check in for my princess cruise

Princess MedallionClass® FAQ

Our frequently asked questions about the medallion® device and oceanready® steps, the medallionclass experience.

Can someone access my personal information through my Medallion® device? No, your Medallion device doesn’t store any personal information, so no need to worry if you lose it.

Can I wear my Medallion device in the pool? Yes, it's waterproof, and heat, sand and salt resistant.

Is there a way to wear my Medallion device other than the lanyard? Absolutely. You can choose from a variety of accessories, such as sports bands, clips, pendants and bracelets. Order them for yourself and your travel party now through the OceanReady ® section of the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app or purchase them on board at the OceanFront™ area.

How can I arrange to have my Medallion shipped to my home? In the OceanReady section of the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app, tap "Medallion" and complete or confirm your shipping information at least 13 days before your Princess vacation begins.

Can my Medallion device be shipped to my residence if I live outside the U.S.? At this time, home shipping is only available for residents of Canada, the United States and Puerto Rico. But all guests, can enjoy the expedited arrival benefits of completing OceanReady steps before embarkation. Medallion devices will be waiting at the port for guests living outside the U.S.  or if one was not mailed to you.

I need to pick up my Medallion device at the port. Will that be a problem? Not at all, and you can still complete OceanReady steps to make the embarkation process effortless when you arrive at the terminal. Follow the steps on the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app to complete your travel checklist (without shipping to your home). And when you arrive at the terminal, just show your OceanReady QR code on your mobile device and look for the Blue Arrival Lane to enjoy easy, effortless boarding. Pro Tip: Take a screenshot of the OceanReady Pass on your phone to have it handy!

Is a Medallion wearable safe to use if I have a pacemaker, or other medical device? The Medallion wearable includes magnets and RF technology that have been designed and manufactured to meet the radio frequency (RF) requirements set by the Federal Communications Commission of the United States. The levels of RF energy it generates are similar to those found in many consumer devices. Manufacturers of Implantable Pacemaker and Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICDs) typically recommend that you keep your medical device 9 inches (23 cm) away from RF transmitters comparable to the one found inside the Medallion wearable. However, as every device differs, so you should check directly with the manufacturer of your medical device and physician for guidance.

How can I get help with my Medallion device on board? Once on board MedallionClass ships, guests can visit OceanFront area and get assistance from one of our OceanNavigators. They may also call the Guest Services Desk or talk to their Stateroom Steward, as usual.

What happens if I lose my Medallion wearable? If a guest notifies the crew of a lost Medallion device, it will be disabled and replaced at no cost. For security of purchase transactions, each Medallion device is associated with a guest profile that contains their onboard security photo. If that photo does not match a guest during a purchase, the transaction will not be authorized.

How does the Medallion device help with guest safety? The new OceanSafety system accelerates and strengthens safety and security operations on board a MedallionClass ship. OceanSafety uses innovation to significantly improve the guest processing time and experience by removing friction from the process and allowing the ship and crew to operate more efficiently during embarkation, safety drills, port calls, disembarkation, and throughout the cruise.

Can someone hack the system and get personal info? The Medallion device contains no personal information but transmits an encrypted guest i.d. to the Ocean guest experience platform. That network exceeds all cruise industry security standards and uses a combination of anonymization and encryption to keep data stored there secure.

Is there anything else I need to know about my Medallion wearable? Just be sure to keep it with you at all times. In addition to unlocking a world of unique experiences, it also unlocks your stateroom door, and is used to make purchases on board.

OceanReady® Steps

What do I need to do within the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app to get ready for my Princess cruise? Download the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app to complete the OceanReady® steps before you sail. You'll want to complete the following steps to ensure access to the Green Lane in the terminal for faster check-in with less waiting:

• Order and Customize your Medallion*
• Personal Info & Travel Docs
• MedallionPay™
• Passage Contract & Acknowledgements**
• Security & Profile Photos
• Emergency Information

*Currently only available for residents of Canada, the US & Puerto Rico . Medallion devices will be available for pick up in the terminal, if one was not mailed to you.

** Acknowledgements apply to Australia & New Zealand departures only.

Guests who don't complete all the above steps in the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app will go through the Blue Lane for check-in.

Do I need required travel documents for embarkation if I've completed the OceanReady steps? Yes! You must have your required travel documents (e.g. passport) available when checking in at the terminal.

Does the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app work before my cruise? There are several features that you can enjoy before your cruise such as getting OceanReady for expedited boarding and creating your own customized itinerary with JourneyView® which offers a look at shipboard activities happening on your voyage. Other MedallionClass experiences, like OceanNow®, require you to be on board.

Do I need to pay for MedallionNet® Wi-Fi to download the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app on board? No, once on board you can download and use the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app and all digital experiences for free. But we suggest you download the app prior to boarding to enjoy seamless boarding with OceanReady.

What if I have trouble signing in or connecting to MedallionNet Wi-Fi? Switch your mobile device to "Airplane Mode" in Settings. Turn on your Wi-Fi, and select "MedallionNet" as your Wi-Fi network. Then open a web browser and the page will launch. Click "get online now".

Is the app available in multiple languages? Yes, the Princess ® MedallionClass ® app is currently available in English and Japanese.

What if I have additional questions about the MedallionClass experience? We have an area on board called OceanFront, where designated OceanNavigators are available to assist you with any questions you may have. There will also be how-to videos on the stateroom TVs. If you have any questions prior to your sailing, you can call us at:

• United States (toll free): 1-800-774-6237
• United Kingdom: 0344 3388 663
• Australia (toll free): 13 24 88
• New Zealand (toll free): 0800 780 717
• Australia and New Zealand guests (calling internationally): +61 2 8362 4400

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NEW! Princess boarding time in Sept 2023 ⚓ How to see check-in time for Princess cruise ship embarkation

As of late summer 2023, the way to find out what time you should arrive for your Princess cruise has changed.

I had a Princess cruise embarkation day in September 2023, and I was clicking all over to try to figure out what the boarding time is!

And well, once you know where to look, it’s easy!

Of course, the difficulty is in knowing where to look!

But, I will show you!

I found the boarding time for my cruise by logging into my account at princess.com.

I am not sure if there is a way to check on the Princess app.

So this is how it was for my cruises in September 2023.

How to see what time you can board your Princess cruise ship:

• Go to princess.com
• Log into your account
• Go to “my account”
• Go to “manage this booking” for the cruise you want to find the check-in time for
• Go to “itinerary”
• Look for the boarding time under day 1 of your cruise itinerary!

How to use the Princess app to complete check-in process before embarkation day

Before you get on your cruise, you will want to fill out the required travel information.

The best way to do this is through the Princess app.

You can search for “princess medallion app” in your app store.

If you already have the app, it’s still good to go to your app store and search for the princess app to make sure you have the latest version.

If it gives you an option to update… then update!

In the Princess app, look for the “travel checklist” and complete the “personal information and documents.”

See more about boarding day and getting on the cruise ship: Princess cruise embarkation day

Do you need the app to do the check-in process for a Princess cruise?

No, you do not need the app or a smart phone to start the check-in process before your Princess cruise.

You just need to go to the website version of the Princess app.

If you or someone you are traveling with does not have a smart phone, you can start the check-in process online at princess.com.

Once you are logged in at princess.com, go to: my account > manage this booking

Once you “manage this booking” this brings you to a summary page.

You can scroll down and it says “Check-in with the MedallionClass App.”

Then you will see 3 steps:

• Download the MedallionClass app
• Get OceanReady
• Make Plans in Cruise Personalizer

Under step 1 “Download the MedallionClass app,” in small print, it says “Don’t have a compatible device? Try our web version.”

This is where you go to start the Princess cruise check-in process from your desktop computer.

“Try our web version” links to a website where you can start the check-in process as you would on the app.

Green lane vs blue lane for Princess cruise check-in

Before your cruise begins, you will be given a color.

The fastest is green lane.

To my understanding, you will be in the “green lane” if you have filled out all the required information AND you have had your Princess medallion sent to your home.

If you haven’t done this yet, you can do so on the Princess app, if there’s still enough time before your cruise.

I understand it’s only possible to have the medallion shipped to you if you live in the US.

Having the Princess medallion sent to your home is not a requirement.

But, it makes things go faster on embarkation day once you are at your cruise port.

If you do not get your medallion sent to your home, then you will be in the “blue lane.”

This means that you will stand in a line to pick up your medallion.

For my 3 Princess cruises in early 2023 which all started in the US or Canada, I picked up the medallion at the cruise port, and it wasn’t much of an issue.

But, the more non-Americans that are on your cruise (which is more likely if you are on a cruise that starts outside of the US or Canada), the more people there will be who have not had their medallions sent to their home.

This means that more people need to pick up their medallions at the cruise port, and the line to pick up the medallion may be longer.

More for your Princess cruise:

• Embarkation day on a Princess cruise
• Disembarkation day on a Princess cruise
• Dinner food menu on my Princess cruise  (+ how to see the menu once you’re on the cruise ship)
• TV on a Princess cruise ship
• More Princess cruise tips
• Alaska cruise tips

HAPPY ARRIVING AT YOUR PRINCESS CRUISE FOR YOUR BOARDING TIME!

