sun princess cruise ship inaugural cruise

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Sun Princess ®

Talk about exciting and new, what were we thinking of when we designed the new sun princess you..

We pondered everything, so you can feel the love on the cruise vacation of your dreams.

Because here, the sun revolves around you.

Christener:  Award-winning actress and performer Hannah Waddingham

Guest Cabins:  2150

Number of Decks:  21

Tonnage:  177,500

Length:  1133 feet

Accommodations

Entertainment & onboard activities, design & amenities.

Experience the pinnacle of luxury with Sanctuary Collection SM . Enjoy elevated accommodations, personalized service, and exclusive onboard experiences. Unwind in the serene Sanctuary Club, delight in premium beverages, savor gourmet cuisine at a private restaurant, and more. Suite guests can also access the luxurious Suite Lounge. Welcome to unparalleled sophistication, personalized service, and indulgence. Welcome to Sanctuary Collection. Available on Sun Princess®, booking now for Fall ‘24, and Star Princess®, debuting fall ‘25).

Included Venues

Sanctuary club, suite lounge, private restaurant, princess premier included.

But wait, there’s more.

Get exclusive benefits with a Sanctuary room purchase, including complimentary Wi-Fi, Crew Appreciation, Premier beverages, specialty dining, and more. Treat yourself to a luxurious vacation and create unforgettable memories.

Sanctuary Accommodations

Sanctuary suites.

Our suites offer some of the most luxurious accommodations at sea, with spacious staterooms, large balconies, and spectacular views. Additionally, guests can enjoy a variety of amenities such as priority services, specialty dining, in-room Lavazza coffee maker, mini-bar set-up, access to the Suite Lounge, and more. You’ll also enjoy our highest-level all-inclusive package, Princess Premier.

Sanctuary Mini-Suites

Experience Sanctuary Collection luxury with premium-location mini-suites.  Enjoy elevated service, a complimentary bottle of bubbly upon embarkation, upgraded amenities, private restaurant, access to the Sanctuary Club, and more. You’ll also enjoy our highest-level all-inclusive package, Princess Premier.

Sanctuary Balconies

Enjoy stunning views from your premium balcony stateroom, complete with larger balcony, upgraded amenities, access to a private restaurant and the Sanctuary Club top deck as well our Princess Premier® package included.

Room for Everyone

Now featuring cabana mini-suites.

The all-new Cabana Mini-Suites feature a balcony and a private cabana with unique outdoor furniture that lets your take in the fresh sea air. In addition, the resort-style Cabana Deck Mini-Suites have exclusive access to an outdoor deck with an additional lounge area and stunning ocean views.

Watch Video: Cabana Mini-Suites aboard Sun Princess

• Cabana Mini-Suite

The Cabana mini-suite boasts a private cabana and balcony, allowing you to relish the outdoors while preserving your privacy. Ideal for a family getaway.

Cabana Deck Mini-Suite With Exclusive Deck Access

These Cabanas are located on Deck 9 with limited entry to an extra-large lounge space with unique outdoor furniture, perfect for celebrating special occasions with family and friends while taking in the fresh sea air.

Accommodations Overview

• Deluxe Balcony
• Premium Oceanview
• Wheelchair-Accessible

Our Largest, Most Premium Stateroom With Accommodations for Up to Five Guests

The exceptional features of a Signature Sky Suite include luxurious appointments, an expansive stateroom and balcony featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms, one with a full bath with tub and separate shower, a seating area and sofa bed. Along with special suite-only benefits, this stateroom includes access to the Signature Restaurant, Signature Lounge and private Signature area of The Sanctuary.

In addition to premium stateroom amenities, Signature Collection suites include access to the Signature Restaurant, Signature Lounge and Signature Sun Deck, a private area of the Sanctuary.

• Approx. 1,262 sq. ft., including balcony
• Pre-Cruise Shoreside Concierge
• Seamless curb to suite experience
• Suite Experience Manager to service your every need
• Reserved Princess Cays® bungalow ~
• Premium Champagne upon arrival
• Two full bottle bar setup & mixers
• Complimentary Princess Fine Wine Tasting
• Private shopping concierge
• Complimentary Ultimate Balcony Breakfast and Dinner
• Luxury balcony furniture 
• Living area with sofa that sleeps one ▲
• Master bedroom with Princess Luxury Bed
• Private master bathroom with bathtub and separate rain shower
• Spacious closet and vanity/desk in master bedroom
• Second bedroom with Princess Luxury Bed (queen or pair of twin beds) ▲
• Spacious closet and vanity/desk in second bedroom
• Luxury bedroom and bathroom linens
• Upgraded bathrobes and slippers
• Luxury bathroom amenities
• Portable hairdryer
• Nespresso machine

▲ 3rd/4th/5th berths available ~ Applicable on voyages that visit Princess Cays

The Most Relaxing Accommodations at Sea

Surrounding you with deluxe accommodations, a spacious Signature Penthouse Suite with balcony includes all the amenities of our Signature Collection, including access to the Signature Restaurant, Signature Lounge and Signature Sun Deck, a private area of The Sanctuary. Enjoy more living space, a separate seating area with sofa bed, enhanced amenities that range from priority embarkation and disembarkation to a complimentary mini-bar setup in suite and so much more.

• Approx. 304 to 636 sq. ft., including balcony
• Luxury balcony furniture
• 2 floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
• Separate sitting area with sofa bed, chair and 2 tables
• One complimentary mini-bar setup and free daily bottled water
• Spacious closet
• Complimentary laundry and professional cleaning services
• Complimentary dinner at specialty restaurant on embarkation evening^
• Priority reservations for specialty restaurants and shore excursions
• Priority disembarkation at tender ports
• Comfortable queen or two twin beds ▲
• Refrigerator
• Two flat-panel televisions
• Private bathroom with tub and separate shower ‡
• 100% cotton, high-thread count linens
• 24-hour room service †
• Desk with chair
• Hair dryer & fine bathroom amenities
• Digital security safe

▲ 3rd/4th berths available in select cabins. ‡ Separate tubs are available in Signature Sky Suites, Signature Owner’s Suites and Signature Penthouse Suites. † Guests may call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® Cruises app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 USD per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 USD room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. Limitations, restrictions and conditions apply. ^ Applicable on cruises six days or longer. Reservations can be made once onboard your ship.

Enjoy Breathtaking Views in This Resort-Style Stateroom

The Cabana stateroom features a balcony, a private cabana, unique outdoor furniture and an extra-large private lounge space that lets you take in the fresh sea air. Unwind inside with a separate sitting area with sofa bed and premium bathroom amenities. Enjoy Reserve Collection upgrades on select Cabana Mini-Suites. In addition to the great amenities found in all Cabana Mini-Suites, you will receive Reserve Collection upgrades, including access to the Reserve Collection Restaurant.

• Approximately 329 sq. ft., including balcony and cabana
• Balcony with 2-4 chairs, table and ottoman
• Private cabana beside your balcony for an extra-large outdoor lounge space
• Access to the Cabana Deck, an outdoor lounge space exclusively for Reserve Cabana staterooms
• Bathroom with shower
• Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
• Separate sitting area with sofa bed & coffee table
• Complimentary welcome glass of bubbly on embarkation day
• Luxury mattress topper and pillows
• Hair dryer & bathroom amenities

▲3rd/4th berths available in select staterooms. †Guests may call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® Cruises app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 USD per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 USD room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. Limitations, restrictions and conditions apply.

Treat Yourself Every Time You Walk Into Your Stateroom

A complimentary glass of bubbly isn't the only perk you enjoy when you choose a Mini-Suite. It's substantially larger than a balcony stateroom and includes a separate seating area with sofa bed as well as two flat-panel TVs. Need a little extra space for your family or group? A Mini-Suite is the option for you. Enjoy Reserve Collection upgrades on select Mini-Suites. In addition to the great amenities found in all Mini-Suites, you will receive Reserve Collection upgrades, including access to the Reserve Collection Restaurant.

• Approximately 303 sq. ft., including balcony

A Front Row Seat for Beautiful Scenery

This inspired stateroom offers the added indulgence of a private balcony with well-appointed outdoor furniture and a relaxing view of the scenery that surrounds you, whether a rainbow-colored sunset over the ocean or a new city to explore. It’s also the perfect setting for cocktails before dinner or a leisurely breakfast.

• Approximately 235 sq. ft., including balcony
• Balcony with 2 chairs and table
• Comfortable queen or pair of twin beds ▲
• Flat-panel television
• Private bathroom with shower

▲3rd/4th berths available in select cabins. †Guests may call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® Cruises app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 USD per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 USD room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. Limitations, restrictions and conditions apply.

A Room With an Expansive View

Whether the calm of the deep blue sea or the adventure of a new city on the horizon, the Premium Oceanview stateroom ensures picture-perfect snapshots from the comfort of your room. This stateroom includes all the amenities of an interior room and the added benefit of ocean views that bring an airy openness to the space.

• Approx. 212 sq. ft.
• Stunning ocean-view window

Our Most Affordable Option for Guests Who Just Want a Comfortable Spot to Recharge

An interior is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Our most affordable option, these staterooms feature two twin beds or a queen-size bed and the basic amenities you expect, from flat-panel TV to in-room refrigerator.

