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Princess Cruises is a premium travel brand and a subsidiary company of Carnival Group, making it one of the 10 cruise shipping lines and travel brands owned by currently the world's biggest cruise shipowner - Carnival Corporation . As part of the conglomerate, the Princess brand brings ~20% of the Group's revenue.

Company History and Changes

Princess Cruises (princess.com) was founded in 1965 by Stanley McDonald who chartered the Alaskan ship SS Princess Patricia (1948-built/1995- scrapped , IMO 5284924) for roundtrips to the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles during the off-season (winter). In 1967, Princess started to charter the ship MS Italia (1967-built/2012- scrapped , IMO 6513994), which had a modern design, numerous innovations, more spacious upper decks, larger public areas (midship/ by placing the engines aft).

In December 2025, the company celebrates its 60th anniversary.

The new "Princess Italia" again operated the Mexican Riviera from LA (the Princess logo on the funnel was placed for the first time in 1967). In 1969 the ship made its inaugural season in Alaska with roundtrips from San Francisco . When the charter ended (in 1973), Princess chartered the "Carla C" ship (from Costa Cruises ) and unofficially renamed it "Princess Carla".

The company's modern-times history commenced in 1974 when it was acquired by P&O UK. The new owner transferred its "Spirit of London" ship (renamed Sun Princess) and 3 more boats bought from "Flagship Cruises" for the Princess brand - "Sea Venture" (Island Princess), Island Venture (Pacific Princess) and MS Kungsholm (Sea Princess). The first newbuild (specifically for Princess) was Royal Princess (1984, also served Princess under the name "Artemis").

A major company asset is "Princess Tours" (Alaska division acquired in 1986) with 10 luxury railcars for scenic tours of Mt McKinley and daily capacity 700+ passengers. With the acquisition of Sitmar Line (1988), P&O added to the Princess brand 3 more vessels (then under construction) - in 1989 (Star Princess/2021-scrapped as Columbus) and in 1990 (Crown Princess, Regal Princess), plus 2 former Cunard liners (renamed Dawn Princess, Fair Princess) and Sitmar's "Fairsky" ship (renamed Sky Princess).

The "P&O Princess Cruises" company was established in 2000 (October 23rd). It subsequently merged with Carnival Corp in 2003 (April 17th) into "Carnival Corporation & plc". The USD 5,4-billion-dollar merger created the largest cruise shipping company in the world ever , grouping 11 different travel brands as subsidiaries.

Currently, Princess Cruise Lines Ltd (USA) is transferred to Carnival's American division (Holland America Group), but the brand's marketing and sales in the UK are under Carnival plc (aka Carnival UK) which also manages Cunard Line.

The company's current President is John Padgett (assigned in October 2021) who reports directly to Holland America Group's President (Jan Swartz). John Padgett was employed by Carnival Corporation (2014-2021, as Chief Experience and Innovation Officer) and by Walt Disney Parks & Resorts (1996-2014).

The company's other top executives include Terry Thornton (CCO/Chief Commercial Officer), Jim Berra (CMO/Chief Marketing Officer), Carmen Roig (VP of Sales), Vicki Johnson (Senior VP of Communications).

The world's most romantic attention the Princess cruise brand received by the participation of its vessels (first Island and Pacific, later Royal, Sun, and Sea) in the onboard filmed TV-series "The Love Boat" (ABC-aired from 1977 until 1986).

• In May 2018, the cast of "The Love Boat" (ABC TV series run 1977-1986) and Princess Cruises was presented a Hollywood Walk of Fame star plaque. The honorary plaque is located in front of Dolby Theater's main entrance on Hollywood Blvd.
• Following the pilot show (May 5, 1977), the cruise ship-themed series continued for 10 seasons (until May 24, 1986).
• The Princess brand became famous and commonly known as "the Love Boat cruise line". In the series were used the Princess-owned ships Island Princess (2017-scrapped as "Discovery"), Royal Princess (now Artania ) and Sea Princess (2016-scrapped as "Veronica") cruising to exotic destinations around the world.

One of the most famous features of Carnival's Princess brand is its "Personal Choice Cruising" program - an unstructured and individualized approach to the ship vacation travel by the innovative "if you want it - when you want it" concept. The brand's travel style provides an exceptional feeling of choice and flexibility giving passengers the opportunity to customize their vacation in a way that most fits their personal interests and desires. Implemented in the mid-90s (on the Sun-class Princess ships), this unique concept of passengers being in control of their voyages and vacation experiences was realized via multiple shipboard dining venues, flexible entertainment options and affordable balcony staterooms.

Company changes 2024

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

Company changes 2023

On March 23, 2023, Princess announced the partnership with Luigi Lavazza SpA (1895-founded, Turin Italy-based manufacturer of coffee products) as the brand’s "Official Coffee Partner". By the deal, Lavazza products and services are offered fleetwide and include coffee-themed dinners, Lavazza-based recipes, educational sessions, coffee tastings/samplings and food pairings.

On June 24, 2023, were announced new onboard "Princess Perfect Weddings" packages and the appointment Randy Fenoli (1964-born American TV host and fashion/bridal designer best known for his TV show "Randy to the Rescue and Say Yes to the Dress") as Princess Cruises' Love and Romance Ambassador. Also was announced that he will host a bridal fashion-themed voyage on Regal Princess (leaving from Galveston TX on Dec 3rd) with signature events like meet & greets and wedding gown consultations. As brand ambassador, Fenoli developed the exclusive "Randy Fenoli Weddings" package.

In October 2023, the company announced a shift in its pricing strategy, ensuring that only early bookings get the best-priced deals possible (by eliminating last-minute cruise booking discounts) and also introduced the Best Price Guarantee and Princess Promotions.

Rail & Sail" (train+cruise) program 2024

In April was introduced the "Rail & Sail" (train+cruise) program providing swift and seamless access to Princess' ships homeported in Florida (Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral/Orlando). The program is via a partnership with Brightline/BLFX (high-speed intercity passenger railway in Florida connecting Miami with Orlando).

The  program significantly reduces pre- and post-cruise travel time compared to conventional road travel options. A Brightline  train with four custom-designed cars displays Princess' signature logo and images of popular call ports. Princess' branding is also prominently displayed within Brightline's five Florida train terminals. 

With the Rail & Sail program was also introduced a luggage express service allowing cruise tourists to check their bags at their Brightline station and find them securely waiting in their stateroom. Princess guests also receive up to 15% discounts when booking "Smart and Premium Rail & Sail" packages through Brightline's website.  Brightline offers Princess cruise passengers access to a comprehensive train schedule (daily departures) providing 16 roundtrip transits between Orlando and Fort Lauderdale.

Brightline's train travel options are two -  Southbound (Orlando to Fort Lauderdale, with stops at West Palm Beach and Boca Raton) and  Northbound (Fort Lauderdale to Orlando, stops at Boca Raton and West Palm Beach). Residents of South Florida can also utilize Brightline's services from downtown Miami and Aventura terminals, with stops in Fort Lauderdale or Orlando.

(NEW) Ship boarding/embarkation system (2023)

On August 1, 2023, Princess Cruises implemented fleetwide a new boarding process aiming to make it easier for tourists to board the ships. As a result, the scheduled arrival times on embarkation day were eliminated.

The new embarkation system requires all passengers to complete the necessary steps (via Princess App) prior to the voyage.

• Green Lane qualified are passengers who have completed all the Travel Checklist's steps and have received their Medallion device by mail (only in the USA and Puerto Rico). Green Lane provides the most streamlined embarkation/fastest boarding. Note: Passengers who are Green Lane-eligible but choose not to have their Medallions shipped to them are classified as Blue Lane.
• Blue Lane qualified are passengers who have completed (some, none or all) Travel Checklist's steps but have opted not to have their Medallions mailed to them. Blue Lane guests still enjoy an expedited check-in but must pick up their Medallion at the cruise terminal.
• Accessibility Lane is for passengers experiencing mobility/accessibility difficulties. They have a separate/dedicated lane for faster check-in, regardless of their color designation.

The new embarkation system no longer requires selecting a specific arrival group time. Instead, guests can arrive within the designated check-in window at a time that suits them. However, Princess Cruises strongly recommends all guests to provide travel arrangement information via OceanReady (MedallionClass app and the Cruise Personalizer). The check-in details can be found in their travel summary.

Since August 2023, the company also improved the Digital Boarding Pass which is available in the Princess app (11 days prior to the ship departure date). The updated boarding pass now includes the deck and stateroom number.

Princess Upgrade (new cabin upgrades program)

In August 2022 was announced the "Princess Upgrade" program that allows passenger cabin upgrades on a regular basis (not as promos) and for all types of staterooms and categories.

The new program was officially launched on September 6, 2022, on just 5x USA-based Princess boats (Caribbean, Discovery, Enchanted, Regal, Ruby). By the end of October (2022) the program was rolled out fleetwide.

"Princess Upgrade" is only for bookings within Final Payment and when the full payment has been made. Then customers receive an invitation to submit a bid on any cabin type and category that is above the currently booked. The bid can be changed or canceled at any time before being accepted.

Shipboard retail shopping

In September 2021, Princess and Harding signed a deal for the entire fleet's onboard retail shopping business to move under Harding’s management.

Harding+ (Bristol UK-based global travel and cruise retail group) in 2020 was acquired by Davidson Kempner Capital Management LP (1983-founded, NYC-based investment management firm with USD 34+ billion in managed assets). Harding has hubs in Bristol (England) , Miami (Florida USA) and Sydney (NSW Australia) .

The existing Princess retail team joined Harding's as part of the transition.

Each of the Princess boats has an onboard shopping arcade named "Shops of Princess".

In April 2016, Princess' owner Carnival Corporation signed a shipbuilding order for 2 new boats scheduled for deliveries in 2019 ( Sky Princess ) and 2020-2021 ( Enchanted Princess ). Sky and Enchanted are 4th and 5th ROYAL-class ships (same-designed as Royal, Regal , Majestic ) all constructed at Monfalcone yard as part of a previous agreement with Fincantieri (shipbuilder). At that time, Carnival Group had a total of 16 shipbuilding orders , with scheduled deliveries between 2016-2020. These 3670-passenger vessels have 80% balconied staterooms and some fleet-first features.

In late-January 2017, Carnival Corporation announced 2 more orders for the fleets of Princess (Royal-class) and Holland America Line (Pinnacle-class). Carnival signed an MoA (memorandum of agreement) with Fincantieri to construct both units, with deliveries in 2021 ( Nieuw Ryndam-Rotterdam for HAL, at Marghera yard) and 2022 ( Discovery Princess , at Monfalcone yard). When both contracts were finalized (February 2017), Carnival Corporation had a total of 19 newbuilds scheduled for deliveries in 2017-2022.

In July 2018 were ordered 2 new-class (larger than Royal-class) liners with GT tonnage/volume 175000 and passenger capacity 4300. These are the fleet's first dual-fuel (MGO and LNG) powered vessels. The contract with Fincantieri (Monfalcone) was signed in March 2019, with scheduled deliveries in 2023 and 2025. Princess in 2018 had 5 newbuilds on order with Fincantieri. The 2023-2025 units were Carnival Group's 10th and 11th LNG-powered ships .

By 2019, during drydock refurbishments (part of the company's USD 450 million fleet renovation program), 45000+ "Princess Luxury Beds" were rolled out fleetwide (to 22000+ staterooms / on all liners). The custom-made "Princess Luxury Bed" implements the latest sleep science technologies and was developed via partnership with Dr. Michael Breus (The Sleep Doctor) and Candice Olson (Canadian designer).

