cruises on emerald princess

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Emerald Princess

Cruise line Princess Cruises

• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)
• Los Angeles (Long Beach-San Pedro, California)
• Southampton (England)
• Boston (Massachusetts)

Emerald Princess current position

Emerald Princess current location is at North West Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 20.26158 N / -68.21626 W) cruising at speed of 20.5 kn (38 km/h | 24 mph) en route to Grand Turk Island. The AIS position was reported 19 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Emerald Princess

Emerald Princess current cruise is 10 days, round-trip Southern Caribbean with Martinique , themed as "Art". The itinerary starts on 20 Apr, 2024 and ends on 30 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Emerald Princess

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Emerald Princess Itineraries

Emerald princess review, review of emerald princess.

The 2007-built Emerald Princess cruise ship is the 8th Grand-class Princess Cruises liner, with sisterships the fleetmates Caribbean , Diamond , Golden (now Pacific Adventure) , Grand , Crown , Ruby , Star (now Pacific Encounter) and Sapphire .

The vessel (IMO number 9333151) is currently Bermuda- flagged (MMSI 310531000) and registered in Hamilton .

History - construction and ownership

Princess Cruises is a USA-based passenger shipping company headquartered in Beverly Hills CA. A former subsidiary of P&O Princess Cruises (1977-founded), in 2003, the company merged with Carnival Corporation - the world's largest cruise shipowner. Among Princess Cruise Lines Ltd's assets is the Caribbean private island resort Princess Cays (on Bahamas Eleuthera Island's southern end), located approx 80 km (50 mi) from Nassau .

The 3100-passenger ship Emerald Princess follows the highly evolutionary Crown Princess cruise ship, whose debut took place in March 2006. The vessels are virtually the same in layout and design, so if travelers have sailed on Crown, they will not have any trouble finding their way around Emerald or Ruby (which followed in 2008). But for those who have not traveled on Princess' Grand-class vessels, or for cruisers for whom an Emerald Princess sailing is their first cruise with the line, the ship is going to surprise, and in most cases, delight them with far higher levels of kitchen, service and facilities than passengers would expect on a stylish, mega-vessel catering to over 3000 passengers.

Decks and Cabins

Most Emerald Princess staterooms (1533 total, in 33 grades) are 170-ft2 balcony cabins (676). Almost 80% of all outside cabins have a private step-out balcony. Wheelchair-accessible cabins are 31. The largest accommodations are the Balcony Suites (410 ft2 / 38 m2, with terrace sized 180 ft2 / 17 m2).

The boat has 18 decks , of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 8 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Emerald Princess features three dining rooms, all offering a tasteful, Caribbean-themed menu. Botticelli is for fixed-seating dining, while Michaelangelo and Da Vinci are for passengers who have chosen "Anytime Dining". Reservations are available but are not required. Da Vinci also welcomes guests for waiter-service breakfast and lunch. Rotating menu options include soups, appetizers, mains and desserts. There are also signature pasta and choices like Caesar salad and salmon.

The healthy Lotus Spa selections are low in sodium and fat. Steamers Seafood (fka Cafe Caribe) and World Fresh Marketplace (fka Horizon Court) look identical and are open all day long. The Horizon section serves as a lido buffet restaurant and features breakfast buffets. Lunch choices may include unusual dishes like peanut butter sandwiches and fried bananas.

There is also the Italian-styled Piazza/Atrium, around which are located the International Cafe (with its wonderful coffees and scrumptious pastries, quiche and chocolate fondue); across the way is Vines, ship's wine and sushi bar (it got the only really good wine list onboard).

In January 2016, celebrity chef Curtis Stone teamed up with Princess Cruises for his first-at-sea specialty restaurant serving high-quality, inventive food. Share replaced the signature Italian Sabatini's and introduced new bedding, dining options, entertainment and more. Share is only open for dinner and applies a $39 cover charge. Its menu features five areas from which to select multiple dishes and a charcuterie platter. It's hard to order only one of each, as there are enticing recipes like a twice-cooked duck with fennel, parmesan crumb and bacon jus; or shrimp salad with turnip, citrus salt, brioche and lemon gel.

Share is only found on board Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess , for now. "Crafted by Curtis" dishes are on the MDR menus fleetwide. If you wonder why to pay extra at Share, here are the cool things about the brand new Curtis Stone restaurant which make it worth the splurge. Food like this can't be found anywhere else on the ship.

Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess are simple when it comes to dining venues. Before Share, both ships had three main dining rooms, a steakhouse and a buffet, all of which were average in terms of overall experience and quality. From its celebrity chef to its natural ingredients and perfectly sized portions, you won't find food like Share's anywhere else on the ship.

Perfect for couples and large groups. This space is open, airy and large, with long tables and more intimate seating arrangements. Large groups have enough room to engage and share dishes. Couples can enjoy more peace and quiet. The ambience is upscale, yet not stuffy. Share's family-style dining and chic decor allow guests to dress their best and still feel relaxed. Passengers will feel more like they're in someone's home, talking and passing plates across the table.

Service at Share is second to none. The wait staff is knowledgeable about the menu and all ingredients handpicked by the celebrity chef's team. According to Stone: "The enthusiasm in that kitchen right now is actually unparalleled to anything I've ever done; they're so energetic and so up for it."

Guests will have room for dessert. Appetizers, entrees and dessert options, complementing a cheese plate, are conservative in size. Passengers will not only expand their palate by picking at multiple dishes but will also be able to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Follows the complete list of Emerald Princess restaurants and food bars.