• Approx. 136 to 145 sq ft.
• Comfortable queen or pair of twin beds ▲♦

▲3rd/4th berths available in select cabins. ♦Single-occupancy interior staterooms with queen bed available.

For Guests with Limited Mobility

Princess offers a selection of staterooms that provide full wheelchair-turning space. In addition, these staterooms include either a roll-in shower or transfer shower equipped with grab bars and a fold-down bench seat, an easy access closet and accessible writing desk.

Note: ADA accessible stateroom shown is on board Sky Princess®. Amenities and stateroom arrangements vary by ship. Certain stateroom categories may vary in size and configuration by ship. Call Princess for more information or send inquiries to the Access Office via email at  [email protected] .

Set Sail on Sun Princess

Transatlantic.

The entertainment offerings on board the Sun Princess are just as innovative and thoughtfully designed as the ship itself. In fact, we're transforming the future of entertainment not just at sea, but anywhere. Our belief is that entertainment should always feel new, exciting, and keep you on your toes with spaces and experiences that you won't find anywhere else.

This glass-enclosed dome is multilevel AND multipurpose: pool by sunlight, stage for shows by starlight. It features acrobatic performances created in partnership with the renowned Cirque Éloize .

Featured Entertainment

Be Spellbound on Sun Princess

What’s behind the black door? Spellbound, a spectacular one-of-a-kind experience created in partnership with The Magic Castle™. This Victorian-themed bar features magicians performing mind-bending entertainment, themed rooms and theatrical cocktails served with sleight of hand. Feel like you’ve stepped into Hollywood’s iconic Magic Castle™, where time stands still and your imagination runs wild.

Come Fly Away

Featured Onboard Shops

Let's talk The Shops of Princess

Ready for the ultimate high street retail experience? From beauty and wellness to lifestyle, a fine timepieces lounge and Waves – a Signature Collection by The Shops of Princess, it’s time for some serious retail therapy. With 200 of the world’s leading brands, you’ll find your favorites (and discover new ones). And with many brands making their debut at sea, you’ve never shopped like this.

Our fine jewelry connoisseurs will find the best curated collections from Diamonds International and global renowned high-end jewelry brands on board Sun Princess®. In our beautifully designed Fine Jewelry Boutique, guests will have the opportunity to create their own personalized design for their handpicked rare diamonds and gemstones from the exclusive collection of Crown of Light Diamonds, Safi Kilima® Tanzanite and DeBeers Forevermark Diamonds.

Waves - A Signature Collection

Princess arena.

We know you want amazing entertainment, so we made our theater a showstopper.

Our most technologically advanced performance space can shapeshift into different designs, even in the round, to suit all our new production shows.

Vallora, A Pirate Quest

The show is created, directed and choreographed by Danny Teeson, who is known for his work on "American Idol". It has an upbeat and nostalgic 80s soundtrack that includes popular songs such as Eurythmics' "Sweet Dreams," Survivor's "Eye of the Tiger," Chicago's "You're the Inspiration," and Starship's "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now." The story follows the courageous heroine 'Vallora' on a pirate adventure, as she searches for what is lost while emphasizing the importance of family and love.

Stage Struck

Stage Struck is a musical theater show featuring popular songs from musicals like "On Broadway" from Smokey Joe's Café, "Danced All Night" from My Fair Lady, "Take Me or Leave Me" from Rent and "One Night Only" from Dreamgirls. Directed and choreographed by Karen Bruce, known for her work on "So You Think You Can Dance" for BBC and West End productions.

Viva La Música

Enjoy a Latin-inspired concert choreographed by Liz Imperio, known for working with Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, and Gloria Estefan. The show features popular Latin soundtrack favorites like "Rhythm Is Gonna Get You" by Miami Sound Machine and "Hips Don’t Lie" by Shakira. Join the dance couple on the floor for a unique immersive experience.

​Love blossoms at a turn-of-the-last-century colorful European fairground in a story revealed through an artfully selected medley of popular songs such as Ceelo Green’s "Bright Lights, Bigger City," Bruno Mars’ "Just the Way You Are" and Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror.” Directed by famed choreographer Danny Teeson, a large, brilliantly costumed cast of performers brings the story to life, dancing on a vibrant set with a spectacular digital backdrop.

Be Amongst the First to Experience Sun Princess

Mediterranean & aegean, mediterranean & adriatic, eastern caribbean ‎, western caribbean ‎, soak up the relaxation.

We know you crave relaxation, so we created even more places to come feel the "ahhh!"

The views revolve around you.

In these all-new spaces, all you gotta do to recharge is take in the ocean vistas. Our Sea View Terrace sets the tone at the front, while the new Wake View Terrace features an infinity pool and aft life redefined.

Soak up the fun.

We've surrounded this preferred poolside spot with lots of options for food and drinks: Lido Grill, Lido Slice by Alfredo’s, Lido Tacos, Lido Greens, Coffee & Cones and THREE bars.

Lotus Spa® - Now Two Stories!

The sanctuary, sea view terrace, family & kids.

Psst...kids, want your own space? Firefly Park, Neon Grove and The Underground are ALL YOURS.

With games, themed events and activities all reserved for you. So let the adults have their fun; you’ll have yours too.

Firefly Park Kids Club

Neon grove tweens club, the underground teen lounge, park19 – an adventure that’s tops.

We know you love spending time with your favorite people, so we created a (tip)top-deck space everyone can enjoy...together. Soar like a bird 19 decks above the waves on the Sea Breeze Rollglider®, a first at sea.(You can even go for a ride now with this AR preview!) It's just a taste of what you'll find at this wonderland for kids and adults alike.

Sea Breeze Rollglider® and The Net Ropes Course

Infinite horizon tilt wall, coastal climb, splash pad & the lookout, horizons dining room.

We know you love great food, so we’ve elevated our dining – three decks high.

When it came to our main dining room, we dreamed big...or should we say "tall"? Three stories, an elegant design, multicourse meals guests rave about and a different experience for each level.

Love By Britto - Get ready to fall in love on Sun Princess​

Introducing Love by Britto, created in partnership with Romero Britto, the world-renowned artist known for his bold, colorful and joyful style. This artistic-inspired experience aboard Sun Princess® celebrates the love of life through colorful design and an imaginative prix fixe menu curated by culinary virtuoso Rudi Sodamin.

Crown Grill

Sabatini's italian trattoria, umai teppanyaki, o'malley's irish pub, the promenade, wheelhouse bar, good spirits at sea, popular sun princess departure ports, sail from ft. lauderdale, sail from barcelona, sail from rome.

We know you enjoy sweeping views, so we built our Piazza in a sphere of glass.

It’s more than ocean vistas in every direction; it’s being immersed in the world around you like never before. The heartbeat of our ship, our Piazza may have been inspired by the town squares of Europe, but her evolution is out of this world.

The Venues of The Piazza

Coffee currents, bellinis cocktail bar, kai sushi by makoto, alfredo's pizzeria, international cafe, discover more, medallionclass® on all ships.

Next-level technology. More time for you. Your vacation – simplified, personalized.

Plus & Premier Packages

It Pays to Plus® so get added value by upgrading to Princess Plus® or Princess Premier®.

From last-minute cruise deals to seasonal promotions, find all our best cruise offers so you can set sail with Princess.

Princess Cruises welcomes its biggest ship ever with help from a star

It took a star to welcome the sun.

The Sun Princess , that is.

Princess Cruises on Tuesday officially hailed the arrival of its newest megavessel — at 177,882 tons, its biggest ever —with the help of "Ted Lasso" star Hannah Waddingham.

The Emmy Award-winning actress and singer presided over a star-studded 19-minute christening ceremony in the ship's Princess Arena theater that included a traditional bottle breaking, with a twist.

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

Serving as the ship's godmother, Waddingham placed a triangular "sun ray" representing Sun Princess into a sun sculpture on stage to trigger the smashing of a huge bottle of Veuve Cliquot Champagne — a nebuchadnezzar that holds the equivalent of 20 traditional bottles — against the ship's hull.

"As much as theater ripples through my bloodstream, I have the strongest history of maritime in my family," a clearly proud Waddingham said moments before triggering the bottle smash.

She noted that her still-living, 107-year-old grandfather served on convoy ships crossing the Atlantic during World War II. She also grew up boating.

"It's in my blood and in my bones," she added.

Built at the giant Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, Sun Princess is the most notable new Princess ship to debut in more than a decade. Capable of holding up to 5,189 passengers (a record for a Princess ship), it's not only significantly bigger than previous Princess ships but packed with more onboard venues.

The naming celebration came two months after Sun Princess began sailing for the first time with paying passengers, a debut that was unexpectedly delayed by 20 days due to construction issues.

"Sun Princess is incredible. It's the largest, most luxurious love boat ever," John Padgett, Princess president, said at the event, harking back to the line's long-standing tie to the hit television show "The Love Boat" that ran in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Three stars from the show — Ted Lange, Bernie Kopell and Jill Whelan, who played bartender Isaac Washington, ship's doctor Adam Bricker and captain's daughter Vicki Stubing, respectively — were in attendance at the event.

