With six decades of providing bucket-listed itineraries to cruise passengers across the globe, Princess Cruises stands out as a leader in the cruise industry providing cruise enthusiasts the opportunities to experience the world’s most sought-after destinations. 

From sailing with only one ship back in 1965, Princess Cruises has evolved to be a pioneering  line in many aspects of cruising experience and paved the way for a number of innovations that cater to every guest’s taste and preference. The line pioneered the concept of 24-hour dining, the concept of affordable veranda which once served as an exclusive feature of the line’s most luxurious suites, and the concept of giving guests the choice when it comes to their main dining room experience. Additionally, Princess has implemented a multi-million-dollar innovation to ensure an ultimate cruise experience aboard all of its 16-vessel fleet. 

Cruise Passenger features ultimate guide to Princess Cruises featuring the all new Sun Princess.
Princess’ newest and biggest ship to date, the Sun Princess.

Moreover, Princess Cruises rose to stardom when one of its ships, Pacific Princess, was given the lead role in a television show titled “The Love Boat”. This stint made way for Princess to become a household name in the cruising industry.   

The Princess Cruises Fleet

Princess Cruises features a diverse fleet of well-appointed vessels. The line has a total of 17 ships grouped into four classes. Moreover, all vessels in every class have similar venues and amenities onboard. These five classes are the Sphere Class, Royal Class, Grand Class, and Coral Class.

ClassShip NameTonnagePassenger Capacity
Sphere ClassSun Princess175,5004,310
Royal ClassRoyal Princess142,229 3,560
Royal ClassRegal Princess142,229 3,560
Royal ClassMajestic princess143,700 3,560
Royal ClassSky Princess144,650 3,660
Royal ClassEnchanted Princess144,650 3,660
Royal ClassDiscovery Princess145,000 3,660
Grand ClassCaribbean Princess112,894 3,140
Grand ClassCrown Princess113,561 3,090
Grand ClassDiamond Princess115,875 2,710
Grand ClassEmerald Princess113,561 3,090
Grand ClassGrand Princess107,517 2,610
Grand ClassRuby Princess113,561 3,080
Grand ClassSapphire Princess115,875 2,680
Grand ClassStar Princess175,500 4,310
Coral ClassCoral Princess91,627 2,000
Coral ClassIsland Princess92,822 2,210

The Princess Medallion

Princess Cruises’ Medallion is an innovative technology that elevates guest’s experience and provides a more personalized and seamless journey. Additionally, the Medallion is a complimentary wearable device that serves as an access point to various features and services throughout the voyage. Furthermore, the Medallion serves as:

Device for embarkation and disembarkation

The Medallion acts as a personal identification and automatically checks guests in and out of the ship. Hence, eliminating the need for physical keys or cards.

Keyless stateroom entry

With the Medallion, guests can simply approach their stateroom door, and it will unlock automatically, providing a seamless and convenient entry. 

On-demand services

The Medallion enables guests to order food, beverages, and other amenities from anywhere on the ship through their smartphone.  

Personalized experiences

The Medallion technology tailors guests’ experience accordingly. It can provide personalized recommendations for activities, dining options, and entertainment based on their interests.

Streamlined payment

The Medallion serves as a convenient payment method throughout the ship, eliminating the need to carry cash or cards. 

The Princess medallion is being used to pay onboard purchases.
The Princess medallion.

What to expect on Princess cabin’s and accommodation?

Like many other cruise lines, accommodations in Princess Cruises are generally divided into four classes: the inside cabins, ocean-view cabins, balcony cabins, and suites. Additionally, in all Princess’ vessels, majority of the staterooms are balcony cabins.

On the other hand, compared to other cruise lines, Princess Cruises has relatively fewer suites. For example, in the Royal-class vessels, there are about 1402 Balcony cabins which accounts for almost 80% of the total staterooms and 342 Inside cabins. On the other hand, the line only has 36 suites which is almost just 2% of the total number of staterooms.

This also goes to show that Princess Cruises has a bigger number of balcony staterooms than non-balcony ones.

Where do Princess Cruises ships sail?

Princess Cruises offers a wide range of voyages around the world. The line features over 330 cruise destinations in over 100 countries on all seven continents. Here are some of lines featured itineraries:

  • Alaska Cruise Destinations and Cruise tours
  • Asia Cruise Destinations
  • Australia & New Zealand Cruise Destinations
  • California Coast Cruise Destinations
  • Canada & New England Cruise Destinations
  • caribbean Cruise Destinations
  • European Cruise Destinations
  • Getaway Cruises
  • Hawaii Cruise Destinations
  • Japan Cruise Destinations
  • Mexico Cruise Destinations
  • Panama Canal Cruise Destinations
  • South America & Antarctica Cruise Destinations
  • Tahiti & South Pacific Cruise Destinations
  • Around the World Cruise

Princess Cruises Dining

Princess Cruises takes great pride in providing an exceptional dining experience that caters to every palate and preference. From elegant main dining rooms serving up classic cuisine to innovative specialty restaurants featuring globally-inspired menus, the culinary offerings aboard Princess ships are a true celebration of flavor and artistry.

Here’s the list of Princess Cruises onboard restaurants. Note: Some of these dining hubs can only be found on select ships. 