• Michaelangelo Restaurant (ship's aft Dining Room; dinner only - offers “Anytime Dining” between 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.)
• Crown Grill (160-seat steakhouse/seafood restaurant, reservations recommended; on select days serves British Pub Lunch, complimentary)
• Da Vinci Restaurant (ship's forward Dining Room for Breakfast 7-9 a.m., Lunch 12-1:30 p.m., Afternoon Tea 3:30-4:30 p.m.; features “Anytime Dining” for Dinner between 5:30-8 p.m. or 8-10 p.m.)
• Botticelli Restaurant (dinner only aft Dining Room; with 2 fixed seatings at 6 p.m. or 8:15 p.m.)
• Share (ex-Sabatini’s Italian specialty restaurant; reservations recommended)
• Trident Grill & Prego Pizzeria (self-service, complimentary fast food bar)
• World Fresh Marketplace (fka Horizon Court) is the ship's self-service buffet restaurant (complimentary) on Lido Deck (deck 15/pool deck).
• Steamers Seafood (fka Cafe Caribe) is an aft self-service buffet restaurant located aft on Lido Deck /pool deck.
• Pizza & Ice Cream Bar (complimentary)

In April 2024 Princess Cruises announced that starting September 14th (2024) fleetwide would be introduced 3 distinct main dining/dinner table service options – Traditional, Reservable, and Walk-in Anytime. By the new program (introduced with Sun Princess) on each ship are allocated 3 separate dining rooms - one for Traditional dining (offering early and late dinner seating), one with Reservable times, and one for Walk-in Anytime (open-seating). The new options are integrated with the OceanNow service, allowing anything to be ordered anytime, and delivered anywhere onboard.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The Princess Emerald Theater is the main venue on Emerald Princess for comedy acts and production shows with a variety of music and selections appealing to a broad mix of ages. Each of the ship's venues has a different offering. Crooners feature music trivia contests and a pianist. Explorer's Lounge hosts events for everything from Wii sports tournaments to art auctions, plus comedy shows and magicians.

The Piazza offers various demonstrations, circus-lite acts and musical performances throughout the day. Club Fusion is a part game show, part nightclub venue. Skywalker Nightclub, Princess' trademark, hosts 70s-, 80s- and 90s-inspired nights and a few nights with a variety of modern music.

For low-key dancing, head to the Wheelhouse Bar, which hosts combos playing standards and soft rock.

Follows the complete list of Emerald Princess lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens and adults.

• The Piazza Atrium (3-deck open floor area; features live performances entertainment and lobby Bar Piazza)
• Princess Fine Arts Gallery; Photo Gallery & Shop; Platinum Studio
• International Cafe (24-hour specialty coffee bar and patisserie); Escapes Travel Cafe (computer room)
• Vines Bar (wine/seafood/sushi bar)
• Library (with Internet stations); Internet Cafe (24-hour)
• Princess Emerald Theatre (2-level musical and show productions; hosts workshops, seminars, game shows)
• Speakeasy Lounge & Bar (smoking lounge and sports bar)
• Calypso Cove Shop; Essence Shop; Meridian Bay Shop; Facets Shop
• Gatsby’s Casino
• Crooners Lounge & Bar (live music; also used for seminars); Adagio Lounge & Bar
• Explorers Lounge & Bar (disco/show lounge; hosts karaoke, comedy, game shows and art auctions)
• Wheelhouse Bar (piano bar during the day and an English pub nightly)
• Club Fusion Lounge (hosts dance classes and quizzes, after 7:30 p.m. becomes Disco & Nightclub)
• Outrigger Bar (poolside bar); Tradewinds Bar
• Emerald’s Lotus Spa complex; Beauty Salon; Fitness Center (with Aerobics Studio)
• Hearts & Minds (Wedding Chapel)
• Movies Under the Stars (LED screen outdoor cinema)
• Video Games Arcade; Teen Center; Youth Center with Paddling Pool and outdoor playing areas
• The Sanctuary (adult-only open-air area)
• Calypso Reef & Pool area; Neptune’s Reef & Pool area
• Jogging Track; Center Court (volleyball, basketball, European football); Shuffleboard; Princess Links mini golf course
• Skywalkers Disco Nightclub.

Emerald Princess 2016 refurbishment review

The ship's drydock refurbishment in 2015 November 30 - December 13) was for general maintenance (no deck plan changes were announced ahead).

However, during the dry dock, an extensive refurbishment plan was implemented targeting ship’s spring-summer 2016 cruises from the UK. The 2016 deck plans changes and news include:

• Two new premium dining venues were added. The new “Share” is a family-style restaurant by Curtis Stone (an Australian celebrity chef). Its menu features charcuterie (pork meat products) and also homemade pasta. The new “Salty Dog Gastropub” cuisine experience (by chef Ernesto Uchimura) is provided by a classic pub menu offered nightly in the Wheelhouse Bar (on Promenade Dec 7) with craft beers and pub favourites served in small plates.
• On Deck 16, “Share” replaced the Sabatini’s” – the Italian restaurant, which is also featured on the Princess ships Coral, Ruby and Sun. “Salty Dog Gastropub” was introduced for the first time on the Crown ship (in 2015 October) and will also be introduced on the Ruby ship.
• Passenger cabins upgrades include the line’s new luxury mattress.
• Ship’s gym was upgraded with new sports equipment and free weights.
• 100 cruise staterooms became “family cabins” after being fitted with interconnecting doors.