In December 2019, Princess signed with Panasonic Corporation a deal to deliver 4K laser projectors for the entire fleet (first unit was installed on Sky Princess). All liners will be outfitted with Panasonic PT-RQ50KU (4K Laser Projector with Solid Shine technology) to be used for the new 5-Skies production show featuring UHD imagery.

In September 2022 Princess signed with Xponential Fitness Inc (Irvine CA USA-based, 2017-founded company) a 5-year exclusive licensing agreement. Xponential Fitness is currently the world's largest global franchise group of boutique fitness brands. As of 2022, Xponential franchises 10 fitness brands (Club Pilates, pure barre, CycleBar, StretchLAB, Row House, YogaSix, Rumble, AKT Dance, STRIDE Fitness, BFT) and has 2220+ gym studios in 48 American states and 13 countries. The deal with Xponential, together with the partnership with OneSpaWorld (providing gym professionals and wellness staff and services) made Princess the first major cruise company to offer multiple premium fitness brands for personalized and customizable gym/training experiences. During the agreement period (2022-2027), at least 8x Xponential brands are available on each Princess boat (120 licensed gym studios fleetwide).

In 2024 ( Sun Princess ) and 2025 ( Star Princess ) debut the fleet's ever-largest (SPHERE-class) vessels, with GT-tonnage/volume ~175,000 tonnes.

Each boat has 21 floors, 2157 staterooms, and the signature (fleet-first ) facilities The Dome (top-deck entertainment space covered by a glass roof) and Piazza Atrium (3-deck-high, outward-looking midship suspended space with comfortable seating, 360-degree outside views, huge LED screen/movable, to allow live entertainment). Both SPHERE Princess ships also have new for the fleet cabin types - Signature Collection Suites (exclusive access to Signature Restaurant-Lounge & Bar-Sundeck) and Reserve Collection Staterooms (exclusive restaurant).

Princess ships with MedallionNet WiFi Internet

In early-September 2018 was introduced (on Caribbean Princess) Carnival Corporation's OceanMedallion technology - wearable devices allowing passengers access to "virtual concierge" services and amenities, as well as interactive entertainment. The new technology also includes the MedallionNet - (SES Networks-powered) Wi-Fi connectivity via access points installed in all staterooms. Passengers on MedallionClass cruise liners experience land-like Internet connection quality allowing streaming of movies, music, videos, video phone calls, real-time sharing on social media platforms.

All MedallionClass ships (Princess' entire fleet) feature touchless embarkation/disembarkation (homeport), keyless cabin entry, frictionless commerce, contactless capabilities (way-finding, on-demand service delivery), shipboard family and friends locator, interactive entertainment (first-run movies, live TV, events, activities planner).

In 2018, MedallionNet was installed on the Princess liners Caribbean, Regal, Royal and Ruby. In 2019, MedallionNet received the liners Coral (Apr 5), Island (May 15), Crown (Jun 30), Emerald (Aug 3), Sky (Oct 12), Golden (Dec 20). In 2020 were upgraded the liners Grand (Feb 21), Diamond (Mar 15), Majestic (Apr 18), Star (Jun 12), Enchanted (Jun 15) and Sapphire (Jul 27).

In 2021 was introduced "Ocean Sportsbook" (a real-time sports betting option available fleetwide/on all boats) which allows betting on sports like football, basketball, baseball, hockey, cycling, car racing, boxing, martial arts and other competitions.

When the cruise ship is in international waters, passengers can use the MedallionClass app to wager on sports and place bets during live events that occur during the voyage and also place bets on future sports events - that occur after the voyage. With USD 20+ billion in wagers placed with USA's sportsbooks in 2019-2020, online sports betting is expanding and expected to reach USD 155+ billion by 2024.

Ocean Sportsbook is via partnership with Miomni Gaming Ltd (1998-founded software developer) and available on all vessels since 2021. Ocean Sportsbook is part Ocean Casino's digital platform that lets wagers be placed beyond the ship's Casino Lounge (indoor-outdoor venues, sundecks/pool decks, wellness complex, staterooms, etc) on games including slots, poker, blackjack, roulette, bingo, lottery, keno.

In June 2021 the cruise company introduced the industry's first CrewCall. The on-demand service is via the cabin's smart HDTV (and the MedallionClass app) and allows passengers to call a crew (to their current onboard location) for assistance or to request services. The app's "CrewCall Chat" allows texting (via smart devices) a specific question or making requests to the crew member.

Cruisetours / Shore Excursions

Since 2017, Princess Cruises offers "Shore Excursions Best Price Guarantee" for tours in all ports of call. The program was launched fleetwide in Dec 2016 and guarantees if passengers booking through Princess find the same tour/excursion elsewhere at a lower price, they will receive 110% of the difference as non-refundable OBC (onboard credit). In such cases, an email request must be submitted at least 7 days prior to departure (at [email protected]) to be reviewed by the company's Shore Excursion team. Within 2 business days, booked passengers are notified if their request meets the criteria.

• "Best Price Guarantee" applies only to tours/shore excursions that are publicly available (priced online).
• "Best Price Guarantee" applies to all excursions, excepting those in Asia and also excepting private vehicle/driver excursions in all ports.
• Princess Shore Excursions program offers over 4,000 land tours/excursions in 360 destinations and over 150 itineraries.
• "Discovery" and "Animal Planet" themed excursions are also available as part of the new "Discovery at Sea" cruise tour program (via an exclusive partnership with Discovery Communications). These tours are unique, can't be booked independently and are available only through Princess. The program includes over 1,000 such tours worldwide.

The company's most popular/purchased cruise package is "Princess Plus" (cost US$50 per person/per day). The package is inclusive of premium beverages, unlimited WiFi Internet (for 4x devices), selected specialty restaurant dining, digital photos (+ 3x printed/8x10 cm), Princess Prizes, daily crew gratuities.

In 2022 was introduced the "Princess Premier Package" (cost US$75 pp per day) that is inclusive of unlimited WiFi Internet (for 4x devices), premium/top-brand liquors-wines-cocktails-coffees, specialty dining (2x meals per person), digital photos (unlimited, plus 3x printed), crew gratuities.

Princess Alaskan lodges (cruisetour packages)

Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge is a 663-room complex located approx 2 km (1 ml) from Denali Park's entrance. The building has an expansive deck overlooking Nenana River and views into the nature park. Accommodations are available exclusively to Princess Cruises customers, offered as optional pre-/post- Alaskan cruise tour packages.

In 2019 (company's 50th year in Alaska), Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge debuted the 180-seat restaurant "Fannie Q's Saloon". The new dining venue serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering locally inspired, authentic dishes (Braised Pork Shoulder, Bison Sliders, Bear-Lard Pie). The modern saloon has indoor and outdoor seating, with live entertainment in the evenings. Outside Fannie Q's Saloon is the Fireside Patio with 3 new BBQ firepits and selling refreshment drinks. Grizzly Burger (formerly Grizzly Bar and Grill) now offers the company's signature "Ernesto" - exclusive ribeye burger created by Ernesto Uchimura (Japanese celebrity chef).

Like outdoor activities, Princess cruise tour passengers can meet mountain climbers (who have conquered Mt Denali) in the Mt McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge (Denali State Park). Outside the lodge, there is a retired airplane.

• Fishing and sledge dog puppies activities are both complimentary. Lodge's Denali show costs USD 20 per person.
• Playing with sledge dog puppies on a cruise ship is probably the last thing one would ever imagine doing. However, it is one of the new activities available on all Princess Cruises Alaska itineraries. The company's "North to Alaska" enrichment program debuted in 2017 and gives passengers the chance to take photos and interact with baby sledge dogs in the ship's Atrium (lobby) area. Dog handlers are on hand to talk about this Alaskan sport.
• The "Puppies in the Piazza" experience is available on all Princess Alaskan cruise ships and roundtrip itineraries. Also new is the chance to taste your own catch of the day for dinner. New fishing excursions allow passengers to select their preferred preparation by ship's culinary team.

During the company's 2018 Alaskan program was inaugurated the custom-designed wilderness treehouse built at Mt McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. The treehouse allows guests to view Mt Denali while enjoying themed activities.

The treehouse was built during Discovery Channel's Animal Planet episode "Treehouse Masters", which premiered in August 2017. It was the first-ever treehouse in Alaska, being designed and built by Pete Nelson. Powered by solar panels, the facility provides Princess cruise ship tourists with a unique "Alaskan land tour" experience. Sized approx 500 ft2 (46 m2), the treehouse can be accessed by hiking the "hill trail loop".

(NEW) Princess cruise gratuities

Since May 21, 2019, the company's daily gratuities (per person/pp) were raised fleetwide as follows:

• USD 14,50 (from $13,50 pp) - interior, oceanview, balcony staterooms, both adults and kids
• USD 15,50 (from $14,50 pp) - mini-suites, Club Class staterooms
• USD 16,50 (from $15,50 pp) - suites

Since January 2023, non-suite passengers pay USD 16 pp per day, while suite passengers pay USD 17-18 (depending on stateroom category).

On ships deployed in Australia and New Zealand, gratuities are not compulsory.

Daily gratuity is an automatic service charge added to the passenger's onboard account each day.

Passengers can prepay gratuities. The amount of gratuities is split between the ship's staff (dining, housekeeping, cabin stewards).

Princess Cruises bear mascot Stanley

Since summer 2017, Princess Cruises ships feature a most special onboard attraction - the company's mascot bear Stanley.

The sensationally cute bear mascot was named in a Facebook contest with over 9,000 entries, Mascot's name honors Stanley McDonald (1920-2014). In 1965 he founded Princess Cruises and expanded it into one of the world's largest cruise ship companies. In 1975, he sold Princess to P&O Cruises (back then named "Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company") and remained its Chairman until 1980.

As the bear fell in love with ship cruising, he decided to skip winter hibernation and became a stowaway. So since 2017 Stanley travels around the world on all Princess ships. Stanley also made "surprise" appearances on the company's "Chinese ship" Majestic Princess in July 2017 during the inaugural festivities in Shanghai China . From China, Stanley the Bear embarked on all Princess itineraries.

During the day, Princess' "cruise ship bear" wears themed apparel, which is tied to the ship's current itinerary destination. On Alaskan cruises that would be his lumberjack outfit. In China, he wears a traditional Tang suit and cap. In Japan, he wears a Yukata outfit. On formal nights, the bear dresses up in the Captain's uniform. The Stanley bear appears on all Princess ships. He interacts with passengers through various entertainment activities with engaging photo opportunities. Stanley also holds storytime hours for kids at the ship's youth facilities.

On the ship, passengers can participate in the daily contest "Where on the ship is Stanley". The mascot is also present on the special Welcome Aboard shows throughout the voyage. Souvenir Stanley bears plush toys are available for purchase in the onboard shopping arcade "Shops of Princess". The toy's price is USD 25. A portion of the proceeds from the toy's sales goes to "Princess Animal Welfare Sponsor".

Princess cruise ship passengers can share their travel adventures with Stanley using the social hashtag #StanleyAtSea.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021-2022

Due to the COVID pandemic, Princess suspended its fleet's passenger shipping operations by canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 12, 2020, through July 2021.

Next are listed Princess Cruises' first departures by ship/homeport - CARIBBEAN (Nov 28, 2021/Fort Lauderdale), CORAL (June 16, 2022/Sydney Australia), CROWN (May 7, 2022/Alaska from Seattle), DIAMOND (September 1, 2022/West Coast USA and Mexico from San Diego), DISCOVERY (March 27, 2022/ Maiden Voyage /Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles), EMERALD (Oct 15, 2021/Panama Canal from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale), ENCHANTED (Nov 10, 2021/ Maiden Voyage /Fort Lauderdale), GRAND (Sept 25, 2021/Los Angeles), ISLAND (April 27, 2022/Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles), MAJESTIC (July 25, 2021/Alaska from Seattle), REGAL (July 31, 2021/Southampton UK cruises to nowhere ), ROYAL (May 2, 2022/Alaska from Vancouver), RUBY (Oct 31, 2021/San Francisco), SAPPHIRE (Sept 24, 2022/Hawaii and Mexico from Los Angeles), SKY (Aug 30, 2021/Southampton UK cruises to nowhere).

