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If you’re dreaming of a vacation that combines luxury, adventure, and the thrill of exploring the world, Princess Cruises is your ticket to an unforgettable journey. With a fleet of innovative ships, a globe-spanning selection of destinations, and thousands of shore excursions, Princess Cruises offers something for every traveler-whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned cruiser. This very informative guide covers everything you need to know: every destination, every ship (with detailed onboard experiences), all shore excursions, cruise deals, packages, booking tips, and answers to the most frequently asked questions!

The History of Princess Cruise Lines

Princess Cruises began its remarkable journey in 1965, founded by Seattle entrepreneur Stanley McDonald. The line’s first ship, the 6,000-ton Princess Patricia, was chartered from Canadian National Railways and carried just 318 passengers on winter cruises to Mexico. This inaugural season marked the start of what would become one of the world’s most recognized cruise brands.

In the late 1960s, Princess Cruises quickly expanded its reach. After the Princess Patricia returned to its original duties, McDonald chartered the Italian-built Princess Italia, one of the first modern ships designed specifically for cruising. Princess pioneered regular Panama Canal cruises in 1967, and soon after added the Princess Carla to its growing fleet. The company’s now-iconic “Seawitch” logo made its first appearance in 1968, symbolizing the brand’s maritime spirit.

By 1969, Princess Cruises was sailing to Alaska, further establishing its reputation for adventurous itineraries. In the early 1970s, the fleet continued to grow with the addition of the Island Princess and the founding of Princess Tours, expanding the brand’s land and sea offerings.

A major turning point came in 1974 when Princess was acquired by the British shipping giant P&O (Peninsular & Oriental Steam Navigation Company). This partnership provided the resources for rapid expansion, including the addition of the Pacific Princess and Sun Princess. The Pacific Princess would soon become a pop culture icon as the star of the hit TV show “The Love Boat,” which began filming in 1976. The show’s immense popularity brought cruising into the mainstream and made Princess a household name.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Princess Cruises continued to innovate. The line introduced the first ship with all outside cabins (Royal Princess in 1984), pioneered new routes like the “Voyage of the Glaciers” in Alaska, and launched private island experiences in the Caribbean. The Captain’s Circle loyalty program began in 1990, and the 1990s saw the debut of the first 24-hour café at sea and the introduction of wedding chapels and programs onboard.

Princess Cruises entered the new millennium with a series of fleet expansions and technological innovations. In 2001, Personal Choice Dining was introduced, giving guests more flexibility. The early 2000s also saw the launch of the first Movies Under the Stars screen and the debut of MedallionClass technology, revolutionizing the guest experience with wearable tech for seamless service.

A major corporate milestone occurred in 2003 when Carnival Corporation acquired Princess Cruises, integrating it into the world’s largest cruise company. This partnership fueled further fleet growth and global expansion, including the introduction of the Royal-class ships and the MedallionClass experience.

Today, Princess Cruises is the third largest cruise line in the world, renowned for its innovative ships, diverse itineraries, and a legacy of delivering unforgettable vacations. With over 50 years of history, Princess continues to set industry standards and inspire travelers to see the world in comfort and style.

Princess Cruise Destinations

Princess Cruises sails to more than 330 destinations across all seven continents, offering over 160 itineraries and more than 350 ports of call. Here’s a comprehensive look at where Princess can take you:

Alaska

• Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Anchorage, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, Tracy Arm Fjord

Caribbean

• Eastern: St. Thomas, St. Maarten, San Juan, Grand Turk

• Western: Cozumel, Roatan, Belize City, Grand Cayman

• Southern: Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua

Europe

• Mediterranean: Barcelona, Rome, Athens, Venice, Istanbul, Naples, Marseille

• Northern Europe: Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Oslo, Edinburgh, Dublin, Reykjavik

• British Isles, Canary Islands, Greek Isles, Iceland, Norway Fjords, Baltic Sea

Asia

• Japan: Tokyo, Osaka, Okinawa, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Sapporo

• Southeast Asia: Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, Philippines