Itineraries

Emerald Princess itinerary program is based on cruises to Norway's fjords, Baltic, Mediterranean sea and the Canary Islands. The European homeport is Southampton (England UK) . In November 2016, the boat inaugurated homeporting in Sydney NSW (Australia) .

In July 2022 was opened for sale Emerald Princess' summer 2023 season (May-August). The Hawaii-Mexico-California Coast program is based on homeporting in Los Angeles/Long Beach (California USA) and a series of 5- to 16-day long itineraries.

• 7-day "Mexican Riviera with La Paz" (June-July) visists Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, Ensenada.
• 16-day "Hawaiian Islands" (May-June-July-August) visits Hilo, Honolulu, Maui/Lahaina, Kauai/Nawiliwili, Ensenada. 7-day "Classic California Coast" (May-June-July) visits San Francisco (overnight), Ensenada, San Diego.
• 5-day "Cabo San Lucas Getaway" (May) visits Cabo San Lucas (overnight).
• 5-day "West Coast Getaway with San Francisco" (July) visits Ensenada.

WIth the Diamond and Emerald ships, Princess Cruises marked its first year-round voyages out of LA.

Emerald Princess - user reviews and comments

Photos of emerald princess.

Emerald Princess ship related cruise news

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Emerald Princess Wiki

The Fincantieri Monfalcone -built Princess Cruises Emerald ship is from the company's Grand-class series, with (same-designed) sisterhips Crown and Ruby . The other (similarly-designed) liners in this class are Caribbean , Diamond , Golden (Pacific Adventure) , Grand , Sapphire , Star (Pacific Encounter) .

The ship was delivered in March 2007. The christening ceremony was held on May 13, 2017, in Port Piraeus (Athens Greece) . The cruise ship has four godmothers - the actresses Florence Henderson, Marion Ross, Erin Moran and Susan Olsen. The naming ceremony was preceded by the inaugural cruise (maiden voyage) - which is not the common practice. The voyage started from Port Civitavecchia-Rome , cruising around the Greek Isles and other Mediterranean destinations. The ship spent its summer 2007 season in Europe, then was repositioned to Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) for roundtrip Caribbean itineraries.

Emerald Princess refurbishment 2016 review

The ship's last major drydock refurbishment was in 2019 (April 1-14) in Victoria BC (Canada) . The vessel was in drydock in 2015 (November 30 through December 13) initially scheduled for general maintenance works only, and without planned deckplan changes. However, during the drydocking, an extensive refurbishment plan was implemented targeting the spring-summer 2016 voyages out of the UK.

The deckplan changes following drydock 2016 included:

• Two new premium dining venues were added. The new “Share” is a family-style restaurant by Curtis Stone (an Australian celebrity chef). Its menu features charcuterie (pork meat products) and also homemade pasta. The new “Salty Dog Gastropub” cuisine experience (by chef Ernesto Uchimura) is provided by a classic pub menu offered nightly in the Wheelhouse Bar (on Promenade Dec 7) with craft beers and pub favorites served in small plates.
• Passenger cabin upgrades included Princess' new luxury mattress.
• The Gym was upgraded with new sports equipment and free weights.
• 100 staterooms became "family cabins" after being fitted with interconnecting doors.

The ship's last drydocking was in 2022, conducted at Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam in Port Rotterdam (Netherlands) .

Emerald Princess® Cruise Ship

Grand in design, this magnificent vessel offers a host of delightful diversions as you see the world.

• Inaugural Cruise: April 11, 2007
• Christener: Florence Henderson and Susan Olsen (From The Brady Bunch), Erin Moran and Marion Ross (From Happy Days)
• Guest Cabins: 1,539
• Number of Decks: 19
• Tonnage: 113,561
• Length: 951 feet
• Height: 195 feet

Your culinary journey at sea reaches new heights with an abundance of fresh restaurant choices and dining options aboard Emerald Princess. From revitalized top deck venues like Salty Dog Grill, Slice Pizzeria and Coffee & Cones to brand new casual restaurants Steamers Seafood and Planks BBQ there’s something for every palate. Let the kids play, explore, huddle and create at the newly re-imagined Camp Discovery Youth & Teen Centers and unwind at the refreshed Sanctuary, a tranquil haven reserved for adults.

Your Vacation – Effortless. Personalized.

Make your vacation truly yours on a Princess MedallionClass® cruise that features next-level technology, now on all ships. Enjoy fast, reliable Wi-Fi, TrulyTouchless™ experiences, food and drinks delivered wherever you are and so much more.

Learn more about Princess MedallionClass | Learn more about MedallionNet® Internet  

Accommodations

From the moment you step aboard, we want you to feel welcomed and right at home. And with attentive service from a friendly staff that knows what hospitality means, you’ll find your Princess® ship truly is your home away from home.

Photos, floor plan diagrams, amenities, and furnishings represent typical arrangements and may vary by ship and stateroom.

Truly Luxurious Accommodations at Sea

Mini-suite with exclusive vip touches, add an element of luxury to your stay, front row seat for beautiful scenery, a room with a view, our most affordable option, perfect for large groups, for guests with limited mobility, included dining.

Indulge your appetite whenever you wish on board Princess®. Every hour, our chefs are busy baking, grilling and sautéing great-tasting fare from scratch. Princess offers unparalleled inclusive dining options throughout the ship with a wide range of culinary delights to suit any palate, from endless buffet choice to gourmet pizza, frosty treats, decadent desserts and much more. 1

Dine My Way℠

Dine when, how and where you like.

