A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess on Monday, October 31, was the final act in a three-year project to provide The Sanctuary, the cruise line’s signature ‘pocket of tranquillity’, across the line’s fleet.

An adults-only retreat, The Sanctuary has been a popular feature of Princess Cruises’ ships since it debuted in 2006 aboard Crown Princess. A place to escape and relax, The Sanctuary is staffed by attentive Serenity Stewards who provide an array of healthy drinks and snacks, while Lotus Spa Services offer a choice of soothing al fresco massages.

The new Sanctuary on Sapphire Princess has replaced the ship’s sports court (which has been moved to a space on top of the Skywalkers nightclub), a location that offers dramatic views of the ocean.

The Sanctuary is now available on 14 of Princess Cruises’ ships.