Using the Golden Princess Cruise Ship to Change Latitudes - Change In Attitudes
Station Pier Melbourne is the home of the magnificent Golden Princess. She belongs to the fleet of Princess Cruisers and is the the sister ship of the Grand Princess and Star Princess.
Constructed in Italy by Fincantieri, she measures 109,000 gross tons and carries 2,600 passengers (twin cabins) with 1,100 crew attending to their needs.
And the best part is she cruises from Melbourne!
The Golden Princess cruise ship cruises from Melbourne and other ports, headed for many destinations.
Some of which are around Australia's southern oceans and others to more exotic places throughout the world.
Depending on the seasonal weather changes she will depart on short, medium and longer stints out on the blue waters.
If circumstances allow me to take the opportunity to enjoy one of the Melbourne cruises, from right here in my hometown on a cruise ship such as this one, I will do so.
This is why my granddaughter and I have enjoyed 2 exciting New Zealand Cruises on both the Dawn Princess in 2014 and the Golden Princess in 2016.
Both fantastic ships with their own unique personality.
Beautifully renovated in 2015 the ship boasts an exciting and dramatic Italian look and feel with murals depicting Italian scenes, statues and decor.
On board the ship also hosts live shows, competitions, art auctions and displays in different venues and times. Plenty of extra entertainment for those who want more to do than just lying around relaxing.
I love the view from the Terrace Pool at the rear of the Golden Princess ship. It is so convenient to the all day buffet in the Horizon Court restaurant plus there is a convenient bar with waiters who serve delicious cocktails as you enjoy the sunshine and relaxing atmosphere!
One of the Cabins on board the Golden Princess cruise ship. The bedding configuration can be changed to accommodate the guests in the room. Here the configuration is set up as twin, single beds.
My personal preference is for a 'balcony cabin' as I enjoy the restful and relaxing time sitting out on it watching the blue waters glide on by. When I book my cruise I always look at its position making sure that the balcony affords me as much sunshine as I can secure for my sunbaking and enjoyment.
One of my favorite things is to get up just as the sun comes up and watch it rising over the horizon. If I'm still sleepy I just climb back into my comfortable bed and catch some more Zzzzzzz's
I also love to leave the door open at night when the weather permits so that I can hear the waves as the ship sails along. Early morning also affords me the great views when the tug boats connect up to tow the ship into port. I always find these times exciting no matter how often I see it happen.
There is no need to stay on board the Golden Princess cruise ship when she is in port as there are plenty of land touring options available for you. You can choose these before you sail and secure your seat or you can book them on board if you want to. No prepayment is required as you are invoiced and subsequently pay for same after the event.
My 13 nights out on the blue seas continues to excite me and no doubt the idea of Melbourne cruises will continue to dominate my idea for the best relaxing holiday you can enjoy. Seeing my hometown once more from the deck of the Golden Princess as we arrive back in Melbourne fills me with mixed emotions. Glad to be home but wanting more ... Well there is always next year!
This 1-hour sightseeing cruise will venture past some of the city's most iconic sites such as the Crown Entertainment Complex, Westgate Bridge, 19th-century sailing ship, Polly Woodside, World Congress and Trade Centre and the city skyline.
With live commentary throughout the journey from the onboard crew, you'll learn about the region as you explore it. Food and drinks are available to purchase on board, however, you are allowed to bring your own light snacks and refreshments.
Take in some of Melbourne's beautiful sights with a cruise along the iconic Yarra River. Cruising for a total of 1-hour, you'll be able to take in views of Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Olympic Park and Herring Island to name a few.
With live commentary throughout the journey from the onboard crew, you'll learn about the region as you explore it. Food and drinks are available to purchase on board, however, you are allowed to bring your own light snacks and refreshments.
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