International Café

Sip and snack around the clock.

World Fresh Marketplace

The Salty Dog Grill

Slice Pizzeria

Coffee & Cones

Specialty dining.

Dining on board a Princess® cruise ship is a joyful celebration and our specialty restaurants always deliver an extraordinary experience. They are among the best at sea – or anywhere. We serve dishes made with the freshest ingredients, and our menus reflect regional flavors from around the world. You'll find our specialty restaurants are the perfect place to celebrate any occasion. 1

Timeless Steakhouse Traditions

Crafted burgers, exclusive glimpse into the princess kitchen, wines from around the world, a private breakfast with a view.

On every Princess ship, you'll find so many ways to play, day or night. Explore The Shops of Princess, celebrate cultures at our Festivals of the World or learn a new talent — our onboard activities will keep you engaged every moment of your cruise vacation. 1

Discovery at SEA Programs

Discover even more with discovery™.

Vegas Style Casino

For novices, casual players, or high rollers.

Take a Stroll into the European-style Piazza

The Shops of Princess

Tax and duty-free shopping.

Art Gallery & Auctions

Art lovers rejoice—enjoy exquisite art aboard.

Photo Gallery

Take home a unique photo keepsake.

Freshwater Pools & Hot Tubs

Soak in a world of relaxation.

Sports Court

Get in the game with a variety of activities.

Princess Links

Practice your putt and play like a champion.

Internet Café & Library

Keep in touch while cruising at sea.

Afternoon Tea

Celebration of tasty teas and divine desserts, entertainment.

Original musicals, dazzling magic shows, feature films, top comedians and nightclubs that get your feet movin’ and groovin’. There’s something happening around every corner; luckily, you have a whole cruise of days and nights to experience it all. 1

Movies Under the Stars®

A reel treat day or night.

Original Musical Productions

Great venues large and small.

Music & Dancing

Dazzling entertainment every day and night.

Featured Guest Entertainers

At night, the stars shine bright on our stages.

Princess Theater

Broadway-style productions at sea.

Club Fusion

One of our most popular nightspots.

Skywalkers Nightclub

Reach for the sky and dance.

Good Spirits At Sea

Good spirits, good stories, joyful rejuvenation.

Revitalize and refresh body, mind and soul with Princess®. From rejuvenating spa treatments and the tranquility of a top-deck retreat reserved just for adults to our state-of-the-art fitness centers, you’ll find all the elements to come back new.

Experience the Ultimate Night of Sleep at Sea

Relax in a tranquil retreat just for adults, go ahead, be pampered – you deserve it, a host of ways to get an energizing workout, kids, teens & family.

From family-friendly stateroom options to enriching youth and family programs, quality time is time well spent. Onboard activities spark curiosity and fuel creativity while excursions ashore engage and inspire!

Explore the Treehouse

Step into the lodge, hang out in the beach house, quality time together.

1 Activities, dining and entertainment options vary by ship and are subject to change. Photos represent typical arrangements and may vary in detail or configuration.

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Emerald Princess Overview

Princess Cruises is one of the most popular and long lasting cruise lines sailing the seven seas today. The Emerald Princess is a hallmark ship for the cruise line with activities that are perfect for their passengers, both young and young at heart. Onboard travelers can experience a classic European piazza feel in the ship’s atrium where the International Café and Vines wine bar are on hand to provide libations. The Emerald Princess’ youth and teen centers are packed with activities and apparatus that facilitate fun and let the children form friendships to last for years. 

• Passenger Capacity: 3,080 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2007
• Last Refurbished: 2019

Emerald Princess Cruise Destinations

Princess Cruises offers a wide array of cruising destinations, as well as a Cruisetour program that is revered in the cruising industry. This impressive selection includes over 100 itineraries reaching over 300 ports all across the world. Whether cruise to take in the beautiful fall foliage of Canada and New England or a splendid voyage to sunny Tahiti, Princess Cruises can offer you a great value with an exceptional experience. Other destinations include, but are not limited to: Asia, Hawaii, Mexico, the Panama Canal, Australia, and more. 

If you enjoy the beauty of autumn, or feel that the colors of fall stimulate and inspire you—choose a cruise to Canada and New England.

Canada / New England Cruisetours

Escape to the mesmerizing coastal cities and enchanting parks of Canada and New England.

When you choose a cruise to the Caribbean, you can expect a sun-laden and tranquil tropical experience.

Eastern Caribbean

Adventures in the rainforest and sunny beach days at Princess Cays—two pieces of the perfect Eastern Caribbean cruise.

You can find everything from castles to crepes, and villas to Van Gogh on a European cruise vacation.

Hawaii holds cultural delights and tropical pleasures in store for your cruise vacation.

Mexican Riviera

Imagine the clear blue waters, fantastic beaches, and fascinating culture you will encounter on a cruise to Mexican Riviera.

Northern Europe

Thrilling Old World tales, the history of the great czars and fairytale castles await you on a Princess cruise to Northern Europe.

Panama Canal

Experience the canal in all its grandeur and view the wonders of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans’ surrounding areas during your Panama Canal cruise.

Southern Caribbean

Get in touch with the island cultures, ecosystems, and delicious tropical cuisine of a gorgeous region with a Southern Caribbean cruise.

Transatlantic

From coast to coast, take in the ocean breeze and interesting ports of call that come along with a Transatlantic Cruise.

Western Caribbean

Investigate Mayan ruins and rough it off-road in the tropical paradise that comes along with a Western Caribbean cruise.

Emerald Princess Departure Ports

Princess Cruises has one of the most extensive set of sailings. Their ships travel the world embarking from popular ports like New York City, Vancouver, Venice and Los Angeles. They also have cruises that sail from smaller, more exotic ports like Kobe in Japan and Valparaiso in Chile. We’ll help you find a Princess cruise you’ll love, give us a call today. 

A cruise to Civitavecchia is a chance for you to hop a quick train to Rome and explore the enormous history through ruins, galleries and The Vatican museums.

Boston is home to great sports, great food and loads of history with the Freedom Trail and Harvard.

With incredible weather, delicious fare and some stupendous attractions, you will find that Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is one of the most attractive ports in the entire US.

The possibilities are endless when cruising to or from the City of Angels. Let your inner rock star shine as you explore the many wonders of Los Angeles, California.

Quebec City, Quebec

It’s easy to be wowed by Quebec City as Old World Europe is mixed with North American cultures alongside breathtaking landscapes and the flowing Saint Lawrence River.

The cruise port of Southampton features tons of diverse attractions that provide insight into England’s culture and storied past, including fortresses, gardens and national parks.

Emerald Princess Deck Plans

Emerald princess staterooms.

Balcony (B1)

The Premium Balcony stateroom is appointed with the same fine amenities as our Balcony stateroom but features a larger balcony. This impressive stateroom offers the added indulgence of a balcony and gives you more space than a standard stateroom. Enjoy your own private outdoor space with a table, two chairs, and a relaxing view of the inspiring scenery surrounding you, whether a beautiful sunset over the ocean or a new city to explore.

Balcony (B2)

Balcony (b4), balcony (ba).

This impressive stateroom offers the added indulgence of a balcony and gives you more space than a standard stateroom. Enjoy your own private outdoor space with a table, two chairs, and a relaxing view of the inspiring scenery surrounding you, whether a beautiful sunset over the ocean or a new city to explore. It's also perfect to enjoy cocktails before dinner or a leisurely breakfast.

Balcony (BB)

Balcony (bc), balcony (bd), balcony (be), balcony (bf).

Inside (IC)

The Interior stateroom is richly appointed with fine amenities. Twin beds convertible to a queen-size bedPrivate bathroom with shower

Inside (IA)

These staterooms are the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Our most affordable option, featuring two twin beds or a queen-size bed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, hair dryer, TV, closet and bathroom with shower.

Inside (IB)

Inside (id), inside (ie), inside (if).

Oceanview (OV)

Enjoy the added benefit of a view of the ocean from either a picture window or porthole that brings in natural light. Features the same fine amenities as our Oceanview stateroom, but the view from the picture window is either fully or partially obstructed. This stateroom includes all the amenities of an interior room: two twin beds or a queen-size bed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, hair dryer, TV, closet and bathroom with shower.

Oceanview (OW)

Oceanview (oy), oceanview (oz).

Oceanview (OE)

Oceanview (ob).

Enjoy the added benefit of a view of the ocean from either a picture window or porthole that brings in natural light. This stateroom includes all the amenities of an interior room: two twin beds or a queen-size bed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, hair dryer, TV, closet and bathroom with shower.

Oceanview (OC)

Oceanview (of).

A premium stateroom category featuring our best located Mini-Suite staterooms, as well as the great amenities found in all Mini-Suites plus premier dining benefits and luxurious perks. Each night, enjoy Club Class Dining, an exclusive dining area featuring expedited seating with no wait, expanded menu options, dedicated wait staff and tableside preparations. Other amenities include priority embarkation and disembarkation, a complimentary one-time wine set-up and so much more!

Choose a luxurious Mini-Suite with balcony which is substantially larger than a Balcony stateroom and receive a complimentary welcome glass of Champagne. Mini-Suites include a separate sitting area with sofa bed, premium bathroom amenities and two flat-panel televisions. For families or groups needing a little extra space, Mini-Suites offer an appealing and affordable option.

Penthouse Suite features a spacious cabin and balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits. Surrounding you with deluxe accommodations, a spacious Suite with balcony includes all the amenities of a Club Class Mini-Suite, plus incredible premiums. Enjoy more living space, a sofa bed and separate seating areas, and wonderfully enhanced amenities that range from priority embarkation and disembarkation to a complimentary mini-bar setup in suite and so much more.

Penthouse Suite features a spacious cabin balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits. Surrounding you with deluxe accommodations, a spacious Suite with balcony includes all the amenities of a Club Class Mini-Suite, plus incredible premiums. Enjoy more living space, a sofa bed and separate seating areas, and wonderfully enhanced amenities that range from priority embarkation and disembarkation to a complimentary mini-bar setup in suite and so much more.

Surrounding you with deluxe accommodations, a spacious Suite with balcony includes all the amenities of a Club Class Mini-Suite, plus incredible premiums. Enjoy more living space, a sofa bed and separate seating areas, and wonderfully enhanced amenities that range from priority embarkation and disembarkation to a complimentary mini-bar setup in suite and so much more.

The Owner's Suite features an expansive cabin and oversized aft-facing balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits. Surrounding you with deluxe accommodations, a spacious Suite with balcony includes all the amenities of a Club Class Mini-Suite, plus incredible premiums. Enjoy more living space, a sofa bed and separate seating areas, and wonderfully enhanced amenities that range from priority embarkation and disembarkation to a complimentary mini-bar setup in suite and so much more.