For the archives are you reading old posts around the internet about people talking about finding out arrival times for a princess cruise this is how boarding a princess cruise used to be.

aka this is the old post. I had 3 Princess embarkation days in early 2023 and I used the Princess app for those cruises to look for arrival times.

It took me forever to figure out how to go back and check the arrival time I selected, and I know I’m not alone!

There’s no reason to remember what time you selected, because you can always go back and easily figure it out later, right?! 🤪

It actually IS quite easy to figure out what the arrival time is on the app… if you know what you’re looking for!

But it sure wasn’t easy for me at first!

Since it seems to be a common problem for people to not be able to find their arrival times easily, it’s possible that the app may change to make it easier.

But this is how it was for me on a recent cruise!

Okay so first.

Let’s say you selected your arrival time but you don’t remember what time you selected… or it was selected for you.

When you open the app, you will see your group arrival time, but there is no time listed.

The most obvious app improvement would be to list the time right here … Maybe it will come in the future …

But well, as of May 2023, all you see is your arrival group letter.

What are the Princess arrival group times?

IMPORTANT: Princess arrival group times vary based on your cruise!

Below will also show you how you can check the group arrival times for your cruise!

But just to give you an idea, these were the available group arrival times for my Majestic Princess cruise in May 2023.

• Group A arrival for my cruise was at 11am to 11:30am
• Group B arrival for my cruise was at 11:30am to 12pm
• Group C arrival for my cruise was at 12pm to 12:30pm
• Group D arrival for my cruise was at 12:30pm to 1pm
• Group E arrival for my cruise was at 1pm to 1:30pm
• Group F arrival for my cruise was at 1:30pm to 2pm
• Group G arrival for my cruise was at 2pm to 2:30pm
• Group H arrival for my cruise was at 2:30pm to 3pm
• Group I arrival for my cruise was at 3pm to 3:30pm

Again, it may be different for your cruise!

The group arrival times for my Sapphire Princess cruise departing in April 2023 were different.

For that cruise the group A arrival time started at 11:30pm.

The last group available was group H with an arrival time from 3pm to 3:30pm.

How to see your arrival group time on the Princess medallion app

In short, here is how to see your Princess arrival group time:

• Open up the Princess app
• Look for “Ocean Ready Travel Checklist”
• Look for “Your arrival status”
• Look for “personal information & documents”
• Tap on “personal information & documents”! It’s all easy from here!
• Scroll down and look for “suggested”
• Look for “arrivals”
• Tap on “arrivals”!
• Tap on your cruise
• Your arrival group time will appear!

Then from here, you can also change your boarding time, if there are other times available.

How to select or change your arrival group time on the Princess medallion app

In short, here is how to change your Princess arrival group time:

• Follow all of the above for “how to see your arrival group time”
• Once you see your arrival group time, tap on “manage” arrival group!

If you can’t select one of these boarding groups, it means that it’s full.

👆 How early can you arrive for your Princess cruise? You’ll check the app for the Group A arrival time!

👆 How late can you arrive for your Princess cruise? You’ll check the app for the last group arrival time!

And if it’s still awhile until your cruise, then you may not be able to select your cruise boarding time at all.

What if you don’t select an arrival group?

According to the Princess app:

Green lane guests will be auto-assigned to an arrival group prior to sailing.

Read more from Princess before arriving for your cruise:

• Get ready for your Princess cruise
• Before you leave for your Princess cruise

What if you show up to check in for your cruise too early or too late?

And finally… what’s the reality?

Well, different cruise ports may operate differently.

I had one cruise from San Diego cruise port, and I did show the Princess app to a security guy in order to enter the cruise terminal.

I’m not sure if he was just checking that I had a cruise to allow me to enter the terminal, or if he was looking specifically for my arrival letter and time.

He seemed to more be looking to check that I was a Princess cruiser, but I am not sure.

For my most recent cruise from Vancouver cruise port, I don’t recall showing my phone (app) to anyone.

Still, the whole point of selecting an embarkation time is to minimize our wait time on embarkation day.

So, it’s best to arrive at your designated time!

That said, if something changes at the last minute and you find yourself arriving way early or way late, it doesn’t seem like it’s something to stress about it too much!

This is based on my cruise experience from early 2023! Your experience will vary!

• Dinner menu
• Breakfast menu
• Desserts menu
• Breakfast room service
• Premium desserts
• How to find your boarding time for a Princess cruise
• How to print Princess cruise luggage tags
• What is the first day of the cruise like: Embarkation day
• What is the day you get off the cruise ship like: Disembarkation day
• Sample daily activity schedule on a cruise ship: Princess cruise activities (princess patter)
• What to watch on your stateroom TV (really!)
• Princess cruise fitness classes (free with Princess package)
• Princess cruise group sports (+ more group activities)
• What happens when a port is canceled during a cruise?
• Inside a cruise ship bathroom
• Alaska cruise with time zone change
• Princess naturalist talks
• puppies in the piazza

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

When Can I Check-In For My Princess Cruise

Published: December 10, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Nerta Buck

• Sustainability
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome aboard the world of Princess Cruises! As you prepare for your upcoming voyage, one question that may be on your mind is, “When can I check-in for my Princess Cruise?” Checking in for your cruise is an essential step in ensuring a smooth embarkation process and getting your vacation started on the right foot. In this article, we will guide you through the check-in process for Princess Cruises, providing you with valuable information to make your experience seamless and stress-free.

Princess Cruises is renowned for its exceptional service, captivating itineraries, and luxurious onboard amenities. With a wide array of destinations to choose from, including breathtaking destinations in the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and beyond, Princess Cruises offers an unforgettable vacation experience. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, knowing the check-in procedures and timeline will help you plan your journey with ease.

So, let’s embark on the journey together as we explore the various aspects of the Princess Cruise check-in process. From online check-in options to check-in procedures at the port, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure a hassle-free start to your cruise adventure.

Overview of Princess Cruise Check-In Process

The Princess Cruise check-in process is designed to streamline the embarkation process and ensure that guests have a seamless start to their cruise vacation. Prior to boarding the ship, all passengers are required to complete the check-in procedure, which includes providing necessary documentation, submitting personal information, and obtaining the necessary identification materials.

One of the key aspects of the Princess Cruise check-in process is the option for online check-in. This convenient feature allows passengers to complete the necessary paperwork and provide essential information in advance, saving time and effort on the day of embarkation. Online check-in can typically be done within 75 days prior to the sailing date, and it is highly recommended to complete this process as early as possible to secure your preferred boarding time.

During the online check-in process, passengers will be asked to provide details such as passport information, emergency contact information, and any special requirements or requests. It is essential to double-check all the entered information to ensure accuracy and avoid any issues during check-in.

Upon completion of the online check-in process, passengers will receive their boarding documents, which can be printed or saved on a mobile device for presentation at the cruise terminal. These documents include a boarding pass, luggage tags, and important information regarding the itinerary and onboard activities.

Once passengers arrive at the port, they will proceed to the designated check-in area, where their documents and identification will be verified by the cruise line staff. At this point, guests will also be asked to provide a credit card or onboard account information for any required purchases or incidentals during the voyage.

After completing the check-in process at the terminal, passengers will receive their cruise cards, also known as the “Key to the World.” This card serves as identification, cabin key, and onboard charge card throughout the duration of the cruise. It is important to keep the cruise card handy at all times and to ensure its safekeeping throughout the trip.

With the overall goal of ensuring a smooth and efficient embarkation process, Princess Cruises has implemented these check-in procedures to create a stress-free experience for their guests. By completing the online check-in process in advance and preparing the necessary documents, passengers can start their cruise with ease and anticipation.

Online Check-In Options

Princess Cruises offers convenient online check-in options for passengers, allowing them to complete the necessary paperwork and provide essential information prior to their embarkation day. This online check-in process is designed to save time and make the overall check-in experience smoother for guests.

To access the online check-in system, passengers can visit the official Princess Cruises website and navigate to the “Manage My Booking” section. Here, they will be prompted to enter their booking details, such as their booking number and personal information, to initiate the check-in process.

During the online check-in, passengers will be asked to provide important information, including passport details, emergency contact information, and any special requests or requirements. It is crucial to ensure that all information is accurate and up to date to avoid any issues during the check-in process.

One of the benefits of completing the online check-in is the ability to choose a preferred boarding time. Princess Cruises offers different time slots for passengers to board the ship, helping to manage the flow of guests and minimize wait times. By completing the online check-in early, passengers have a better chance of securing their desired boarding time slot.

In addition to completing the paperwork and providing necessary information, passengers can also upload a photo for their cruise identification card. The photo should meet the guidelines specified by the cruise line, such as being a recent, clear, and full-face image. Having the photo uploaded in advance speeds up the check-in process at the terminal, as the cruise line staff will already have the photo on file.

