Based on the West Coast and exploring everywhere from Alaska to Mexico and South America, Star Princess, built in 2002, has plenty of 'wow'. The Promenade is the major focal point for entertainment on this 2,600-passenger ship. Styled as a sea-going boulevard, this area houses the three main showrooms. Big, lavish revues and variety shows are presented in the Princess Theatre; the Vista Lounge hosts comedians and cabaret performers; while the Explorers' Lounge is home to dance nights led by the onboard orchestra.

Elsewhere on board, there's a 'Hearts and Minds' wedding chapel with web-cam that can relay ceremonies via the internet; a Skywalker nightclub suspended 18 decks above the sea at the stern of the ship; a swim-against-the-current lap pool; and massive 'Movies Under The Stars' screen above the Neptune's Reef pool area where for night-time films, stewards put blankets on loungers arranged for prime viewing and serve fresh popcorn, cookies and milk.

The main dining rooms, Portofino, Amalfi and Capri, are surprisingly intimate. Two of these traditionally-styled restaurants are for open seating 'Anytime Dining', while Amalfi is aimed at those preferring an established dining routine with set times and tablemates. Sabatini's, Princess signature Italian restaurant, offers a multi-course feast; don't eat all day if you're planning to dine here. The Crown Grill,meanwhile, specialises in premium steaks as well as seafood. Star Princess also offers 'Ultimate Balcony Dining', the chance to have a romantic meal served on your own private balcony. All in all, this is a big, lively ship with plenty of space for everybody to kick back and relax.