These suites are for larger families or groups traveling together and include special suite-only benefits and two bathrooms connected by a large living room, which leads to an expansive private balcony. Each suite sleeps up to eight people.

Vista Suite features a spacious cabin and aft-facing balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits. Surrounding you with deluxe accommodations, a spacious Suite with balcony includes all the amenities of a Club Class Mini-Suite, plus incredible premiums. Enjoy more living space, a sofa bed and separate seating areas, and wonderfully enhanced amenities that range from priority embarkation and disembarkation to a complimentary mini-bar setup in suite and so much more.

Photo Gallery for Emerald Princess Cruise Ship

A lot has changed since the days of the Love Boat . Check out this photo gallery of what a Princess ship looks like in the 21 st century. 

Crown Grill

Emerald Princess

Top 10 Emerald Princess Cruises

• Emerald Princess 14 NIGHT Canada / New England CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Jun 2024)
• Emerald Princess 19 NIGHT CANADA / NEW ENGLAND TOUR E415 Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Jun 2024)
• Emerald Princess 16 NIGHT CANADA / NEW ENGLAND TOUR E416 Departing From Quebec City, Quebec (Jun 2024)
• Emerald Princess 11 NIGHT Canada / New England CRUISE Departing From Quebec City, Quebec (Jul 2024)
• Emerald Princess 7 NIGHT Canada / New England CRUISE Departing From Boston, Massachusetts (Jul 2024 - Aug 2024)
• Emerald Princess 17 NIGHT Canada / New England CRUISE Departing From Boston, Massachusetts (Aug 2024)
• Emerald Princess 15 NIGHT CANADA / NEW ENGLAND TOUR E422 Departing From Boston, Massachusetts (Aug 2024)
• Emerald Princess 10 NIGHT Canada / New England CRUISE Departing From Boston, Massachusetts (Aug 2024 - Oct 2024)
• Emerald Princess 10 NIGHT Canada / New England CRUISE Departing From Quebec City, Quebec (Sep 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Emerald Princess 15 NIGHT CANADA / NEW ENGLAND TOUR E424 Departing From Boston, Massachusetts (Sep 2024)

Learn More About Princess Cruises

Accessibility

Learn about Princess Cruises' handicap accessible cruise ships and accommodations for guests with special needs, disabilities or mobility restrictions.

Savor dining aboard Princess Cruises, including the Main Dining Room, Sabatini's, Sterling Steakhouse, Crown Grill, Bayou Café, International Café, Chef's Table, room service and more.

Entertainment

Enjoy Princess Cruises' onboard entertainment, including Movies Under the Stars, stage shows, dancing, karaoke, comedy shows, casino games, bars and lounges.

Onboard Activities

Engage in Princess Cruises' onboard activities, including movie nights, ScholarShip classes, pools, hot tubs, poolside activities, sports courts, art auctions, ship tours, duty-free shops and more.

Service & Awards

Learn how Princess Cruises takes care of your every need with an extensive list of onboard services. Plus, view Princess Cruises' awards.

Spa & Fitness

Unwind at Princess Cruises' spa and fitness programs from the Lotus Spa and Lotus Fitness centers. Relax with a massage, facial, pedicure or Botox, or get a workout with a gym class.

Special Events

From holidays to weddings, make your Princess Cruises vacation even more special by celebrating at sea.

Explore Princess Cruises' premium staterooms, including suite, balcony, oceanview and inside staterooms. Princess Cruises' family- and mini-suites give you room to spread out.

Youth Programs

Learn about cruising with children aboard Princess Cruises. Most ships have youth programs for ages 3+, including kidsitting, youth dining, youth centers and teen lounges.

Cruise Type

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Emerald Princess Deck Plans & Reviews

Emerald Princess

Activities & entertainment

• Arts and Crafts Classes *
• Beauty Salon *
• Center Court
• Dancing Classes
• Deck Parties
• Disco and Dancing
• Fitness Center
• Fitness Classes *
• Whirlpools (7)
• Internet Cafe *
• Jogging Track
• The Library
• Lotus Spa *
• Thermal Suite *
• Princess Links
• Solo Travelers Get Togethers
• Ultimate Ship Tour *
• Wine Tasting *
• The Sanctuary *
• The Beach House Teen Lounge
• Camp Discovery Youth Center
• Gatsbys Casino *
• Conference Center Starboard
• The Shops of Princess *
• Fine Arts Gallery *
• Photo Gallery *
• Guest Services
• Shore Excursions Desk *
• Captains Circle Loyalty
• Future Cruise Planning *
• OceanMedallion
• Wedding Chapel
• Speakeasy Cigar Lounge *
• Self_Service Laundry *
• Medical Center
• Club Fusion
• Comedy Shows
• Explorers Lounge
• Movies Under the Stars
• Outdoor Movies
• Princess Theater
• Botticelli Dining Room - Main
• Da Vinci Dining Room - Main
• Michelangelo Dining Room - Main
• Horizon Court - Buffet
• Horizon Terrace - Casual
• Coffee and Cones - Sweet Treats *
• Slice - Pizza
• Adagio - Cocktail Bar *
• Steamers Seafoood - Seafood *
• International Cafe - Coffee & Pastries *
• Salty Dog Grill - Pool Grill
• The Mix - Pool Bar *
• The Salty Dog Gastropub - Pub *
• Crooners Bar - Martini Bar *
• Calypso Bar - Pool Bar *
• Outriggers Bar - Pool Bar *
• Wheelhouse Bar - Pub *
• Planks BBQ - Barbecue
• Crown Grill - Steakhouse *
• Vines Wine Bar - Wine Bar *
• Tradewinds Bar - Deck Bar *
• Casino Bar - Casino Bar *
• Room Service *

Reviews We perform checks on reviews. Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines , the review is not published. When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site. Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines . Learn more about our review moderation.

