The Diamond Princess has cruised back to Australian waters after a six-year absence, which is big news for her many local fans. The Japanese-built vessel set sail from Sydney Harbour for Adelaide, marking the real beginning of the 2024-2025 wave season.

With an itinerary that includes a two-night leg to Melbourne timed perfectly for the AFL Grand Final, there’s a palpable sense of excitement bouncing around the hallways of the elegant ship. 

Cruise Passenger was on board for this two day leg – perfect to check out a ship that shine’s bright like a diamond.

She arrived after an impressive 22-day relocation voyage from Yokohama, Japan, to Adelaide, making various stops across Asia and the South Pacific.

Now fully operational and currently at capacity with around 2,706 guests and 1,100 crew from around the world, the ship is a microcosm of culture, activity, and expert hospitality.

As the demand for luxe-for-less travel continues to grow in the Asia-Pacific region, Diamond Princess is poised to draw even more international guests to Australia and New Zealand.

Diamond Princess atrium

What makes the Diamond Princess special

Refurbished most recently in February 2019, the ship still gleams. There’s also genuine commitment to offering authentic experiences that reflect its Japanese heritage, thanks to its homeport in Yokohama.

A highlight of the cruise is their Izumi, the largest Japanese bath of its kind at sea. Modelled after traditional onsens, Izumi offers both indoor and outdoor bathing experiences, including steam rooms, traditional saunas, and hot tubs with stunning ocean views. The gentle lighting, soft robes and calm atmosphere helps you indulge in this quintessentially Japanese pastime.

While many of the Japanese guests prefer the traditional ritual of nude onsen, in Australian waters guests tend to remain in their swimwear.

Men and women enjoy separate facilities, with one outdoor hot tub available for everyone, which makes for a comfortable environment for all.

Food, fun and fancy tech

Guests can indulge in freshly prepared sashimi at Kai Sushi, the only bona fide sushi restaurant in the Princess fleet. Here, expert chefs craft fresh and delicate dishes right before your eyes, making each meal a spectacle in its own right.

Another highlight is Sabatini’s, the Italian specialty restaurant that has earned its place as one of the “Best Cruise Ship Specialty Restaurants” according to USA Today. Diners can savour standout dishes like lobster ravioli, paired perfectly with fine Italian wines, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Italy.

The entertainment options aboard the Diamond Princess are equally impressive. This season features the exclusive production The Secret Silk, created by the acclaimed composer Stephen Schwartz, known for his work on Wicked, Godspell, and Pippin.

This enchanting show brings mythical beings to life through a stunning blend of puppetry, contemporary song, and mesmerising dance. Guests can expect a theatrical experience that transcends the ordinary, making for an unforgettable evening at sea.

For those who enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere, the ship’s Atrium is the lively hub where performers and musicians entertain guests. It’s a perfect spot to relax with a cocktail while soaking in the vibrant ambiance.

Finally Princess Cruises’ MedallionClass tech allows travellers to personalise their experience with a connected fob and app. With this system you can easily locate friends and family throughout the ship and we saw no less than two sets of parents tracking wayward children down this way. 

A first time cruiser, I was wildly confused then impressed when my bartender greeted me as I went to order my first (delicious) spicy marg for the evening.

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