Australia & New Zealand

• Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Hobart, Auckland, Wellington, Fiordland National Park, Bay of Islands

South Pacific

• Fiji, Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea

South America

• Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Montevideo, Ushuaia, Punta Arenas, Lima, Valparaiso, Falkland Islands, Antarctica scenic cruising

Mexico & California Coast

• Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Ensenada, San Diego, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Monterey

Hawaii & Tahiti

• Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Hilo, Kona, Moorea, Bora Bora

Panama Canal

• Panama City, Colon, Cartagena, Limon, Puntarenas

Canada & New England

• Quebec City, Montreal, Halifax, Bar Harbor, Boston, Newport, New York City

Africa (World Cruises)

• Cape Town, Walvis Bay, Mauritius, Mindelo (Cape Verde), Port Louis

World Cruises

• Multi-continent itineraries, including Madeira, Gibraltar, Athens, Volos, Patmos, Kusadasi, Rhodes, Crete, Dubrovnik, Bar, Taranto, Valletta, and more

Every Princess Cruise Ship

Princess Cruises’ fleet is divided into several classes, each offering unique amenities, staterooms, and itineraries. Here’s a detailed look at each ship and what makes them special:

Sphere Class

Sun Princess (2024) & Star Princess (2025)

• Capacity: 4,310 guests each

• Tonnage: 175,500

• Highlights: The newest, largest ships with a stunning glass Sphere Atrium, next-gen MedallionClass tech, expanded dining (including new specialty venues), The Dome (an indoor/outdoor entertainment space), and the Sanctuary for suite guests.

• Staterooms: Suites, Mini-Suites, Deluxe Balcony, Balcony, Oceanview, and Interior; all with Princess Luxury Beds, upgraded bathrooms, and modern décor.

• Destinations: Mediterranean, Caribbean, Transatlantic, and more.

• Excursions: Culinary tours in Italy, private Greek island beach days, ziplining in the Caribbean, and exclusive small-group adventures.

Royal Class

Discovery Princess (2022), Sky Princess (2019), Enchanted Princess (2020), Majestic Princess (2017), Regal Princess (2014), Royal Princess (2013)

• Capacity: ~3,560–3,660 guests

• Tonnage: 142,229–145,000

• Highlights: SeaWalk glass walkway, multiple pools, Sanctuary retreat, Lotus Spa, Movies Under the Stars, Broadway-style shows, Discovery at SEA enrichment, diverse dining (Crown Grill, Sabatini’s, Alfredo’s Pizzeria).

• Staterooms: Suites, Mini-Suites, Balcony, Deluxe Balcony, Oceanview, Interior; all with MedallionClass features.

• Destinations: Alaska, Caribbean, Europe, Mexico, California Coast, Panama Canal, Australia/New Zealand.

• Excursions: Whale watching in Alaska, Mayan ruins in Mexico, wine tasting in Tuscany, fjord kayaking in Norway, Tokyo city tours.

Grand Class

Caribbean Princess (2004), Crown Princess (2006), Emerald Princess (2007), Ruby Princess (2008), Grand Princess (1998), Diamond Princess (2004), Sapphire Princess (2004)

• Capacity: 2,600–3,140 guests

• Tonnage: 107,000–116,000

• Highlights: Multiple pools, Lotus Spa, The Sanctuary, varied dining, kids’ and teens’ clubs, casino, sports courts, and robust entertainment.

• Staterooms: Suites, Mini-Suites, Balcony, Oceanview, Interior; family-friendly connecting rooms.

• Destinations: Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, South America, Mexico, Hawaii, Australia, South Pacific, Transatlantic, Canada/New England.

• Excursions: Snorkeling with stingrays in Grand Cayman, dog sledding in Alaska, city tours in St. Petersburg, tango shows in Buenos Aires, volcano hikes in Hawaii.

Coral Class

Coral Princess (2003), Island Princess (2003)

• Capacity: 2,000–2,210 guests

• Tonnage: 91,627–92,822

• Highlights: Smaller size for unique itineraries (Panama Canal, World Cruises), intimate lounges, specialty restaurants, adults-only Sanctuary.

