carnival cruise princess cruise

• Cruise Destinations
• The Bahamas
• Princess-Cays-Cruises

Princess Cays, The Bahamas

• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Vista

* Coming Soon

• Things To Do
• Past Guest Photos

Cruise to Princess Cays and you’ll come ashore in Love Boat Marina — a sign that this private resort on the island of Eleuthera, Bahamas was designed to be classic cruising perfection. Make landfall and discover an island’s worth of vacation fun and amenities. You’ll find a BBQ pit already fired up for lunch, and a supervised kids’ area ready to receive the little ones. Somewhere among the palm trees you might spy the exclusive adult-only retreat. By now it’s clear that Princess Cays is good for more than just a beach day, but plan on fitting one in anyway — this wouldn’t be a prime cruise destination without great things to do, and great ways to get wet, like swimming, kayaking and sailing.

• Rent a private beach bungalow and enjoy your stay in air-conditioned comfort.
• Browse the shops for authentic, handmade Bahamian crafts.
• Tour Princess Cays by dune buggy and sailboat to get the best views from all angles.

Things to do in Princess Cays

Gotta see princess cays.

We have a few ideas for you.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

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Hashtag your cruise photos #carnival and #princesscays — you may see them right here.

Carnival vs Princess Cruise Lines Compared (Which is Best for You?)

If you’re looking to book a cruise, many options are available. Two of the most popular cruise lines are Princess and Carnival Cruise. Both have pros and cons, so it can be difficult to determine the best fit for you.

In this post, we compare carnival cruise vs princess cruise lines in a head-to-head and help you decide which one is right for you.

Princess vs Carnival Cruises Comparison

Regarding the onboard experience, both Princess and Carnival offer various activities and amenities. Both cruise lines have excellent dining options, pools, spas, gyms, and casinos.

Princess offers a more upscale experience with better quality food and more neutral decor.

Carnival is known for its bright decor and its all-around fun and lively atmosphere. Carnival is the way to go if you’re looking for a party at sea. 

When it comes to price, Carnival is the more affordable option. Carnival is a great choice if you’re working with a tight budget.

Princess cruise prices are typically higher priced, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re getting less bang for your buck, there are considered very good value for what you pay.

You’ll have to weigh up your priorities to decide which cruise line is the best value for you.

Below we compare the two cruise lines in more detail.

Who Owns Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Lines ?

The first thing to establish is who owns each of the cruise lines

Princess Cruises and Carnival cruise lines are owned by the same parent company, the British-American Carnival Corporation & plc, which owns 10 well-known cruise line brands, including Princess, Holland America, and P&O Cruises Australia, Costa Cruises, and AIDA Cruises.

However, each brand is designed to appeal to a different target audience. Princess is marketed as a more upscale and luxurious cruise line, while Carnival is considered more budget-friendly and focuses on fun.

Hence why Carnival cruise ships call themselves the “Fun Ships”!

So, which one should you choose? Let’s take a closer look at each cruise line and compare them.

Below is a table of bullet points to highlight which cruise line is generally more suited for the following categories.

Cruise Ships (Size and Ages of Fleet)

Ship sizes compared.

Carnival offers a wide range of large and mid-sized ships in their current fleet, with 23 in total compared to Princess cruise’s fleet of 18.

If you think larger, the better, Carnival comes out ahead with their newest vessels, Carnival Celebration (2022) and sister ship Carnival Mardi Gras (2020), Both of which come in at up 183,000 tonnes and can hold over 5000 passengers each.

The tonnage of the next largest Carnival ships (Panorama, Horizon, Vista, Breeze, Magic, and Dream)are similar to Princess Cruises’ largest vessels (SkyPrincess, Enchanted, Discovery, Majestic Princess, Royal, and Regal Princess). 

We do this to highlight another size tother factor: there are a lot more passengers on Carnival ships compared to similar size vessels in the Princess fleet. 

Princess has the highest passenger-to-space ratio of not just Carnival but also its other main competitor Royal Caribbean.

Therefore you can expect the Princess cruise experience, in general, to be a lot less crowded.  If you prefer a bit of downtime or quieter moments, you are likelier to find them on Princess.

Carnival cruises can feel cramped for some passengers, especially at busy times.

Carnival cruises’ fleet is, on average, around 14 years old. The newest Carnival ships are the Celebration (2022), Mardi Gras (2020), and Panorama (2019).

The oldest vessels in their fleet include the Carnival Sunshine (1996) (formerly Destiny), Carnival Elation (1998), and Carnival Paradise (1998), (Carnival Elation and Paradise are also the smallest carnival cruise ships ).

When booking an older vessel, it’s always worth checking to see if it has been upgraded in the last 5 years and checking reviews to see what other passengers have thought of their experience.

In contrast, the average age of a Princess cruise ship is 17 years old. The

In contrast, Princess Cruises’ fleet average is around 12 years old.

The newest ships in their fleet are the  Discovery Princess (2022),  Enchanted Princess (2021), and Sky Princess (2019).

Their oldest vessels include the Grand Princess (2019), Coral Princess (2002), and Island Princess (2003).

As of 2022, all Princess cruise ships older than 5 years had been refurbished within the last 5 years.

Regarding decor, the two cruise lines could not be more different. Princess offers a more upscale and luxurious experience with better quality furnishings and materials throughout the ship.

The Princess cruise’s color scheme is very neutral and calming in its tones.

Carnival’s decor is still good quality, but it’s more fun, flashy and much brighter.  It’s often compared to a Vegas-style.

If your onboard experience is affected by the decor, this is a factor worth considering.

If you are superstitious, you’ll be pleased to know that neither Carnival nor Princess cruises have a deck 13.

Here we have covered some of the deck names both Carnival and Princess cruises use.

When it comes to service, you can expect to be treated more like a responsible adult on a Princess Cruise, which offers a more all-around refined experience.

For example, on a Carnival cruise, if you borrow a towel, you are responsible for returning it, or you’ll face a small charge.  On Princess, they’ll just lend you a towel, so if you lose it or someone mistakenly takes it, there’s no problem. They’ll get it back eventually.

Demographics

Carnival cruises are best suited to families and young couples or singles in their 20s and 30s looking for a party atmosphere.

Although whatever your age, if you are older and like to party you’ll like Carnival.

As with any party and the fun, you can also expect to see passengers who have had too much to drink, possibly being sick or even passed out.

If you are a solo traveler, we have some extra information on the best Carnival singles cruises .

On the other hand, Princess cruises are a better choice for an older, more mature crowd between 30 and 70 and families with children of all ages.

Princess cruises are also popular with older solo cruise travelers, typically over 50, who like to socialize and make new like-minded friends on their cruise. Although Princess cruises doesn’t particular cater towards the singles market.

Seasonality Variance

Princess Cruises expects to have many more kids on board during summer vacation. Whereas in January you can expect a lot more older people.

Seasonality doesn’t play such an important aspect on Carnival Cruises, and you can expect to find the same sort of crowd throughout the year.

Passenger Nationalities

Carnival attracts American cruisers, while Princess tends to have a more international flavor with passengers from the US, Britain, and other countries.

Princess Cruises vs Carnival Food and Drinks

Regarding food, Princess offers a more upscale experience with a broader range of better-quality dining options with specialty restaurants from around the world.   So although it mostly caters to the US markets, there are plenty of options for European passengers.

It’s particularly popular for its pizza from Alfredo’s Pizzeria and voted by many for offering the “Best Pizza at Sea.”

Princess, Slice, and Prego Pizzerias are also well worth checking out.