Once passengers have completed the online check-in process, they will receive their boarding documents via email or through the Princess Cruises website. These documents include a boarding pass, luggage tags, and important information about the voyage. Passengers have the option to print these documents or save them on their mobile devices for easy access at the terminal.

Online check-in is available within a specific timeframe, usually starting around 75 days before the sailing date. It is highly recommended to complete the online check-in as early as possible to secure your preferred boarding time and avoid any last-minute rush.

By taking advantage of the online check-in options provided by Princess Cruises, passengers can save time and streamline their embarkation process. It is a convenient way to ensure that all paperwork is in order and to start the cruise experience on a positive note.

Check-In Timeframes for Different Cruise Itineraries

The check-in timeframe for your Princess Cruise may vary depending on the specific itinerary and departure port. It is important to be aware of the recommended check-in time to ensure a smooth and efficient embarkation process. Here is a general guideline for the check-in timeframes based on different cruise itineraries:

• Caribbean Cruises: For Caribbean cruises, the recommended check-in time is typically between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. This gives passengers ample time to arrive at the port, complete the check-in process, and board the ship before the scheduled departure time.
• Alaska Cruises: Check-in time for Alaska cruises may vary depending on whether the ship departs from Seattle, Vancouver, or another port in Alaska. Generally, it is advisable to arrive at the port between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm to ensure sufficient time for check-in and to settle into your cabin before the ship sets sail.
• European Cruises: European cruises often have slightly different check-in timeframes due to various factors such as local customs, immigration processes, and port regulations. It is typically recommended to arrive at the port between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm for European cruises.
• World Cruises: World cruises, which span multiple continents over an extended period, may have different check-in timeframes for specific segments or embarkation ports. Passengers on world cruises should consult their specific itinerary or check with Princess Cruises for the recommended check-in time.

It is important to note that these timeframes are general recommendations and may vary depending on the specific sailing and port conditions. Passengers should refer to their booking information or contact Princess Cruises directly for the most accurate and up-to-date check-in instructions.

Regardless of the check-in timeframe, it is always advisable to arrive at the port with enough time to go through the necessary procedures. Arriving early not only allows for a stress-free check-in but also provides an opportunity to explore the port area, take photos, or complete any last-minute purchases before boarding the ship.

By adhering to the recommended check-in timeframes for your specific cruise itinerary, you can ensure a smooth and efficient embarkation process, setting the stage for a memorable and enjoyable vacation with Princess Cruises.

Check-In Requirements and Documents Needed

When it comes to the check-in process for your Princess Cruise, there are certain requirements and documents that you need to have in order to complete the procedure smoothly. Here is a list of the essential items you should bring:

• Identification Documents: All passengers, including adults and children, are required to present valid identification during check-in. The most commonly accepted form of identification is a passport. It is crucial to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your cruise. Alternatively, some cruises may accept other government-issued identification documents such as an enhanced driver’s license or a birth certificate with a valid government-issued photo ID.
• Boarding Pass: After completing the online check-in process, you will receive a boarding pass via email or through the Princess Cruises website. It is important to print out this boarding pass or have it easily accessible on your mobile device. The boarding pass contains important information such as your stateroom assignment, boarding time, and other details regarding your cruise.
• Visa Requirements: Depending on your cruise destination, you may need to obtain a visa prior to your travel. It is essential to research and understand the visa requirements for each port of call on your itinerary. Some countries may require passengers to obtain a visa in advance, while others may offer visa-on-arrival services or waive visa requirements for cruise passengers. Check with the appropriate consulate or embassy to ensure you have the necessary visas before you embark on your cruise.
• Proof of Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for peace of mind during your cruise. If you have purchased travel insurance, make sure to bring a copy of your policy or proof of coverage with you during check-in.
• Health and Safety Documents: In light of recent global events, some cruises may require additional health and safety documents such as vaccination records or negative COVID-19 test results. It is important to stay informed about any specific health and safety requirements implemented by Princess Cruises or the port authorities and to have the necessary documents ready for check-in.

It is important to note that the specific requirements and documents needed for check-in may vary depending on your cruise destination, citizenship, and other factors. It is always recommended to review the check-in requirements provided by Princess Cruises or consult with their customer service to ensure you have all the necessary documents before you arrive at the port.

By having the required identification, boarding pass, and any other necessary documents readily available, you will expedite the check-in process and be on your way to experiencing the incredible journey that awaits you onboard your Princess Cruise.

Special Considerations for Passengers with Disabilities

Princess Cruises strives to make its voyages accessible and enjoyable for all passengers, including those with disabilities. The cruise line offers a range of services and accommodations to ensure a comfortable experience for individuals with special needs. Here are some special considerations for passengers with disabilities:

• Accessible Cabins: Princess Cruises provides wheelchair-accessible cabins equipped with wider doorways, grab bars in bathrooms, and other features to accommodate guests with mobility challenges. These cabins are conveniently located near elevators and common areas for easy accessibility.
• Assistance and Mobility Aids: Princess Cruises permits guests to bring wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and other necessary mobility aids onboard the ship. It is recommended to notify the cruise line in advance to ensure adequate storage space and to make any necessary arrangements for embarkation and disembarkation.
• Accessible Facilities: The ships of Princess Cruises are designed to be wheelchair-friendly, featuring ramps, elevators, and accessible public areas. The main dining venues, theaters, pools, and other onboard facilities are accessible to guests with mobility challenges.
• Sign Language Interpreters: Upon request, Princess Cruises can arrange for sign language interpreters during onboard activities, shows, and announcements. It is recommended to notify the cruise line in advance to ensure availability.
• Dietary Requirements: Princess Cruises offers a variety of dining options to accommodate different dietary needs, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and other special dietary requirements. It is advisable to inform the cruise line about any specific dietary needs at the time of booking or during the online check-in process.
• Accessible Excursions: Princess Cruises provides accessible shore excursions designed for guests with mobility challenges. These excursions may include accessible transportation options and modified itineraries to ensure that everyone can fully enjoy the destinations on the cruise itinerary.

It is important for passengers with disabilities to inform Princess Cruises about their specific needs and requirements during the booking process or at the time of online check-in. By providing advance notice, the cruise line can make the necessary arrangements and accommodations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience onboard.

Additionally, it is advisable to review the Princess Cruises’ accessibility policies and guidelines, which are available on their official website or can be provided upon request. These resources provide detailed information about the accessible features of the ships, services available, and the process for requesting specific accommodations.

By taking advantage of the services and accommodations provided by Princess Cruises, guests with disabilities can embark on a memorable cruise adventure, knowing that their needs will be catered to and that every effort will be made to ensure their comfort and enjoyment throughout the journey.

Check-In Procedures at the Port

Once you arrive at the port for your Princess Cruise, the check-in process begins at the designated terminal. Here are the typical check-in procedures at the port:

• Baggage Drop-off: Before entering the terminal, you will have the opportunity to drop off your checked luggage. Ensure that you have attached the provided luggage tags to your bags, indicating your stateroom number. The luggage will be delivered to your cabin later in the day.
• Security Screening: At the entrance of the terminal, you will go through a security screening process, similar to airport security. This involves placing your bags and personal belongings through an X-ray machine and walking through a metal detector. Be prepared to remove any metal objects, such as keys or belts, before proceeding through security.
• Documents and Identification: Proceed to the check-in counters where Princess Cruises staff will verify your identification and documents. Have your boarding pass, identification, and any other required documents readily available for presentation. The staff will review your booking information, collect any outstanding payments, and provide you with your cruise card.
• Security Photo: After receiving your cruise card, you may be directed to a designated area for a security photo. This photo will be used for identification purposes throughout the cruise and will be linked to your cruise card.
• Boarding Time: Once you have completed the check-in process, you will proceed to the boarding area. Boarding times are typically staggered to manage the flow of passengers and minimize congestion. Listen for announcements or refer to your boarding pass for your assigned boarding time.
• Boarding the Ship: When it is time for your assigned boarding group, follow the instructions of the staff and proceed to the gangway. You will present your cruise card to the crew members stationed at the gangway, who will welcome you aboard the ship.

It is important to note that the check-in procedures may vary slightly depending on the specific port and embarkation process for your cruise. Princess Cruises provides detailed information regarding the check-in procedures for each sailing, which can be accessed through their website or by contacting their customer service.

Additionally, if you require any special assistance or have specific needs during the check-in process, it is advisable to inform Princess Cruises in advance or speak with a staff member at the port. The cruise line is committed to accommodating guests with disabilities or other special requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable embarkation process.

By following the check-in procedures at the port and having your documents and identification readily available, you will breeze through the process and be one step closer to embarking on your unforgettable Princess Cruise adventure.