• Staterooms: Suites, Mini-Suites, Balcony, Oceanview, Interior; spacious layouts, some with large balconies.

• Destinations: Panama Canal, World Cruises, South America, Alaska, Europe, Australia.

• Excursions: Panama Canal engineering tours, Machu Picchu overland, Galapagos wildlife, Amazon riverboat adventures.

Onboard Experiences: Dining, Entertainment, and Activities on Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises delivers a vibrant blend of relaxation, enrichment, and fun, making every day at sea as memorable as every port you visit. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect onboard:

Dining

Main Dining Rooms
Enjoy elegant, multi-course meals in beautifully appointed dining rooms with curved seating, white tablecloths, and dramatic chandeliers. Menus are chef-crafted and change daily, featuring a mix of modern and classic dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free options. Guests can choose from walk-in, flexible (reserve a time), or traditional (set time and table) dining styles. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all included, and the dress code varies from smart casual to formal on select nights.

Specialty Restaurants

• Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria: Authentic Italian cuisine with house-made pasta and guest favorites like lobster ravioli, finished with limoncello.

• Crown Grill Steakhouse: Premium steaks, seafood, and an open kitchen for a lively, interactive experience.

• The Catch by Rudi: Innovative seafood dishes with creative presentations, plus non-seafood and vegetarian options.

• Pop-Up Experiences: Occasional themed events like the Crab Shack, offering seafood pots and chowders.

• Chef’s Table Lumiere: An exclusive multi-course dinner with the executive chef, paired with fine wines.

Casual Eats

• World Fresh Marketplace / Horizon Court: Buffet-style dining with global flavors, comfort foods, and a dedicated pastry shop for fresh-baked desserts.

• Pizzeria: Freshly baked Neapolitan-style pizza by the slice, often cited as the best pizza at sea.

• Burger & Hot Dog Grill: Classic American favorites served poolside.

• International Café: 24/7 spot for pastries, sandwiches, salads, and specialty coffees.

• Room Service: Available around the clock for in-room dining.

Entertainment

Broadway-Style Shows
Princess Theater is the heart of entertainment, hosting lavish original musical productions, cabaret acts, magicians, comedians, and guest entertainers. The theater features a proscenium arch stage and state-of-the-art sound and lighting for a truly immersive experience.

Movies Under the Stars
A signature Princess experience, this outdoor cinema lets you enjoy recent releases, classics, and destination-themed films on a giant poolside screen. Cozy up with warm blankets and popcorn under the night sky. The screen also broadcasts live sporting events and concerts for added excitement.

Live Music & Dancing
Multiple venues offer live jazz, classical ensembles, rock bands, and solo performers. Dance the night away at Club 6 or Vista Lounge, or enjoy themed parties, ballroom, salsa, and line dancing classes.

Casino
Try your luck at slot machines, blackjack, poker, roulette, and more in Vegas-style casinos. Participate in tournaments or enjoy a cocktail at the casino bar.

Other Entertainment Venues

• Princess Live! TV Studio: Live talk shows, game shows, and performances.

• Vista Lounge & Explorers Lounge: Intimate settings for live bands, comedians, and illusionists.

• Watercolor Fantasy: Dazzling water and light shows on select ships.

Activities

Pools & Hot Tubs
Every ship features multiple freshwater pools and hot tubs, including family-friendly areas like the Calypso Reef & Pool (often covered for all-weather use) and quieter retreats like the Lotus Spa pool. The Sanctuary offers an adults-only oasis with plush loungers and attentive service.

Lotus Spa & Fitness Center
The Lotus Spa is a haven for relaxation, offering massages, facials, acupuncture, and medi-spa treatments. The full-service salon provides hair, nail, and grooming services. The fitness center boasts modern cardio and weight equipment, group classes (yoga, Pilates, cycling), and personal training. Thermal suites, saunas, and a spa pool add to the indulgence.