Carnival is still good regarding food, but it is more casual and heavily focused on the US market, offering your typical burger, chicken, and steak-like menus.

Both cruise lines offer buffets.

Some Carnival ships will have extra dining options for the more selective passenger.

Another difference that may appeal to some passengers is how much wine you can bring on cruise ships. Carnival restricts each passenger to just one bottle of wine. In contrast, Princess allows passengers to bring as many bottles of wine and champagne as they want, subject to a $15 fee for each bottle after the first free bottle.

Another difference is the drinking age s for cruises outside the US. Carnival maintains a flat minimum 21 years of age for drinking no matter where you are sailing. However, Princess Cruises allow 18 years to drink alcohol on their rest of the world cruises.

Activities / Pools/ Entertainment

Carnival cruise ships are renowned for their wide range of entertainment facilities, pools, and outdoor activities.

Carnival also offers a variety of stage shows, musicals, comedians, and other live entertainment to keep you entertained during your cruise.

If you’re looking for a more low-key onboard experience, Princess Cruises offers enrichment programs, cooking classes, art auctions, and wine tastings.

Pools on Carnival ships are typically larger and more numerous than those found on Princess’s vessels. 

Carnival offers outdoor activities such as waterslides, minigolf, and sports courts.

If you’re a fan of gambling, then Carnival cruise ships are the way to go as they offer a wide variety of gaming options.

Carnival’s casinos are typically much larger than those on Princess cruise ships.

When it comes to nightlife, you can expect the parties to be in full swing. Expect late-night DJ parties, a range of other decks, and various themed parties to be happening every night.

There’s also:

• Caribbean-themed pubs
• Comedy acts
• Well-known celebrity acts (comedians etc.)

On Princess ships, the nightlife is more subdued, with lower-key bars and lounges that close earlier than those on Carnival.

There’s live entertainment every evening and a range of cafes and bars to choose from to enjoy a cocktail or bottle of champagne.

Destinations / Itinerary in Group

Both Carnival and Princess Cruises offer various destinations to choose from when planning your cruise vacation.

Choose the cruise line that offers ports of call that interest you most.

Both lines also have a wide variety of itineraries, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

Princess Cruises is considered particularly good for Alaska excursions.

Destinations offered by Carnival Cruises include:

• Australia and New Zealand
• Panama Canal
•  and the Carnival “Cruise to Nowhere”

Princess Cruises sail worldwide and offer cruises to:

• British Isles
• Mexican Riviera
• South Americ
• South Pacific

Private Islands

Carnival Corporation owns two private islands, Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay, which can be visited by certain cruise lines and ships in the fleets.

Princess Cays

Both Carnival and Princess cruises offer access to the privately owned island of Princess Cays.

However, only the Princess Cruise drinks package can be used on the island, whereas the Carnival cruise drinks package cannot be used.

Half Moon Cay

Of the two cruise lines, only Carnival ships offer visits to Half Moon Cayanother, privately owned island by  Carnival Corporation plc. This island is also used by Holland American cruise line.

Ports of Departures

The port’s location is an important factor to consider when choosing a cruise line.

Carnival departs from the following North American ports:

• Baltimore, MD
• Charleston, SC
• Galveston, TX
• Jacksonville, FL
• Long Beach, CA
• New Orleans, LA
• New York, NY
• Norfolk, VA
• Port Canaveral, FL
• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA

From the UK, Carnival departs from these ports:

• Southampton

From Australia, Carnival departs from:

Princess cruises depart from the following North American ports:

• Anchorage, AK
• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Los Angeles, CA
• San Diego, CA

From the UK, you can depart from:

(The same two UK ports as Carnival)

From Australia and New Zealand, you can depart from:

• Auckland (New Zealand) 

For Kids and Families

Both cruise lines have plenty on board to keep the kids entertained.

Both Carnival and Princess cruise ships have several supervised youth clubs and activity programs to keep them entertained. 

Carnival has Camp Ocean which splits into groups into ages:

• Penguins for ages 2 to 5
• Stingrays for ages 6 to 8
• Sharks for ages 9 to 11
• Circle “C” for ages 12 to 14
• Club O2 for ages 15 to 17

Carnival also offers babysitting services for an additional fee so that you can enjoy some time to yourselves.

Princess Cruises also have youth clubs and activity programs for kids. However, they are not as extensive as those offered by Carnival.

On Princess Cruises, kids are split into 3 activity age groups:

• The Treehouse for ages 3 to 7
• The Lodge for ages 8 to 12
• The Beach House for ages 13 to 17

Baby Sitting & Child Minding Services

Carnival cruise offers Camp Ocean for children between 2 to 5 years old.

The evening’s Carnival also offers the Night Owls babysitting service for children aged 6 months to 11 years old.   So parents can enjoy some time to themselves.

Princess Cruises offer group child minding services via Camp Discovery and, for older children, the Beach House Teen Lounge, which is open daily.

From 10 pm to 1 am, they offer group babysitting in the centers for kids between the ages of 3 and 11.

The dress code for a Carnival cruise is more casual than for a Princess cruise. You can expect to see people in shorts and t-shirts during the day, and jeans or nice slacks in the evening.  In short, the Carnival cruise dress code is about as casual as you can get.

On a Princess cruise, you’ll see people dressing up more for dinner, especially on formal nights when people might wear dinner jackets and tuxedos for men and elegant cocktail dresses, evening gowns, or pantsuits for women.

Carnival is the more affordable option. Carnival is a great choice if you’re working with a tight budget.

Princess cruise prices are typically higher, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re getting less bang for your buck. They are considered very good value for money.

You’ll have to weigh your other priorities to decide which cruise line is the best value for you based on the other criteria set out above and then work out which fits your budget.

Carnival or Princess First-Hand Video Comparision

Tony and his wife Jenny give an in-depth, honest, and thorough comparison breakdown across a wide range of categories with some great insights as to whether they think Carnival or Princess Cruises is the best cruise line of the two.

In Short : Carnival or Princess Cruise

In short, it quickly covers how a passenger might describe either a Carnival or Princess cruise in just one of two words to give you a quick impression of the comparable experiences to one another.

Carnival Cruise Pros :

• Fun, fun, fun

Princess Cruise Pros

• Comfortable
• Neutral colors

Is Princess Cruises owned by Carnival?

Princess Cruises is owned by the British-American Carnival Corporation & plc. This is the parent company that owns a total of 10 cruise lines, including both Carnival Cruise line and Princess Cruises.

Carnival Cruise line does not, therefore, own Princess Cruises, both are subsidiaries of Carnival Corporation, which does own Princess Cruises.

What is the difference between Princess and Carnival?

Princess is marketed as a more upscale and luxurious cruise line, while Carnival is considered more budget-friendly and focuses on fun.

Does Carnival own Princess Cruises?

Yes, Carnival owns Princess Cruises. They are both subsidiaries of the British-American Carnival Corporation & plc. 

Carnival or Princess Cruise for Alaska?

When it comes to a cruising to Alaska,  Princess comes out as a clear winner offering one of the best and largest cruise experiences in the region.  They offer more and wider itineraries;

Some Princess cruise ships have permission to sail in the Glacier Bay National Park.

While Carnival does offer cruises to Alaska, it’s not what they are best known for.

Carnival or Princess Cruises for Formal Nights

If you enjoy dressing smart for formal nights and like to see other guests dressing up too, then Princess would suit you better.  Carnival has a more relaxed dress code on formal nights, and some passengers may not dress up.

Is Princess Better Than Carnival for Families?

