Minoru Matthews

In March 2025, I boarded Enchanted Princess for my very first sailing with Princess Cruises—and it ended up being one of the most refreshing and eye-opening cruise experiences I’ve had. It was a cruise of “firsts” for me: first time trying the Princess brand, first time sailing on Enchanted Princess, first time departing from the Port of Los Angeles, and my first-ever itinerary to the Mexican Riviera.

As someone who had primarily cruised with Royal Caribbean, I was curious how Princess would compare—and Enchanted Princess impressed me right away. The ship was beautifully designed, with refined decor, quiet lounges, and thoughtful service that created a more upscale but approachable atmosphere. Dining was another standout—Alfredo’s Pizzeria was a favorite, and the International Café quickly became my go-to for snacks and specialty coffee.

I also opted to upgrade to the Princess Premier package, and it turned out to be an excellent value. For $90 per day, I received the upgraded drinks package with premium spirits, which included cocktails, wine, and beer as well as a wide range of nonalcoholic drinks like specialty coffees, mocktails, smoothies, and bottled water. The package also included unlimited Wi-Fi for up to four devices, prepaid gratuities, and unlimited specialty and casual dining, which allowed me to experience a variety of restaurants like Crown Grill, Sabatini’s, and Gigi’s Pizzeria without worrying about extra costs. It made the cruise feel all-inclusive in the best possible way.

Embarking from Los Angeles was another first for me. The port was smooth and easy to navigate, and it made me realize how many amazing West Coast cruise options are often overlooked. The Mexican Riviera itinerary took me to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta—three ports full of warmth, charm, and unforgettable coastal beauty. From sipping coffee along the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta to watching the dramatic sea arch in Cabo, each stop added a new layer to the trip.

This cruise reminded me of the joy that comes with trying something new. I now confidently recommend Princess Cruises to clients looking for a more relaxed, elegant experience—especially those interested in West Coast sailings or all-inclusive-style perks like Princess Premier. It was a trip filled with new discoveries, great service, and true vacation ease—and one I’d gladly do again.