Discovery at SEA
Partnered with Discovery and Animal Planet, Princess offers enrichment programs for all ages:

• Stargazing on the top deck

• Activities inspired by hit TV shows like Shark Week and Deadliest Catch

• Festivals of the World celebrations such as Carnival, Oktoberfest, and Midsommarfest

• Destination-themed activities: hula lessons in Hawaii, Maori performances in New Zealand, mariachi bands in Mexico

• Culinary demonstrations, wine tastings, and guest lectures by destination experts

Kids & Teens Clubs
Dedicated spaces and programs for ages 3–17, including edutainment activities, Pete’s Pals zoology program, video games, movie nights, and themed parties. Trained counselors ensure a safe, fun environment.

Sports & Recreation

• Basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts

• Mini-golf and putting courses

• Shuffleboard and ping pong

• Jogging tracks

Other Enrichment & Diversions

• Art gallery, art auctions, and art history lectures

• The Shops of Princess: luxury brands and local crafts

• Princess Book Club and onboard library

• Trivia contests, dance classes, cooking demonstrations, and more

MedallionClass Technology

Princess MedallionClass elevates your cruise with a wearable, quarter-sized Medallion:

• Touchless Embarkation & Keyless Entry: Board the ship and access your stateroom with a tap or simply by approaching the door.

• Onboard Navigation: Use the app or digital portals for turn-by-turn directions and to find friends and family.

• Food & Drink On Demand: Order anywhere on the ship and have it delivered to you.

• Personalized Service: Crew can greet you by name and tailor recommendations.

• Contactless Payments: Make purchases easily with your Medallion.

• MedallionNet Wi-Fi: Fast, reliable internet for streaming, video calls, and sharing your adventures.

• OceanCompass: Locate and message your travel companions.

• Interactive Experiences: Participate in digital games, activities, and casino experiences.

Shore Excursions

Princess offers thousands of shore excursions, expertly curated for every region and interest. Here’s a sampling by region:

Alaska

• Mendenhall Glacier Explorer: Visit Juneau’s iconic glacier, walk scenic trails, and spot wildlife.

• Dog Sledding: Fly to a glacier for a dog sled ride with professional mushers.

• Whale Watching: Guaranteed sightings of humpbacks and orcas.

• Glacier Flightseeing: Helicopter or plane tours over glaciers and icefields.

Caribbean

• Swim with Stingrays: Grand Cayman’s famous sandbar.

• Snorkeling & Diving: Cozumel reefs, Bonaire marine parks.

• River Tubing & Ziplining: Jamaica’s rainforests.

• Ancient Ruins: Mayan sites in Belize and Mexico.

• Beach Days: Private cabanas in Princess Cays.

Europe

• Palace & Museum Tours: Hermitage in St. Petersburg, Vatican in Rome, Louvre in Paris.

• Local Culinary Experiences: Pasta making in Sorrento, scone baking in Ireland, tapas tours in Spain.

• Natural Wonders: Norwegian fjord kayaking, Icelandic geothermal baths, Greek island sailing.

• Historic Landmarks: Acropolis in Athens, Colosseum in Rome, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany.

Asia

• Tokyo Highlights: Shibuya, Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji Market.

• Kyoto Temples: Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle.

• Great Wall of China: Day trips from Tianjin.

• Vietnamese Mekong Delta: Boat rides and floating markets.

Australia & New Zealand

• Sydney Opera House Tours

• Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling

• Maori Cultural Experiences

• Milford Sound Scenic Cruising

South America

• Machu Picchu Overland

• Rio de Janeiro City Tour

• Patagonian Glacier Trekking

• Falkland Islands Penguin Encounters

Hawaii & Tahiti

• Volcanoes National Park

• Luau Experiences

• Snorkeling with Rays in Moorea

Panama Canal

• Canal Locks Transit

• Rainforest Aerial Tram

• Old Panama City Ruins

Canada & New England

• Quebec City Walking Tours

• Lobster Bakes in Maine

• Halifax Peggy’s Cove Tour

Africa (World Cruises)

• Cape Town Table Mountain

• Mauritius Island Exploration

• Namibia Desert Safaris

Princess also offers exclusive culinary excursions, private vehicle tours, and off-the-beaten-path adventures in nearly every port.