• Excellent 41
• Very Good 22
• Terrible 10
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Review of Princess Cruises’ Emerald Princess Reveals a Gem of Ship

One of four sister ships, the Emerald Princess cruises on her own merit.

First Impressions Step onboard the Emerald Princess and at first glance, you’ll immediately be awed by the ship’s understated style and elegance. The Emerald Princess is graced with the same glam and glitz as her three sister ships. The jewel of this ship is the marble-floored Piazza-style atrium with its grand, spiral staircase and towering glass elevators. Here you’ll find guests mingling about, enjoying the adjacent coffee bar, wine bar and “street” entertainers.

A quick walk-through outside reveals four fresh water pools, a huge outdoor movie screen (Movies Under the Stars) and wrap-around walking track. There are activities to lure you outdoors during the day and well into the evening.

The well-designed layout means better passenger flow, fewer traffic jams entering and leaving dining rooms and smaller, intimate meeting rooms and lounges.

Cruise Maven Loves

• The adults-only Sanctuary; a quiet retreat high above the ship, with snacks and beverages included in the $10 fee.
• You can dance the night away at Skywalkers lounge. Nearly 200 feet above the sea, the view is amazing.
• Warm cookies and milk in the evening at Movies Under the Stars. Yum!
• The Ultimate Balcony Dining experience for breakfast or dinner. The name says it all.
• The self-service Launderette. It’s so nice to come home with a suitcase full of clean, neatly folded clothes.

Accommodations There are the usual suspects of cabin categories; suite, mini-suite, balcony, oceanview and interior. Of the 1,557 cabins, over half (881) have balconies. If budget allows, go for one of the 207 suites, from 461 to 687 sq. ft.

Princess offers extra amenities and perks for suites than other premium cruise lines. There’s a complimentary mini-bar set-up, free laundry and a private lounge, to name a few. One of the best perks is the exclusive breakfast at Sabatini’s, far away from the other 2,900 passengers.

While the mini-suites (323 sq. ft.) don’t offer the same amenities as the suites, you’re not left out in the cold. You still have two TVs, welcome aboard champagne and a bathtub/shower combination.

If a suite or mini-suite is not in your budget, the interior cabins are a roomy 160 sq. ft. and include a refrigerator, flat panel TV and bathroom amenities.

Oceanview staterooms vary in size from 158 to 181 sq. ft. Some oceanview staterooms have obstructed views, so be careful with your choice to avoid an embarkation day surprise.

Over half of the staterooms have a balcony, so there are plenty to choose from in a wide range of prices. An impressive 233 to 285 sq. ft. makes this the ideal in-between choice of staterooms.

Kids programs Kids from 3 to 17 years will find plenty to do onboard the Emerald Princess. Divided into three groups, ages 3-7 and 8-12 years plus teens from 13-17, each with their own supervised meeting place.

Kids even have special dinners (with counselors) while teens can attend their own formal night event. Late night group sitting is available for ages 3-12 from 10pm to 1am at $5/hour per child. Children under 3 may participate in Youth Center activities if accompanied by a parent.

Bottom line This isn’t the original Love Boat, but a cruise aboard the Emerald Princess has something that almost everyone would love. Onboard activities span the range from poolside fun and games to art history and computer classes. There’s a wedding chapel with a webcam so friends and family back home can watch the ceremony.

Foodies will love the specialty dining option aptly named “The Chef’s Table” with seating right in the galley. Perfect for families, couples and solo travelers who want a premium cruise experience and the bells and whistles found only on super-sized ships.

Cruise Maven’s Insider Tips

• You don’t have to race to the Princess Theater for the production shows to get a good seat. The theater has a clear sight-line without support poles to block your view.
• Want to see areas of the ship that are usually off-limits? Sign up early for the Behind the Scenes Tour to see the engine room, medical center, laundry area and even visit the bridge and meet the captain. Space is limited to this twice-a-cruise event.
• Note that the Sanctuary is reserved in two shifts: 8am-12:30pm and 1pm-5pm or later. Plan ahead and book early, especially for sea days.

Just so you don’t think I’m partial to this ship, I’ll add that some people don’t like the traffic flow from the theater, the smaller-sized public rooms or the fact that the Sanctuary pool (only) is open to the non-paying guest. I’ve learned that it’s impossible to make everyone happy on every cruise ship out there on the seas. It’s a beautiful ship with excellent service, the hot food is served hot and the coffee is just the right strength. What’s not to like?

Fast facts Sailing since:  May 2007, refurbished 2009 Size: 113,560 Number of passengers/crew:  3,080/1,142 Number of accessible cabins:  25 Number of Dining options:  11 (7 free) Itineraries: Winter and spring of 2015, the Emerald Princess sails the Caribbean from Houston. When the ship returns from Europe in the fall of 2015, Ft. Lauderdale will be the new homeport for the Emerald Princess.

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Emerald Princess

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Find a Cruise on Emerald Princess

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Emerald Princess, which debuted in 2007 and was most recently updated in April 2019, is one of the largest ships in the fleet. It carries up to 3,080 passengers and 1,200 crew members, and it offers balconies in 80% of its exterior cabins. Recent cruisers describe the accommodations as sleek and spacious.

While groups can opt for a Family Suite for more square footage, those who splurge on Suite category cabins are granted perks like specialty dining and priority disembarkation at ports. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs and minifridges. What's more, each guest aboard Emerald Princess receives an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Activities include duty-free shopping boutiques, the Lotus Spa and a photography studio. In the evenings, theater shows, outdoor movies and multiple lounging areas keep cruisers entertained. The ship also offers age-appropriate youth clubs; in fact, the Camp Discover Youth & Teen Centers were refreshed during the refurbishment. With five pool areas, five whirlpool spas, the reimagined Sanctuary and an abundance of dining venues – including three specialty restaurants – the ship rarely felt crowded (according to most passengers). 

Emerald Princess offers a variety of sailings in the Caribbean, Hawaii, California, Canada, New England, Europe and the Panama Canal.

Pros & Cons

Eighty percent of outside cabins offer private balconies

Some cruisers felt restaurant service was slow

• Expert Rating » 4.0
• Traveler Rating » 4.0
• Health Rating » 4.0

Emerald Princess ranks # 10 out of 15 Princess Cruises Cruise Ships based on an analysis of expert and user ratings, as well as health ratings.

• # 10 in Best Princess Cruises
• # 27 in Best Cruises for Groups
• # 56 in Best Cruises for Couples
• # 60 in Best Cruises to the Caribbean
• # 72 in Best Affordable Cruises

Emerald Princess offers a wide range of accomodation options. Browse cabins to find the stateroom that suits your needs.

Emerald Princess contains 15 decks. Find out which features are available on each Emerald Princess deck.

Traveler Reviews

A ship’s traveler rating is provided under license by Cruiseline.com , which manages one of the largest databases of cruise reviews and ratings by travelers. A total of 1164 guests have reviewed Emerald Princess , giving it a rating of 4 on a scale of 1-5.

Cruiseline Travel Rating:

Reviews by traveler type.

Ship Photos

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

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

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Princess Cruises' Star Princess ship delayed, 9 sailings canceled

Travelers will have to wait longer than planned to sail on Princess Cruises’ upcoming ship.

The delivery of Star Princess, which was set to debut next summer, will be pushed back by about two months. The cruise line said the delay was a “mutual” decision with shipbuilder Fincantieri.

“Following a comprehensive review of the remaining construction milestones, both parties have elected to adjust the ship's delivery date from July 29, 2025 to September 26, 2025, which will result in the cancellation of the nine inaugural sailings,” Princess said in a news release .

Guests whose cruises are impacted will be able to rebook on any Princess ship and, depending on which sailing they pick, receive future cruise and onboard credits. They will also be able to opt for a full refund of their fare instead.

“Despite our collective dedication and relentless pursuit to deliver the ship in late July, it has become evident that additional time is required to ensure the Star Princess is delivered to the highest standards expected by our guests,” Princess Cruises President John Padgett said in the release.

Your cruise was canceled: Now what?

The ship’s new inaugural itineraries will include 11 and seven-day Mediterranean cruises on Oct. 4 and 15, 2025, respectively. Those will be followed by a two-week transatlantic voyage to Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Oct. 22, 2025.

Those sailings will be available to book on April 30.

Star Princess will be the second in the line’s Sphere Class. Sister ship Sun Princess was also delayed ahead of its launch earlier this year, with Princess citing “additional technical work” needed at the shipyard.

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

Princess Cruises Debuts Exclusive Sanctuary Collection on Sun Princess and Star Princess

Princess Cruises will introduce the Sanctuary Collection on Sun Princess and Star Princess, creating a luxury oasis for relaxation when these new ships launch in early 2024.

“Our new Sanctuary Collection offers guests those ultra-private, tucked away spaces that rival any high-end resort and surpasses the offerings of comparable cruise lines featuring similar ship-within-a-ship amenities,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “With spacious and well-appointed accommodations, along with an array of premium extras and its exclusivity, our new Sanctuary Collection delivers the ultimate in access and indulgence to deliver an unparalleled experience.”

RELATED: PRINCESS CRUISES INTRODUCES DINING REVOLUTION

THE SANCTUARY COLLECTION

Guests in the Sanctuary Collection have exclusive access to the ship’s top-deck retreat area and premium amenities. These include private dining and relaxation spaces, luxurious staterooms, and the Princess Premier bundle for an all-inclusive experience.

On Sun Princess , the Sanctuary Club on the top deck offers a spa-inspired retreat exclusively for Sanctuary Collection guests. Accessed through a private entry using the Princess Medallion, this adults-only area features plush lounge furniture, private cabanas, pool and jacuzzi, attentive service, calming music, beverages, light snacks, and exclusive programming like sunrise yoga and sail-away receptions.

Sanctuary Collection staterooms aboard both ships are now available for booking. Guests who reserve Sanctuary Collection staterooms on either ship by April 23, 2024, will receive the extra amenities listed at no extra charge, except for the premier bundle.

Julie Bouchner

Julie Bouchner is the Digital Editorial Manager for Porthole Cruise and Travel. She has a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Syracuse University. When she is not writing, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, baking, and playing with her Siberian Husky named Ellie.

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