• DIAMOND's Asia 2021 program (roundtrips from Yokohama to Korea and Japan) and South America 2022 program (from Buenos Aires Argentina and San Antonio Chile) were canceled.
• MAJESTIC's Alaska 2021 program (from Seattle) was first canceled then scheduled again (July 25 thru Sept 26).
• SAPPHIRE's Australia 2021 program was canceled and replaced with LA roundtrips to Hawaii-Mexico-California Coast.
• CROWN's Panama Canal 2021-2022 winter season (from Fort Lauderdale) was canceled.
• ISLAND's "World Cruise 2022" (112-day roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale) was canceled.
• CORAL's "World Cruise 2022" (108-day roundtrip from Australia/Sydney-Brisbane) was canceled.
• The 2021-built ENCHANTED's entire inaugural Mediterranean 2021 season (July 3 thru Nov 15/departures from Barcelona and Rome, including the Transatlantic crossing Europe-USA) was canceled.
• DISCOVERY's maiden voyage (Nov 3, 2021/Mediterranean from Rome) was rescheduled for March 27, 2022 (Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles).
• Due to Canada's ban, Princess Alaska 2021 program was entirely canceled, affecting the schedules of 6 ships (Grand, Majestic, Royal, Crown, Coral, Emerald).
• The Princess-operated Alaskan wilderness lodges and transportation (trains and buses) remained closed in 2020 and 2021. Because of Canada's extended travel restrictions, Princess canceled all Alaskan, West Coast USA and Hawaii departures from Vancouver and Seattle.
• Due to port closures and international travel uncertainties, Princess's Australia-New Zealand program was canceled through January 27, 2022. Also were canceled "World Cruise 2021" (Island Princess) and "Circle South America Cruise 2021" (Pacific Princess). Travel agents' commissions on all canceled bookings were paid in full.
• Princess UK 2021 summer program (Southampton roundtrips planned for 3 ships /Island, Regal, Sky) was canceled through July.

In late-January 2021, Pacific Princess was sold to Sycamore Partners and left the fleet to join Azamara .

All affected bookings were automatically canceled and received 125% refunds in FCC (future cruise credit) with rebooking, including full (100%) refund on prepurchased through Princess Cruises packages and services. With rebooking, all the money is transferred to FCCs, any itinerary choice (through December 31, 2022). The rebooking bonus is an additional 25% FCC (applied to the fare automatically) that can be used on any itinerary booked by May 1, 2022. A full (100%) monetary refund was offered to all cancellations made by March 31, 2021. All bookings can be canceled up to 48 hours prior departure (previously 72 hours). You will continue to receive FCC for the amount of your cancellation fee.

The FCC is non-refundable, eligible for the revised cancellation terms and can't be used on the same sailing as the original booking. FCCs are automatically be applied to your Captain's Circle profile on the canceled bookings. FCCs are not available instantly (may take up to 30 business days to be processed).

The fleetwide suspension came after two vessels suffered COVID-19 outbreaks - Diamond Princess (in Japan) and Grand Princess (in the USA). All shipboard employees (fleetwide) remained on the vessels. Each ship was planned to visit Princess Cays (Carnival-owned private island resort) once weekly where its crew can disembark and use the facilities.

Itinerary of Princess Cruises

Princess offers cruise travelers the complete package of comfortable accommodations, comprehensive onboard entertainment, options for families with children and, of course, incredible shore excursions. As it was founded in 1965, the Princess Cruises company has been able to refine their itinerary selection, and now you can sail to destinations all over the world with a vast array of diverse itineraries.

The impressive selection presents 160+ itineraries that reach 300+ ports globally, with sailings ranging from 7 to 100+ days on Princess World tours. The list of Princess cruise destinations includes Alaska, Europe-UK, the Caribbean, Bermuda, regular Panama Canal transition cruises (introduced in 1967), Mexican Riviera, South America and Pacific Islands (Hawaii and Tahiti), Asia, Australia-New Zealand, Canada-New England.

A 14-day "Canada and New England" cruisetour (roundtrip from NYC New York ) includes a 7-day Land Tour followed by a 7-day cruising itinerary. The Land Tour starts in Washington DC (hotel overnight), follows bus travel to Mount Vernon Plantation (George Washington), Virginia's Historic Triangle ( Jamestown Settlement and Williamsburg , hotel overnight in Williamsburg VA), Richmond VA (state's capital), Monticello Plantation (Thomas Jefferson), Staunton VA (hotel overnight), Gettysburg PA (hotel overnight), Philadelphia PA (hotel overnight) and ends in NYC (ship embarkation on Day 8). The segment (7-day NYC roundtrip) visits Newport RI , Boston MA , Bar Harbor ME and in Canada - Saint John NB and Halifax NS .

The company's 2024 program in North America features a maiden port - Yorktown (Virginia USA) , visited in the summer of 2024 by two liners - Island Princess and Emerald Princess. Along with Yorktown, tourists also visit Williamsburg and Jamestown - all grouped in the state's Historic Triangle. These voyages offer the unique opportunity for travelers to participate in Virginia's 250th anniversary commemorating the American Revolutionary War and the Declaration of Independence.

Alaska 2024-2025 ships (deployment/itinerary changes)

Princess Alaska 2024 season is based on 7 ships (Royal, Grand, Sapphire, Discovery, Majestic, Crown, Ruby), 158 departures (14 itineraries), 17 ports/destinations (including 5 glacier viewing experiences), 4 homeports (Vancouver, Anchorage/Whittier AK, Seattle WA, San Francisco CA), 86 Glacier Bay NP visits.

• 3 ships (Royal and Grand departing Wednesdays, Sapphire departing Saturdays) sail the 7-day "Voyage of the Glaciers" featuring 2 glacier-viewing experiences on each trip. In addition, northbound sailings include a "More Ashore" late-night stay in Juneau.
• 2 ships (Discovery and Majestic) sail from Seattle WA on Saturdays and Sundays the 7-day "Inside Passage" itinerary and offer "More Ashore" late-night stays in Juneau.
• Crown Princess (from San Francisco) operates the 11-day "Inside Passage" voyages.
• Ruby Princess (out of Vancouver) operates the 7-day "Inside Passage" voyages visiting Glacier Bay NP.

In honor of the company's 55th anniversary, in 2024 Princess introduces two new cruisetours - "The National Parks Tour" (15-day, 5x national parks, combines a 7-day cruise with scenic rail travel and stays at four Princess-owned wilderness lodges) and "The Katmai National Park Tour" (9-day, bear-watching experience at Katmai NP's Brooks Falls, includes the 7-day "Voyage of the Glaciers" itinerary).

Princess Alaska 2025 season has 3 roundtrip itineraries and the new "National Parks Cruisetour". Also New for 2025 are two roundtrips - the 22-day from San Francisco CA (Ruby Princess, coinciding with Summer Solstice 2025) and the 17-day from Seattle WA (Grand Princess, with 3 days of scenic glacier cruising). Also new is the 16-day roundtrip "Inside Passage Cruise" from Los Angeles CA (Grand Princess).

The 2024-introduced National Parks Cruisetour offers a 15-night vacation visiting five Alaskan national parks and nature reserves - Glacier Bay NP, Denali NP, Wrangell-St. Elias NP, Kenai Fjords NP, and Klondike Gold Rush NP. The unique travel experience combines a 7-day "Voyage of the Glaciers" cruise with scenic rail travel, and multiple days on land, including stays at 4x Princess-owned wilderness lodges.

The 2024-introduced "Katmai National Park Cruisetour" (9-day) groups an overnight in Anchorage (2-night hotel stay) with the 7-day "Voyage of the Glaciers" itinerary visiting Glacier Bay NP and College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier. Priced from US$2430 per person, the new Alaskan cruisetour also includes domestic flights (to and from Katmai NP) and all land transfers.

Princess Alaska 2025 program is based on 7 ships (including Caribbean Princess (for the first time), 5 homeports (including Los Angeles), 21 destinations, 4 glacier-viewing experiences (88 Glacier Bay NP visits), itineraries ranging from 4 to 22 days:

The 22-day "Ultimate Alaska Solstice with Glacier Bay National Park" roundtrip from San Francisco (Ruby Princess) departs June 6th, 2025.

The 17-day "Ultimate Alaska with Glacier Bay National Park" roundtrip from Seattle (Grand Princess) departs May 6th, 2025.

The 16-day "Inside Passage with Glacier Bay National Park" roundtrip from Los Angeles (Grand Princess) departs August 30th, 2025.

The 7-day "Voyage of the Glaciers" itinerary visits Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and two glacier-viewing destinations (Glacier Bay NP and Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord). Princess ships Caribbean, Coral, and Sapphire offer weekly northbound and southbound departures from Vancouver Canda to Anchorage/Whittier USA and vice versa. The itinerary is operated between May 10th and September 13th, 2025.

The signature 7-day "Inside Passage Cruise " (roundtrips from Seattle and Vancouver) and the 11-day itinerary (roundtrip from San Francisco and Vancouver) include 4 call ports and a day of glacier viewing. All Inside Passage cruises visit Glacier Bay NP.

The ships Discovery and Royal sail from Seattle weekly (May 4-Sept 21, 2025), Grand Princess departs weekly from Vancouver (May 27-Aug 19, 2025), Ruby Princess sails 11-day roundtrips from San Francisco (May 4-Sept 13, 2025).

Three "Alaska Samplers" itineraries (4 to 5 days) offer short breaks to Alaska with the ships Discovery, Royal and Grand. They offer 4-day sailings between Vancouver and Seattle stopping in Ketchikan (departures April 30th, May 13th, May 23rd, 2025). Caribbean Princess sails 4-day roundtrip from Vancouver visiting Ketchikan (Sept 13th) and a 5-day roundtrip from Vancouver stopping in Sitka and Ketchikan (May 5th).

The Alaskan 2025 schedule has 26 cruisetours, including Denali Explorer, On Your Own, Connoisseur Deluxe Escorted, and Off the Beaten Path. The Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service ensures a seamless transition between the ship in Whittier and the Denali area on the same day. Two Alaskan lodges (Mt McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, and Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge) provide unique perspectives for experiencing North America's tallest mountain.

Europe 2024 itineraries (Mediterranean-Baltic-Iceland-Greenland-UK-USA-Transatlantic)

Princess Cruises Europe 2024 season (February to December) is based on 5 ships (Sun, Sky, Island, Regal, Caribbean), a total of 162 departures, and 85 different itineraries visiting 130 destinations in 34 countries.

• Sun Princess operates the 10-day "Grand Mediterranean" and Western Grand Mediterranean voyages (departing from homeports Barcelona or Civitavecchia-Rome ) and 7-day "Mediterranean" voyages (departing from Civitavecchia, Barcelona or Piraeus-Athens ).
• Island Princess offers 10-day Mediterranean voyages combinable into 20-day B2Bs/back-to-backs , including 10-day Holy Land voyages to the Eastern Mediterranean visiting Israel.
• Regal Princess operates 12-day "British Isles" voyages out of Southampton-London . The Sky Princess ship is also homeported in Southampton-London, for various 5- to 31-day itineraries visiting Iceland and Norway, Spain's Canary Islands. A 31-day Transatlantic crossing visits Canada and New England USA.
• Caribbean Princess is deployed in Northern Europe and homeported in London. The ex-UK itineraries include Norway's Arctic Circle (Search for Northern Lights Voyage), as well as a 16-day Iceland and Greenland. Caribbean Princess and Sky Princess will also spend the Summer Solstice at the top of the world on 14- or 16-day "Land of the Midnight Sun" and "Summer Solstice" itineraries.