Tips for a Smooth Check-In Experience

The check-in process for your Princess Cruise sets the stage for a memorable vacation. To ensure a smooth and efficient experience, here are some tips that can help streamline your check-in process:

• Complete Online Check-In Early: Take advantage of the online check-in option provided by Princess Cruises. It allows you to fill out the necessary paperwork and provide essential information in advance. Completing this process early not only saves time but also secures your preferred boarding time slot.
• Review and Prepare Documents: Before heading to the port, review the check-in requirements and ensure you have all the necessary documents. This includes your passport, boarding pass, visa (if applicable), and any other required paperwork. Keep them organized and easily accessible for the check-in process.
• Arrive with Ample Time: Give yourself enough time to arrive at the port before the recommended check-in time. This allows for any unexpected delays and ensures that you have sufficient time to go through security, check-in, and board the ship without feeling rushed.
• Attach Luggage Tags: Before arriving at the port, make sure you have attached the provided luggage tags to your checked bags. This helps the staff direct your luggage to the correct stateroom. Double-check that the tags are securely attached and that your stateroom number is clearly visible.
• Organize Essential Items: Prioritize your carry-on bag with essential items, such as travel documents, medication, valuables, and a change of clothes. Having these items easily accessible will save you from rummaging through your luggage once you’re onboard.
• Check for Special Requirements: If you or someone in your party has specific dietary needs, mobility challenges, or requires special assistance, inform Princess Cruises in advance. They can provide the necessary accommodations to ensure a comfortable check-in process and an enjoyable cruise experience.
• Follow Staff Instructions: During the check-in process, there will be staff members available to guide you. Pay attention to their instructions and follow any guidance provided. They are there to ensure a smooth and efficient process for all passengers.
• Remain Patient and Flexible: Keep in mind that the check-in procedure involves processing a large number of passengers. Patience and flexibility go a long way in making the process more pleasant. Be prepared for potential delays or queues and maintain a positive attitude.
• Be Respectful of Others: Remember that everyone is excited to begin their cruise adventure. Show respect and courtesy to fellow passengers and staff members. Maintaining a friendly and cooperative demeanor contributes to a harmonious check-in process for everyone.

By following these tips, you can minimize stress and ensure a smooth check-in experience for your Princess Cruise. Remember to be prepared, stay organized, and maintain a positive attitude. With these steps, you’ll be ready to embark on an incredible journey at sea with Princess Cruises.

Checking in for your Princess Cruise is an important step in preparing for an incredible voyage at sea. By understanding the check-in process, utilizing online check-in options, and being aware of the necessary requirements and documents, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free embarkation experience. Whether you’re exploring the captivating Caribbean islands, cruising through the majestic Alaskan wilderness, or discovering the enchanting cities of Europe, Princess Cruises offers a world-class vacation experience with exceptional service and luxurious amenities.

Remember to complete the online check-in process, providing accurate information and securing your preferred boarding time. Familiarize yourself with the check-in timeframes for your specific cruise itinerary and ensure you have the required identification, boarding pass, and any necessary visas or health documents. Passengers with disabilities should communicate their specific needs in advance to ensure appropriate accommodations are in place.

Once you arrive at the port, follow the check-in procedures, including the security screening and verification of your documents. Be prepared to present your boarding pass, have your photo taken, and receive your cruise card, which will serve as your key and identification throughout the voyage. By adhering to the guidelines and instructions provided by Princess Cruises staff, you can smoothly board the ship and begin your extraordinary adventure.

We also provided helpful tips to enhance your check-in experience, such as completing the online check-in early, arriving with ample time, and organizing your essential items. Remaining patient, respectful, and flexible throughout the process will contribute to a positive atmosphere for all passengers.

Embarking on a Princess Cruise promises unforgettable moments, stunning destinations, and exceptional service. Your journey begins with a seamless check-in process that creates the foundation for a remarkable vacation. So, as you prepare for your upcoming Princess Cruise, use this guide to ensure a smooth check-in experience and embark on a voyage filled with lifelong memories.

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Princess Cruise Boarding tips: Early Arrival, Priority Boarding, And More!

Hey there fellow cruisers! Are you planning a Princess cruise and looking for some helpful tips to make your boarding process a breeze? Well, look no further because I have got you covered! As a seasoned Princess cruiser, I have learned a thing or two about boarding and I am excited to share my knowledge with you.

In this article, I will be sharing some insider tips on everything from selecting your arrival time to using the MedallionClass app. Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned veteran, these tips will help ensure that your embarkation goes as smoothly as possible.

Plus, who doesn’t love a stress-free start to their vacation? So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about Princess cruise boarding tips, because trust me, you don’t want to miss out on these.

• The earliest boarding time for Princess cruises is typically 11 am for the first boarding group, with priority boarding available for certain guests such as Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Members and Suite Guests.
• Guests with special needs or mobility issues must call Princess cruises 30 days before departure to arrange for early boarding, and arrival times are selected via the MedallionClass app 30-45 days before departure on a first-come, first-served basis.
• All-aboard time is around one hour before the ship’s departure time, and missed all-aboard time means not being allowed to board the ship.
• The MedallionClass app can be used to select arrival time, but standing in line may be necessary without the app, and guests should check the app daily from 45 days before boarding to select the earliest arrival time.

Boarding Time Options

I can choose my arrival time for a Princess cruise via the MedallionClass app 30-45 days before departure. This is a great feature that allows me to select the earliest possible time to board the ship.

However, it’s important to note that priority boarding is available for certain guests like Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Members, Suite Guests, Guests With Special Needs, and Bon Voyage Experience Guests. If I arrive before my designated time, I may end up waiting outside the terminal building until my group is called.

That’s why it’s crucial to check the app daily from 45 days before boarding and select the earliest arrival time possible. Boarding group eligibility is determined on a first-come, first-served basis, so the earlier I arrive, the better my chances of being in the first group.

The benefits of early boarding include having more time to explore the ship, avoiding long lines at check-in, and securing the best seats at shows and restaurants.

Priority Boarding

Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Members, Suite Guests, and those with special needs can enjoy the benefit of boarding the ship earlier than other guests. This means that they can avoid the long lines and wait times that other guests may experience.

Here are some ways to qualify for priority boarding:

• Become a Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Member: If you’ve sailed with Princess Cruises before, you may qualify for Platinum or Elite status, which comes with a range of benefits, including priority boarding.
• Book a Suite: Guests staying in a suite can also enjoy the benefit of priority boarding, which is just one of the many perks of booking a luxurious suite.
• Have Special Needs: Guests with special needs or mobility issues can call Princess Cruises 30 days before departure to arrange for early boarding. This ensures that they have the time and assistance they need to board the ship comfortably.

The benefits of priority boarding for Princess Cruises are numerous. Not only can you avoid the long lines and wait times, but you can also settle into your room earlier and start enjoying all the amenities the ship has to offer. With more time to explore the ship and get settled, you can start your cruise off on the right foot and make the most of your vacation.

Arrival Time Selection

Using the MedallionClass app, I highly recommend guests to select their preferred time of arrival for their Princess cruise up to 45 days before departure. This is one of the best practices to ensure a smooth and stress-free boarding experience.

The app allows guests to choose from half-hour windows starting from 11 am to around 3 pm. It’s important to note that arrival times are on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to select the earliest possible arrival time to avoid waiting outside the terminal building.

Here are some tips and tricks when using the app for arrival time selection: check the app daily from 45 days before boarding to select your preferred time, and keep an eye out for any cancellations that may become available two to three days before the cruise.

Also, arriving before your designated arrival time may result in waiting outside the terminal building until your group is called. By following these best practices, you can make the most out of your Princess cruise and avoid unnecessary stress.

Special Needs Accommodations

Guests with special needs or mobility issues can ensure a comfortable and stress-free boarding experience by arranging for early boarding with Princess cruises 30 days before departure. This allows for extra time to navigate the terminal, settle in the cabin, and explore the ship’s accessible facilities.

Princess Cruises offers a range of accommodations for guests with special needs, including accessible staterooms, wheelchair-friendly gangways, and priority seating in theaters and restaurants.

When requesting accommodations, it’s important to provide detailed information about any specific needs or requirements. Princess Cruises recommends contacting their Accessible Shore Excursion Desk to discuss any accessible shore excursions, and to check with the medical staff on board regarding any special dietary requirements or medical equipment needs.

With early boarding and accommodations in place, guests with special needs can relax and enjoy all the amenities and experiences that Princess Cruises has to offer.

All-Aboard Time

I need to make sure I know the all-aboard time for my Princess Cruise so I don’t miss the ship’s departure. Here are some tips for not missing all aboard time:

Arrive at the terminal at least an hour before the all-aboard time to give yourself enough time to check in and go through security.

Keep track of the time and listen for announcements about the all-aboard time. Set reminders on your phone or watch to ensure you stay on schedule.

If you do happen to miss the all-aboard time, contact the ship’s staff immediately to see if they can make arrangements for you to catch up with the ship at the next port.

During the all-aboard period, there are several ways to spend your time. You can explore the terminal, grab a bite to eat, or relax in a lounge area. Some terminals may even have entertainment or activities to keep you occupied. Just make sure to keep an eye on the time and stay close to the boarding area to avoid missing the ship’s departure.

MedallionClass App

Navigating the MedallionClass app can be a bit tricky, but once you get the hang of it, it’s like having a personal concierge in your pocket. The app allows you to select your preferred arrival time for boarding the ship, which can save you a lot of time and hassle.