Complimentary dining

  • Main Dining Rooms
  • World Fresh Marketplace
  • Afternoon Tea
  • Burger & Hot Dog Grill
  • Chopsticks
  • International Cafe
  • Patisserie
  • Salty Dog Grill
  • Slice
  • Pizzeria
  • Swirls Ice Cream Bar
  • The Pastry Shop

Casual Dining (Fee Dining)

  • Alfredo’s Pizzeria
  • Gigi’s Pizzeria
  • Gelato
  • Kai Sushi
  • Ocean Terrace
  • O’Malley’s Irish Pub
  • Planks BBQ
  • The Salty Dog Gastropub
  • Steamers Seafood
  • Vines Wine Bar

Specialty Dining (Fee Dining)

  • Bayou Cafe & Steakhouse
  • The Catch by Rudi
  • Churrascaria Brazilian Grill
  • Crab Shack
  • Crown Grill
  • Harmony
  • Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria
  • Sterling Steakhouse

Experiential dining (Fee Dining)

  • 360: An Extraordinary Experience
  • Chef’s Table
  • Balcony Breakfast/Dinner
  • Caymus Winemaker’s Dinner
  • Silverado Winemaker’s Dinner

Cruise passengers who availed Princes Plus or Princess Premier packages get to enjoy casual dining prix fixe meals without extra charge. In the Princess Premier package, guests get to enjoy two specialty dining per sailing. 

This ultimate guide for Princess Cruises include a list of restaurants onboard the fleet including Sabatini's.
Guests enjoy sumptuous meal at Sabatini’s.

Is Princess Cruises all inclusive?

While Princess Cruises offers an array of inclusive amenities, it is not considered an all-inclusive cruise line. Certain additional services and amenities, such as specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, and spa treatments, come with an extra charge.  However, Princess provides packages and bundles that can be added to guest’s fare, allowing them to enjoy a customized and a more inclusive seacation. 

The Princess Cruises experience comes in three-tiered packages:

Princess Standard package

The Princess Standard package provides the foundational cruise experience, including stateroom accommodations, access to complimentary dining venues, and a range of entertainment and activities. 

Princess Plus package ($60/day)

This bundle builds upon what the standard package offers with an array of valuable add-ons. Moreover, this includes Starlink internet access for one device per guest, crew appreciation, Plus beverage package, an unlimited juice bar, premium desserts, and fitness classes. Furthermore, perks such as OceanNow food delivery, two casual dining meals, and room service delivery are also included. 

Princess Premiere package ($80/day)

This cruise bundle includes everything in the Standard package, WiFi access of up to four devices per guest, gratuities, and beverage package with drinks up to $20 each. In addition, the package also includes unlimited access to the juice bar, unlimited premium desserts, unlimited fitness classes, and unlimited digital photo package.

Moreover, Princess prizes which include onboard credits and free cruises are also part of the package. Additionally, unlimited casual dining, two specialty dining, and special Medallion accessories are also included. Furthermore, a reserved seating for production shows in the theater, and OceanNow® delivery service and room service delivery are also included in the perks. 

What entertainment and activities can be found aboard Princess ships?

Princess Cruises offers a range of entertainment and activities to keep cruise passengers engaged throughout their voyage. The line highlights Broadway-style productions and live music performances, comedy shows and even enrichment lectures. Onboard, guests find luxurious spas, state-of-the-art fitness centers, and sparkling pools to relax and unwind. Moreover, adventure-seekers can also indulge in a variety of sports and activities, such as rock climbing, mini-golf, and poolside games. Furthermore, families onboard can enjoy dedicated kids’ clubs and family-friendly programs.

Does Princess Cruises have gratuities?

Princess Cruises has a “Crew Appreciation” policy that automatically charges to guests’ accounts. These gratuities vary based on accommodation type. 

Interior, Oceanview, and Balcony cabins are charged $16 (23.82 AUD) per guest daily. On the other hand, Mini-Suites and Club Class are charged at $17 (25.31 AUD) per person, while full Suites are charged $18 (26.80 AUD) per guest per day. 

Moreover, Princess Cruises also adds service charges to many optional purchases throughout the cruise. Specialty dining venues and food items have a 17% service charge. Meanwhile, an 18% non-refundable gratuity charge is automatically added to drink packages, individual beverages, brought-on wine corkage fees, private events, and the spa.

Are there dress codes aboard Princess Cruises?

Princess Cruises maintains a relaxed yet refined dress code. This is to ensure that guests feel comfortable and stylish throughout their cruise journey. In the daytime, casual and resort-style attire is appropriate for most activities and venues.

On the other hand, in the evenings, the dress code varies depending on the occasion. During formal nights, cruise passengers are encouraged to wear evening wear, with tuxedos or suits for gentlemen and evening gowns or cocktail dresses for ladies. Meanwhile, on smart casual nights, a more relaxed yet sophisticated style is recommended, such as collared shirts and slacks for men and dresses or pantsuits for women.

Who sails on a Princess cruise?

Over the years, Princess Cruises has attracted a diverse range of cruisers not just in Australia but from all over the world. The line caters to various interests and preferences. 

Families with children are drawn to the line’s family-friendly amenities and activities, while couples and honeymooners appreciate the romantic ambiance and elegant dining options. Moreover, various multigenerational groups find Princess Cruises an ideal choice for their bucket-listed cruise experience. 

Meanwhile, solo travellers enjoy the social vibe aboard Princess ships where they meet like-minded individuals. Additionally, Princess Cruises appeals to adventure-seekers, cultural enthusiasts, and cruise enthusiasts seeking a luxurious yet affordable way to explore the world’s most captivating destinations.