The "Love Boat" stars were seated just a couple rows behind Carnival Corporation chairman Micky Arison and CEO Josh Weinstein.

Carnival Corporation is the parent company of Princess Cruises.

Makoto Okuwa, a James Beard Foundation honoree who designed a sushi eatery for Sun Princess, and Dario Cecchini, a celebrity Italian butcher who created a meat-focused restaurant for the ship, were also in attendance. So was the Brazilian artist Romero Britto, who sat to the right of Arison. Britto's colorful, upbeat art is the theme for the ship's high-end restaurant, Love by Britto.

Other celebrities at the event included model and television personality Tyra Banks, wildlife show host Jeff Corwin, fashion designer and television host Randy Fenoli and mixologist Rob Floyd. British singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield performed her smash hit "Pocketful of Sunshine" among other hit songs on the top deck of the ship after the ceremony.

The biggest Princess ship ever

Under development for more than six years, Sun Princess is the first of the new Sphere Class of Princess vessels. The ships have been designed to be significantly bigger than previous Princess vessels and offer several new-for-the-line features.

First look: Inside Sun Princess, the giant new ship from Princess Cruises

Sun Princess is the first Princess ship with suites that come with exclusive access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck — part of an effort to draw more upscale customers to the brand.

Additionally, Sun Princess offers an innovative new type of "cabana cabin" on the ship's extra-wide 10th deck that features exclusive access to a private deck area. The top deck of the ship also received some unusual-for-Princess sizzle. Passengers will find a glass-dome-topped pool area that transforms into a nightspot after the sun goes down.

Other differences between Sun Princess and earlier Princess ships include the lack of a buffet restaurant on its main pool deck. But don't worry, buffet lovers: There still is a buffetlike venue on the ship. Called The Eatery, it's eight decks below the pool deck, closer to the ship's central piazza and just off its outside promenade.

The ship's main theater, the Princess Arena, also has a new look. Its new-for-Princess, in-the-round shape can be converted into a more traditional proscenium-type theater or a keyhole-type theater to allow for different types of productions.

Among other standout venues, Sun Princess features a secret hideaway for magical performances designed in partnership with the Magic Castle performance venue in Los Angeles.

Related: My strange night out at Princess's new magic-infused night spot

Princess also has revamped its main dining room program with the debut of Sun Princess. It now offers three distinct options for cruisers in its main dining rooms, ranging from a traditional fixed seating experience to a casual, come-when-you-want option that includes quick-served meals and even breakfast for dinner .

The arrival of Sun Princess marks the first time Princess has launched a new class of ship in nearly 11 years. With its debut, Princess now has 16 vessels in its fleet that collectively have room for about 50,000 passengers. That makes Princess the world's fifth-biggest cruise line, behind Royal Caribbean , Carnival Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line .

Related: The 4 types of Princess ships, explained

Sun Princess is initially sailing in Europe through the fall. It'll then reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for voyages to the Caribbean. Fares start at $577 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a seven-night Caribbean sailing.

A second ship in the new Sphere Class series, to be called Star Princess, is on order from the Fincantieri shipyard for delivery in 2025. Its first voyage is scheduled for Aug. 4, 2025, and will take place in the Mediterranean.

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Sun Princess Sets Sail on Inaugural Voyage

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: February 29, 2024  - Last updated: March 1, 2024

Princess Cruises ‘ newest ship Sun Princess has started her maiden voyage, a Grand Mediterranean cruise roundtrip from Rome.

The 10-day inaugural sailing began in Civitavecchia near Rome, Italy on February 28 and will visit Naples, Crete, Kusadasi, Athens, Sicily, Mallorca, and Barcelona. The new 177,882-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess was originally scheduled to set sail from Barcelona on February 8, but the ship’s delivery was delayed at the shipyard .

“This is an historic day as our new Sun Princess sets sail on her inaugural voyage, and our guests get to experience our sensational, next-level, Love Boat firsthand,” Princess Cruises’ president John Padgett said in a press release .

“The ship is a magnificent showcase of advanced design, technology and craftsmanship, with elevated spaces and experiences all focused on taking the Princess vacation experience to a new level,” Padgett continued.

Sun Princess is the first LNG (liquefied natural gas) vessel for the cruise line, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and featuring energy recovery systems for eco-conscious cruising.

Sun Princess is the first Sphere Class ship

The new Sun Princess is the first of Princess’ Sphere class vessels, introducing an innovative new ship platform for the brand.

Sun Princess debuted brand new venues including The Dome at the top of the ship, a geodesic, glass-enclosed structure inspired by the terraces of Santorini.

The namesake of this new class of ship, the Sphere Atrium , expands the central Piazza hub of the ship into an external, suspended space. In this innovative space, guests can enjoy an open layout with wide-ranging views of the ocean.

“The Sun Princess is absolutely gorgeous and guests are going to love her. The architecture is unbelievable and the amenities on board are next level, especially the glass dome at the front of the ship which is incredibly stunning,” said Monika Best of Nova Scotia, Canada, the most-traveled guest on the inaugural voyage who is sailing for the 141st time aboard a Princess ship.

The new ship features 30 dining and drinking spots

Sun Princess offers cruisers 30 restaurant and bar venues with an unprecedented collection of celebrity collaborators including:

• Spellbound by Magic Castle : Blending the world of magic with the art of culinary and mixology to create an immersive dining experience
• Kai Sushi by Makoto : Master of Edomae-style sushi, Chef Makoto Okuwa reimagines traditional sushi, creating whimsical, beautifully presented dishes that honor Japanese traditions
• Love by Britto : Celebrating love and art from world-renowned artist Romero Britto, this upscale boutique restaurant offers the most romantic view from the ship
• The Butcher’s Block by Dario : A new specialty pop-up restaurant from famed butcher Dario Cecchini serving beef and steak, including Cecchini’s signature cuts
• The Catch by Rudi : A dinner venue from renowned Chef Rudi Sodamin showcasing delectable seafood dishes
• Good Spirits at Sea with Rob Floyd : One-of-a-kind cocktail creations from celebrity mixologist Rob Floyd

The three-story main Horizons Dining Room offers Princess’ first menus developed in partnership with the Culinary Institute of America. Sun Princess also features guest favorites like Crown Grill, Sabatini’s, and Crooners, all with new design elements.

Read more: Princess Cruises Shares First Look at Dining Options on Sun Princess

Sun Princess expands entertainment options

The Princess Arena on Sun Princess , the most technologically advanced theater at sea, offers original productions including performances in the round.

At night, The Dome presents acrobatic performances by Cirque Éloize , and cruisers can also enjoy entertainment in the Piazza with its retractable stage and immersive Champagne waterfall.

Sun Princess is also home to the cruise line’s largest casino , a two-story Lotus Spa , and an expanded retail environment with more than 200 premium brands.

The retail space includes several firsts at sea including an upscale showroom dedicated to luxury watches showcasing TAG Heuer and Breitling. More than 25 new brands are available to cruise guests including Italian handbag brand Pinko and athleisure favorites Beyond Yoga and Varley.

Park19 , Princess’ first-ever family activity zone, provides entertainment for all ages on the top decks. From decks 19, 20, and 21, guests can enjoy amazing views from the Sea Breeze glider ride or the Coastal Climb climbing structure.

The new Sun Princess offers a wide range of accommodation options, including over 1,500 staterooms with balconies. Newly-designed Cabana Mini-Suites offer additional space for private outdoor relaxation.

More news about Princess Cruises

Are you planning to sail aboard the new Sun Princess ? What are you most looking forward to experience on the ship? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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It's time to soak up the sun next-level sun princess debuts on maiden voyage to the mediterranean.

Most Impressive, Luxurious and Stunning Love Boat Ever Created Sets Sail

ROME , Feb. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Sun is shining! A celebration is underway as the next-level Love Boat from Princess Cruises – Sun Princess – set sail today on the cruise ship's maiden voyage. The new 177,882-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess is the most impressive, luxurious and stunning Love Boat ever created and introduces an innovative new ship platform designed exclusively for the world's most iconic cruise brand.

A true engineering marvel, Sun Princess officially started the inaugural cruise season on a 10-day Grand Mediterranean cruise roundtrip from Rome , taking eager guests to the marquee ports of Naples, Italy ; Crete, Greece ; Kusadasi, Turkey (for Ephesus); Athens, Greece ; Sicily, Italy ; Mallorca, Spain ; and Barcelona .

"This is an historic day as our new Sun Princess sets sail on her inaugural voyage, and our guests get to experience our sensational, next-level, Love Boat firsthand," said John Padgett , Princess Cruises president. "The ship is a magnificent showcase of advanced design, technology and craftsmanship, with elevated spaces and experiences all focused on taking the Princess vacation experience to a new level."

Princess ships are renown for offering spacious venues and Sun Princess takes that to the next level. Sun Princess debuts new eye-catching experience venues including The Dome, a groundbreaking geodesic, glass-enclosed structure at the top of the ship inspired by the terraces of Santorini. The outward and suspended Sphere Atrium, the namesake of this new class of ship, takes the central Piazza hub of the ship into a new dimension. Here guests are enveloped with expansive ocean views and an open concept, inspired to deliver the desired lifestyle of relaxed indoor and outdoor living.