However, there are some pros and cons to using the app.

One of the pros is that you can select your arrival time in advance, which can help you avoid long lines and waiting times at the port. Additionally, the app allows you to access real-time information about the ship, such as dining options, entertainment schedules, and activities.

On the other hand, the user experience may not be as smooth for everyone. Some users have reported difficulty with installing and using the app, and some may prefer to simply stand in line and wait for their turn to board.

Ultimately, whether or not to use the app is a personal preference, but it’s worth exploring if you want to streamline your boarding experience.

Transportation Considerations

When planning my transportation to the port, it’s important to consider the specific cruise I’ve booked and whether or not shuttle or transportation services are available. Some Princess Cruises provide shuttle services to and from certain airports, while others may require guests to arrange their own transportation. It’s always a good idea to check with the cruise line or travel agent to confirm what options are available for my specific cruise.

To help illustrate the different transportation considerations, I’ve created the following table:

Knowing the shuttle availability and airport transportation options can help me plan my arrival time and make any necessary arrangements in advance. Overall, it’s important to do my research and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and stress-free boarding experience.

Founder and Social Media

The Cruise Tips founder, Mike Schimdt, has been a valuable asset to the cruise industry since 2006. With over 20 cruises under her belt, she has a wealth of experience in planning and executing the perfect cruise holiday.

Through her social media platforms, which include Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn, she has helped over 1 million people per month plan their dream vacations. Mike’s social media strategy is like a compass guiding travelers to their ultimate vacation destination.

Her engaging and informative posts cover everything from the best cruise deals to the must-see destinations on each voyage. Her weekly emails, which are read by over 40,000 cruisers, provide valuable insights and tips for making the most out of a cruise holiday. Thanks to her experience and expertise, Mike is a trusted source of information for anyone looking to embark on a Princess cruise.

What happens if I arrive after the designated all-aboard time?

If you arrive after the designated all-aboard time, you will not be allowed to board the ship and will have to make arrangements for lodging and transportation. However, there may be boarding exceptions for certain circumstances, such as medical emergencies or delayed flights.

Is there a limit to the number of early boarding groups?

To secure priority boarding, I recommend Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Membership, or booking a suite or Bon Voyage Experience. For early boarding, choose earliest arrival time and monitor app for cancellations. Benefits include avoiding long lines and enjoying ship amenities sooner.

Can I change my selected arrival time after I have submitted it?

Unfortunately, once you have submitted your selected arrival time via the MedallionClass app, you cannot change it. It’s important to arrive on time as late arrival may result in waiting outside the terminal building and missing the all-aboard time, which means not being allowed to board the ship.

How can I arrange for special accommodations if I have dietary restrictions?

Navigating dietary restrictions on a cruise can be daunting, but Princess Cruises offers special menus for various dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and low-sugar options. Medical documentation may be required, so be sure to check with the cruise line before departure.

What is the process for disembarking from the ship at the end of the cruise?

Disembarkation process begins after customs clearance and is done in groups based on flight departure times or disembarkation plans. Luggage is collected and taken to designated areas for easy pickup. I suggest packing a carry-on for essentials.

• Princess Cruises

By Firepath , March 21, 2022 in Princess Cruises

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When can I check in and when can I choose my arrival group? I’m trying to use the Medallion app and it’s not self-explanatory.

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Arrival groups seem to be on the app at 60 days before the cruise.  Although some cc members have reported various other timings, 60 days appear to be the most common.

 like Sarnia 432 mentioned; somewhere between 45-60 days you will be able to be assigned a boarding time.  If you have not made final pmt or your more than 60 days; you won't be able to get boarding time in the app.  Cheers

I checked mine daily for my 4/17 cruise and it was available to select on March 3rd, so at about 45 days.

"Check in" is now done by completing the information on the app and telling whether you want to pick up the medallion at the pier or have it sent to you

There's no separate "check in"

Agree that for boarding groups you just need to keep looking in the app to see when they are available for your specific cruise

Don't expect it to work like checking in for a flight 24 hours (to the nanosecond) of your flight.  The boarding group aspect of the check-in for your cruise will be an unknown until it is known.  So you just have to keep checking the app to see if the process is open and the timeframes provided in the posts above are about as accurate as you are going to get.

I’m about a week early then. The app let me do some things but not others. I could order our medallions and make dining reservations, but not choose an arrival group. Also could enter passport manually and sign Covid agreement, but not enter photos. Hopefully, that’ll all be resolved in a week or so.

Keep trying with the photos

Leave the app and then go back in

If it doesn't work they will do it for you at the pier

10 hours ago, tonit964 said: I checked mine daily for my 4/17 cruise and it was available to select on March 3rd, so at about 45 days.

I check mine daily also....159 days out and it's still not available  😭

Are the assigned times at the port strict now?  It used to be we could go anytime no matter what our check in time was.  We will be taking Seattle Express shuttle from our airport hotel to the port, and pickup time for us is 11:00 am. If we can't check in until later, that could be an issue.  We are elite, if that helps.

1 hour ago, GloriaF said: Are the assigned times at the port strict now?  It used to be we could go anytime no matter what our check in time was.  We will be taking Seattle Express shuttle from our airport hotel to the port, and pickup time for us is 11:00 am. If we can't check in until later, that could be an issue.  We are elite, if that helps.

Check o at your convenience when you arrive at the terminal.

Thanks, Steelers36!  Good news!

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The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships and itineraries

Call it the cruise line for people who want a big amenity-filled ship that isn't a floating amusement park.

Princess Cruises operates relatively large, reasonably priced vessels. But unlike many of its competitors in that space — most notably Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises — it doesn't load them up with sprawling water parks, go-kart tracks, laser tag courses and other flashy, family-focused diversions.

Compared to most of its big ship-operating rivals, Princess is known for a more serene, almost old-school style of cruising that isn't about a lot of gee-whiz attractions.

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

As Princess executives like to say, the line is all about warm and gracious service in an atmosphere of comfortable elegance designed to spark connections among passengers.

Instead of bustling attractions, the top decks on the typical Princess ships offer lots of quiet and relaxing pool and lounge areas where you can enjoy the experience of being at sea without a lot of hustle and bustle. Inside, the experience revolves around dining, classic showroom entertainment and a classy bar and music scene — just as it has on Princess ships for years.

This is, notably, just the way Princess customers like it. Popular with middle-aged couples, retirees and multigenerational families, the "Love Boat" line caters to people who like a more traditional type of cruising than you'll find on the vessels of most other big-ship lines.

Related: Which cruise brand is right for you? A guide to the most popular lines

3 things TPG loves about Princess Cruises

• The abundance of outdoor pool and lounge areas on its ships
• Its expansive spas
• Its far-flung itineraries

What we could do without

• The lack of big suites on most of its vessels

The Princess Cruises fleet

Princess has downsized its fleet considerably in recent years with the removal of five vessels, but it's still the world's fifth-biggest cruise line by passenger capacity, with 16 ships that together offer roughly 50,000 berths.

In general, Princess operates big ships, though they're not quite as big as the vessels operated by Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises — the two lines best known for giant ships. The biggest Princess vessel, the line's new Sun Princess , measures around 177,000 tons. That's about 29% smaller than the biggest ship operated by Royal Caribbean. The line's Royal Class vessels are more than 40% smaller than the biggest Royal Caribbean ships.

Sun Princess is, without a doubt, the belle of the ball in the Princess fleet. Newer, bigger and more venue-filled than the line's other ships, it debuted in early 2024 and carries 4,300 passengers at double occupancy.

Also relatively new and chock-full of lots of venues are the line's five Royal Class ships, which measure between 142,229 and 145,281 tons. These vessels began rolling out in 2013 and carry about 3,600 passengers apiece at double occupancy.

Still, the biggest cohort of ships in the Princess fleet are its seven Grand Class vessels. Unveiled between 1998 and 2008, the vessels in this class are smaller than Sun Princess and the Royal Class ships at around 107,000 to 116,000 tons in size. This smaller size allows them to operate a wider range of itineraries than the Royal Class ships, but they're still big enough to offer a lot of onboard venues. The Grand Class ships carry between 2,600 to 3,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Rounding out the Princess fleet are its two Coral Class ships, which, at around 92,000 tons, are the smallest of the line's ships. They each carry around 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

The downsizing of the Princess fleet over the past few years had a lot to do with the COVID-19 pandemic. Three ships left the Princess fleet starting in 2020 as part of an effort to cut costs during the line's coronavirus-caused global shutdown. Another two vessels — Golden Princess and Star Princess — had been scheduled to leave the Princess fleet even before the pandemic began. They were transferred to one of the line's sister companies, P&O Cruises Australia.

The line currently has one more vessel on order that will be a sister to the recently unveiled Sun Princess. To be called Star Princess, it's due to debut in August 2025.