Princess Cruises' all 5 European liners in spring and fall offer Transatlantic voyages (RepositionCruises.com) between Europe and the USA - Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale (Florida) , Galveston (Texas) , or NYC (New York) and Barcelona, London, or Civitavechia-Rome.

A total of four cruisetours (cruise+land packages) offer more "shore time" for visiting popular tourist sites with expert guides, hotel stays, and traditional regional cuisine. These are titled "Highlights of Spain", "Classic Italy", "Ring of Kerry", and "Best of Greece".

Itineraries 2024-2025 Mexico, California Coast, Hawaii, Tahiti

Los Angeles ’ hometown cruise line Princess is further cementing its West Coast USA heritage with the newly released fall 2024 thru spring 2025 season.

Featuring 75+ voyages visiting Hawaii, Mexico, and the California Coast from 3 convenient homeports - San Francisco CA , Seattle WA , and Los Angeles - West Coast USA voyages are now open for booking.

West Coast USA 2024-2025 season features 75+ voyages (21 different itineraries) visiting 28 destinations (7 countries), 4 ships (Discovery, Grand, Majestic, Ruby) and roundtrip departures from 3 homeports (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle).

Discovery Princess sails 7-day Mexican Riviera voyages visiting Mazatlan , Puerto Vallarta , and Cabo San Lucas .

Weeklong California Coast cruises (Discovery Princess) visit San Diego , Santa Barbara , and more.

Grand Princess and Majestic Princess operate 10-day Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez itineraries.

Grand Princess' 16-day roundtrips from LA to the Hawaiian Islands visit the Big Island/Hawaii, Kauai , Maui , and Oahu .

Grand Princess and Sapphire Princess have longer (32- and 33-day) Transpacific itineraries to the South Pacific and the Hawaiian Islands (RepositionCruises.com), also visiting Tahiti isles.

The San Francisco-homeported Ruby Princess offers roundtrips to Hawaii, Mexico, California and Pacific Northwest USA. The liner also offers a 16-day "Hawaiian Islands" roundtrip from Vancouver BC Canada .

Majestic Princess operates the Classic California Coast itinerary out of Seattle. The 11-day roundtrip visits San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and San Diego (late-night stay).

Itineraries Americas, Australia and New Zealand 2023-2024-2025-2026

In November 2021 was announced Princess' 2023-2024 Australia and New Zealand program including 117 ports/destinations in 43 countries (also on ship relocation and world voyages).

Winter 2023-2024 season is based on 4x ships (Majestic, Royal, Grand, Coral) and 6x homeports (Sydney NSW, Brisbane QLD, Melbourne, Fremantle-Perth, Adelaide, Auckland NZ).

Coral Princess' "World Cruise 2024" (110-day itinerary) visits 32 countries and departs from Sydney (April 30) and from Brisbane (May 2).

Princess' 2023-2024 Americas program groups a total of 47 different itineraries and 214 departures from 7 North American homeports.

• Discovery Princess has scheduled two 15-night Hawaiian voyages with overnights in Honolulu (Oahu Island).
• Sapphire Princess offers 32-night South Pacific Islands & Hawaii itineraries on two voyages from Los Angeles (Long Beach), including a first-time visit to Fiji and late-night stays in Tahiti and Honolulu.
• 7 liners (Caribbean, Emerald, Enchanted, Island, Regal, Ruby, Sky) offer 126 Caribbean sailings (18 itineraries) ranging between 5-21 nights, and leaving roundtrip from the USA (Fort Lauderdale Florida, and Galveston Texas) and visiting 25 Caribbean islands.
• Three boats (Crown, Diamond, Discovery) operate Mexican voyages (24 departures, 5 itineraries), while three other (Emerald, Island, Ruby) have scheduled Panama Canal transits (23 departures, 6 itineraries) ranging 10-15 nights.

In 2023-2024, Princess has scheduled 25 departures on the USA West Coast/California (13 itineraries) visiting 11 destinations in 3 countries (UAS, Canada, Mexico). Select voyages are with late-night port stays in San Diego CA , San Francisco CA , Seattle WA , and BC Canada's Vancouver and Victoria .

The company's 2024-2025 Australia and New Zealand schedule lists the longest world voyage ever to sail from Australia. The program is based on 3 liners: Royal and Crown (both homeported in Sydney NSW ) and Diamond (alternating between Brisbane - Melbourne ).

Crown Princess ship's "World Cruise 2025" is the largest ever offered from Australia. The voyage visits 25+ UNESCO sites and features 8 late-night port stays. The ex-Australia itinerary continues to Southeast Asia, then via Suez Canal to Europe (Mediterranean and Northern Europe), follows a Panama Canal transit , then via the South Pacific back to Australia. The voyage also includes 9 maiden for Princess ports.

The AU-NZ program is based on 7 homeport cities, including Hobart (Tasmania) which is a departure port for Princess for the first time. Other departure ports are Adelaide , Auckland NZ , Fremantle/Perth .

The 3-ship Princess AU-NZ program offers visiting 14 countries across 112 departures and 72 itineraries.

The schedule also lists two relocation voyages between Australia- Japan/Tokyo (RepositionCruises.com) with stops in Hong Kong China , Tawain, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines.

Out of Sydney NSW are offered 13- to 15-night long roundtrips to the South Pacific islands.

Princess Cruises' Australia 2025-2026 summer season isbased no three ships - Crown Princess (based in Sydney), Grand Princess (based in Brisbane) and Discovery Princess (homeported in Sydney NSW, starting October 2025).

Itineraries South America & Antarctica 2024-2025

In August 2023, Princess Cruises revealed an array of captivating voyages for the upcoming 2024-2025 season, capturing the growing fascination among travelers with Antarctica. During this season, the  Sapphire Princess embarkя on 4 remarkable journeys to the Seventh Continent, showcasing its breathtaking allure and the enchantment of the  Falkland Islands ' penguins, along with spectacular vistas of Elephant Island , Antarctic Sound, and Gerlache Strait.

In addition to her Antarctic adventures, Sapphire Princess also traverses through South American destinations, accompanied by the Majestic Princess . This harmonious blend of diverse cultures and landscapes is enhanced by exciting cruisetours, promising an enriching journey of exploration.

The 2024-2025 season boasts an impressive lineup of 15 departures across 11 distinct itineraries, incorporating two ships, 26 destinations, and 14 countries. Noteworthy among the offerings is the introduction of a 17-day roundtrip Antarctica voyage from  Buenos Aires , treating travelers to an immersive experience with an overnight stay in the vibrant port city.

For those seeking the ultimate expedition, the 51-day South America Grand Adventure on Majestic Princess awaits, spanning from  Los Angeles  to  Fort Lauderdale . This remarkable voyage includes captivating overnight stays in  Lima , Buenos Aires, and  Rio de Janeiro .

Highlights of the 2024-2025 season include:

• Antarctica – 17 days – Four Voyages, Roundtrip from Buenos Aires: Explore the Antarctica region with four days of cruising, showcasing Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound, and Gerlache Strait. Departures in December 2024 and January 2025.
• Cape Horn & Strait of Magellan – 14 or 15 days – Four Voyages: Sail through the iconic  Cape Horn  and  Strait of Magellan , offering diverse experiences. Departures in December 2024 and February 2025.
• Andes & South America – 18 days – Two Voyages: Discover the Andes and South America's beauty, featuring visits to  Puerto Vallarta , Lima, and other captivating destinations. Departures in December 2024 and March 2025.
• Brazilian Adventure – 18 days – Two Voyages: Experience the allure of Brazil, with departures in November 2024 and January 2025.
• Grand Adventures – 32-51 days – Five Voyages: Embark on an extended exploration combining various itineraries and destinations, catering to diverse interests. Departures in December 2024 and March 2025.

Passengers also have the option to enhance their voyage with two cruisetours:

• Iguazu Falls Adventure: Immerse in the grandeur of the world's largest waterfall system, Iguazú Falls, and explore the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro.
• Machu Picchu Explorer: Embark on a train journey through picturesque valleys to the ancient marvel of  Machu Picchu , coupled with a tour of historic Cusco.

Itineraries 2025-2026 Caribbean

In 2025, in the Caribbean will be deployed the fleet's latest  and  largest ships of the SPHERE class - Sun Princess  and  Star Princess . Homeported in Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale Florida , both liners offer 7-day roundtrips to Eastern and Western Caribbean destinations.

Both sisterships start service in Europe/Mediterranean - Sun Princess in February (2025), followed by Star Princess in August (2025).

Princess Cruises' 2025-2026 itinerary program encompasses 278 voyages across the USA, Caribbean, Mexico, and Pacific Islands.

The program features a Mexican Riviera cruise (Royal Princess) celebrating the company's 60th anniversary (brand's inaugural cruise started in December 1965 on SS Princess Patricia ship).

Sky Princess will be the first ROYAL-class liner homeported in Port Canaveral/Orlando Florida , offering 8-day Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings, as well as 6-day roundtrips to the Eastern Caribbean.

The Caribbean deployment (also including the ships Caribbean ,  Emerald ,  Enchanted ,  Island ,  Majestic ,  Regal , and  Sapphire ) encompasses 29 ports/destinations in 22 countries, and 178 departures with 25 different itineraries (ranging from 4 to 20 days).

Itineraries 2025 Japan

Princess Cruises' 2025 Japan season (March through August) groups 35 voyages (durations between 7- and 22 days) scheduled for the ship Diamond Princess homeported in Tokyo (Yokohama) .

The program offers visits to 36 different destinations (across three countries) with key highlights:

• Spring Flowers Voyages: These 10-day and newly introduced 11-day cruises in March and April cover all four main islands of Japan, following the predicted blooming season from south to north.
• Southern Islands Itineraries: Featuring 9 days of exploration with two stops in the Okinawan islands and two calls to Taiwan, including a return to  Hualien .
• Sea of Japan Voyages: These 9-day and 10-day voyages trace the historic Kitamaebune trading route, showcasing various ports along the way.
• Hokkaido Voyages: The 10-day cruises include visits to  Otaru (for Sapporo) ,  Hakodate , and  Kushiro .
• Japan Explorer Voyages: Covering iconic destinations such as  Shimizu  (for Mt. Fuji),  Osaka or Kobe  (for Kyoto),  Hiroshima , and more in a 10-day itinerary.
• Scenic Cruising: Passengers have the opportunity to experience the picturesque Kanmon Straits, the waterway separating Honshu and Kyushu.

Additionally, Princess' Japan 2025 season coincides with several traditional summer festivals, including the Aomori Nebuta Festival, Kochi Yosakoi Dance Festival, Tokushima Awa Dance Festival, and Kumano Fireworks Festival in August. Guests can revel in the unique festivities during their voyage.

To enhance the shore experience, Princess is offering late-night and overnight port stays allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture and lifestyle. The lists includes four late-night "More Ashore" ports - Aomori  (for Nebuta Festival),  Kochi (for Yosakoi Festival), Shimizu (for Mt Fuji) and Tokushima  (for Awa Odori Festival).

For travelers seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Japan, Princess Cruises offers the Japan Cruisetour option. This includes a combination of a cruise and a land tour, allowing guests to delve deeper into the cultural treasures of Kyoto and Tokyo. Highlights of the tour include visits to Kyoto's intricate gardens, Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Great Buddha of Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, bustling Tokyo, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mt. Fuji, with breathtaking views from Togendai and Lake Ashi.

Fleet deployment/concise review

Princess cruises panama canal itineraries.