"The Sun Princess is absolutely gorgeous and guests are going to love her. The architecture is unbelievable and the amenities on board are next level, especially the glass dome at the front of the ship which is incredibly stunning," said Monika Best , of Nova Scotia, Canada , the most travelled guest on the inaugural voyage who is sailing for the 141 st time aboard a Princess ship. "Princess is evolving and looking more toward families and generational cruises, which I think is absolutely wonderful because more and more families are cruising together."

Sun Princess offers an extraordinary cruise experience with not-to-be-missed culinary, entertainment and luxury accommodations, including:

The Greatest Foodie Destination at Sea Sun Princess serves up 30 inviting restaurant and bar venues with an unprecedented collection of celebrity collaborators, high-end ingredients and culinary experiences from:

Spellbound by The Magic Castle : Blending the captivating world of magic with the art of culinary and mixology to create an extraordinary, innovative and immersive dining experience, steeped in magic and adventure.

Kai Sushi by Makoto : Reshaping traditional sushi with a creative approach, the Master of Edomae-style sushi, Chef Makoto Okuwa brings his 25 years of experience with a new concept crafting playful, exquisitely presented dishes paying tribute to Japanese traditions.

Love by Britto : A high-end boutique restaurant with the most romantic view from the ship celebrating love and art from world-renowned artist Romero Britto .

The Butcher's Block by Dario : A new specialty pop-up restaurant from the world's most famous butcher Dario Cecchini , guests enjoy perfectly prepared beef and steak, including Cecchini's signature cuts.

The Catch by Rudi: An exceptional dinner concept from renowned Chef Rudi Sodamin showcasing delectable treasures from the sea.

Good Spirits at Sea with Rob Floyd : Destination-inspired, one-of-a-kind cocktail creations from celebrity mixologist Rob Floyd .

Debuting a three-story, main Horizons Dining Room with endless aft views, inaugural menus have been created in collaboration with the Culinary Institute of America . While retaining what guests love about Princess, the ship also features favorites like Crown Grill, Sabatini's and Crooners with new design elements to impress.

Showstopping Entertainment in Technically Advanced Spaces The Princess Arena is the most technologically advanced theater at sea, offering showstopping and original productions including performances in the round. At night, The Dome astonishes audiences with acrobatic Cirque Éloize performances while the Piazza dazzles with a retractable stage and immersive Champagne Waterfall.

Elevated & Welcoming Accommodations Sun Princess also features the cruise line's largest casino , two-story Lotus Spa, and an expanded retail environment with more than 200 premium brands. The retail space also includes several firsts a sea including an upscale showroom dedicated to luxury horology showcasing TAG Heuer and Breitling and more than 25 new brands available to cruise guests like Italian handbag brand, Pinko and athleisure favorites Beyond Yoga and Varley.

The first-ever family activity zone, Park19, offers multi-generational fun from the top deck. Within decks 19, 20 and 21, guests can experience everything from the Sea Breeze , a glider ride that offers panoramic views of the ocean and breathtaking ports of call to the Coastal Climb, an engaging climbing structure where guests can take in the gorgeous views.

With diverse accommodations to suit every preference and more than 1,500 cabins with balcony views, Sun Princess' re-imagined staterooms include exceptional suites and new Cabana Mini-Suites with extra space for secluded outdoor relaxation.

Rooted in sustainability, Sun Princess is the first LNG (liquefied natural gas) vessel for the cruise line, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and features ingenious energy recovery systems for eco-conscious cruising.

Sun Princess cruises to the Mediterranean and the Caribbean are on sale now. More ship details can be found at www.princess.com/sunprincess .

Additional assets can be found here .

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company's website at  www.princess.com .

About Princess Cruises : Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world's most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean , Alaska , Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe , South America , Australia / New Zealand , the South Pacific, Hawaii , Asia , Canada /New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

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SOURCE Princess Cruises

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Sun Princess

Former name: hull 6310.

Cruise line Princess Cruises

• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)
• Civitavecchia-Rome (Italy)
• Barcelona (Spain)
• Piraeus-Athens (Greece)

Sun Princess current position

Sun Princess current location is at West Mediterranean (coordinates 43.34526 N / 5.33183 E) cruising en route to MARSEILLE. The AIS position was reported 7 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Sun Princess

Sun Princess current cruise is 19 days, round-trip The Best of the Mediterranean . The itinerary starts on 08 Apr, 2024 and ends on 27 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Sun Princess

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Sun Princess Itineraries

Sun princess review, review of sun princess.

The 2024-built Sun Princess cruise ship is the first of two SPHERE class vessels currently under construction at Fincantieri 's yard in Monfalcone Italy . Princess' SPHERE class represents the fleet's first dual-fuel (MDO and LNG ) powered ships. The sistership Star Princess is currently scheduled for delivery in August 2025.

The vessel (IMO number 9863118) will be Bermuda- flagged (MMSI tba) and registered in Hamilton . During its construction/currently, the vessel is Italy-flagged (MMSI 247476700).

Note : This is the third cruise ship named "Sun Princess", following Sun Princess (1974-88/1970-ordered as "Seaward" for NCL-Norwegian /1972-built as "Spirit of London"/1974-acquired by P&O Princess/2016- scrapped as "Ocean Dream"/IMO 7211517) and the old Sun Princess (1995-2020/now Pacific World for Peace Boat) .

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 .

In July 2018 were ordered two new-class (larger than Royal-Class) liners with GT-tonnage/volume 175000 tonnes and passenger capacity 4300. These are the fleet's first dual-fuel (MGO and LNG/primarily) powered ships. The shipbuilding contract with Fincantieri (Monfalcone Shipyard) was signed on March 27, 2019, with scheduled deliveries in 2023 and 2025. Both contracts were signed by Jan Swartz (Princess' President) and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri's CEO). Princess Cruises in 2018 had 5 new ships on order with Fincantieri. The 2024-2025 SPHERE liners are Carnival Corporation's 10th and 11th LNG-powered ships .

Decks and Cabins

Sun Princess staterooms (2162 total) include 469x suites, 949x Standard and 100x Cove balconies, 186x Oceanviews, 460x Interior. Of all staterooms, 100x are interconnecting (for families) and 55x are handicap/wheelchair-accessible. All balcony staterooms (1518, or ~70% of all) are with triple/quad occupancy, being fitted with sofabed.

Unlike the preceding ROYAL Class, the new Princess SPHERE ships have oceanview cabins, each fitted with a large non-opening Picture Window.

Exclusive for the SPHERE ships, Sun Princess has new types of Suites (Signature Collection Suite/categories Sky, Owner's, Penthouse, Signature) providing premium amenities and bonus perks like exclusive facilities access - Signature Restaurant, Signature Lounge & Bar, and Signature Sundeck (part of The Sanctuary).

Club Class staterooms (called on the SPHERE ships "Reserve Collection Staterooms") are Mini-Suites, among which are the resort-style "Reserve Collection Cabana" cabins featuring a balcony-cabana combo (veranda accessed via a large outdoor patio lounge).

The boat has 20 decks , of which 16 are passenger-accessible and 10 with cabins.

Shipboard facilities and amenities

Details on the new Princess SPHERE class were revealed in September 2022.

The new ship platform features iconic design elements, including The Dome (a unique entertainment space on top-deck covered by a glass roof) and a suspended glass (in the Piazza Atrium/midship) projecting live sea views as well as recorded UHD media.

The 4300-passenger ship Sun Princess also has new/fleet-first entertainment venues, 3-deck MDR restaurants (Main Dining Rooms), new-design staterooms, a total of 29 bars/lounges and dining venues.

The 3-story-high Piazza Atrium (spreading on decks 7-8-9 midship) is an iconic architectural concept for large-sized cruise liners. The outward-looking space is suspended and with comfortable seating (on all three levels) providing 360-degree unobstructed outside views. The huge LED screen in the middle is movable to allow live entertainment. From The Piazza are accessed Coffee Currents (new for Princess coffee shop), Bellini's Cocktail Bar, Crooners Bar, Ocean Front Lounge, International Cafe, Alfredo's Pizzeria as well as the Lobby's guest services desks (Shore Excursions, Future Cruise, Reception).

The Dome is a glass-roof-covered sundeck (spanning two floors /decks 17-18 forward) and is the first true glass-enclosed space on a cruise liner. During the day, The Dome serves as a pool deck (having a large indoor/outdoor swimming pool). At night, the swimming pool is covered to become a stage as The Dome transforms into an entertainment venue with superior sound and lighting effects and live aerial performances.

As Princess SPHERE ships' coordinating architecture company Fincantieri contracted TDoS/Tillberg Design of Sweden (1964-founded company specializing in cruise ship design as well as hospitality projects). TDoS was contracted to provide an architecture based on light interiors and transparency. Curiously, the ever-first Atrium (midship-positioned open-floor designed area) on a cruise ship (1969-built Sea Venture) was designed by Robert Tillberg.