Destinations and itineraries

Princess Cruises sails to more than 100 countries on seven continents, from North America and Europe to Asia and Australia, and it offers a wide range of itineraries — around 170 in a typical year. The line's ships visit more than 380 different ports and destinations and take passengers to more than 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Among the line's voyages, you'll find everything from three-day sampler cruises down the Pacific Coast to 116-day around-the-world voyages.

Princess is particularly known for cruises to Alaska , where it dominates the market for cruises along with sister line Holland America . In a typical year, Princess deploys seven or eight ships to Alaska in the summer — far more than most other lines. It also operates its own wilderness lodges in the state, as well as tourist trains and buses. It uses the lodges, trains and buses to offer a range of 10- to 17-night Alaska cruisetours that combine a cruise with land-based touring.

Princess also typically deploys five to seven ships to Europe in the summer, and it has a big presence in Australia, where it can deploy as many as six ships for parts of each year. In recent years, it has also become a major player in cruises around Japan that cater to both American and Japanese travelers, as well as Australians.

In North America, Princess ships sail out of Fort Lauderdale; Los Angeles; San Francisco; San Diego; Seattle; Galveston, Texas; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Whittier, Alaska. There are also some sailings that depart from New York City, Quebec City and Honolulu.

In Europe, Princess ships mostly sail out of Southampton in the United Kingdom; Copenhagen; Barcelona; Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens); and Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome).

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Who sails Princess Cruises

Princess appeals to an older demographic than lines such as Carnival and Norwegian. The average age of passengers is around 54, and you'll usually see a lot of couples on board in their 50s, 60s and 70s.

As noted above, these aren't people necessarily craving go-kart tracks and ropes courses at sea. They're people looking to explore the world in a comfortable, classy sort of way that also is relatively affordable. That last part is key. Princess offers a lot of globe-circling itineraries of the sort often available from high-end luxury lines. However, it does so at a much lower price.

While not the biggest line for families with young children, Princess does draw a lot of multigenerational family groups. It's the line you take if you want an affordable ship that'll appeal to your 70-year-old parents as much as your 12-year-old kid.

Princess also draws a lot of passengers celebrating milestones. The line markets heavily to people marking birthdays and anniversaries with special packages and programs. It's also a huge player in the market for destination weddings at sea, with a division that will help you arrange a ceremony on board or at an exotic location on land during a port call.

Princess was, notably, the first cruise line to host modern-day weddings on ships, offering ceremonies officiated by the ships' captains hosted in onboard chapels.

It is, after all, the "Love Boat" line.

Cabins and suites

When it comes to rooms, Princess is sort of the Marriott of the big-ship cruise world. Its rooms are comfortable and functional but a bit bland. Avant-garde style is not a Princess thing.

The vast majority of the accommodations on Princess ships fall into one of three broad categories: windowless inside cabins, oceanview cabins and balcony cabins. Balcony cabins, in particular, are widespread on Princess ships. Among mass-market lines, Princess was the pioneer in adding large numbers of balcony cabins to ships.

While balcony cabins are common on Princess ships, you'll find relatively few suites on them. Just 50 of 2,162 cabins on the line's new Sun Princess are suites, for instance, and that's a lot more suites than you'll find on most other Princess ships.

What this means is there aren't a lot of ways to live large on a Princess ship or to pack a lot of people into a single accommodation. Until the debut of Sky Princess in 2019, the line didn't have a single cabin that could accommodate more than four people.

That said, the Grand Class vessels each offer two Family Suites that can be created by connecting a Mini-Suite with an adjacent inside cabin to form a six- to eight-person complex.

Unveiled five years ago, Sky Princess featured the line's first truly large stand-alone suites, dubbed Sky Suites. Such suites were added to the line's Discovery Princess, too.

There are two of the suites on each of the ships, and they measure a generous 1,800 square feet (though more than half of that space is taken up by a huge wraparound balcony). With two bedrooms plus a living room with a pullout sofa, they're designed for up to five people.

The line's new Sun Princess also has several large suites that measure as much as 1,260 square feet.

Still, even the biggest suites of Sky Princess, Discovery Princess and Sun Princess aren't the truly epic suites with huge interior living spaces that you'll find on the latest Royal Caribbean or Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships. If that's what you're after, Princess isn't your line.

Related: The 7 best cruise ship suites — picked by someone who has seen them all

Restaurants and dining

Every Princess vessel has three main dining rooms where meals are included in the fare, and these dining rooms are at the heart of the dining experience on Princess ships. Many passengers have all or most of their dinners in a main dining room.

As of this year, the three main dining rooms on each Princess ship operate under different formats. At one of the main rooms, you can make a reservation for any time, provided a table at the time you want is available. To ensure the time you want, it's best to reserve a table far in advance of your sailing, which you can do online once you've paid for the cruise in full. You also can make reservations on board ships during your cruise.

At another of the main dining rooms, you can just show up for dinner at any time without a reservation and be seated on a space-available basis.

The third main dining room on every Princess ship offers a fixed-time "traditional" seating option where you can request the same table at the same time with the same waiter every night of a cruise.

Every vessel also has a casual buffet eatery where meals are included in the fare. Near the main pool area on most ships, it's usually called Horizon Court but is also known as the World Fresh Market or Panorama Buffet on some vessels.

Other covered options on at least some Princess ships include poolside pizza outlets and poolside grills serving burgers. Also, on sea days, Princess transforms a bar or dining venue at lunchtime into an included-in-the-fare English-style pub. It serves traditional pub food such as fish and chips and cottage pie, along with Bass Ale or Guinness (for an extra charge).

Every Princess ship also has at least a couple of extra-charge eateries. On most ships, you'll find the line's signature Italian restaurant, Sabatini's. It serves homemade pasta, seafood and other Italian specialties in an elegant setting and comes with a flat fee of $45 per person.

Most Princess ships also have a signature steakhouse. On most vessels, it's called Crown Grill and offers premium beef and seafood cooked to order in an open, theater-style kitchen. On two ships — Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess — it's called Sterling Steakhouse, where passengers choose their cut of steak from a tray presented by their waiter.

On two ships — Coral Princess and Island Princess — the steakhouse has a Cajun and Creole twist. In addition to steak dishes, the menu features New Orleans-style peel-and-eat shrimp, alligator ribs and gumbo. On those vessels, it's called the Bayou Cafe and Steakhouse.

All the steakhouses come with a flat fee of $45 per person.

Princess ships also offer a chef's table experience — a concept the line pioneered in the cruise world. Costing $95 to $115 per person, it includes pre-dinner cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the ship's galley with the executive chef before a main dining experience at a private table in the dining room.

Another dining option that recently began popping up on Princess ships is a seafood eatery called The Catch by Rudi, designed by Princess' head of culinary arts, Rudi Sodamin. (Holland America fans will remember Sodamin as that line's longtime master chef.)

The Catch by Rudi is only on Sun Princess, Enchanted Princess, Sky Princess, Majestic Princess and Discovery Princess. Like the Princess steakhouses, it has a $45 per person cover charge.

Related: Cruise ship restaurant nirvana: The 10 best meals you can have at sea

Entertainment and activities

Princess ships are loaded with entertainment that ranges from Broadway-style theater shows to street entertainers who appear in each vessel's central piazza. That said, they're not floating amusement parks. Unlike some big-ship lines, Princess isn't topping its vessels with waterslides, go-kart tracks, ropes courses and other family-focused attractions.

Theaters and shows

There's no shortage of theater and lounge entertainment on Princess ships. On a typical night, you might find a flashy, fast-paced production show playing in the main theater, a comedian performing in a secondary lounge and live music on offer in several more venues.

In many cases, the main theaters on Princess ships are quite elaborate, with Broadway-show-level lighting and special effects, and the productions housed within the theaters are elaborate, too.

Princess has upped its game with its theater productions in recent years through a partnership with Stephen Schwartz, the Tony Award-winning composer of "Wicked," "Godspell" and "Pippin."

Among new productions that Schwartz has worked on is "The Secret Silk," which features life-size puppetry from Jim Henson's Creature Shop, dancing and special effects. It was created and directed by John Tartaglia, a star of Broadway's "Avenue Q" and "Beauty and the Beast."

Princess is also known for its karaoke nights, and it holds a "The Voice of the Ocean" competition during cruises, which is a spinoff of the TV show. Passengers compete in a live performance after karaoke auditions and rehearsal sessions with the shipboard band and backup singers. A team of coaches sits in giant "I Want You" chairs, just like on the show, and passengers vote to choose the winner.

Other interior attractions and activities

In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of Princess ships are filled with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including a range of bars, lounges and nightspots.

On many ships, the hub of activity is the Piazza, a sprawling, multilevel space that serves as a central gathering place, like a square in Italy. The configuration of the Piazza varies by ship, but the area typically offers several shops, a coffee bar called International Cafe, a wine bar called Vines and (on some vessels) additional bars and eateries. The Piazza is also home to roving street performers.

Every Princess ship also has a casino, often just off the Piazza, and spas are big on Princess ships. The Lotus Spa complexes on the line's Royal Class ships offer nearly two dozen treatment rooms, an extensive beauty salon and a thermal suite with a hydrotherapy pool, heated stone beds, a Turkish-style steam bath and other steam chambers.