Both cruise lines are ideal for families. If you are a large family group who likes to enjoy yourself and not be conscious of whether you are making too much noise, then Carnival is the better option as the ships are generally a lot louder and crowded with other people also in fun mode.

Princess cruises are great for families, but they are generally calmer and quieter. 

Is Princess Cruise Better Than Carnival for Seniors?

In general, Princess cruises, passengers are typically a lot older than those sailing with Carnival, especially outside of the summer vacation months when there will be many more passengers in the 50 to 70 years of age range.

Carnival or Princess Cruises for the Caribbean?

The majority of the Carnival cruise itineraries are well known for Caribean cruises, especially with their affordable budget prices. 

Princess or Carnival – Which is Best for You?

Out of Carnival and Princess Cruises, there is no definite winner. It depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a cruise, including factors we have covered above, where you want to go, your budget, food tastes, and the level of partying you are looking for.

However, if I had to summarize a Carnival Princess Cruise line comparison:

Princess is probably a better fit if you want a more luxurious experience .

Carnival is the way to go if you’re looking to save money and party hard.

Either way, rest assured you are in good company with both cruise lines.

Have you traveled on Carnival and Princess cruises? 

If so, feel free to share your opinions and insights in the comments.

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Ultimate Guide to Princess Cays

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: November 19, 2021  - Last updated: March 20, 2023

Princess Cays is a private island destination in the Bahamas for both Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line. With sandy expanses stretching toward crystal-blue water, Princess Cays offers cruisers a relaxing beach day. Or spend your time on the island enjoying water sports—the choice is yours!

Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy your day at Princess Cays. Be sure to check out my Princess Cays FAQ at the bottom of the page, where I answer the most commonly asked questions about this exclusive port of call.

Princess Cays: The basics

Princess Cays sits at the southern tip of Eleuthera , in the Out Islands of the Bahamas. Eleuthera is about 50 miles (80 km) from Nassau and 263 miles (423 km) from Miami.

Princess Cays sits on over 40 acres of land, and the resort features more than a half-mile of beaches for cruisers to enjoy.

The private island destination opened in 1992, and underwent significant renovations in 2018, including constructing a larger marina, installing WiFi connectivity, building new guest services stations, and extensive landscaping improvements.

The island is a popular port of call for many of Princess’ and Carnival’s Caribbean cruises. Without a deep harbor for docking, guests reach the port via tenders. These smaller boats ferry groups of passengers between the cruise ship and the tender dock on the island.

Learn more: Everything You Need to Know About Tender Ports on a Cruise

Unfortunately, during bad weather and rough sea conditions, tendering to the island often isn’t safe.

The port of call at Princess Cays is canceled more often than ports with cruise ship docks, especially during the hurricane season from June through November.

Beaches on Princess Cays

Princess Cays offers multiple sandy beaches, so there’s always plenty of room for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling from the beach.

Most visitors flock to the main beach with its easy access to the Grill Crazy buffet lunch venue, restrooms, bars, and souvenir shops.

But taking a slightly longer walk in either direction will give you access to less-crowded beach areas that are still close enough to the action.

From the tender port, walk past the main beach to find the smaller North Beach .

Or venture a bit farther to the small cove across from the colorful bungalows—this beach is open to everyone and features fantastic snorkeling! You can swim out from this little beach and to the left to view live corals and thousands of colorful fish.

For an even more secluded beach experience, head to the southern end of Princess Cays. Many first-time visitors don’t even know that this part of the resort exists!

To get there, head forward and to the right (with your back facing the water) after you exit the tender. You’ll see a small wooden bridge that will take you right to this much quieter area.

But don’t worry that you’ll be far away from amenities—this section also has restrooms, bars, a small straw market, and a BBQ buffet lunch that serves the same choices you’ll find on the busier side of the resort.

More experienced snorkelers will love this beach! Swim out and to the left toward the reef to see colorful fish of all sizes, large corals, purple sea urchins, and other marine creatures.

This section of the water can get a bit choppy, especially when the tide is coming in. The lifeguards don’t patrol this section as closely as in the busier areas, so snorkel and swim at your own risk.

Or just relax on the sand in one of the loungers—there are plenty here in both sunny and shaded spots. Princess actually claims to have over 3000 complimentary lounge chairs available on the resort for guests!

Tip: If you want to be near the water but need shade, rent a clamshell for $39.95. These collapsible sun shelters will fit two loungers inside.

Adventurers will want to make the trek out to the point at the southernmost tip of the beach to truly get away from it all. You’ll need to wear water shoes or waterproof sandals to navigate the terrain, but the short hike is so worth it!

Follow the coast to the tip (you can see the point at the top of the photo above) to reach a secluded area where all you can hear is the crash of waves and the plaintive cries of seabirds.

Here you’ll also find the burial site of two young local women who died on the island in the late 1940s. Their simple grave markers are no longer visible (I believe 2017’s Hurricane Irma may have knocked them from their upright position and covered them with sand).

But you can still see the decorative rock piles that visitors have left in their memory at this peaceful place.

Water sports and activities on Princess Cays

If you’re looking for an active day out on the water, Princess Cays has you covered with lots of water sports to choose from! You can book a guided activity or rent equipment for a DIY option.

Be sure to book guided water sports before your cruise (via the cruise line’s online planner) for the best availability. Or you can book on board if you’re a last-minute decision maker.

Equipment rentals are available to book before your cruise as well. When you pre-pay for rentals, you’ll have a ticket delivered to your stateroom that you can redeem at the rental desk.

Or you can rent right on the island with your cruise card or medallion! Check the map by the first aid station when you exit the tender for rental locations.

For those who prefer to explore the water on their own, available water sports rentals include:

• Water noodle rental ($4.95 for six hours)
• Float rental ($9.95 for six hours)
• Aqua chair rental ($9.95 for six hours)
• Snorkel equipment rental ($19.95 for six hours)
• Snorkel vest rental ($9.95 for six hours)
• Oceanviewing sea board rental ($14.95 per hour)
• One-person ocean kayak rental ($19.95 per hour)
• Two-person ocean kayak rental ($24.95 per hour)
• Stand-up paddle board rental – SUP ($24.95 per hour)
• Two-person aqua bike rental ($24.95 per hour)
• Four-person paddle wheeler rental ($29.95 per hour)
• Hobie Wave sailboat rental ($49.95 per hour for up to 3 people)

(All prices are in USD and are current at time of publication)

You can also book tickets for guided water sports. Options include:

• Banana boat ride ($19.95 per person, 15 minutes)
• Surf fishing ($29.95 per person, 2.5 hours)
• Lagoon clear-bottom kayaking adventure ($39.95 per person, 75 minutes)
• Snorkeling tour for experienced snorkelers ($54.95 per person, 90 minutes)

Of course, you can always swim or snorkel from the beach on your own. I always bring my own full-face snorkel mask and gear when I cruise.

They’re not expensive at all, and the masks are much better and easier to use than the rentals!

Read more: Why You Need a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Your Next Cruise

Shore excursions on Princess Cays

Most shore excursions for your day at the private destination operate right on the resort grounds or very close by.

Cruisers have the opportunity to buy tickets to feed and interact with friendly stingrays at a cove near the tender dock, or try your hand at surf fishing just offshore.

You can also enjoy adventuring by bicycle or on a clear-bottom kayak. Experienced snorkelers can even book tickets to see marine life with a guide at a live coral reef.

Popular shore excursions at Princess Cays include:

• Island Bike Adventure ($29.95 per person, 1.5 hours)
• Stingray Beach Encounter ($39.95 per person, 1 hour)
• Coastal Cruise ($34.95 per person, 1 hour)
• Coastal Cruise + Snorkeling ($59.95 per person, 1 hour cruise + 6 hours snorkel rental)
• Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise ($45.95 per person, 1 hour)

For a complete list of shore excursions (including prices) for your cruise line, check out these resources:

• Princess Cruises’ Princess Cays shore excursions
• Carnival Cruise Line’s Princess Cays shore excursions

Tip: Guests with early shore excursion tickets through the cruise line can take advantage of priority tendering to Princess Cays—you won’t need to wait in line for a tender ticket!

Other activities on Princess Cays

Although many cruisers who don’t book a shore excursion just enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, Princess Cays also offers other activities that are free of charge.

On the south side of the resort you’ll find beach volleyball and a basketball court, perfect for a bit of exercise (or just watching a lively game).

Your cruise activities team will also usually host some fun contests after lunch. Compete in the tug of war or potato sack races and you could win a prize!

Pelicans’ Perch kids area

If you’re cruising with younger kids, they’ll love Pelicans’ Perch , a small fenced-off play area with a playground, swimming pool, and a covered activity pavilion.

Pelicans’ Perch isn’t a drop-off location like the kids’ clubs on the ship, so a parent or guardian needs to stay when their kids are enjoying the facility.

The freshwater wading pool is very shallow, perfect for little ones to splash around. Kids do need to be potty trained to swim in the pool—swim diapers aren’t allowed.

Pelicans’ Perch features plenty of loungers and bench seating for parents to relax while watching the kids, and there’s also a small toilet facility for potty breaks.

Food and dining on Princess Cays

After a morning of fresh air and activity, a hearty island lunch will be just what you’re looking for.

The resort has two identical BBQ buffet venues, one on the main side and one on the south side. Grill Crazy BBQ Grill is in the center of the action on the main side, between Pelican’s Perch and the Crow’s Nest Overlook .

On the south side, you’ll find Sea Breeze Grill , located just over the bridge.

Both venues offer plenty of sheltered outdoor picnic table seating available to eat your meal. Or you can take your food back to your loungers and enjoy it on the beach or under a swaying palm tree!

If your ship isn’t at full capacity (as I noticed on my 2021 Carnival Pride cruise during COVID), Sea Breeze Grill might not open due to the lower number of passengers on the island.

The complimentary lunch is usually available from 11:30 AM through 1:30 PM and features casual beach food like hot dogs, cheeseburgers, and jerk chicken. There are also salads and side dishes, along with a selection of desserts.

Be sure to stop by the free fruit stand (it’s just outside of the venue) to load up on freshly-sliced tropical fruit to complete your meal.

You’ll also find complimentary self-serve drinks inside each buffet venue, including iced tea, lemonade, and water.

Tip: Take along a refillable tumbler (I like this one from Yeti with an attached straw) to avoid waiting in a long line for drink refills—the cups they provide on the island are tiny!

Although there isn’t an exclusive dining venue for suite or Sanctuary Bungalow guests, anyone renting a bungalow also has the option to order a gourmet picnic lunch, delivered right to your door for an additional fee.

Bars on Princess Cays

There’s nothing nicer on a beach day than a cool, refreshing drink! Princess Cays has plenty of bar options for you to choose from, located on both sides of the resort.

• Bungalow Bar: located near the Private and Sanctuary Bungalows
• Coconut Bar: located near the end of North Beach by the Offshore Pavilion
• Banana Beach Bar: located in the center of the resort, across from the main beach
• Reef Runner Bar: located on the south end of the resort, near the Sea Breeze Grill

All the bars on Princess Cays are open to all cruisers—there are no exclusive bars set aside for suite or Sanctuary guests.

Tip: Be very careful with the wooden chairs at the bars! They can be very tippy if you lean back against the backrest!

Some of the bars do allow smoking, so keep an eye out for ashtrays on the bar if you’d like to avoid secondhand smoke.

Additionally, there’s usually a cold drink station set up near the picnic tables outside of Grill Crazy BBQ Pavilion to quickly grab bottles of water, soft drinks, and cans of beer. Standard bar prices apply.

Using your drink package on Princess Cays

Cruisers often ask me if you can use your drink package at Princess Cays. It depends on your cruise line!

Princess cruisers can use their drink packages at the private island destination. However, none of the bars offer fountain soda—only cans—so you’ll have to pay for soda even with a beverage package.

If you’re visiting on a Carnival ship , your drink package won’t work on the island. Instead, you’ll need to pay for all drinks at the bar with your Sail & Sign card.

Learn more : Carnival Cruise Line Drink Packages: The Ultimate Guide or Princess Cruises Drink Packages: The Ultimate Guide

Renting Private and Sanctuary Bungalows

If you’re looking for an exclusive spot to relax during your private island getaway, booking one of the candy-colored bungalows is the way to go! Cool off inside your own air-conditioned cabana, or lounge on the patio or under your umbrella.

Each bungalow is equipped with a ceiling fan, a table and four chairs, and an outdoor shower. Your bungalow will be stocked with towels, two flotation rafts to use for the day, and a cooler full of soft drinks and water.

You’ll also find some light snacks inside— usually fresh fruit and chips, salsa, and guacamole.

Waiters will occasionally come by offering drink service, and the open-air Bungalow Bar is also just steps away from the bungalow area.

The bungalows can comfortably accommodate four people, though you can purchase passes for up to two additional guests.

All the bungalows at Princess Cays are located on the far end of the main part of the resort, past the main beach area and North Beach. If you need assistance getting to and from your bungalow and the tender dock, crew members can transport you via golf cart.

There are two categories of bungalow on Princess Cays: Private Bungalows and Sanctuary Bungalows . Both cabana types are sized similarly—but Sanctuary Bungalows feature a lanai over the patio and also have outdoor water misters for additional comfort.

The most important difference is that Sanctuary Bungalows are reserved for adults only (18 years and up), and they sit in a private roped-off area only accessible to ticketed guests.

A Sanctuary Bungalow is the best option if you want peace and quiet, though they’re a bit farther away from beaches and restrooms.

Prices for bungalow rentals are as follows:

• Private Bungalow: $229.95 for up to four people
• Sanctuary Bungalow: $299.95 for up to four people
• Up to two additional guests: $25.95 per person (sold onboard only)

Guests booked in any bungalow also enjoy priority tendering to Princess Cays (tendering back to the ship is on a first come first served basis).

Shopping on Princess Cays

Whether you’d like to pick up a few Bahamas souvenirs or just some essential beach day items you forgot to pack, there are several shopping spots at the resort to suit your needs.

Princess Cays has two indoor shopping venues: the Bahama Treasures Shop and Tropical Treasures Shop , both centrally located just north of the First Aid Station.

Here you’ll find beachy clothing for men, women, and kids, along with essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, flip flops, snorkel gear, and sand toys.

The shops also sell a nice selection of typical souvenirs including t-shirts, mugs, shot glasses, and other trinkets with a Bahamas theme.

More unusual souvenirs in these shops include crystal jewelry, dinnerware, leather accessories, and decorative wood carvings. You can even take home some of the famous Andros batik fabric , either by the yard or made into table linens or resort wear.

Outside there are several local vendors selling handmade crafts straw-market style. You’ll often see artisans weaving or making jewelry and other souvenirs you can purchase. Some will even personalize items for gift-giving!

Local vendor stalls are located near the indoor shops on the main part of the resort, as well as along the pathway to the beach over the bridge on the south side.

Although you can pay with your cruise card or medallion at the indoor shops, most of the local vendors accept cash only—although now a few are starting to accept credit/debit.

US or Bahamian dollars are both fine (the Bahamian dollar is tied to USD, so the value is the same). It’s a good idea to take some smaller bills with you for shopping because you’ll likely receive change in Bahamian dollars.

Amenities on Princess Cays

Princess Cays offers several amenities to make sure you’re comfortable on the island. Most importantly, there are plenty of clean restrooms with changing areas!

Restrooms are located near the First Aid Station as well as by the Private Bungalows, and there’s also a restroom block on the south side near the Sea Breeze Grill.

There aren’t any private shower facilities on Princess Cays, but there are several outdoor showers for a quick rinse scattered around the resort.

Lockers are available for daily rental, at $9.95 per day. You can buy a locker ticket via your online cruise planner, or on-island at one of the three locker rental stations.

You’ll find lockers in three spots: near the First Aid Station, at the Snorkel Rental near the Private Bungalows, and on the south side near the Reef Runner Bar.

Tip: Map out where you’ll spend most of the day before getting your locker key. Once you’ve committed to a locker location, you can’t switch to a locker in a different part of the resort.

The First Aid building , which you’ll see as soon as you exit the tender, is available for anyone needing emergency medical attention (or just a bandage or ice pack) during your visit.

Other points of interest at the resort

While you’re exploring Princess Cays, there are a few other points of interest you might like to check out.

Crow’s Neck Overlook

A popular spot on Princess Cays is the top of the Crow’s Nest Overlook, a three-story wooden structure next to the Grill Crazy BBQ.

Climb the steps to the top for a panoramic look at the resort and the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Be sure to take a selfie with the perfect unobstructed view of your ship just offshore!

Caretaker’s House

You might be wondering if anyone lives on Princess Cays (wouldn’t that be nice?) The resort employs a caretaker to provide maintenance to the resort year-round.

The Caretaker’s House , a small ranch-style home with a lovely screened porch, is just off the paved path near the shops and straw market. It’s not open to visit, but you can walk by and dream about living here!

Paradise Lagoon

The eastern side of the resort is bordered by Paradise Lagoon, a tranquil body of water where the kayaking excursions launch.

When there’s not a kayaking group getting ready to leave, you can enjoy gazing out at the water from the sandy beach behind Pelicans’ Perch.

Or head to Lagoon Lookout on the south side behind the restroom block.

Offshore Pavilion

Between North Beach and the snorkeling area is the Offshore Pavilion. This is a great spot to watch colorful fish swimming around its piers. It’s also a good place to snap a pic of your ship, especially if you don’t want to climb the stairs to the top of the Crow’s Nest.

How to get around Princess Cays

Unlike some private island destinations , Princess Cays isn’t huge—you can walk from one end to the other in about ten or fifteen minutes.

There isn’t a tram to get around the resort, but there are wide, paved walking paths from the tender area to the bungalows on the north side.

If you have mobility challenges, the north side of the resort is wheelchair-friendly, while the south side does have a few steps leading up to and down from the bridge that accesses that area.

However (as with many tender ports) wheelchair or scooter access on the tender boats isn’t guaranteed.

Most tenders aren’t roll-on accessible, and crew can’t assist in carrying guests or devices onto the boats. Check with your cruise line and the crew on board before your port day to see if you’re able to tender to the island.

Leaving Princess Cays to explore Eleuthera

Many cruisers wonder if leaving Princess Cays to visit the rest of the island of Eleuthera is a possibility. Pre-COVID, cruise lines did offer some excursions to see Eleuthera’s highlights. However, as of 2021, most of these excursions aren’t offered.

The only exception is the short Island Bike Adventure that lets you see a few scenic areas near the resort by pedal bike.

If you’d like to sightsee on your own, you can leave the resort area—but readily accessible transportation by taxi or bus is non-existent unless you make your own private arrangements before your visit.

The exit gate from Princess Cays is located near Love Boat Marina where the tenders dock. Walk back away from the water as if you were going to the southern part of Princess Cays, and you’ll see an open gate with a security guard on your left.

If you do choose to exit through the gate, be sure that all members of your party (including kids) have their passport or birth certificate / ID, cruise card or medallion, and vaccination card to re-enter the resort area.

In the past, there was usually another straw market set up just past the gate for some added shopping opportunities, but this wasn’t there during my last visit.

Quick tips for visiting Princess Cays

From my visits to Princess Cays, I’ve picked up a few tips and best practices to help you have the best beach day—especially if it’s your first time on the island!

Here are my top Princess Cays tips :

• Watch the daily newsletter (or the planner in your cruise line’s app) to find out when and where tender tickets will be handed out.
• Bring beach towels from the ship (and take advantage of the towel exchange stand to swap any wet towels for dry ones).
• Pack water shoes if you plan to swim or walk along the shore—many areas are rocky.
• Head to the south side of Princess Cays to avoid the crowds at the main beach.
• Choose a locker rental that’s in a location close to where you’ll be hanging out. The first lockers you’ll see aren’t close to the main beaches.
• Bring your own snorkel gear to save on expensive daily rental fees.
• Pack reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the live corals surrounding the island.
• Bring bug spray to combat the sand fleas on the beach.
• Plan to head back to the ship at least an hour before the last tender to avoid the “rush hour” crowds.

Helpful resources for your Caribbean cruise

• What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
• What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry On Bag
• Should Be Cruising’s Bahamas page
• Should Be Cruising’s Caribbean page

Princess Cays FAQ

Princess Cays is located in the Bahamas, on the southern end of the island of Eleuthera.

Princess Cays sits on 40+ acres of land and features more than a half-mile of sandy beaches.

The word “cay”, meaning a small, low island, is generally pronounced like the word “key”. Native Bahamians use this pronunciation. However, the pronunciation “kay” is also widely used. You’ll hear the ship’s crew and other passengers referring to the private destination as Princess “Key”, Princess “Keys”, Princess “Kay”, or Princess “Kays”. Locals, including the salespeople at the straw markets, tend to call the area Princess “Key”.

Princess Cays has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. Average highs in the winter months are around 75°F (24°C). Summer’s average high temps are around 88°F (31 °C). Winter tends to be the dry season at Princess Cays, while summers bring more rain and often daily thunderstorms. Hurricane season in the Bahamas runs from June 1 through November 30.

Princess Cays is Princess Cruises’ private island destination on the island of Eleuthera. The southern tip of Eleuthera is reserved for cruise guests, while the rest of the island is populated and open to the public.

As a private cruise line destination, Princess Cays is only accessible to guests visiting on a cruise ship.

Princess Cays is owned by Princess Cruises, which in turn is owned by Carnival Corporation.

Ships from both Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line visit Princess Cays on select Caribbean itineraries.

Only one cruise ship visits Princess Cays per day, allowing for an uncrowded experience.

Princess Cays is a tender port, meaning that guests reach the island via complimentary water shuttles from the cruise ship.

Beach chairs are complimentary on Princess Cays.

If you’re visiting on a Princess cruise, you can use your beverage package (except the specialty coffee package) on the island. Visitors on a Carnival cruise can’t use any shipboard drinks packages on Princess Cays.

A buffet-style beach BBQ lunch is provided for all guests at no charge. The buffet includes burgers, hot dogs, salad, side dishes, desserts, fresh fruit, and a selection of beverages including iced tea, lemonade, and water. Lunch is usually served from 11:30 AM until 1:30 PM.

Lockers are available in several locations around Princess Cays. Daily locker rental is $10 per day, and can be pre-purchased or paid for on the island.

