select restaurants and most of the entertainment on offer. The prices vary depending upon the cabin type and sail dates.
How to book: I went with the Travel agent Cruise Professionals. The agents should be contacted for the right quote and hassle free bookings.
Fact File:
Ideal stay duration- At least spending 5 days is recommended. The ship is so huge it will take you around 3 to 4 days to just discover what all it has to offer.
Below are the stops on Dubai to Kochi route:
Dubai – One can do a day trip to prominent Dubai attractions such as Burj Khalifa and the Dubai mall etc.
Abu Dhabi- The Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque is to be seen to be believed. Its grandeur and beauty is awe inspiring as is the tale behind it. A free tour is organised at the mosque many times in a day.
Fort Kochi- Fort Kochi has so much to do. From walking by the sea facing promenade to visiting one of the few Jew Towns in India, to shopping for the fragrant spices and soaps of Kerala, Fort Kochi offers sensory delights at every step.
A cruise holiday is the best way escape from the worries of life. The atmosphere is full of positive energy and leaves you fresh and rejuvenated. World class dining options, entertainment and services makes one feel special. As more and more Indians are discovering the joys of a cruise holiday, its gaining popularity.
About author- Abhinav Singh is a New Delhi based travel blogger and writer with 18 years of experience in writing. He has been to more than 200 destinations since last 10 years. He writes about his travels on his blogs and social media channels.
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