Cruise Deals, Discounts, and Rewards

Princess Cruises offers a variety of ways to save and earn rewards:

Cruise Deals

• Early Booking Discounts: Save by booking your cruise months in advance.

• Last-Minute Deals: Reduced fares on select sailings.

• Seasonal Promotions: Black Friday, Wave Season, and holiday sales.

• Family & Group Discounts: Special rates for multiple cabins.

Princess Plus and Princess Premier Packages

• Princess Plus: Includes drinks, Wi-Fi, and crew appreciation.

• Princess Premier: Adds specialty dining, premium beverages, and photo packages.

Captain’s Circle Loyalty Program

• Earn Points: Every cruise earns points toward elite status.

• Member Benefits: Priority boarding, exclusive events, and onboard discounts.

Preparing for a Princess Cruise

Before You Sail

• Check Your Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months after your cruise.

• Online Check-In: Complete your travel information and print boarding passes.

• Book Shore Excursions: Reserve popular tours early.

• Set Up MedallionClass App: For contactless boarding, onboard purchases, and itinerary management.

Packing Tips

• Dress Code: Smart casual for most evenings, formal attire for special nights.

• Essentials: Power adapters, sunscreen, swimwear, and comfortable shoes.

• Medications: Bring enough for your trip, plus extras.

Embarkation Day

• Arrive Early: Allow time for check-in and security.

• Carry-On Bag: Pack essentials and valuables.

Booking a Princess Cruise

How to Book

• Online: Visit the Princess Cruises website for live pricing and availability.

• Travel Agents: Get expert advice and access to exclusive deals. Check us out at Yeti Travel! We’ll book your vacation for you at the lowest offered prices!

• Phone Reservations: Call Princess Cruises directly.

Tips for the Best Deals

• Be Flexible: Sailing dates and cabin types can affect price.

• Monitor Promotions: Sign up for email alerts.

• Consider Packages: Princess Plus often saves money compared to buying amenities separately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is MedallionClass?
MedallionClass is Princess Cruises’ wearable technology that streamlines boarding, unlocks your stateroom, enables contactless payments, and personalizes your onboard experience.

Are Princess Cruises family-friendly?
Absolutely! Princess offers kids’ and teens’ clubs, family shore excursions, and staterooms for groups of all sizes.

What’s included in the cruise fare?
Your fare covers accommodations, most dining, entertainment, pools, and select activities. Specialty dining, excursions, drinks, and gratuities may be extra (unless you purchase a package).

Can I bring my own alcohol?
Guests may bring one bottle of wine or champagne per adult. Additional bottles are subject to a corkage fee.

What is the dress code?
Daytime is casual; evenings are smart casual, with formal nights on longer cruises.

Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, MedallionNet Wi-Fi is available fleetwide, included with Princess Plus and Premier packages or available for purchase.

How do I pay for things onboard?
Your Medallion acts as your room key and onboard payment method.

Are there accessible cabins?
Yes, accessible staterooms and facilities are available on all ships.

Your Princess Adventure Awaits

Princess Cruises delivers one of the most comprehensive, destination-rich, and experience-packed cruise offerings in the world. From the largest, most innovative ships to intimate, adventure-focused vessels, every Princess ship is a floating resort with world-class amenities, dining, and entertainment. With itineraries spanning every continent and excursions for every interest, Princess lets you see the world your way-whether you’re seeking glacier hikes in Alaska, culinary adventures in Europe, or lazy days on Caribbean beaches.

Ready to plan your Princess voyage? With so many destinations, ships, and excursions to choose from, your next adventure is only a booking away. Set sail, create memories, and discover why Princess Cruises is the ultimate way to explore the world. Want up to 50% off cruise prices?? Become a travel agent with us and get paid to travel!