The new Sun Princess has the fleet's first Park19 - a 3-floor (aft on decks 19-20-21) family-themed activity zone offering 9x outdoor fun activities. Park 19's main facilities include

• Sea Breeze (the first-at-sea Rollglider/on Deck 20) allows guests (seated and harnessed) to glide above the sea at speeds of 11 mph (18 kph) along a suspended track. The electric ride sessions are in 60-90 seconds and are ADA-accessible.
• Coastal Climb (Ropes Course/obstacle course with a large climbing structure) interlinks Decks 19-20.
• The Lookout (observation deck at the top of Coastal Climb's climbing structure) provides 360-degree unobstructed top-deck views and is the ship's highest passenger-accessible area.
• The Net (above Deck 19) is a trekking facility that groups several unstable bridges and climbing cargo nets as well as a Z-shaped balance beam.
• Infinite Horizon (Deck 19) is for height lovers. The space provides views of 10 decks down (decks 19 to 9) and features cantilevered tilted walls. Like The Lookout, Infinite Horizon provides stunning views from high vantage points.
• Hammock Area is a family-themed relaxation deck fitted with numerous relaxing hammocks.
• Splash Zone (Princess Cruises' first aquapark) is for kids and has a splash area with Pop Jet fountains.
• Recreational Court houses the multi-sports court (for playing basketball, football, tennis) as well as deck games (Table Tennis, Ping Pong, Shuffleboard). Recreational Court also serves open-air group classes (Xponential Fitness, morning yoga and meditation, wellness activities).
• Jogging Track (facility for walking/jogging/running) is on Deck 19. Around 7-times Jogging Track's length (240 m / 790 ft) equals 1 mi/1,6 km.

Park 19's children's facilities (spreading across decks 6-7) are complimentary and include Firefly Park (Kids Center for small children/toddlers and babies aged 6 months to 3 years), Neon Grove (club lounge for tweens/children 7-14 years old) and The Underground (teen club lounge). Firefly Park is midship on Deck 6, while Neon Grove and The Underground are forward on Deck 7.

Serving as a nursery/group babysitting venue, Firefly Park has a dedicated playground and offers after-hours babysitting (between 10 pm - 1 am). The babysitting service costs US$5 (per hour/per kid) and is available for children ages 3 to 12.

Another new venue is the Spellbound by Magic Castle - a Victorian era/19th-century British Empire-inspired bar lounge themed after Hollywood’s Magic Castle in Los Angeles (reservations-only private clubhouse for the Academy of Magical Arts). Located on Deck 8 (forward-portside, adjacent to Princess Casino), Spellbound is served by professional mixologists and with live performances from world-class magicians. Spellbound's experience also features magical artifacts, vintage artworks, the Music Room (with interactive special effects), the Parlor Bar (where guests can interact with professional illusionists), and the Spellbound Theater (30-seat show lounge).

The "Royal Afternoon Tea with Royal Chef Darren McGrady" is a new British dining experience offered on select sea days at Good Spirits At Sea Lounge (deck 7), and reservations are required. During the event, via visual media, Darren McGrady (personal chef of the late Queen Elizabeth II) shares his experiences and stories, interacting with the live host while passengers enjoy a premium Afternoon Tea service with traditional fixings (scones with clotted cream and jam, tea sandwiches, gourmet cookies and pastries). Tea pairings include premium brands (like Earl Grey and English Breakfast), along with more exotic brands (like Lapsang Souchong, Assam, Matcha). "Royal Afternoon Tea" at Good Spirits At Sea Lounge is priced at US$30 per person. Good Spirits At Sea Lounge is also home to premium wine tastings (hosted by renowned winemakers and with professional sommelier service) which are priced at US$40 pp.

Kai Sushi Bar also serves dishes by Chef Makoto Okuwa (Edomae-style sushi master) and is at cover charge (US$39 per person).

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

• 3-deck Main Dining Room (Horizons Restaurant, aft on decks 6-7-8)
• Signature Restaurant (aka Suite Dining Room)
• Reserve Collection Restaurant (fka Inclusive Restaurant)
• Ocean Front / Kai Sushi Bar (specialty seafood bar with a la carte menu/sushi, sashimi)
• O'Malley's Irish Pub
• The Catch by Rudi (specialty seafood restaurant by master chef Rudi Sodamin)
• Crown Grill (steakhouse)
• Sabatini's Italian Trattoria
• World Fresh Marketplace (Lido restaurant)
• Alfredo’s Pizzeria
• Promendade's fast food bars (slice pizza, burgers, hot dogs, fresh-baked bagels, ice creams)
• "Love by Britto" (specialty restaurant/aft on deck 17)
• Butcher’s Block by Dario (midship on deck 9)

"Love by Britto" is a boutique restaurant/specialty dining venue via partnership with Romero Britto (1963-born Brazilian artist/painter, sculptor). The artworks and interior design were developed by Romero Britto and marked by bold patterns and vivid colors. The menu is prix fixe and crafted by Rudi Sodamin (Austria-born and France-trained master chef and culinary pop artist). The 7-course dinner is priced at US$149 per person. The menu includes a Champagne flute (upon arrival). Starters include "Oysters with Champagne Pearls" and "Grilled Fig with Prosciutto and Roquefort" (Prosciutto Wrapped Figs with Blue Cheese), followed by soups such as Asparagus and Watermelon Cocktail with Vodka. The top-quality food ingredients include premium meats, lobster, caviar, truffles, gourmet desserts (always accompanied by chocolate fondue).

On Lido Deck (deck 17) are the ship's swimming pools and outdoor Jacuzzies/whirlpools with a spacious sundeck served by 3 Poolside Bars (open-air venues for fast food and beverages) - 1 forward (Sea View Bar) + 2 midship (Coffee & Cones, THE MIX). Adjacent to The Dome are lined up the fast food venues Lido Slice (pizza), Lido Tacos, Lido Grill, Lido Greens (salads) and Lido Bar. Aft (with stern views/of the ship's wake) is the Altitude Restaurant.

Umai Teppanyaki (deck 8) is a new for Princes Cruises specialty restaurant serving Japanese traditional grilled cuisine using an iron griddle to cook the food.

Crown Grill (fka Sterling Steakhouse, open 6-11 pm) is a dinner-only specialty restaurant (at surcharge PP) serving grilled food (steaks and seafood). The ship's Steakhouse features circular seating, modern artworks, leather booths, open kitchen (guests enjoy the views of their food being prepared in the fleet's biggest show galley/kitchen).

Sabatini's Italian Trattoria is a specialty dining venue that also appeals to families with its handmade pasta dishes. The restaurant has a circular main room (with bistro-style nooks) and a separate pasta room where guests can witness the pasta-making process.

Alfredo's Pizzeria (Indoor-Outdoor Dining venue) has an open kitchen allowing passengers to watch as the chefs create pizza by hand/serve them straight out of the oven. New to the kitchen is the professional, open-mouth oven reaching 970 F (520 C) degrees.

World Fresh Marketplace (with Outdoor Dining Area and Eat Street) is the ship's complimentary, self-service Lido buffet restaurant (aft on deck 9). The Lido restaurant is open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, and has both indoor and outdoor seating (on the Terrace). The Marketplace offers different themed cuisine for lunch and also dinner specials. The restaurant's annexes include Crab Shack (seafood bar), Fondues (cheese bar), The Pastry Shop (self-service patisserie, with complimentary desserts), and the food counter "East Meets West".

"Butcher’s Block by Dario" is the fleet's first butcher shop (impromptu bistro) via partnership with Dario Cecchini (1955-born, 8th generation butcher from Panzano in Chianti, Italy). The venue features a large shared table and offers premium beef and steak meats, including signature cuts from "the world's most famous butcher". Exclusively for Princess Cruises, Dario Cecchini also designed a new menu for the Crown Grill/steakhouse also serving the Bistecca Alla Fiorentina (steak dish prepared with meat sourced from Cecchini's Panzano shop/Antica Macelleria CECCHINI).

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.

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

• Princess Arena Theater (2-deck show lounge with capacity 1000+ seats)
• Two Teens & Tweens Areas (located forward on deck 7) are named The Underground and Neon Grove. These exclusive club lounges are both fitted with comfortable seating (sofas and chairs), video gaming consoles (PlayStation 5/PS5 and Nintendo Switch), table games (hockey, foosball, skeeball) and provide complimentary supervised activities like scavenger hunts, fun competitions, dance parties, movie nights.
• Good Spirits At Sea Lounge (fka Explorers Lounge)
• Cabana Decks (two exclusive sundecks for the Reserve Collection Cabana Mini-Suites positioned portside and starboard/forward-midship on Deck 9 )
• Future Cruise (loyalty program information, onboard booking)
• Shore Excursions Desk (booking, information)
• International Cafe (24-hour patisserie and specialty coffee bar- sandwiches, salads, pastries, cookies)
• Wheelhouse Bar & Lounge
• Princess Casino (age limit 21+ years, 200+ slots and video poker machines, gambling tables) is served by Magic Hour Bar.
• Crooners Bar & Lounge (piano bar with 2 glass grand pianos; cocktails, extensive Martini selection, also used for seminars and lectures)
• Princess Fine Arts Gallery (also hosts art auctions)
• aft sundeck with an Infinity Pool and 2 Jacuzzies (whirlpool hot tubs)
• Family Space and Kid's Center are youth facilities served by a dedicated Guest Services Desk (deck 6 midship)
• Sun Deck with 4 Jacuzzies and a Bar
• Fitness Center (Gym with a separate Aerobics Studio for classes), Beauty Salon, Juice Bar
• Rollglider Track, Ropes Course, Jogging Track, Sports Court

Sun Princess' Casino (Deck 8) is the fleet's largest in both space/size (50%) and number of gaming positions/machines (30%). The gambling complex offers a diverse selection of entertainment, the latest and most popular slot machines, video poker games, and live table games with progressive jackpots. The venue encompasses ~836 m2 (9000 ft2), has 3-m/10-ft high ceilings, 227 slot machines, 13 live tables, and a high-limit slot area, comfortable seating, and provides interactive audio-visual experiences.

Lido Deck (deck 17) houses 3 Swimming Pools (1 forward + 2 midship) and a total of 4 Jacuzzies/whirlpool hot tubs (2 forward + 2 midship) which are served by 3 Poolside Bars/open-air venues for fast food and beverages (1 forward + 2 midship).

Promenade Deck (deck 9) is an open-air space (running from midship to aft/stern, portside and starboard) with outdoor seating/alfresco dining areas.

"The Shops of Princess" is a 2-deck shopping complex (midship on decks 7-8) consisting of top-luxury boutiques selling designer high-end brand merchandise (jewelry, leather goods, watches, perfumes, cosmetics). The onboard brand stores include Cartier, Bvlgari, Chopard, Burberry, Gucci, Montblanc, Rado, Princess Shop (cruise brand's logo merchandise), Bazaar (new shop selling destination-specific goods). On the new Sun Princess is offered merchandise from 200+ brands, including 25 first-at-sea retail brands. On Deck 8 are "The Premium Watch Lounge" (), "The Fine Timepieces Boutique" (selling premium collection watches from Rolex, Longines, Rado, Tissot, Hamilton, among others) and "The Beauty & Wellness Boutique" (shop selling premium cosmetics and skincare products from Chanel, Dior, Lancome, Estee Lauder, Clinique, Comfort Zone, Neom Organics, This Works, Rituals, REN Skincare). Exclusively for the Sun Princess ship, the company signed a partnership with Diamonds International (the world's largest chain of tax- and duty-free jewelry stores) to present its premium collections of custom-made items (jewelry and watches) using premium-quality gemstones and rare diamonds. Diamonds International’s top collections also present exclusive designer brands like Safi Kilima Tanzanite, De Beers Forevermark, Crown of Light Diamonds.

Princess Live! Lounge & Bar (deck 7) is a TV studio for the Princess Cruises' shipboard live TV show programming (spots and music performances) filmed each day to be broadcast to the passenger staterooms. The venue is redesigned and expanded (combines the design elements of Princess Live! and Explorer's Lounge), with full bar/beverage service, a stage (with a large LED screen) and is served by the Gelateria (fka Affogato Bar). During the day, guests enjoy participatory activities like trivia, game shows, the Wake Show.

Sea View Terrace (fka The Beach Club) is a bow-facing observation lounge (forward on deck 16) with a glass-roof cover and direct stair access to The Dome (sundeck area on deck 17).

The ship has a 2-level Signature Lounge (aka Suite Lounge) exclusive to Suite passengers. The Suite Lounge (aft on decks 15-16) provides complimentary snacks and beverages, comfortable seating, restrooms, and is directly accessed by two lifts/elevators.

Lotus Spa is a wellness complex on two floors (midship on decks 5-6). The lower level (deck 5) consists of Relax Room, Treatment Rooms (for massages), Showers and Changing Rooms (male/female). The upper level (deck 6) is "The Enclave" grouping a Thermal Suite (3 times bigger than the traditional Lotus Spa), Hammam/Oriental Steam Room, Caldarium/aroma steam room, Laconium/sauna, aromatic Sensory Showers, Hydro-therapy Pool (with 3 Whirlpools and cascading rain shower), Male/Female Change Rooms.

The Sanctuary (aft on Deck 18) is the ship's adults-only sundeck/recreation area with luxury chaise lounges, its own swimming pool and a spa pool/hot tub, and is served by the open-air Sanctuary Bar (light meals/steward service). The Sanctuary is also fitted with private 4-guest outdoor cabanas (spa massages, Royal Indulgence Package/surcharges PP apply).

In comparison to the fleetmates, some of the venues already available in the fleet are redesigned and expanded (like Alfredo's Pizzeria, Crown Grill/steakhouse, Sabatini's Trattoria, Princess Casino, Crooner's Bar, International Cafe, Good Spirits At Sea, Gelateria, Princess Live!), while others are fleet-firsts (like the Princess Arena, and the 3-deck high restaurant Horizons Dining Room/aft on decks 6-7-8).

The ship's live entertainment program includes new for the fleet production shows, a group of 13 professional dancers, and 8 cirque artists (performing at The Dome). Princess Arena hosts nightly the new productions "Vallora, A Pirate Quest" and "Viva La Música", "Fiera!", as well as the musical "Stage Struck". The Dome hosts nightly "Cirque Eloize" as well as three new shows titled “Artbeat”, “Blue” and “Come Fly Away". The Piazza (Atrium's base/lower level) hosts various musical performances and acts.

Itineraries

Sun Princess itinerary program starts with an inaugural Mediterranean season (2024 February/spring and summer) ending with a westbound Transatlantic crossing from Europe to the USA (RepositionCruises.com) for a Caribbean deployment based on homeporting in Fort Lauderdale/Port Everglades (Florida USA) .

Due to delayed delivery, the Maiden Voyage (initially scheduled to depart from Barcelona on February 8, 2024) was canceled and rescheduled twice - for Feb 18th and eventually Feb 28th.

The original 10-day "Inaugural Grand Mediterranean Cruise" had to visit Palma de Mallorca (Balearic Spain), Messina (Sicily Italy), Piraeus-Athens (Greece), Kusadasi-Ephesus (Turkey), Santorini Island, and Naples, ending in Civitavecchia-Rome. The second 10-day Maiden Voyage (Feb 18-28, roundtrip from Civitavecchia) included visits to Messina, Corfu Island (Greece), Heraklion (Crete Greece), Kusadasi-Ephesus, Piraeus-Athens, and Naples.

The inaugural European season 2024 includes the following itineraries as themes.

• 7-day "Mediterranean with Greek Isles and Turkey" (between Rome and Athens)
• 7-day "Mediterranean with Greece and Italy" (between Athens and Barcelona)
• 7-day "Mediterranean with France and Italy" (between Barcelona and Rome)
• 9-day "Grand Mediterranean" (roundtrips from Rome)
• 10-day "Grand Mediterranean" (roundtrips from Rome or between Barcelona and Rome)
• 10-day "Grand Western Mediterranean" (roundtrips from Rome)

9- to 23-day "European Explorer" itineraries are between the Mediterranean and Southampton (England UK).

The Transatlantic relocation cruise (16-day "Iberian Passage" itinerary from Southampton to Fort Lauderdale) departs on Sept 23, 2024, and visits Portland England, Vigo Spain, Funchal Madeira Portugal, and Tenerife Canary Islands Spain.

The ship's inaugural Caribbean program (2024-2025) is based on the following ex-Fort Lauderdale roundtrip itineraries:

• 5-day "Caribbean Getaway" - visits Amber Cove Dominicana and Grand Turk.
• 7-day "Eastern Caribbean with St Thomas USVI"
• 7-day "Eastern Caribbean" (Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Princess Cays)
• 7-day "Western Caribbean" (Cozumel Mexico, Belize City, Isla Roatan Honduras)

The Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries are combinable into 14-day B2Bs/back-to-back cruises (Caribbean Adventurer).

Note: All 7-day Eastern Caribbean voyages visit the Bahamian private island resort Princess Cays/Eleuthera .

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Princess Cruises cancels Sun Princess maiden voyage for additional shipyard work

Princess Cruises has officially taken delivery of Sun Princess - a new vessel built by Fincantieri's yard in Monfalcone Italy. With a volume of 175...

Princess Cruises and Fincantieri postpone Sun Princess ship's delivery

Princess Cruises and the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri have amicably agreed to postpone the delivery of Sun Princess, the company's largest vessel...

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Other Princess Cruises cruise ships

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Sun Princess Wiki

Princess Cruises' SPHERE-class ships are two units by the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri , with the first one (Sun Princess) entering service in 2024 and the second one ( Star Princess ) in 2025. These are Princess' ever-largest vessels as well as the company's first LNG-powered (by liquefied natural gas).

In July 2018 were ordered two new-class (larger than Princess' ROYAL-class) liners with GT-tonnage/volume 178000 tonnes and passenger capacity 4300 (lower berths). These are the fleet's first dual-fuel (MGO and LNG/primarily) vessels. The shipbuilding contract with Fincantieri ( Monfalcone Shipyard ) was signed on March 27, 2019, with deliveries initially scheduled for 2023 (Sun) and 2025 (Star). Both contracts were signed by Jan Swartz (Princess' President) and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri's CEO).

