Royal Princess is aptly named; at a VIP-studded ceremony in Southampton in July 2013, the Duchess of Cambridge smashed a bottle of champagne against the hull, bringing in a newer, bigger and more sophisticated class of ship to the Princess fleet.

This is a big ship by any standards, carrying 3,560 guests, but Princess Cruises has a knack of creating intimate spaces with a cosy atmosphere, apparent the minute you step into the sweeping atrium, which spans several decks and has a host of bars and cafes dotted around, the perfect spot for people-watching over a cappuccino or a glass of wine.

Princess is known for its excellent food and there are several dining opportunities on this ship, including traditional, two-sitting arrangements for those who prefer to eat in the same place every night, and Anytime dining, which gives you more freedom. Alternatives include the Crown Grill; Sabatini's (with such delicacies as artichoke souffle, baked sea bass and lobster 'three ways'); Alfredo's Pizzeria; and Vines, serving wine by the glass, sushi and tapas.

Entertainment includes blockbuster shows in the theatre, or high rolling nights in the casino. There's a proper nightclub, Club 6 (Princess is very popular with younger cruisers) and up on deck, a dazzling display of musical fountains bathed in coloured light, as well as a giant movie screen over the pool for cinema under the stars. If you're feeling daring, talk a stroll along the Seawalk, a glass platform extending out over the side of the ship, romantically lit by night. For more intimate nightspots, Bellini's is a new, Italian-inspired cocktail bar, while Crooner's, where there's nightly piano music, serves 75 different Martinis. Our verdict' A classy, elegant ship with something for all the family.