Princess was the first line to cruise through Panama Canal locks - back in 1967. Caribbean Princess was the first big-sized liner to pass through the new Agua Clara locks in 2017. Regular crossings are scheduled for the liner Emerald Princess (maiden season in 2019) which passes through the Agua Clara Locks (canal's Atlantic side) and the Cocoli Locks (canal's Pacific side). The new locks were opened in June 2016, as part of a 10-year, USD 5,4 billion "Neo-Panamax" canal expansion.

Princess Panama Canal program is based on 5 ships, with 10- to 21-day itineraries also visiting ports in Mexico, Caribbean, Central-South America. Each Princess cruise ship transit of the Panama Canal features live narration (from the Navigation Bridge) and a day of scenic sailing through Gatun Lake. Full transits additionally feature coastal cruising (wildlife and rainforests) along Panama and Costa Rica, as well as top-rated Caribbean beaches.

Australia and New Zealand itineraries

Princess' 2022-2023 Australia and New Zealand season is based on 4 ships - Majestic Princess and Royal Princess (from Sydney NSW ), Grand Princess from Melbourne , Coral Princess from Brisbane .

The program features 121 departures, 68 different ports/islands in 14 countries, 76 itineraries (ranging 2- to 36 days).

• homeports Adelaide , Auckland , Brisbane, Melbourne, Fremantle-Perth , Sydney.
• 10- to 19-day NZ itineraries roundtrip from Adelaide, Auckland, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney.
• Circumnavigation of Australia (roundtrips) visiting Cairns ( Great Barrier Reef ) and Kuri Bay ( Kimberley) .
• 5- to 10-day Tasmania (roundtrip from Brisbane or Sydney)
• 7- to 14-day Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef (roundtrips from Brisbane, Melbourne or Sydney)
• 4 Transpacific Crossings (RepositionCruises.com) between North America and Australia in fall 2022-spring 2023 on Grand Princess and Majestic Princess
• 35-day "Hawaii, Tahiti and South Pacific" roundtrips from Auckland, Brisbane, Sydney
• (Royal Princess) 12- to 20-day "Asia and Australia" voyages (August 2022/from Hong Kong to Sydney) and 16-to 18-day from Sydney to Hong Kong (March 2023).

Princess AU & NZ 2022-2023 program offers 8 ports/islands with late-night departures, 10 UNESCO sites (including Tasmanian Wilderness, Greater Blue Mountains, Te Wahipounamu), 2 optional cruisetours (Australian Outback, Ultimate Australia) visiting Uluru’s Ayers Rock and the Great Barrier Reef.

Princess Cruises related cruise news

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Princess Cruises

Princess cruises – premium line with two small and intimate ships.

Princess’ more than 100 different itineraries offer travelers the opportunity to literally cover the globe, with sailings to all seven continents that call at approximately 350 ports and destinations around the world.  Destinations include the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Europe, Mexico, South America, Australia/New Zealand, South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, India, Africa, Canada/New England, and world cruises.  Princess passengers can enhance their cruise experience through the Adventures Ashore program, featuring nearly 4,000 in-port excursions worldwide, and the company’s expanding cruise tour offerings enabling passengers to combine their cruises with full land tours.

Princess Cruises ships are pleasingly designed, with a variety of major features and intimate spaces.  They call it “Big Ship Choice, Small Ship Feel,” which means ships are outfitted with all the deluxe amenities that you’d expect from a first-class hotel from 24-hour room service to chocolates on your pillows at night.  Families especially love the Movies Under the Stars, where they can watch movies at night on deck.

Couples, families and older singles that prefer a large ship and an active environment with a multitude of entertainment options.

Those seeking a private island experience:

Princess Cruises visits Princess Cays, which is located on the southern portion of Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, approximately 80 miles from Nassau.  This lovely island features white-sand beaches and turquoise waters that make for great snorkeling and swimming.  Water lovers can also rent aqua bikes, seaboards, paddle boats, clear-hull kayaks, sailboats or floats rafts.  Guests looking for pure relaxation can do some shopping, taste the island cuisine and exotic cocktails or just soak up the warm Caribbean sun.  There are plenty of beach umbrellas, tiki huts and hammocks hung beneath dozens of shady trees.

Princess Cruises Ships:

• Caribbean Princess (3,140 passengers)
• Coral Princess (2,000 passengers)
• Crown Princess (3,080 passengers)
• Diamond Princess (2,670 passengers)
• Discovery Princess (3,660 passengers)
• Emerald Princess (3,080 passengers)
• Enchanted Princess (3,660 passengers)
• Grand Princess (2,600 passengers)
• Island Princess (2,200 passengers)
• Majestic Princess (3,560 passengers)
• Regal Princess (3,560 passengers)
• Royal Princess (3,560 passengers)
• Ruby Princess (3,080 passengers)
• Sapphire Princess (2,670 passengers)
• Sky Princess (3,660 passengers)
• Star Princess (4,300 passengers) – to debut in August 2025
• Sun Princess (4,300 passengers) – to debut in February 2024

Atmosphere and experience onboard:

Princess features an active large-ship atmosphere with varied dining and activity options.  The ships are clean and pleasant with an open feel and neutral color schemes.

Destinations served:

• Australia & New Zealand
• California  & Pacific Coast
• Canada & New England
• Panama Canal
• Private Island – Princess Cays
• South America & Antarctica
• Tahiti & South Pacific
• Transatlantic
• World Cruise

Almost everyone loves Princess Cruises, from couples to families to older singles who enjoy the amenities of a large ship with friendly pricing.

Policies regarding children onboard:

Infants must be at least 6 months of age at the time of embarkation in order to sail.

Children must be at least 12 months of age at the time of embarkation to sail on trans-ocean crossings and remote itineraries, where there are more than 2 consecutive sea days. The minimum age for escorted cruise tours is five.

All Vessels, with the exception of the Pacific Princess, have dedicated Youth Centers and Teen Lounges.  The Pacific Princess offers youth programs when 20 or more children, ages 3-17, are traveling on a given voyage.  Children under the age of 3 are welcome to visit the Youth Center, if accompanied and supervised by a parent at all times. For more information on Princess Cruises Children’s Program:

https://allthingscruise.com/cruise-planning/cruise-lines-childrens-programs/princess-cruises-childrens-programs/

Consumer reviews: https://allthingscruise.com/cruise-reviews/reviews/Cruise-Ships/Princess-Cruises/index.htm

eBrochures: http://brochurerack.book-my-offer.com/AgentBrochureRack.aspx?arid=7bc6d19a480f1fb37c3e6ddccc6603fa

Shore excursions: http://www.cruisecompete.com/shore_excursions/

Dining options: https://allthingscruise.com/specialty-restaurants-alphabetically-by-cruise-line/

Voyages offered: http://www.cruisecompete.com/lines/princess_cruises.html

Read a cruise travel diary: https://allthingscruise.com/travel-diaries/  

Newest ships: https://allthingscruise.com/newest-ships/

Amenities offered (some cruises lines are all-inclusive): https://allthingscruise.com/all-inclusive/

Alcohol beverage policies: https://allthingscruise.com/onboard-the-ship/alcohol-policy-by-cruise-line/

About weddings at Sea or Vow Renewals at Sea: https://allthingscruise.com/cruise-research/niche-cruises/weddings-at-sea/

Cancellation policies: https://allthingscruise.com/cruise-planning/cancellation-policy-by-cruise-line/

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Princess Cruises Unveils Exclusive New Sanctuary Collection

• April 24, 2024

Princess Cruises announced an exclusive Sanctuary Collection aboard the Sun Princess, which is sailing now, and the Star Princess to debut in 2025.

Guests reserving in the Sanctuary Collection enjoy exclusive access to the ship’s top-deck retreat area and high-end amenities such as exclusive private dining and relaxation areas and the Princess Premier bundle.

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

On the Sun Princess, the top-deck Sanctuary Club is now reserved exclusively for Sanctuary Collection guests who access the private entry via their Princess Medallion. In the adults-only area, guests will find lounge furniture, private cabanas, a pool and jacuzzi, refreshing beverages and more. The Club also features exclusive programming, including sunrise yoga classes and sail-away receptions.

Other Sanctuary Collection amenities include priority specialty restaurant reservations and premium stateroom amenities.

The new Sanctuary Collection aboard the Sun Princess includes three levels of stateroom types: Signature Collection Suites, Mini Suites and Premium Deluxe Balconies.

Sanctuary Collection staterooms on the Sun Princess and Star Princess open for sale on April 23. Guests who book as of April 23, 2024 and reserve Sanctuary Collection staterooms on either ship will enjoy extra amenities at no additional cost, excluding the premier bundle.

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2024-2025 New Cruise Itineraries

Book our newest cruise vacations to our best destinations now.

Check out our newest cruise itineraries and prepare for an array of unforgettable experiences on board with Princess. From sailings close to home to the distant shores of exotic lands. New Princess cruise itineraries not only take you to our best cruise destinations, but bring the colors, cultures and flavors on board to give you a truly immersive vacation. Start planning today to get the cruise – and the stateroom – you want!

2025 Alaska Cruise Itineraries

Our Alaska 2025 season promises to be our most exciting season yet. From our top-rated 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise and Inside Passage sailings – including roundtrip Los Angeles – to new “Ultimate Alaska” sailings that visit less-frequented ports and include at least three days of glacier viewing, we have Alaska covered by sea. Venture further with 27 cruisetour options, each combining a 7-day cruise with multiple nights in the heart of Alaska, stays at Princess-owned wilderness lodges and scenic rail travel. It’s no wonder we’ve been named Best Cruise Line in Alaska by Travel Weekly NINETEEN TIMES!

• Alaska At a Glance Flyer (PDF)
• Find Alaska cruises
• Find Alaska cruisetours
• Learn more about Alaska

2023-2024 Asia Cruise Itineraries

Let Princess whisk you to stunning cities and timeless villages on an epic voyage in Asia. Each destination tells its own story through celebrated landmarks, popular markets, culinary secrets and traditions that have been passed down for generations. Sail on Diamond Princess®, and discover why Princess was awarded “Best Cruise Line in Asia” by Porthole Magazine.

• Find Asia cruises
• Learn more about Asia

2024-2025 Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific Cruise Itineraries

Experience the natural wonders of Australia, the unique culture of New Zealand and the island paradises of Tahiti, Fiji and beyond with Princess in 2024–2025. You can also visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru National Park’s iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock), on cruisetour options that combine a multi-night land tour with a traditional cruise. Choose from three ships, including Royal Princess,® as well as Crown Princess® and Diamond Princess,® sailing 72 itineraries to 64 destinations.

• Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific At a Glance Flyer (PDF)
• Find Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific cruises
• Find Australia & New Zealand cruisetours
• Learn more about Australia & New Zealand
• Learn more about South Pacific

2024-2025 California Coast Cruise Itineraries

Explore the landscape of the California Coast and visit world-famous cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Santa Barbara. Shop and dine along eclectic boulevards. See iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Coronado Bay and Griffith Observatory. Or escape to renowned vineyards for an award-winning wine. See even more with late-night stays in San Francisco, San Diego, Victoria, Vancouver, B.C. or Los Angeles.

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2025 Canada & New England Cruise Itineraries

Experience colonial history, charming Eastern seaboard villages and famed New England seafood when you sail Canada & New England with Princess®. Princess will sail 7-day roundtrip voyages from Boston and New York. There are also 10-day voyages between Boston and Québec and roundtrip 10-day American Heritage voyages where you’ll have the opportunity to visit Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown, as well as legendary Revolutionary War sites. You can also extend your journey on land with a crusietour that visits more of American history at places like Gettysburg and Philadelphia, or spends time in Canadian cities like Toronto (for Niagara Falls) Montréal and more.

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2024-2025 Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Relax on top-rated beaches, explore ancient ruins and get immersed in colorful cultures — the laidback Caribbean has lots to love for everyone. Discover the Eastern, Western or Southern Caribbean with a variety of unique itineraries and departure ports. For the first time, Princess is offering a season of 6- and 8-day Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages roundtrip from Port Canaveral on Caribbean Princess®. (Can't choose? Combine them for a 14-day sailing!) Or sail aboard the new Sun Princess® from Fort Lauderdale on 5- to 14-day voyages to see both the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

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2024 Summer Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Whether you're seeking top-rated beaches or ancient Mayan ruins, the Caribbean is your playground in Summer 2024. From seven-day, 10-day and 14-day summer sailings to all corners of the Caribbean to our award-winning private island resort, Princess Cays,® and onboard programs that immerse you in local life, you’ll connect with the islands in ways you never imagined.

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2025 Europe Cruise Itineraries

Princess is celebrating its 40th anniversary of Mediterranean sailing by featuring two of its newest and largest ships – Star Princess® and Sun Princess®. Explore the best of Europe in 2025, from the British Isles to Scandinavia, the Mediterranean and beyond with itineraries from five to 33 days as you visit famous landmarks, including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Let local experts guide the way with foodie- and art-centric tours. Love local nightlife? Look for More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays.

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2024-2025 Hawaii Cruise Itineraries

Princess is the only cruise line that sails a full season roundtrip from the mainland, with a choice of roundtrip departures from Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver, B.C. Immerse yourself in Polynesian culture the moment you step on board with our Aloha Spirit program. Visit the most popular islands – Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island – while only unpacking once. Plus, enjoy a More Ashore late-night stay in Honolulu on most sailings.

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2024 Japan Cruise Itineraries

In Summer 2024, Diamond Princess® sails out of Tokyo (Yokohama) with a variety of ways to enjoy the traditions and beauty of the region. There are five opportunities to see storied local festivals, including the popular Nebuta Festival. We also have sailings that arrive when Japan’s famed spring flowers are in bloom. Sail where ancient traditions and modernity co-exist in harmony on the #1 North American Cruise Line in Japan.

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2024-2025 Mexico Cruise Itineraries

From mariachis to margaritas, the Mexican Riviera is where it all began with our first cruise in 1965. More than 50 years later, we still visit the best ports like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and less-traveled jewels like Loreto and Manzanillo. Sail from Los Angeles or San Francisco on five- to 11-day roundtrip cruises, and stay overnight in Cabo San Lucas on select voyages for a taste of vibrant nightlife.

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2024-2025 Panama Canal Cruise Itineraries

Princess offers two ways to see the epic Panama Canal, including new 12-day roundtrip sailings from Fort Lauderdale aboard Emerald Princess®, which include destinations like Costa Rica & the Caribbean, as well as Ocean-to-Ocean 15- to 23-day voyages between Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and Vancouver, B.C.

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2024-2025 South America & Antarctica Cruise Itineraries

Delight in South America’s vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes and get swept away by the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica. Experience the thrill of sailing through the Strait of Magellan, the 19th-century treasures of Buenos Aires or cruise through the icy waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula.

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2025 World Cruises Cruise Itineraries

Set sail across the globe on a truly epic adventure – a Princess World Cruise. On a voyage spanning more than 100 days, and travelling over 33,000 nautical miles, you’ll visit more than 40 destinations in over two dozen countries. In 2025, Island Princess will sail an 116-day World Cruise – our longest ever. Whether you sail from Los Angeles or Ft. Lauderdale, or choose options from Sydney, Australia, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of Asia, the South Pacific, Middle East, Europe, North, Central and South America and beyond.

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

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

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

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

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

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

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

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

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

These cruises open for sale on April 30.

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

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

It took a star to welcome the sun.

The Sun Princess , that is.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carnival Corporation is the parent company of Princess Cruises.

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

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

The biggest Princess ship ever

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The 4 types of Princess ships, explained

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

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

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Princess Cruises Unveils Exclusive New Sanctuary Collection Aboard Sun Princess and Star Princess

New Category Offers Unprecedented Level of Exclusivity and  Premium Extras Aboard Newest Ships from Princess

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. , April 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Elevating the art of relaxation and serenity, Princess Cruises is introducing exclusive, next-level Sanctuary Collection aboard Sun Princess and Star Princess, as these newest ships prepare to debut with this select, all-inclusive oasis in early 2024.

As the name suggests, guests reserving in the Sanctuary Collection enjoy exclusive access to the ship's top deck retreat area, along with a host of additional and high-end amenities designed to enhance their voyage. These indulgences include exclusive private dining and relaxation areas, a luxurious stateroom experience, as well as the Princess Premier bundle to round out the all-inclusive allure of the Sanctuary experience.

Aboard Sun Princess, the luxurious, spa-inspired, top-deck Sanctuary Club , is now reserved exclusively for Sanctuary Collection guests who access the private entry via their Princess Medallion. In the adults-only (16 and up) area, guests enjoy plush lounge furniture, private cabanas, pool and jacuzzi, attentive service, soothing music, refreshing beverages, and light fare. The Club also features exclusive programming, including sunrise yoga classes and sail-away receptions.

Other Sanctuary Collection amenities include priority specialty restaurant reservations, and premium stateroom amenities.

The new Sanctuary Collection aboard Sun Princess includes three levels of stateroom types – Signature Collection Suites (80), Mini Suites (123), and Premium Deluxe Balconies (12).

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

Sanctuary Collection staterooms on Sun Princess and Star Princess go on sale today. Guests who have booked as of April 23, 2024 already have reserved Sanctuary Collection staterooms on either ship will receive the additional amenities outlined at no additional cost, excluding the premier bundle.

The 177,500-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess offers an array of exciting new culinary and entertainment offerings, as well as luxurious staterooms and suites across a broad spectrum of categories. With the most balconies and sun decks on any Princess ship, guests can take in the sunshine and crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and Caribbean from the comfort of their stateroom. 

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

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

SOURCE Princess Cruises

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Princess Cruises Officially Christens Sun Princess

Princess Cruises has officially named its newest ship Sun Princess in a ceremony Tuesday in Barcelona. British actress Hannah Waddingham—the ship’s godmother—named the ship in a ceremony in the Princess Arena onboard. 

“I name this ship Sun Princess. May God bless her and all who sail on her,” she said, before fitting a piece of a sun graphic on stage which released a Nebuchadnezzar of Veuve Clicquot Champagne against the outside of the ship’s hull, to cheers from Princess employees outside, and an array of passengers and assorted dignitaries inside the arena. 

In remarks during the ceremony, Waddingham referenced her excitement at serving as the ship’s godmother, “I’ve seen over the years, the magnificent godmothers that have been asked to associate with the ships, and I couldn’t believe it—and I was so quick to reply to the e-mail.” She also referenced a long personal connection to the sea, “As much as theatre ripples through my bloodstream, I have the strongest history of maritime in my family—we still have my grandfather, he’s 107—he was in the North Atlantic convoy scraping the ice of the bow of the ship—so it’s in my blood and in my bones.” 

Included in the festivities were three original cast members of The Love Boat series: Bernie Kopell, Ted Lange, and Jill Whelan. Whelan, who played Captain Steubing’s teenage daughter Vicki on the series, now serves as Celebrations Ambassador for Princess and was also on hand earlier in the day during a news conference when Princess announced the new Sanctuary Collection onboard Sun Princess, which will debut later this year.

Princess also announced that the new  Star Princess —the second Sphere Class ship scheduled for delivery in September 2025—is slated to sail to Alaska during the 2026 summer season, making it the largest Princess ship ever to sail on Princess itineraries to the 49th State.

Food and beverage updates were also revealed. A new restaurant concept, Love by Britto, inspired by artist Romero Britto, and the new Love Line Premium Liquors, a selection of three celebrity liquors, including Voli Vodka by Pitbull, Love Prosecco by Britto, and Melorosa Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon from Jason Aldean. The liquor selection is currently available on Sun Princess, and will soon be introduced to the rest of the fleet.

Princess expects Sun Princess to be the “new normal” for the line in terms of ship size and design, Princess President John Padgett told TravelPulse during the event. “We think this is the sweet spot,” he said, “and what sets us apart is our ability—using MedallionClass—to provide personalized, ‘small ship’ service on a ship of this size.”

Padgett added that the first passenger reactions to Sun Princess have been overwhelmingly positive—even with longtime customers one might expect to look back with nostalgia. He referenced a passenger he spoke with on a recent Sun Princess sailing who had been sailing Princess since 1972. When he asked the passenger which ship out of all the Princess ships he’d sailed over the years was his favorite, his response was immediate: “This one.”

Designating a godmother to name a ship is a longstanding maritime tradition. Godmothers name ships and become part of the ship’s history and legacy. Waddingham joins several members of the Royal Family, and other legendary world-renowned actresses and personalities as godmothers of Princess ships, including Diana, Princess of Wales; Catherine, Princess of Wales; Audrey Hepburn; Sophia Loren; Alaska First Lady Nancy Murkowski; and Martha Stewart.

Sun Princess also marks a number of superlatives, such as the largest ship ever built for Princess Cruises, with lower-berth capacity for 4,300 passengers in 2,157 staterooms including 80 suites on 21 decks. She’s also the first Princess ship to be powered by Liquid Natural Gas, reducing carbon emissions. The ship also debuts a new cabin category for Princess, the Cabana Mini-Suite, which offers a transitional indoor-outdoor seating space between the indoor seating area and the outdoor balcony.

Built by Fincantieri, and weighing in at 177,882 tons she is also the largest ship to date for her builders, and the largest ship ever built in Italy.

Sun Princess itineraries in the Mediterranean during the summer of 2024 and will reposition to Fort Lauderdale for Caribbean cruises in the fall of 2024.

Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best cruises for teens in 2024.

The best cruises for teens provide the right mix of autonomy and time with family.

The Best Cruises for Teens

Amy Smith | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Teen spaces on cruise ships foster friendships through games, music, events and more.

Cruises make the perfect family vacation, especially when traveling with teens. Teens can mix and mingle with others their age in teens-only clubs, play games, listen to music, or grab a pizza and watch a movie under the stars. If your tweens and teens need more action-packed fun to keep them entertained, some cruise ships act like floating amusement parks with zip lines, racetracks, roller coasters, ice skating rinks, laser tag, waterslides and more.

The following lines offer the best cruises for teens and tweens, along with their parents.

Find your perfect cruise

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers plenty of family fun and activities for teens on its ships, including sports tournaments, waterslides and a family disco. On select ships, you'll also find the full-size MSC Formula Racer simulator, an interactive XD cinema, a virtual reality experience, zip lines and an arcade room. The Young Club programming by MSC Cruises offers daily activities for 12- to 14-year-old tweens, while teens 15 to 17 can participate in sports and dance competitions as well as video game tournaments at the Teen Club. Older kids can also participate in fun themed events, karaoke, piloting practice at the Drone Academy and flash mobs – and there's a teens-only disco.

On MSC Seascape , teens can stay busy in three new concept spaces. "Future" features a state-of-the-art technology area with the latest-generation consoles, VR and video screens for hours of entertainment. "Chill Out" is just as it sounds – a place to hang out, chat, and play foosball and pingpong. Meanwhile, "Music" is a dance club where kids can choose their own tunes and dance the night away with cool lighting and sound effects. If all that isn't enough, Robotron, the first of its kind at sea, is an amusement park-like ride that combines the thrill of a roller coaster with personalized music and lighting.

MSC World Europa boasts the largest and most engaging kids area in the fleet with an impressive 8,245 square feet of action-packed space. The new Teens Lab features an immersive area for teenagers with more than 20 of the latest consoles, seven VR stations and dozens of video games. Drone Academy 2.0 is a high-energy relay race for drones. There's even more onboard fun at Z Active, a sports program that offers basketball, football and zorb ball alongside two firsts for the line – pickleball and hoverboards. Teens can also take a spin on the bumper cars at the MSC Sportplex.

MSC Euribia – the line's newest ship, which set sail on its inaugural cruise in June 2023 – has a total of 7,500-plus square feet of space dedicated to kids ages 0 to 17. The new Teens Club Extra Space offers three different areas: the Young Club (ages 12 to 14), the Teens Club (15 to 17) and the Teens Lab (12 to 17). Some of the activities include those found on other MSC ships, such as Z Active, Drone Academy 2.0 and the MSC Dance Crew competition. Teens will also have access to new video games; pingpong; World Quest, an interactive game show based on trivia and geography; and Caravaggio, an immersive spy game show about an art heist.

Compare  MSC Cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line boasts a teens-only venue, Entourage, which caters to young adults 13 to 17 years old. This supervised space – available on 16 of the line's 19 ships – keeps teens busy in an adults-free lounge that's filled with video games, movies, music, arts and sports. Teen counselors on Norwegian Cruise Line plan activities and challenges to keep kids entertained throughout the cruise. A list of detailed activities is available on embarkation day so teens can plan out their schedule for the cruise.

Norwegian Prima , the first vessel in the Prima class, features many first-at-sea innovations perfect for entertaining families and energetic teens, including the three-level Prima Speedway. With cars reaching up to 30 miles per hour, this quarter-mile-long racetrack is one of the highest-rated attractions on Prima. Adventurous teens will also want to check out The Drop and The Rush. Billed as the fastest slides at sea, these chutes offer thrill-seekers a heart-pumping 10-story freefall plunge.

If that's not enough action, teens can also play The Bull's Eye, a classic game of darts that uses a video tracking system, or check out Tee Time for a pumped-up version of mini-golf set against a Las Vegas backdrop. In the Galaxy Pavilion, an indoor gaming complex, you'll find more than a dozen attractions, including immersive simulator experiences, escape rooms and the Topgolf Swing Suite – all of which are unique to Norwegian Prima. When it's time to cool off, the Tidal Wave waterslide is another first for the brand, letting guests ride inner tubes to catch the surf.

Norwegian Viva, the second vessel in the Prima class, is set to launch in August 2023. As the newest ship in NCL's fleet, Viva will also feature these exciting high-tech attractions, including Viva Speedway. If you and your teens are fans of the movie "Beetlejuice," you're in for a treat: The Broadway musical adaptation will debut on the new ship.

The line's Breakaway Plus class – Norwegian Escape , Joy , Bliss and Encore – is also popular with families as these ships offer plenty of activities and attractions suited for active teens, such as go-kart tracks, outdoor laser tag and VR games in the Galaxy Pavilion.

Find  Norwegian Cruise Line deals on GoToSea .

Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line features two cool spaces dedicated to teens and tweens, who can hang out on comfy couches, watch shows or movies, and play video games. These hangouts, called Edge (for ages 11 to 14) and Vibe (ages 14 to 17), are available on all Disney Cruise Line ships.

On Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream , the space at Vibe also features a private outdoor deck with chaise lounges, wading pools, foosball and more. While indoors, teenagers can mingle with others their age, or just kick back and relax in individual nooks. There's a dance club area for karaoke contests, talent shows and dance competitions. The trendy indoor-outdoor space – at almost 9,000 square feet – is accessible with a teens-only card or DisneyBand+. On the new Disney Wish ship, Vibe has a French twist inspired by a Paris artist's loft with neon signs and funk pop art.

For tweens sailing on Disney Fantasy or Dream, Edge is a bright, loft-style gathering spot – located in the funnel – that has individual computer stations for gaming and a massive video wall for screening television, movies and games. There's also a lit-up dance floor for dance parties. Two nifty features of the space – and its location – are views of the pool decks below as well as three portholes that allow for glimpses of the riders on the water coaster, AquaDuck, as they zoom by.

On the first night of the cruise, kids receive information on what activities and events will be available during their vacation so they can curate a personalized entertainment itinerary. Some fun options throughout the week may include "Gotcha," a game of elimination where one teen will become the ultimate victor. For a special treat – and a bit of pampering – guests ages 13 to 17 won't want to miss an afternoon at Chill Spa, located inside Senses Spa & Salon.

Book a  Disney cruise on GoToSea .

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

The newly updated space for teens 13 to 17 years old on Royal Caribbean International vessels is hidden behind a secret speakeasy entrance. The dedicated venue, which has a gaming lounge and music, is a cozy place to hang out to meet other teens on the ship. There's also an outdoor patio where you can relax in the sun or chill out under the stars. Teens will find planned activities throughout the day at the lounge, including sports tournaments, a nightly teen disco and themed parties.

Social 100 is an exclusive new space for ages 13 to 17 on Wonder of the Seas . The outdoor space sits next to the waterslides and boasts a hot tub, lawn games, cozy seating, a selfie area, and a bar serving zero-proof cocktails and shakes. The indoor part of Social 100 features a gaming area, foosball tables, a vending machine and more comfortable spaces for teens to mingle.

Teens have plenty of activities they can do with their families on Royal Caribbean's ships, especially on the new Icon of the Seas, the first vessel in the Icon class. Slated for its inaugural sailing in January 2024, Wonder of the Seas will be the  world's largest cruise ship .  Cruisers of all ages will have endless opportunities for fun with more venues, activities and attractions than you've ever seen on a cruise ship.

Teens and their parents will appreciate Chill Island, a three-level pool deck with the first swim-up bar at sea. The new water park, Thrill Island, boasts six waterslides, including exciting firsts at sea, such as Pressure Drop, the first open freefall slide. If that's not enough to get the adrenaline pumping, teens can check out Crown's Edge – a combination thrill ride, skywalk and ropes course – or other Royal Caribbean favorites like Adrenaline Peak, Sports Court, the FlowRider surf simulator or the reimagined mini-golf course.

If you're hanging out in the new Surfside neighborhood on Icon, a dedicated space for young families, teens will have easy access to the supervised teens-only club, Social 020, from this open-air space.

When you head ashore to Perfect Day in CocoCay, one of the best  cruise line private islands , teen cruisers will find plenty of fun land-based activities like Thrill Waterpark and 1,600-foot-long zip lines. Be sure not to miss another thrilling experience: Up, Up and Away. The helium balloon ride soars 450 feet above the ground to the highest vantage point in the Bahamas , offering incredible panoramic views of the island and surrounding turquoise waters.

Explore  Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea . 

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

The Kids Club on Holland America Line offers a fun supervised program for 13- to 17-year-old guests in an adult-free zone known as The Loft. The name is in the process of changing to High Score!, and you'll already find the updated concept on Oosterdam and Eurodam . The line's other ships will change over to the new venue throughout 2024. High Score! is a family game room that serves as a secret getaway for teens by day. In the evenings, entire families can come to play skeeball, board games and join in other activities.

The teens-only space (during the day) on Holland America Line resembles a New York artists loft where kids can listen to music, watch movies, play games and meet and hang out with same-age cruisers. Programs and activities at the current space, The Loft, include themed events, karaoke, a teen disco and nighttime activities such as Poker Night and video game tournaments. Youths can also participate in pingpong, basketball and other teens-only sporting events. If they still need more entertainment to keep them busy, the Kids Club offers origami lessons and watercolor painting as well as competitions in "Mario Kart," air hockey, foosball, pinball and more.

The Kids Club is complimentary for guests. The space is open daily, and you'll also find teen events around the ship. When it comes to dining, there are many teen-friendly dining options – where teens can even enjoy mocktails like nonalcoholic mojitos – at venues throughout the ship.

If you're cruising to Alaska with Holland America or other adventure-filled destinations, look for excursions that will appeal to younger family members like zip lining tours, trail hikes, float trips, helicopter tours and wilderness safaris. Alaska is a teen favorite, especially in Skagway (one of Alaska's top destinations ), where travelers can get a thrill out of dog mushing with a team of Alaskan huskies, taking a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, or going on a rock climbing excursion.

Find  Holland America Line cruises on GoToSea .

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Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

The modern Beach House lounge is the go-to place for passengers ages 13 to 17 to socialize and meet others their age when sailing on a Princess Cruises ship. Fun activities for teens include late-night movies and tournaments where they can challenge their peers in video games or at air hockey, foosball and table tennis. For more energetic activities, join in the fun during indoor dodgeball and basketball games. Or, learn new dance moves from some of the dancers in the crew, then hit the dance floor for one of the competitions. At the "Rock the Boat Party," teenagers can dress up and party the night away with mocktails and new friends on the ship.

"Movies Under the Stars" is one of Princess' signature events. Guests can watch movies, sporting events and concerts while bundled up with cozy blankets on the pool deck outdoors. Teens will enjoy the complimentary snacks – not to mention the special movie nights designed with them in mind, such as "Scary Movie Night." You might even find teen makeovers and glitter tattoos some evenings on the ship.

The line's three newest ships – Discovery Princess , Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess – offer the most activities for teens, but all of the ships in the fleet host youth programs in partnership with Discovery, along with plenty of other family-friendly activities. These offerings include Discovery Family and Animal Planet shore excursions and onboard entertainment like "The Voice of the Ocean," a musical competition.

Parents will be able to keep track of their busy teens anywhere on the ship with the state-of-the-art Princess MedallionClass system. The quarter-size wearable medallion and accompanying app allow guests to personalize their itinerary and locate family members and friends on board.

When Sun Princess launches in February 2024, as the first vessel in the line's Sphere class, it will feature Park19. This top-deck family activity zone boasts many outdoor adventures, including Sea Breeze – the first Rollglider at sea. The ADA-accessible seated ride offers a hang-gliding experience with panoramic views of the ocean and ports of call. Families and teens can also check out the climbing obstacle course, cargo nets and lookout points. The ship also has a recreational court – which offers pingpong, shuffleboard, fitness classes and more – and a splash zone where you can cool off after all the outdoor activities.

Inside Sun Princess, tweens and teens will find two centers just for them: Neon Grove and The Underground. Both spaces offer cozy and colorful areas for young adults to hang out, socialize, and play video games on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. They'll also find foosball, skeeball and air hockey on top of planned activities like movie nights, dance parties and scavenger hunts.

Explore  Princess Cruises on GoToSea .

Adventures by Disney

Adventures by Disney offers river and expedition cruises for the whole family; the itineraries span many choices and experiences for tweens and teens with a focus on culture, history, gastronomy and adventure. The river cruises are operated in partnership with AmaWaterways, while the expedition cruises are a collaboration with luxury French cruise line Ponant.

If you're sailing on the Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise itinerary, for example, guests can choose between various exciting excursions. While you're docked in Strasbourg, France , for the day, teen-friendly options include a tour of the Black Forest, complete with a toboggan run and a visit to a woodworking museum. Another choice here is to visit Germany's Europa-Park, a one-of-a-kind theme park located between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains. In Melk, Austria, on the Danube itinerary, families can go for a bike ride along the Danube River, hike to the castle in Dürnstein or visit a family-run apricot farm.

Another great feature of these cruises is that teens can opt to have dinner and evening get-togethers with same-age cruisers, so they don't have to dine with their parents or younger siblings every night. Adventure Guides also curate special activities for teens like game shows and pool parties.

In destinations like Antarctica, the Adriatic and the Galápagos Islands , expert naturalists lead tours during these bucket list trips. You might even find a bit of Disney storytelling woven into the presentations by the Adventure Guides.

Keep in mind if you have younger kids as well as teens that children need to be 5 or older to sail on the river cruises. For the Galápagos Islands expedition cruises, the minimum age for Junior Adventurers is 7, and for expeditions to the polar regions, kids need to be 10 years of age or older.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration, which launched in November 2022, is the line's newest Excel-class ship. It features an expanded family and youth program, including its offerings for teens. The line also rolled out the new program fleetwide in spring 2023.

The Carnival Cruise Line teen programming at Circle "C" is for tweens ages 12 to 14, while Club O2 is for ages 15 to 17. In these venues you'll find entertainment like themed dance parties – and even a Carnival prom – as well as video games, movies and karaoke. Circle "C" stands for "Cruise, chill and connect," and that's what teens can do in this colorful, contemporary space with engaging counselors. New activities include anime drawing lessons and pop culture games at Circle "C." Older teens can foster new friendships while engaging in Japanese crafts and authentic tea ceremonies at Club O2.

Teens will appreciate Carnival's onboard water park, Waterworks, which includes a splash park and slides. Carnival Panorama even has the trampoline park Skyzone. Teenage passengers won't want to miss the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT, on Excel-class ships: Mardi Gras , Celebration and the upcoming Jubilee, scheduled to launch in December 2023.

For even more action, Vista-class ships feature Skyride. This two-lane, bike-like ride is suspended above the top deck of the ships and extends out over the ocean. More indoor fun can be found at Thrill Theater (on Horizon and Vista ), an immersive cinematic experience where you'll feel the seat rumble, the wind blow through your hair and even a spritz of water during the action-packed video.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea .

Celebrity Cruises

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

This line's Teen Club features activities focused on kids 13 to 17. Some of the events offered for teens in the Camp at Sea program on Celebrity Cruises range from video game tournaments and sports competitions to culinary classes and silent disco parties. Teen cruisers can even book glass-blowing classes on Celebrity Solstice , Equinox and Eclipse . The offerings for young passengers are similar at either The Basement on Edge-series ships ( Edge , Apex , Beyond and Ascent, set to launch in November 2023) or at X Club on Solstice- and Millennium-class ships. Note, however, the line's three Galápagos expedition vessels do not have the teen venues. Families who need accessible accommodations, activities and programs will also find autism-friendly cruises on Celebrity.

When it comes to pampering, Celebrity's spas offer spa menus for 13- to 17-year-olds. Teens can book facials that are designed for young sensitive skin or have express pedicures and manicures. When you're ready to relax, schedule a two-by-two massage, where parents and kids can have a side-by-side treatment.

Celebrity also offers family-focused excursions that highlight cultural attractions, wildlife sightings and adventure. Some of these tours include seeing gentoo, king and Magellanic penguins in the Falkland Islands; taking an aerial tram through the treetop canopies of a rainforest in Costa Rica ; and going on a small culinary or sightseeing group excursion in Europe and other destinations around the world. On Caribbean sailings – especially when school is out for summer or on holidays – Celebrity has additional family-friendly shore excursions on its five- and seven-night sailings.

Find a  Celebrity Cruises deal on GoToSea .

Cunard Line

Cunard Line offers programs and activities for passengers ages 13 to 17 years old in its Teen Zone. This dedicated space is a place for teens to hang out with cruisers their own age and play video and team games, table tennis, and more. On the first day of the cruise, you'll find an activity program for young guests delivered to the stateroom so your teens can plan out their vacation experience, which may include entertaining theme days, deck sports, quizzes and dancing at the disco.

Teens on Cunard Line can participate in the activities around the ship, hit the pool for a dip, practice their putting or try their hand at croquet. If you're sailing on Queen Mary 2, those interested in science, wildlife and the solar system can watch up to four 3D films a day (on sea days) in the largest planetarium at sea.

Compare  Cunard Line cruises on GoToSea .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She's sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, traditional masted sailing ships, and expedition vessels in Antarctica and the Galápagos. Pratesi covers the travel and cruise industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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• Cruise Lines That Let Kids Sail Free
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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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Diana - Princess of the Kremlin - Kremlin Tour

• Europe    
• Russia    
• Central Russia    
• Moscow    
• Moscow - Things to Do    
• Kremlin Tour

We had a grand tour of the Kremlin with Presidential Palace in-sight. It is a Complex with palaces... read more

My Armory tour was amazing. Even though I lived in Moscow and love history the insightful... read more

Diana - Princess of the Kremlin

We love her attitude, her intelligence, her charme, her beauty and appreciate her patience with us. Denise and Silvio from Switzerland

My friend and I had Alexandra as our guide in Moscow and we totally enjoyed her company! It was a 5-hour of Moscow, lots of walking and sightseeing. She is a very knowledgeable and friendly guide. Recommend.

I have just visit Moscow and saint peters burg . I really enjoy from my trip particularly in Moscow mostly because of excellent and wonderful guiding of our national guide MS DIANNA . she is devotee for her job and she inform us about every aspect of RUSSIA History and culture . ALSO , OUR GUIDE MS DIANNA has all sort of capability to manage and lead us to try best RUSSIA COUSIN that still we cannot forget their tastes and she even described us the secret recipe of delicious RUSSIA MEAL . In country like RUSSIA A wonderful and charming guide like her will be like key for gate of invincible castle .MANY THANK FOR HER .

We visited Moscow during the first really cold snap in October and Diana's Kremlin Tour was definitely one of the highlights of our trip. We only emailed a couple of days in advance and were incredibly lucky she had some available slots. Advance booking is really worthwhile - Diana organises everything (tickets, passes, etc) and going round with an authorised guide means you bypass all those lengthy queues! The Cathedrals were simply astounding - her knowledge of the art, history and importance of the place is fantastic. Adding on a trip round the Armoury is a must and the Diamond Fund is stunning. The Kremlin museums focus on Romanov history - but Diana is so well-connected (and so generous with her time) that she set us up with one of her associates on a fascinating tour of the Museum of Modern History on Tverskaya the next day. Diana - thank you so much. Hope to see you again on our next visit!

This September I had a pleasure to experience the excellent tour guide services of Alexandra. She was very prompt in her replies to my emails. She met me at my hotel and escorted to all the landmarks worth of seeing. I was impressed by the outstanding service attitude and the comprehensive knowledge of Alexandra about the Kremlin and the Armory.

It was a great experience overall for us - a group of six people. Very smooth, no hiccups. The booking was done very easily. Diana replied quickly to our emails. Our tour guide was Svetlana. Her English was very good and she was very knowledgeable. The tour itself was wonderful and worth the three hours of walking around of which at least an hour was outside in freezing weather.

Ch. 9 The Development of Russia

Ivan i and the rise of moscow, learning objective.

• Outline the key points that helped Moscow become so powerful and how Ivan I accomplished these major victories
• Moscow was considered a small trading outpost under the principality of Vladimir-Suzdal into the 13th century.
• Power struggles and constant raids under the Mongol Empire’s Golden Horde caused once powerful cities, such as Kiev, to struggle financially and culturally.
• Ivan I utilized the relative calm and safety of the northern city of Moscow to entice a larger population and wealth to move there.
• Alliances between Golden Horde leaders and Ivan I saved Moscow from many of the raids and destruction of other centers, like Tver.

A rival city to Moscow that eventually lost favor under the Golden Horde.

Grand Prince of Vladimir

The title given to the ruler of this northern province, where Moscow was situated.

The Rise of Moscow

Moscow was only a small trading outpost in the principality of Vladimir-Suzdal in Kievan Rus’ before the invasion of Mongol forces during the 13th century. However, due to the unstable environment of the Golden Horde, and the deft leadership of Ivan I at a critical time during the 13th century, Moscow became a safe haven of prosperity during his reign. It also became the new seat of power of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Ivan I (also known as Ivan Kalita) was born around 1288 to the Prince of Moscow, Daniil Aleksandrovich. He was born during a time of devastation and upheaval in Rus’. Kiev had been overtaken by the invading Mongol forces in 1240, and most of the Rus’ principalities had been absorbed into the Golden Horde of the Mongol Empire by the time Ivan was born. He ascended to the seat of Prince of Moscow after the death of his father, and then the death of his older brother Yury.

Ivan I. He was born around 1288 and died in either 1340 or 1341, still holding the title of Grand Prince of Vladimir.

Ivan I stepped into a role that had already been expanded by his predecessors. Both his older brother and his father had captured nearby lands, including Kolomna and Mozhaisk. Yury had also made a successful alliance with the Mongol leader Uzbeg Khan and married his sister, securing more power and advantages within the hierarchy of the Golden Horde.

Ivan I continued the family tradition and petitioned the leaders of the Golden Horde to gain the seat of Grand Prince of Vladimir. His other three rivals, all princes of Tver, had previously been granted the title in prior years. However they were all subsequently deprived of the title and all three aspiring princes also eventually ended up murdered. Ivan I, on the other hand, garnered the title from Khan Muhammad Ozbeg in 1328. This new title, which he kept until his death around 1340, meant he could collect taxes from the Russian lands as a ruling prince and position his tiny city as a major player in the Vladimir region.

Moscow’s Rise

During this time of upheaval, the tiny outpost of Moscow had multiple advantages that repositioned this town and set it up for future prosperity under Ivan I. Three major contributing factors helped Ivan I relocate power to this area:

• It was situated in between other major principalities on the east and west so it was often protected from the more devastating invasions.
• This relative safety, compared to Tver and Ryazan, for example, started to bring in tax-paying citizens who wanted a safe place to build a home and earn a livelihood.
• Finally, Moscow was set up perfectly along the trade route from Novgorod to the Volga River, giving it an economic advantage from the start.

Ivan I also spurred on the growth of Moscow by actively recruiting people to move to the region. In addition, he bought the freedom of people who had been captured by the extensive Mongol raids. These recruits further bolstered the population of Moscow. Finally, he focused his attention on establishing peace and routing out thieves and raiding parties in the region, making for a safe and calm metaphorical island in a storm of unsettled political and military upsets.

Kievan Rus’ 1220-1240. This map illustrates the power dynamics at play during the 13th century shortly before Ivan I was born. Sarai, the capital of the Golden Horde, sat to the southeast, while Moscow (not visible on this map) was tucked up in the northern forests of Vladimir-Suzdal.

Ivan I knew that the peace of his region depended upon keeping up an alliance with the Golden Horde, which he did faithfully. Moscow’s increased wealth during this era also allowed him to loan money to neighboring principalities. These regions then became indebted to Moscow, bolstering its political and financial position.

In addition, a few neighboring cities and villages were subsumed into Moscow during the 1320s and 1330s, including Uglich, Belozero, and Galich. These shifts slowly transformed the tiny trading outpost into a bustling city center in the northern forests of what was once Kievan Rus’.

Russian Orthodox Church and The Center of Moscow

Ivan I committed some of Moscow’s new wealth to building a splendid city center and creating an iconic religious setting. He built stone churches in the center of Moscow with his newly gained wealth. Ivan I also tempted one of the most important religious leaders in Rus’, the Orthodox Metropolitan Peter, to the city of Moscow. Before the rule of the Golden Horde the original Russian Orthodox Church was based in Kiev. After years of devastation, Metropolitan Peter transferred the seat of power to Moscow where a new Renaissance of culture was blossoming. This perfectly timed transformation of Moscow coincided with the decades of devastation in Kiev, effectively transferring power to the north once again.

Peter of Moscow and scenes from his life as depicted in a 15th-century icon. This religious leader helped bring cultural power to Moscow by moving the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church there during Ivan I’s reign.

One of the most lasting accomplishments of Ivan I was to petition the Khan based in Sarai to designate his son, who would become Simeon the Proud, as the heir to the title of Grand Prince of Vladimir. This agreement a line of succession that meant the ruling head of Moscow would almost always hold power over the principality of Vladimir, ensuring Moscow held a powerful position for decades to come.

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