Princess Cruises in 2018 had 5 newbuilds on order with Fincantieri. The SPHERE-class units were Carnival Corporation 's 10th and 11th LNG-powered ships.

By GT-tonnage/volume (178K) Princess SPHERE is the largest Italy-built vessel so far.

The Sun Princess vessel (Fincantieri Monfalcone yard/hull number 6310) was originally scheduled for delivery (to Princess Cruise Lines Ltd) in January 2024 and to start passenger shipping operations on February 8th/Maiden Voyage. However, its delivery was delayed 20 days (February 28th).

The vessel's construction officially started with the steel-cutting ceremony on September 3, 2021, held at Fincantieri's Centro Servizi Navali (steel factory in San Giorgio di Nogaro, to the west of Monfalcone). Sun Princess was launched/floated out from drydock on March 8, 2023.

In February 2023 were announced the new ship's senior officers, including Masters/Captains (Craig Street and Paolo Arrigo), Staff Captains (Brian Whelan and Valerio Esposito), Hotel General Managers (Simona Stumberger and Ralph D'Souza), Chief Engineers (Gaetano Guida and Davor Pavlovic-Kalifo).

The ship's christening ceremony will be led by godmother Hannah Waddingham (1974-born British actress, singer and TV presenter). The naming event is currently scheduled for April 23, 2024, to be held at Port Barcelona.

Inaugural cruise itineraries (2024)

The next tables show the ship's Maiden Voyage as well as the inaugural cruise itineraries by destination/homeport scheduled for 2024.

Prices are in USD and per person, based on double occupancy.

Due to prolonged shipyard work, two inaugural sailings were canceled.

(MAIDEN VOYAGE/ canceled ) 10-day "Grand Mediterranean" itinerary

(new MAIDEN VOYAGE ) "Grand Mediterranean" itinerary - 10-day, from $1400 pp

(inaugural "The Best of the Mediterranean" itinerary) 20-day, from $3100 pp

(inaugural departure from Greece) 14-day, from $2260 pp

(inaugural relocation voyage) 23-day from the Mediterranean/Europe to the UK, from $3260 pp

(inaugural Transatlantic crossing) 16-day from Europe/UK to Caribbean/USA, from $1480 pp

(inaugural Caribbean cruise) 5-day "Caribbean Getaway with Grand Turk" itinerary, from $540 pp

(inaugural "Caribbean EastWest Adventurer" itinerary) 14-day, from $1620 pp

Note: The "Caribbean EastWest Adventurer" is a B2B/back-to-back cruise that combines two 7-day itineraries - the "Eastern Caribbean with St Thomas" with the "Western Caribbean with Mexico".

Princess Offers Onboard Credit for Guests on Sun’s Inaugural Sailing

• March 8, 2024

Princess Cruises is offering an onboard credit for the passengers onboard the inaugural cruise of the Sun Princess.

According to a statement issued onboard, the offer is a token of appreciation for the passengers who embarked on the new vessel in Civitavecchia on Feb. 28, 2024 .

“Given this is the inaugural cruise for our brand-new generation of Princess ships, there are a few aspects of the experience that our dedicated team will be refining during the cruise,” the company said in the letter.

“On the occasion that things may not go perfectly, please know that our team will do everything possible to provide you with a memorable vacation experience.”

The statement continues to say that the ship offers a range of world-class entertainment and activities, including the new O’Malley’s Irish Pub and The Laugh Lounge comedy club.

“However, there are a few areas onboard that will not be fully operational during your cruise, including elements of Park19, Spellbound by Magic Castle and the production shows planned for The Dome and The Arena, which are in rehearsal and not yet available,” Princess explained.

The company also highlighted the guests’ participation as the very first guests onboard the Sun Princess.

“In appreciation of being among the first to sail onboard the new Sun Princess and to express our gratitude for your understanding, each stateroom will receive a $120 USD onboard credit,” Princess said.

The amount will be credited into guests’ onboard accounts and can be used for onboard or shoreside experiences.

Built by the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the Sun Princess set sail on its first ever revenue cruise in late February after a 20-day delay.

Sailing from Italy to Barcelona, the 4,300-guest ship is offering a ten-day cruise to the Mediterranean that features visits to additional destinations in both countries, as well as stops in Greece and Turkey.

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Setback for Sun Princess as Inaugural Sailing Delayed Again

• Princess Cruises received delivery of Sun Princess from Fincantieri​​.
• The cruise line announced a second delay for the inaugural sailing as the ship requires additional shipyard work before the new February 28, 2024, maiden voyage.
• Passengers affected by the cancellation were offered a full refund, a 50% future cruise credit, and up to $200 per person for flight change fees, with additional support for those already in the region​.

In a significant milestone for Princess Cruises, the cruise line has officially taken delivery of its cruise ship, Sun Princess, from Fincantieri shipyards. The delivery marks a significant milestone as Sun Princess is the first of a new line of Sphere-class vessels.

Princess Cruises Receives Sun Princess

Sun Princess is a 175,500 gross-ton cruise ship with a capacity to host 4,300 guests. The new passenger vessel boasts various new amenities, including the highest number of balconies on a Princess vessel, providing guests with unrivaled views of the Mediterranean and Caribbean seas from the comfort of their staterooms.

Among the ship’s standout attractions are The Dome , an entertainment venue inspired by the iconic terraces of Santorini, and the Arena , which represents the pinnacle of Princess Theater design with its advanced technological capabilities. These additions, alongside a diverse selection of staterooms and suites, promise to offer an unforgettable vacation experience.

Sun Princess Maiden Voyage Delayed For a Second Time

In a surprising turn of events, Princess Cruises announced that Sun Princess’ maiden voyage will be delayed for a second time. Sun Princess was scheduled to set sail on February 18. The ship’s maiden voyage has been rescheduled to February 28, departing from Rome.

The delay is attributed to the need for additional technical work to ensure the vessel meets the high standards expected by guests.

Princess Cruises announced the delay in an email to guests, “While we will be taking delivery of our new Sun Princess on February 14, the ship must remain alongside in the shipyard to allow for additional technical work to be completed and we regret to announce that we have no other option than to cancel the February 18 voyage,”

“We share in your deep disappointment and frustration, and sincerely apologize for the extreme disruption the late cancellation of this voyage creates.” The email continued.

Sun Princess was originally scheduled to embark on her maiden voyage on February 8, 2024. However, Princess Cruises delayed the inaugural Sun Princess sailing just two weeks before departure on January 24, 2024.

Compensation For Travelers

Princess Cruises compensates affected guests with a full refund of their cruise fare, including any pre-purchased onboard services and a 50% future cruise credit (FCC) for use on a future voyage. The FCC is valid for bookings made by November 30, 2024, for sailings through December 31, 2025.

The cruise line also extends financial support of up to $200 per person to cover fees for flight cancellations for passengers who have not yet flown. If guests have already arrived in the departure region, they will be compensated the full amount of the round-trip airfare.

a move to support its partners, Princess Cruises also ensures that travel agent commissions are protected.

At this time, Sun Princess’ February 28 sailing is scheduled to proceed as planned. However, guests are understandably hesitant after the previous two cancellations.

It’s been noted that shipyards have struggled with supply chain issues following the pandemic. Over the past year, several cruise ships, including Icon of the Seas and Norwegian Viva, have seen delays.

Guests are advised to keep an eye on their email for future changes as the February 28, 2024 sailing approaches.

Marcello De Lio

Marcello's been cruising since he was 12 years old. He loves the freedom that cruising provides, meeting new people, and exploring amazing new ships. Marcello created High Seas Cruising to share his passion for cruising and travel with readers and grow a community of passionate voyagers.

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• Princess Cruises

Sun Princess Inaugural Cruises

By timtrek , September 16, 2022 in Princess Cruises

Recommended Posts

Hi Everyone

Decided to book one of the first 3 cruises that were announced. Called right at 6:00 AM and got right through. Was able to reserve a "Reserve Class" Cabana room. Looking at the drawings on the website, looks like an amazing room.  I'm a little sad to see the bathtub being gone from the mini suite, but it looks like a big shower. I was told there are many room types already sold out and people are going on wait lists. $400 pp down payment and it is refundable till Nov 30, 2023, so even if things change, I feel pretty safe.  The itinerary is Rome to Barcelona - 10 days - with scheduled ports of Naples, Santorini, Kusadasi, Athens, Messina, and Mallorca. If they all stay the same it will be a great cruise as they are all ports we have never been to, except Barcelona. 

I'm not sure how some of the announced changes on the Sun will affect the culture of Princess cruises, but I am excited to find out.  

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2beaglesmom

I wonder why these cruises are not available on the website?

Last night, after too many glasses of wine, I booked the lowest level deluxe balcony on Deck 6 under the lifeboats for $7800. Balcony looks like the one I had on the last Sun Princess. 

Woke up this morning with OMG what have I done. Think i'll be cancelling this behemoth for sure.