Most areas on Princess Cays are wheelchair-accessible with wide, paved paths from the tender dock to the dining venue and bars, restrooms, straw market, and bungalow areas. However, wheelchair access to the island is at the captain’s discretion and is not guaranteed on the tender boats to and from the island. Consult with the cruise line before your cruise (and again with the crew on board) if you use a mobility device.

Princess Cays does not have a water park. There is one small children’s pool, located in the Pelicans’ Perch play area.

You’ll only need cash if you’d like to purchase souvenirs from the straw markets. All other purchases at the resort can be made with your cruise card or medallion.

There are small private bungalows for rent on Princess Cays, including adults-only bungalows in the exclusive Sanctuary area.

There are lifeguards on duty who monitor the main beaches. Less-busy beaches may not have lifeguards on duty in all areas.

Medallion Net WiFi is available (for a fee) for guests visiting Princess Cays on a Princess ship. The WiFi is not accessible to guests visiting on a Carnival cruise.

Cigarette smoking and vaping is permitted at Princess Cays, but only in designated smoking areas around the resort (look for signs or standing ashtrays). Smoking and vaping is also allowed at many of the open-air bars (look for ashtrays on the bar).

Have you been to Princess Cays on a Caribbean cruise? Or do you have a cruise planned that visits this private destination? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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Monday 22nd of November 2021

This answered any question I've ever had about Princess Cay.. and I had no clue what it looked like. Now that my youngest is out of diapers, looks like we can go! It looks so fun and that playground looks amazing. Thank you for putting together this awesome guide!

Tuesday 23rd of November 2021

Hi Linzey, I'm so happy you enjoyed reading my Princess Cays guide (and that your son is now old enough to enjoy it!) Thanks for stopping by and commenting :)

Mijia Eggers

Sunday 21st of November 2021

We stopped there for one day from one of our cruise trips. We rented a car and drove around the island with lots of fun. We can think of staying there for a week as well.

Hi Mijia, that sounds like such a fun day! I'd also like to spend a week on Eleuthera, even though you can't visit Princess Cays that way. It's such a beautiful island!

Saturday 20th of November 2021

Thanks for sharing! I found the FAQ section so helpful! I've never been on a cruise before, but now I'll need to consider one to visit Princess Cays! I also love your pictures--the water is so clear and beautiful!

Hi Pafoua, I'm so glad you liked my post on Princess Cays, and I know you're going to love your first cruise. Thanks for reading!

This place looks like paradise! I love the clear, turquoise water. And there is so much to do!! My top picks would be paddle-boarding, snorkeling, or sea kayaking. To snorkel in the live reefs and see the colorful marine life would be amazing.

Hi Ildiko, the snorkeling at Princess Cays is just fantastic! I hope you're able to visit and try all the activities there.

I would love to visit Bahamas one day. Thanks for the detailed guide on Princess Cays. Love the pictures as well.

Hi Kayy, I hope you can plan a visit to the Bahamas - visiting on a cruise is a great way to sample some of the islands! Thanks for reading :D

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Princess Cruises vs Carnival Cruises

Thursday, April 11th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Princess Cruises
• Best for retirees
• 16 ships in the fleet
• Sails to destinations worldwide
• Choose between Standard (cruise-only) and Princess Plus (includes drink package, Wi-Fi, and "Crew Appreciation" gratuities) fares

Princess Cruises tends to attract older guests on its sailings to destinations around the world. The 16 ships on this cruise line range from intimately-sized to large, from the petite Pacific Princess to the super-sized Royal Princess. The company offers Standard and Princess Plus fares, with the latter including a drink package, Wi-Fi, and gratuities. Princess Cruises is known for its excellent food and beverage offerings, with a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and preferences. While families with children are certainly welcome on Princess sailings, the onboard activities are definitely geared towards the more "seasoned" guests. However, this cruise line is still a reliable option with many desirable itineraries to choose from.

• Carnival Cruises
• Best for a party atmosphere and cruising on a budget
• Good for US port departures, with additional destinations in Europe

Carnival Cruise Line is a popular and affordable American cruise line that operates 24 ships sailing to destinations all over the world, catering to families, couples, and groups of friends. The defining characteristic of Carnival is its focus on fun and entertainment, all for less money than its rivals in the industry. However, Carnival cruises have a party atmosphere - great for some adults, not as desirable for cruising with children - and lower safety rankings, with several incidents involving Carnival ships, including fires, power outages, and mechanical failures. You'll get more for your money, and a better overall onboard experience, with a higher-ranked cruise line.

More Cruise Line Reviews

• Royal Caribbean

• Disney Cruise Line

• Celebrity Cruises

• Virgin Voyages

• Viking Cruises

• Regent Seven Seas

• Norwegian Cruise Line

• Holland America

• MSC Cruises

The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

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Bigger ship, better views: 3 takeaways from Princess Cruises' newest vessel

I was rushing to make my dinner reservation on Princess Cruises’ new ship. But when I arrived at the restaurant, the view made me stop.

From the windows at the sushi eatery Makoto Ocean – part of a sphere-shaped structure near the middle of the vessel – I saw the sun sinking below the horizon, a reddish-orange dot on the Mediterranean Sea. The Sun Princess facilitates scenes like that by design.

“We wanted to make sure that within how we designed the (venues) and placed the furniture, we gave maximum opportunity for our guests to be able to celebrate those outward views,” Denise Saviss, Princess’ vice president of entertainment experience, told USA TODAY. “It is really, really unique to have so much glass on the ship.”

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That was one of several striking features during a recent sailing (the ship is now cruising the Mediterranean before it moves to the Caribbean in October). Here are three takeaways from the first in the line’s aptly named Sphere Class.

1. The design showcases views at sea and in port

Makoto isn’t the only venue that offers that kind of view.

Other spaces inside the Sphere – which also houses lobby-slash-entertainment venue The Piazza – feature similarly sweeping vistas across decks 7, 8 and 9. I watched the light sparkle on the water while I sipped coffee one morning at International Café, and patrons dining at Alfredo’s Pizzeria can take in the scenery during their meal from many seats.

That’s also true elsewhere on the ship. At Horizons Dining Room, floor-to-ceiling windows face the ship’s wake. At the other end of the vessel, the Dome, a geodesic structure that Princess has said was inspired by the hills of Santorini, is like a massive solarium.

The space – which will also host shows including acrobatics – has multiple tiers of loungers, an indoor-outdoor pool and the Cascade Bar (which comes in handy for cooling off, as it felt a bit muggy in the Dome at one point on a sunny sea day).

The overall effect helped to bring the outside in.

2. The ship is bigger but still intimate

Sun Princess is the largest ship in the Princess fleet, and the 21-deck vessel can accommodate 4,300 guests. But that doesn’t mean everything is huge.

Given the scale of the offerings, a number of spaces on board feel notably intimate. One night, I walked to Good Spirits at Sea, a cocktail bar crafted in partnership with mixologist Rob Floyd that also hosts classes, and thought I was lost before stumbling upon it tucked around a corner on Deck 7. Inside, the 40-person venue offered a laid-back alternative to other more boisterous nightlife options.

On Deck 9, the ship’s buffet-like venue, The Eatery, gives way to narrower hallways toward the aft with backlit wood paneling and benches. At the end, they open back up to reveal specialty restaurants The Catch by Rudi and The Butcher’s Block by Dario (from Princess’ head of culinary arts, Rudi Sodamin, and in partnership with famed butcher Dario Cecchini, respectively).

Even the multi-configuration Princess Arena felt cozier than its near-1,000-guest capacity would suggest. I sat in the second-to-last row of my section for a performance by the vocal group ODY·C and was still close enough to see clearly.