Several of the newer Princess ships, including Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess, have jazz clubs called Take 5.

In addition to such venues, Princess offers a lot of enrichment activities on its ships. The line has partnered with Discovery to offer a Discovery at Sea program on vessels that includes activities like stargazing with a specialist from a top deck. The program also brings destination specialists and naturalists on board in places such as Alaska to offer insights.

Inspired by Discovery's popular "Shark Week," Princess has also created Shark Week at Sea programming that runs on select sailings in the summer with activities and games designed to challenge both adults and kids on the myths and interesting facts about sharks.

Culinary demonstrations, wine tastings and dance classes also are popular on Princess ships.

Top-deck attractions

The top decks of most Princess ships are notable for what they don't have: There are no roller coasters or pedal-powered sky rides like you'll find on Carnival ships or the go-kart tracks that top some Norwegian vessels. There are no surfing simulators, sky diving simulators, rock climbing walls or zip lines of the sort found on Royal Caribbean vessels. For the most part, there aren't even waterslides or watery splash zones (two vessels, Caribbean Princess and Sun Princess, do have splash zones).

Princess executives long ago decided not to engage in what they call the "amusement park arms race" taking place among lines operating big resort-like ships.

Instead, the line has mostly stuck to the basics with its top decks. They are covered with relaxing pool and lounge zones — and lots of them.

On the last three Royal Class ships, for instance, there's a main pool area at the center of the top deck with two full pools and three hot tubs, plus a secondary pool area at the back of the ship with another pool. There's also an adults-only pool area toward the front of the vessel, along with an extra-charge, adults-only relaxation area called the Sanctuary.

Between all these pool and lounge areas running along the sides of the ship are additional sunning areas with lounge chairs and four more hot tubs.

In short, there is a ton of space for relaxing on the top deck of these newest Princess vessels — more than you'll find on any other ship of comparable size, save for their earlier sisters in the Royal Class.

The one big attraction that you will find on the top deck of Princess ships, always at the main pool area, is a giant Movies Under the Stars movie screen. A growing number of cruise ships now have movie screens on their pool decks, but Princess pioneered the concept.

The screens show movies, concerts and sporting events during the day, but at night, they really shine. In a longtime Princess tradition, the line turns the main pool areas of its ships into outdoor movie theaters at night by reconfiguring lounge chairs to face the screen and bringing out blankets to ward off the evening chill. They even serve popcorn.

Some ships also feature basketball courts, miniature golf putting courses, shuffleboard games and pingpong tables tucked into corners of their top decks.

Additionally, the new Sun Princess has a family-friendly play zone called Park19 with a hang-gliding-like ride experience, a ropes course and the previously mentioned splash zone — quite a bit more family-fun pizazz than has been the norm at the line. For now, it's the outlier in the Princess fleet when it comes to decktop amusements.

Children's programs

While it doesn't draw as many families with young children as Carnival or Royal Caribbean, Princess offers an extensive children's program that gets high marks from parents.

The Princess Youth and Teen centers were recently rebranded "Camp Discovery" as part of the line's partnership with Discovery Communications and offer free, supervised activities daily for children ages 3 to 17.

The line splits children in the program into three age groups: the Treehouse (ages 3 to 7 years), the Lodge (ages 8 to 12 years) and the Beach House (ages 13 to 17 years). Each age group often has its own separate facilities on ships. On some ships, the age groups may be further divided based on available space.

Each group has its own age-appropriate activities, with newly revamped experiences designed to "help young Princess explorers learn, play and create fun memories."

While the free programming for children ages 3 to 12 ends at 10 p.m., you can pay extra to leave your kids at shipboard Youth and Teen centers from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. During those hours, they're supervised in what is essentially a group child-sitting service.

The Youth and Teen centers also welcome children under the age of 3 if they are accompanied by an adult.

Related: The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up

What to know before you go

Required documents.

A passport is required for all international itineraries, including world cruises and sailings to Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, India, Central and South America, the Panama Canal (partial and full transit), Caribbean voyages that visit Martinique or Guadeloupe, the South Pacific and Tahiti.

If you're a U.S. citizen, you don't need a passport for many domestic itineraries (including Alaska, Bermuda, Canada, Caribbean, Hawaii and Mexico sailings). You can instead travel with an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification. A few other forms of identification, such as a passport card, are also acceptable. That said, Princess strongly recommends that all travelers bring a passport.

Passports must be valid for at least six months. The name on your reservation must be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Related: Where can I cruise without a passport?

Princess adds an automatic service gratuity of $16 to $18 per person, per day to final bills, depending on your cabin category. If you are unhappy with the service you receive, you can adjust this amount at the Guest Services desk before disembarking. (You can also increase the tip amount if so desired.) Also, an 18% gratuity is added to bills at bars, dining room wine accounts and spas.

Related: Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities

Princess has rolled out faster Wi-Fi systems with landlike speeds across its fleet in recent years, such that you now can stream video on ships. That's the upside. The downside is that such service costs a lot more than Wi-Fi access did in the past. Pricing changes over time, but the line was recently charging $24.99 per day to hook up a single device. That's an enormous increase from as recently as early 2023, when Wi-Fi access was available for just $9.99.

The faster Princess Wi-Fi system is called MedallionNet, and it's one of several technological upgrades that Princess has made to its ships in recent years under an umbrella called MedallionClass. MedallionClass also brings expedited embarkation, keyless cabin entry, on-demand food and beverage delivery, and the ability to locate friends and family on board — all via an app for mobile devices and a Princess-issued medallion that passengers carry while traveling.

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

Carry-on drinks policy

Princess allows you to bring one bottle of wine or Champagne per person onto ships at boarding at no charge (for consuming in your room; you'll be charged a $20 corkage fee if you want to bring it to an onboard restaurant or bar to drink). You can bring even more bottles of wine on board, but you will pay a $20 corkage fee per bottle.

Smoking policy

On all ships, smoking (including electronic cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas and in cigar lounges, designated sections within nightclubs and at designated slot machines within casinos (for those who are playing). It's forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies. Passengers caught smoking in their cabins will be charged a $250 fine per occurrence. One exception to the above rule is that e-cigarettes are allowed in cabins (but not on cabin balconies).

Princess ships have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. There's a $3 per load charge to use a washer or dryer. The launderettes also have vending machines that dispense small boxes of detergent and water softener at $1.50 per box. Additionally, vessels offer extra-charge laundry and dry cleaning services.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

All vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms, and some also have European-style, 220-volt outlets and USB ports in cabins.

The currency used on most Princess itineraries is dollars. The exceptions are select sailings on ships based in Australia, where pricing is listed in Australian dollars. All vessels operate on a cashless system, with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a medallion that you can use to make charges. This same card or medallion also is what lets you into your cabin.

Drinking age

You must be 21 to consume alcohol on many Princess itineraries. The exceptions include sailings between ports in Europe, China, Australia and New Zealand, and Singapore, where the drinking age is 18. For cruises between Japanese ports, the drinking age is 20.

During the day, there is no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and you're bound for the top deck, that means looking like you're going to the beach — T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside) are just fine.

At night, there is an official dress code that is enforced when entering restaurants. Most nights are designated as "smart casual," which Princess takes to mean pants and an open-neck shirt for men and skirts and dresses or slacks for women.

Beach attire, shorts, baseball caps and casual jeans (think: the fraying kind or those with holes) are not allowed. One or more nights per cruise, depending on the cruise length, will be designated as a "formal" night when men are expected to turn out in dark suits with a tie or even a tuxedo. The suggested attire for women on such nights is evening gowns or cocktail dresses.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Princess Cruises' loyalty program

Princess has a four-tier frequent cruiser program, the Captain's Circle, that is worth joining for the perks — if you're willing to bear with its convoluted tier qualifying structure.

You reach the first tier, Gold, by taking a single cruise. However, from there, you move to each successive tier either by accruing a certain number of "cruise credits" (which aren't necessarily the same as the number of cruises you've taken) or by sailing a certain number of days.

To reach the Ruby level, for instance, requires three cruise credits (more on those in a moment) or 30 days on Princess ships. Platinum status kicks in after five cruise credits or 50 days on ships.

Related: Princess Cruises' Captain's Circle loyalty program: Everything you need to know

In most cases, members earn one cruise credit for every cruise they take. However, members who book a suite or travel solo in a cabin meant for two will receive two cruise credits for the voyage. The number of cruise credits you have earned is thus often the same as the number of cruises you have taken, but not always.

As is typical with cruise line loyalty programs, lower tiers don't bring all that much in terms of truly valuable benefits. You'll receive things like an invite to a private party (at the Gold tier) and a free upgrade for your travel insurance package when buying it through the line (at the Ruby tier). However, higher levels of the program start to be enticing.

The second-to-highest tier, Platinum, brings such perks as priority check-in and boarding, and a free internet package.

The top Elite level (15 cruise credits or 151 cruise days) adds such things as an exclusive window to preview and book new itineraries, priority ship-to-shore water shuttle service, complimentary laundry and a complimentary minibar setup.