11 minutes ago, billco said: Last night, after too many glasses of wine, I booked the lowest level deluxe balcony on Deck 6 under the lifeboats for $7800. Balcony looks like the one I had on the last Sun Princess.    Woke up this morning with OMG what have I done. Think i'll be cancelling this behemoth for sure.

🤨  oh so that's what happened.

I had an email from Princess saying something BIG is coming, and quickly looked to see it was the new Sun Princess they were talking about.  I did not look any further ~ feeling sad Princess is falling into the bigger is better trap!  I prefer the smaller, more intimate vessels.   Coral Princess is my favorite ship!  (my favorite was the old Regal).

26 minutes ago, GloriaF said: I prefer the smaller, more intimate vessels.

unfortunately, Princess is moving in the opposite direction

fortunately, there are other lines that still have those in their fleet

Rick&Jeannie

We did a Panama Canal full transit *just* before the pandemic hit in 2020 on the Pacific Princess. 675 passengers.  We'd never been on a ship like that but quickly came to the conclusion "we'll be sailing on her far into the future!"  Oh well...Princess had other ideas as the Pacific was one of the first "casualties" in the great ship sell-off. 

The sailing we were on was the first leg of an around the world cruise.  We got off in Los Angeles.  It continued on but was "recalled" when it was in the Indian Ocean due to the shutdown!  So...we were on one leg of its last cruise for Princess.  I know it now sails under the Azamara flag...but have you priced any of their sailings?

1 hour ago, GloriaF said: I had an email from Princess saying something BIG is coming, and quickly looked to see it was the new Sun Princess they were talking about.  I did not look any further ~ feeling sad Princess is falling into the bigger is better trap!  I prefer the smaller, more intimate vessels.   Coral Princess is my favorite ship!  (my favorite was the old Regal).

Monkey see, monkey due, model seems more like Celebrity with modern furniture.  I am elite on both Princess and Celebrity, when Celebrity built new designs tried them, did not like at all and stopped cruising Celebrity.  HAL has eliminated bathtubs from their new builds except for suites, I like a bathtub so don't plan to cruise HAL anymore either.  For now I will stick to Grand and Royal class Princess ships, prefer Grand over Royal.  Seems cruise lines designs going in the wrong direction for my taste. 

1 hour ago, billco said: Last night, after too many glasses of wine, I booked the lowest level deluxe balcony on Deck 6 under the lifeboats for $7800. Balcony looks like the one I had on the last Sun Princess.    Woke up this morning with OMG what have I done. Think i'll be cancelling this behemoth for sure.

Holy Smokes! I hadn't even looked at pricing or anything really for these first sailings as I know that the timing won't work for me but $7800 for a balcony???? That is waaaaay out of my price range. Lol

LACruiser88

7 minutes ago, ceilidh1 said: Holy Smokes! I hadn't even looked at pricing or anything really for these first sailings as I know that the timing won't work for me but $7800 for a balcony???? That is waaaaay out of my price range. Lol

I am very curious to see the pricing for the Sun.  I know it's going to be sticker shock!

5 minutes ago, LACruiser88 said: I am very curious to see the pricing for the Sun.  I know it's going to be sticker shock!

$200 pp per day, including PLUS for a balcony - yeah, no - prolly not happening on Sun

CruisinCouple2010

2 hours ago, 2beaglesmom said: I wonder why these cruises are not available on the website?

I also checked Princess web site and could not find anything.

Astro Flyer

37 minutes ago, LACruiser88 said: I am very curious to see the pricing for the Sun.  I know it's going to be sticker shock!

Have you seen these from another thread? A deluxe balcony on Discovery’s March inaugural cruise cost only $82/pp/day and on Sun the cheapest deluxe balcony is $309/pp/day…nearly 4 times as much. Out of curiosity checked online for the promised Elite booking period ending soon & there’s nothing there for Sun…another unfulfilled Princess promise.

1 hour ago, Rick&Jeannie said: We did a Panama Canal full transit *just* before the pandemic hit in 2020 on the Pacific Princess. 675 passengers.  We'd never been on a ship like that but quickly came to the conclusion "we'll be sailing on her far into the future!"  Oh well...Princess had other ideas as the Pacific was one of the first "casualties" in the great ship sell-off.    The sailing we were on was the first leg of an around the world cruise.  We got off in Los Angeles.  It continued on but was "recalled" when it was in the Indian Ocean due to the shutdown!  So...we were on one leg of its last cruise for Princess.  I know it now sails under the Azamara flag...but have you priced any of their sailings?

We are booked on Azamara Onward ( aka Pacific Princess ) 2/12/23 Lima to Miami. Check it  out. Airfare has been purchased through the Azamara air program at a reasonable price. We have booked the same cabin that we last sailed in on the Pacific Princess.

Wishing on a star

Thank You Astro Flyer for those pricing charts!

I actually wan't aware that these Cruises would start in Rome and Europe in February.  Brrrr!!!!  I checked and lows can be in the 30's.

Are these the only itineraries that are released for booking right now?

8 minutes ago, Wishing on a star said: Thank You Astro Flyer for those pricing charts! I actually wan't aware that these Cruises would start in Rome and Europe in February.  Brrrr!!!!  I checked and lows can be in the 30's.   Are these the only itineraries that are released for booking right now?

after the Med season, SUN, heads to FTL to do East/West Caribbean cruises - don't really care which - but would like to know dates and prices for those

Just got off the phone to book (I believe?) the maiden. My shock when the sales women asked what trip I'd like, not knowing what was available. But I'm looking forward to the trip!

The second Sun Princess was my first ever cruise (at the age of 4!) - so I think I have to try her namesake.

4 hours ago, pris993 said: Monkey see, monkey due, model seems more like Celebrity with modern furniture.  I am elite on both Princess and Celebrity, when Celebrity built new designs tried them, did not like at all and stopped cruising Celebrity.  HAL has eliminated bathtubs from their new builds except for suites, I like a bathtub so don't plan to cruise HAL anymore either.  For now I will stick to Grand and Royal class Princess ships, prefer Grand over Royal.  Seems cruise lines designs going in the wrong direction for my taste. 

I tend to agree with you.  I like the "old" walk around decks. 

1 hour ago, timtrek said: I tend to agree with you.  I like the "old" walk around decks. 

Agree, like the walk around decks too. 

5 hours ago, pris993 said: Monkey see, monkey due, model seems more like Celebrity with modern furniture.  I am elite on both Princess and Celebrity, when Celebrity built new designs tried them, did not like at all and stopped cruising Celebrity.  HAL has eliminated bathtubs from their new builds except for suites, I like a bathtub so don't plan to cruise HAL anymore either.  For now I will stick to Grand and Royal class Princess ships, prefer Grand over Royal.  Seems cruise lines designs going in the wrong direction for my taste. 

I am with you always book a mini or full suite we love to soak in the tub.

crusinthrough

The new design looks really nice.  Anyone hear when 2024 Caribbean itineraries will go on sale?  

Princess is stepping up their game with suite amenities with the Reserve and Signature categories.  The cabana mini suite is intriguing but will probably be overpriced if a balcony if $7800.

4 minutes ago, crusinthrough said: The new design looks really nice.  Anyone hear when 2024 Caribbean itineraries will go on sale?

Not yet. My TA is watching for it though. I’m interested in those! 

Has anyone booked a room on any of the first 3 cruises on this new ship?

Judy from SW Florida

1 hour ago, Jemnibabe said: Has anyone booked a room on any of the first 3 cruises on this new ship?   Judy from SW Florida

Yep! Booked the Inaugural Grand Mediterranean

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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].

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Princess Cruises Cancels 9 Sailings on Its Newest Ship After Inaugural Voyage Gets Delayed

What to know if you've booked a trip that's now been canceled.

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises has pushed back the inauguration of its newest ship and canceled several sailings for next year in the process.

The cruise line delayed the delivery of its next ship, the Star Princess , by about two months, pushing the start date from July 29, 2025, to Sept. 26, 2025, according to the company . The setback means Princess has been forced to cancel nine different cruises.

“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,” John Padgett, the president of Princess Cruises, said in a statement.

Travelers who were set to sail with the company on the brand-new ship can either receive a full refund of the cruise fare or choose to rebook on a future cruise and receive an onboard credit, which will depend on the cruise they choose. 

Passengers can rebook on any Princess cruise, including a future cruise on the Star Princess or on the Sun Princess , which launched this year.

Going forward, Princess will schedule its new inaugural voyage for the Star Princess on Oct. 4, 2025, sailing an 11-day route along the Mediterranean roundtrip from Barcelona. That will be followed by a 7-day trip on the Mediterranean on Oct. 15 and a 14-day transatlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale on Oct. 22. The ship will then spend time in the Caribbean.

These cruises open for sale on April 30.

When finished, the Star Princess will feature room for 4,300 guests across 21 decks, and come complete with more than 29 different bars and restaurants, a multi-level glass-enclosed covered deck called The Dome, a two-story spa, an infinity pool, and more. The ship will be the second in Princess’ Sphere Class of ships, joining the Sun Princess .