3. The line leans into family-friendly activities

Part of Sun Princess’ expanded footprint has been used to broaden the line’s family offerings.

Park19, a new space on the ship’s top decks, features a variety of activities in an open-air setting. Saviss said the line worked to balance the interests of core customers and a growing family market “and make sure we're prioritizing spaces that everybody can enjoy.”

“There are some attractions that I think naturally, at first blush, people would say, ‘Oh, it's just for kids,’ but actually, the space is really comprehensive,” she said. “Our attractions are available for many different levels of ability and mobility.”

Those include Coastal Climb, an obstacle course that culminates in 360-degree views from The Lookout observation deck (the highest point accessible to guests on the ship, also reachable via elevator) and The Net ropes course.

On Sea Breeze, billed as the first Rollglider on a cruise ship, passengers will glide along the outer edges of the ship on an electric track (the ride will also be ADA-accessible, though Saviss said some mobility is required for maneuvering into the seat).

It’s as close as the ship gets to an amusement park (Princess’ version). “We're not running the rat race, if you will, of like, who can do it bigger, better,” Saviss said. “If you want to just have a really incredible bird's-eye view of Sun Princess, and in and around where the ship is sailing, you can do that. But there is an option to push a little lever while you're riding it and dial up the speed a bit faster, and then it does become a bit more thrilling.”

The ride was not yet available when I was on board, as the line moved through a testing, certification and training process, but is expected to open on April 27. Sun Princess’ original launch was delayed with the cruise line citing “additional technical work” needed at the shipyard, which pushed back the opening of some onboard amenities.

When is the best time to take a cruise?: We broke it down by region.

There is also a hammock area to chill when guests need a break, a recreational court that can host activities from pingpong to morning meditation, a jogging track and more. Elsewhere on board, guests will find the Firefly Park kids club and hangout spaces Neon Grove and The Underground for tweens and teens, respectively.

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Princess Cruises. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bigger ship, better views: 3 takeaways from Princess Cruises' newest vessel

Which cruise lines does Carnival own? Here’s a list of cruise lines owned by Carnival Corp.

Carnival Corporation & PLC owns and operates many popular cruise brands, including namesake brand Carnival Cruise Line, also the corporation's largest.

Nine cruise lines fall under the Carnival umbrella, making it the largest parent company in the cruise industry. You've likely heard of Carnival Cruise Line but may be less familiar with the smaller brands in the group.

Here's a full list of cruise brands owned by Carnival Corporation & PLC.

For more cruise guides, news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Aida Cruises

Aida might not be familiar to you, but that's by design. It caters fully to a German-speaking market, which means North Americans might find it difficult to mingle with fellow passengers and crew if they sailed on one of the line's 12 ships.

Aida's vessels are painted with the line's trademark faces, featuring yellow eyes, blue eyeshadow and bright red lips.

The line became part of Carnival Corp. in 2003, when the corporation merged with P&O Princess Cruises, which included Aida, P&O, P&O Australia and Princess.

Carnival Cruise Line

Founded in 1972 by Ted Arison, Carnival Cruise Line started out with just one secondhand ship, Mardi Gras. Since then, it has grown to be the industry's largest cruise brand with more than two dozen vessels currently in operation, all of which were built specifically for the line (including one of its newest, also named Mardi Gras in honor of the original ship).

Carnival refers to its fleet as the "fun ships," offering a lively onboard atmosphere that focuses on pool parties, game shows and original entertainment. It prides itself on friendly service and a plethora of casual yet delectable dining venues. The line is an excellent choice for families, and it offers both short and long voyages at a variety of price points that make cruising affordable for most travelers.

Related: All you need to know about Carnival

Costa Cruises

Carnival Corp. took full ownership of Italian line Costa Cruises in 2000 after originally obtaining just 50% in 1997. The brand largely serves the Italian cruise demographic in the Mediterranean. In 2022, following the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown, Carnival Corp. transferred some of Costa's ships to Carnival Cruise Line, touting "Fun Italian Style" and offering North Americans a taste of what Costa has to offer.

Like its North America-based counterparts, Costa sails ships that include several restaurants, bars and entertainment venues but with an Italian flare – right down to gondola decor and pasta galore.

Cunard Line

The Carnival parent company took over a majority stake in Cunard in 1998, but the brand's history began in 1840, when a Canadian war veteran established a fleet of steam-powered ferries and, later, ocean liners.

Throughout the years, Cunard vessels have been responsible for serving in wars, transporting immigrants and running transatlantic routes between the U.S. and Europe. The line started out offering necessary transportation but eventually pivoted to the luxurious leisure travel for which the line is known today.

On board, try a fencing class, learn flower arranging, or enjoy a full-service afternoon tea with real clotted cream served by white-gloved waiters.

Related: All you need to know about Cunard

Holland America Line

Acquired by Carnival Corp. in 1989, Holland America also carries a rich history dating back to 1873. It initially sailed transatlantic voyages that ferried immigrants between The Netherlands and New York City.

The line currently relies heavily on its heritage to inform its current identity. On board, passengers will find excellent food, music and customer service, all of which tend to draw slightly older passengers and multigenerational family groups.

Related: All you need to know about Holland America

P&O Australia

P&O Australia was acquired by Carnival in 2003, and it remains the only cruise line in the world that caters entirely to Australian passengers who enjoy fun-in-the-sun cruises.

With just three ships in its fleet, the line is small but specific, offering round-trip voyages from Sydney and Brisbane in Australia and sailing throughout the Australia and New Zealand regions.

P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is the U.K. counterpart to P&O Australia, providing a fun and affordable cruise experience for Brits.

It features an onboard vibe that's slightly more upscale than sister brand Carnival but at a similar price point and with decidedly English touches, such as an absolutely scrumptious — and free — afternoon tea.

Like several of Carnival Corp.'s other brands, the line came under the umbrella in 2003 during the P&O Princess Cruises merger.

Princess Cruises

Princess was rolled under the Carnival umbrella in 2003 when Carnival Corp. combined with P&O Princess Cruises.

Princess' ships walk the line between courting older passengers with their connection to popular 1980s television show "The Love Boat" and staying current with technological advancements that include the industry's first fleetwide wearable, the OceanMedallion . As a result, the line appeals to a variety of passengers of all ages, including couples hoping to share a romantic vacation.

Related: All you need to know about Princess

Seabourn Cruise Line

In 1992, Carnival Corp. acquired a 25% stake in Seabourn before purchasing the entire brand outright in 2001. The luxury cruise line, which includes things like alcohol, Wi-Fi and gratuities in its fares, sails a fleet of lovely ships with a focus on high-end furnishings and next-level service.

Seabourn also began offering expedition sailings with a couple of vessels that were built specifically for cruises to rugged, far-flung and less-traveled destinations that include the Arctic and the Galapagos.

Related: All you need to know about Silversea

Carnival Corp. FAQ

Does carnival own royal caribbean.

No. Royal Caribbean International is owned and operated by the Royal Caribbean Group, which also includes Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises , among other brands.

Does Carnival own Disney Cruise Line?

No. Disney Cruise Line is owned by The Walt Disney Company.

Is Princess owned by Carnival?

Yes. Princess Cruises is owned and operated by Carnival Corporation & PLC.

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'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Cheers broke out on Holland America Line’s Koningsdam ship when the total solar eclipse began on Monday.

Off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico, passengers were perched on loungers, reclining on beach towels and lining the railings of Deck 14 with cameras on tripods at the ready. When the sliver of fiery orange that remained of the sun disappeared, a black circle ringed by white light took its place. Passengers applauded the moment they'd been awaiting since the ship departed from San Diego on Friday.

The sunny, 72-degree weather – quintessential cruise weather – gave way to chilly wind and late morning’s best impression of sunset. The horizon line glowed orange in the dusky sky.

Cruise ships can help take guests to the path of totality for eclipses, allowing passengers to get a prime viewing spot and make a vacation of it.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun as it moves between the sun and Earth.

While the sun is about 400 times bigger than the moon, the moon is roughly 400 times closer to Earth. “In the past, the moon was much closer, and in the future, the moon will be much further away,” said Adam Burgasser, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of California, San Diego, and director of the Cool Star Lab, who served as an onboard expert during the cruise. “And so we're in a special time, which, of course, lasts for billions of years, where it's set up just right to block out the sun.”

Total solar eclipses take place about every 18 months on average, but the last one visible from the U.S. was in 2017 .

The phenomenon creates a multi-sensory experience, with a cold front moving in ahead of the eclipse. “You block the sun, and it gets cold,” said Burgasser. “It’s actually just that simple. And it's slow enough that the atmosphere can react.”

Plants and animals respond, too: Birds often begin to chirp, plants may close up, and nocturnal will come out. “It’s kind of an all-around-you experience where it's not just the fact that the sun has been blocked that’s so fascinating, but just the effect it has on the entire environment.” Those effects weren’t easily discernible on Koningsdam, though, which was about 150 miles from shore.

Nicole Chaput, a 57-year-old passenger from Calgary in Canada, said partial and total eclipses are “totally different.”

“I heard someone describe it as being partly pregnant,” she said. “You can’t do it. There’s no comparison.”

What makes a cruise a good place to see an eclipse?

Bad weather can wreck even the best-laid viewing plans. If a city in the path of totality has overcast skies, it can be tough to quickly move to an alternate site.

“If you're on a cruise ship and a little bit farther to the east or a little bit farther to the west along the path, there's clear sky, the ship can move,” said Dan Jarrell, who was on the cruise with his wife, Kay, and friends. The Washington, D.C.-area resident has seen solar eclipses with friends during two other sailings, including on Holland America’s Veendam in 1998.

“If you're on land and there's not a road there, you’d better have a tank,” Jarrell said.

That’s where a cruise ship comes in handy. “Having the ability to map out based on what the current weather is where you can catch the eclipse, and having a range over the course of the ocean where you could chase that a little bit is certainly helpful,” Burgasser added.

Capt. Ane Smit, Master aboard Holland America’s Zaandam for the viewing, said the ship can move at a maximum of 20 knots, so the crew needs to scout out the conditions with enough time to move as needed.

“If it's not good enough, we really need to start finding another spot because we are not the quickest vehicle, of course, to be driving around, but we have the luxury of being able to go in any direction without any restriction,” he said. “It’s a pretty wide highway that we have.”

The view of the horizon also allows passengers to “see that shadow coming in and leaving more so than you can in a topographical area,” said Burgasser. Being in the ocean away from city lights is also helpful for seeing stars and other parts of the sky usually only visible at night.

The cruise line also made the practicalities of watching an eclipse easier: eclipse glasses were distributed to guests’ staterooms and Burgasser guided guests through the event via the ship’s speaker system, before and after totality.

More eclipse cruises on the horizon

If you missed your chance to see it this time or want another go, Holland America has more eclipse-viewing opportunities on the books.

“Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's Vice President of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, said in an email. Details have not yet been released.

Other cruise lines offer similar opportunities as well. Princess Cruises' Emerald Princess was near Koningsdam on Monday.

Chaput, the Canadian passenger, said she’s been “chasing” total solar eclipses since seeing her first one in 1991. Monday’s eclipse marked her seventh viewing and second on a cruise ship.

“I think it’s just such an amazing natural phenomenon,” she said. “It’s seeing science in action.”

Contributing: Josh Rivera, USA TODAY

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Holland America Line. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected]

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Hannah Waddingham Shares This 'Beautiful Honor' with Princess Diana, Kate Middleton: 'Pinch Me' (Exclusive)

The ‘Ted Lasso’ star opened up to PEOPLE about being named Godmother of Princess Cruises’ newest and biggest ship ever, the Sun Princess

Natalia Senanayake is an Editorial Assistant, Lifestyle at PEOPLE. She covers all things travel and home, from celebrities' luxury mansions to breaking travel news.

Mackenzie Schmidt is the Home and Travel Editor for PEOPLE. She's worked at PEOPLE for over five years as a writer and editor on the Lifestyle team.

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic; James Morgan/Getty Images for Princess Cruises

Hannah Waddingham is following in the footsteps of a few famous royals in her newest role.

The Ted Lasso star has officially been named Godmother of Princess Cruise Line 's new Sun Princess ship following its maiden voyage in February, PEOPLE can exclusively reveal. As part of the cruising tradition , the actress will take on the responsibility of “christening” the new ship with luck as it embarks on its many voyages across the high seas. 

Waddingham tells PEOPLE exclusively how meaningful it is to be the ship’s Godmother, especially because of the women who also share the same title.

“I couldn’t believe I have been asked to be a ship Godmother, having grown up around boats all my life and my grandfather was in the Atlantic Convoy in the Navy,” says the actress, who next stars in The Fall Guy . “To be asked to be a part of this beautiful honor is a ‘pinch me’ moment.”

Frazer Harrison/Getty; Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty; Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty

She continues: “I am also honored to be in the esteemed company with previous Godparents to Princess Ships including Diana , Princess of Wales, Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales Kate Middleton , Audrey Hepburn , Martha Stewart , and many others.” 

The Emmy-nominated actress adds that a big “privilege and pleasure” for her as Godmother is sending the 4,300 guests that the ship can hold “on their way safely with a big hug.” 

James Morgan/Getty Images for Princess Cruises

The Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas actress has recently been celebrating a raucous awards season with her Ted Lasso co-stars after the beloved show's third season concluded  last May. Asked which character would be the biggest cruiser in real life, Waddingham says Ted ( Jason Sudeikis ) is the perfect fit. 

“I think Ted would be the biggest cruiser,” she says, adding that “his positive, warm, loving, can-do attitude” would thrive on the getaway and calls out "trivia in Princess Live" and "Spellbound by Magic Castle" as experiences the ever-optimistic soccer coach would easily get on board with.

The next potential cruise lover that comes to mind for Waddingham is Keely, played by Juno Temple , thanks to her “positive and warm disposition,” she says. 

She adds that the stars of the hit Apple TV+ sports comedy would be the best company on any group vacation — especially on a cruise. 

“Anywhere the cast of Ted Lasso goes, we would have the best kind of party! We would all be down for a party on a beautiful ship. We love each other so much we would have fun being trapped together in an elevator,” she jokes.  

The Sun Princess officially set sail on its 10-day maiden voyage through the Mediterranean on Feb. 28. The massive ship, which weighs 177,882 tons, departed from Rome and made stops in Naples; Crete, Greece; Kusadasi, Turkey; Athens; Sicily; Mallorca; and Barcelona. 

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As the largest ship in Princess Cruises history, the Sun Princess is equipped with eye-catching features like the glass Dome “inspired by the terraces of Santorini,” a press release from the cruise line states. 

In the suspended Sphere Atrium, guests can enjoy indoor/outdoor living and soak in stunning views of the endless ocean. Additional breathtaking features include the three-story main dining room, two-level Lotus Spa and the casino, which is the cruise line’s largest to date.

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