Members at all tier levels get access to special pricing on certain cruises. They also receive a monthly newsletter and a membership pin.

Note that, in contrast to airline frequent flyer programs, cruise line loyalty programs do not require you to requalify for status every year. So, yes, the perks with lower tiers aren't great. However, it's not as difficult as it might at first seem to hit the more rewarding higher-level tiers in just a few years if you're cruising a lot.

A Princess passenger staying in suites will hit the Platinum level after just three cruises. The top Elite level is reachable within just eight cruises for someone staying in suites.

Related: A beginners guide to cruise line loyalty programs

How much does a Princess cruise cost?

Princess ships are very reasonably priced. They're not the least expensive vessels out there, but they're not pricey by any means. It's possible to find Princess voyages to the Caribbean, the Bahamas or Mexico starting under $100 per person, per night, including all taxes and fees — at least in the offseason.

For instance, as of the date of this story's posting, six-night sailings from Galveston, Texas, to the Western Caribbean in February 2025 started at just $418 per person, not including taxes and fees of $138. That works out to just $93 per night, per person, with taxes and fees for a package that includes your lodging, transportation and meals.

As you might expect, pricing for ships will generally be lower during offseason periods such as September, October, November (not including Thanksgiving week) and parts of December.

When you book can also matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels. Many cruisers will tell you that the best pricing for any given sailing is often available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). Booking far in advance also gives you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board a Princess ship, you'll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet service and a few other things — unless you've bought a package for some of these items in advance.

Specifically, the line now offers bundle pricing for extra-charge items such as gratuity fees, Wi-Fi fees and a few other fees for onboard items if passengers pay for them in advance.

The line's Princess Plus plan gives passengers prepaid gratuities, a single-device Wi-Fi plan, a basic beverage package and a few other freebies for a bundled price of $60 per person, per day.

An enhanced version of the above plan called Princess Premier gives you Wi-Fi access on more devices, a premium drinks package and other additional inclusions for $80 per person, per day.

Most onboard activities, such as theater shows, are included in the fare.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to Princess.com to make a booking directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises.

A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. They can also help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure that Princess is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who understands all the little quirks that are unique to Princess cabin categories and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see the cabins firsthand.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your credit card points when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , which offers 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual up-to-$300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on dining.

Bottom line

Princess offers big, amenity-filled ships that are comfortable and classy at an affordable price.

If you're looking for a lot of top-deck fun zones — waterslides, go-kart tracks and the like — it's probably not the line for you. However, if you're on the hunt for not-too-expensive vessels that will take you to the farthest corners of the world in comfort, Princess ships should be on your shortlist.

It's also a great line if you're trying to put together a multigenerational trip, as its ships are designed to appeal to a wide range of age groups.

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My 7 Favorite Cruises In And Around Europe

W hat I love most about cruising around Europe is the huge choice in types of cruises you can go on. Because Europe includes hot and sunny destinations like Spain and Italy, and cold and interesting places like Scandinavia and Scotland, you can take a very different cruise each time around Europe. You can pull up in pretty ports in Greece and swim from the boat and you can sail around the shores of Scotland and take a cold water plunge — if you’re brave enough. 

The coastlines of Europe are vastly different to one another and the types of cruises you can take are too. River cruises, yachts, island cruises, and large fun-packed cruise lines all sail around these shores. Plus, you can start your cruise in Europe and sail off beyond the continent, and then return after an adventure. 

Here are my 7 favorite cruises in and around Europe.

1. Starclippers

Rome round trip .

This seven-night cruise begins and ends in Rome, visiting Lipari, Sicily, Amalfi, Sorrento, and Ponza. What I love about the Starclipper cruises is they are informal and casual — you dine with other guests or by yourself, you don’t have a set table for meals, and you can wear what you like as there’s no dress code. But at the same time, the interior of the ship and the cabins are sophisticated and semi luxurious, so it feels casual and chic all in one go. 

This particular cruise is on the Starflyer , which has two pools and a sun deck. There’s no entertainment on board, though there might be some games in the evening, but children are welcome over the age of 6 months. I love these small-yacht ships that can get you into ports the larger cruise ships can’t, and this one is a beautiful ship with an atmosphere of relaxation and easygoingness. You can even join with the crew and help to sail the ship if you like.

2. French Waterways

Hotel barge prospérité: côte d’or.

If you like things really intimate, you can book a six- or eight-person cruise with French Waterways and have the barge to yourselves. This one is a canal cruise in France, but they also offer river cruises. The rooms on the barge are hotel standard and there’s a sun deck and a hot tub on board. The cruise ambles along the canals in the Côte d’Or, stopping off for a walking tour in Dijon, shopping and markets, and wine tasting at a vineyard. 

This is a really relaxing way to cruise in France with family or friends, but you can’t book onto this cruise as a single person or a couple. This is a chartered barge that is priced for the maximum number of people it sleeps — six or eight. If you’re experienced, you can also choose to pilot the boat yourself.

3. G Adventures

Sailing from split to dubrovnik.

Sailing along the Dalmatian Coast is a unique experience and visiting Croatia is a trip full of historical sites and exploration. The yachts you’ll travel on with G Adventures give you a truly small-boat experience. If you want a luxurious cabin and lush interiors, this isn’t for you, but if you want a sense of adventure and an authentic sailing experience, this is definitely it. 

The yacht accommodates a maximum of eight people, but you don’t have to be a part of the group, you can book onto this as a single person or couple. Note: If you book a solo trip, you will be sharing your cabin with someone else. It’s also worth noting that you’ll need a medium level of physical fitness to take part in the activities on this tour, which can include kayaking and hiking. 

This is a self-catering trip, and while there’s plenty of opportunities to eat at the destinations, there aren’t any meals offered on board. This also means that when you eat your own food on the ship and/or cook for yourself in the kitchen, you are expected to tidy up after.

4. Hebridean Adventures

Hebridean island odyssey.

Sailing on board the MV Hjalmar Bjørge with the Northern Light Cruising Company, Hebridean Adventures brings you a trip like no other around the Hebrides Islands in Scotland. This nine-night cruise stops at Mull, Coll & Tiree, the Small Isles, and the Isle of Skye. Most people who take this cruise are wildlife enthusiasts and are sailing with the hope of spotting dolphins, puffins, eagles, and more. But even if you only have a passing interest in wildlife, this is a stunning way to get a bit closer to it. 

Facilities are limited on board and the cabins are no-frills, with some only including bunk beds. You do have to share bathroom facilities, which is a challenge for some people, but guests are all aware of this and are very considerate. The onboard chef is a real plus on this cruise and they cater for any dietary requirements, cooking all meals fresh every day. The boat might be basic, but the scenery is breathtaking and it’s a unique type of cruise.

5. Celebrity Cruises

Egypt & israel.

Beginning in Athens, Greece, this 10-night cruise with Celebrity Cruises will stop off at Israel and Egypt before returning to Athens. There are 3 days at sea on this cruise, and on board the Celebrity Infinity , there’s a casino, an art gallery, a sun deck, indoor and outdoor pool areas, a spa, tennis, nightlife, and restaurants and bars. 

This is a large cruise ship experience with capacity for 2,170 people. Rooms are hotel standard, some with verandas, and the experience of being on the ship is as much a part of the trip as exploring the stop-off destinations. The cruise gives you the perfect mix between Europe and a little further afield. For anyone who hasn’t strayed beyond Europe before, it’s a great way to get a taste of Egypt and Israel.

6. Variety Cruises

Italy & malta.

Beginning in Naples and sailing along the coast of Italy and around its islands, this small boat intimate cruise with Variety Cruises ends on the 8th day in Malta. At first, I thought it was unusual to end in a totally different place than where the cruise began, but actually, I loved the chance to get to know somewhere separate from the starting point. 

The ship has capacity for 44 people and is a laid-back experience with just a sundeck, informal restaurant, bar, and swim platform. Most of your time is spent off the boat, exploring parts of Italy tourists don’t usually visit, and that’s the real draw with these small-boat cruises. These are ports large cruise ships can’t enter, so you feel like you’re on a voyage of discovery. Rooms are comfortable and pleasantly decorated and designed, but you won’t be spending much time in them. The Italian islands and Malta are beautiful places to explore.

7. Princess Cruises

Grand 11-day mediterranean.

This big cruise ship experience with Princess Cruises begins in Rome and travels to Greece, Turkey, Sicily, and Mallorca, ending in Barcelona, Spain. Aboard the Sun Princess ship, it’s all about fun on a large scale, with climbing walls, swimming pools, a spa, bars, cafés, restaurants, evening entertainment, and kids clubs. 

It is aimed at families and there’s lots for all ages to do, but it’s also a great cruise to take as a couple or by yourself. There’s something going on all the time, but you can still find some quiet time on the sun deck. There’s 3 days at sea on this 11-day cruise and you’ll certainly never get bored. I love the stop-offs and visits to four different countries, with some really diverse excursions offered at every stop.

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits