Ultimate Guide: Sun Princess

The third ship iteration of Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess launched last year, marking the debut of the line’s groundbreaking Sphere class. Sun Princess is a trailblazer for the treasured ‘Love Boat’ brand — the show ‘The Love Boat’ aired from 1977-1987 and was primarily filmed on Pacific Princess. The show introduced millions of viewers to traditional cruise vacations, and is one of the reasons cruises are so popular today.

Not only the largest in the Princess fleet, Sun Princess also boasts many firsts and innovations for Princess Cruises. New on Sun Princess is The Dome, a stunning spherical structure assembled from a network of triangles, functioning as a sun deck and avant-garde performance space. The Sun Princess seamlessly blends the nostalgia of traditional cruising with the allure of elevated decor, entertainment, and cuisine, appealing to seasoned cruisers and new adventurers.

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Ship Overview

The Sun Princess‘s maiden voyage was in 2024. She’s an impressive next-generation ship with exceptional features: 21 decks, 1,500 balconies — the most of any Princess Cruises ship — along with 29 dining options, five pools, enhanced amenities and mini suites. Weighing 177,882 gross tons, with capacity for 4,300 passengers, Sun Princess attracts active couples, inter-generational families and Princess loyalists. In 2025, the Sun Princess will sail itineraries in the Mediterranean and Caribbean , with popular stopovers in Mykonos, Istanbul, Cozumel, the Cayman Islands and more. Joining the Sun Princess in 2025, is her next sister ship, Star Princess, a reimagined replica of Sun Princess.

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At a glance

A SPHERE Class Ship

The new Sun Princess is the first of two Sphere class vessels and was built at the famed Fincantieri yard in Monfalcone, Italy. The name Sphere was fittingly chosen, since the Sun Princess houses a huge suspended transparent sphere, The Piazza, which spans three decks and envelops guests in expansive ocean views.

A World-Class Theatre

The Princess Arena redefines onboard entertainment with cutting-edge technology and sleek design. A marvel of versatility, its dynamic configurations — highlighted by immersive, state-of-the-art LCD panels — transform performances into electrifying spectacles. From in-the-round setups to breathtaking visual effects, this sophisticated space promises endless ways to captivate and entertain every audience.

The Sanctuary Collection

The Sanctuary Collection on the Sun Princess offers an elevated cruising experience with all the amenities imaginable and luxurious accommodations. Guests enjoy access to the Sanctuary Club, an adults-only retreat featuring private cabanas, craft cocktails, and wellness classes. The Sanctuary Exclusive Restaurant and the Signature Suite Lounge are a serene escape for Sanctuary guests.

Set Sail Close to Home

Unlike Royal Caribbean and Carnival, which focus on Sydney and Brisbane, Princess Cruises stands out with departures from Adelaide, Perth (Fremantle), Auckland, Hobart, and beyond. This makes it a game-changer for regional travellers keen to set sail without the hassle of flying to big-city ports — cruising made effortlessly convenient with onboard activities and fascinating shore excursions.

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Itineraries and Destinations

The Sun Princess offers a range of itineraries from five to 21 days, with a destination focus on the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. She sails in the Caribbean Sea from October to April, visiting diverse cultural hotspots including the Bahamas and Mexico. In the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean, she navigates to San Juan, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and more. Stops in Santorini, Mykonos, Florence and Rome are just some of the iconic ports the Sun Princess visits in the Mediterranean.

7-Day Western Caribbean with Grand Cayman

This loop cruise begins at Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and after a day at sea, arrives at Cozumel in Mexico, hemmed by colourful coral reefs. Drop by one of the lively beach clubs, try a tequila-making class or snorkel in the sparkling waters. Next stopover is Mahogany Bay, a picturesque port owned by Carnival Corporation. Next, it’s the alluringly pretty Cayman Islands, before Sun Princess returns to Florida.

7-Day Mediterranean with France & Italy

Your voyage sets off in style with a visit to the glamorous French Riviera. Next, the journey carries guests to picturesque Italy, navigating the Amalfi Coast. Passengers can taste regional Mediterranean cuisine along the way, pop into boutique wineries and contemplate the ancient ruins in Rome.

7-Day Eastern Caribbean with St. Thomas Holiday

This coastal adventure begins and ends in Fort Lauderdale, the gateway to the Caribbean. The Princess ship docks at Princess Cays, Bahamas, San Juan, Puerto Rico and St. Maarten. Guests can sink their feet into white-sand beaches like Lindquist Beach on St. Thomas, browse bustling island markets, or savour Eastern Caribbean cuisine, from spiced seafood dishes to tropical fruit cocktails.

7-Day Mediterranean with Greek Isles and Turkey

With four ports over seven days, this voyage takes in some of the best of the Greek Isles and Turkey in an all-in-one coastal adventure. Explore the hauntingly preserved ruins of Pompeii, photograph whitewashed buildings framed by the turquoise Aegean Sea, and see the Acropolis, a pinnacle of classical Greek art.

10-Day Grand Mediterranean

Setting off from vibrant and cultural Spain and travelling to some of Europe’s most revered destinations, cruisers will stop over at Marseille in France, Genoa and Capri in Italy and Corfu in Greece, to name a few. For 10 days, delight in the beautiful Mediterranean coastal scenery, fresh local cuisine and enriching ancient history.

15-Day Spanish Passage

Spanish Passage is an ideal choice for passengers seeking the freedom of sea days to enjoy onboard experiences, along with visits to glorious Spanish ports. The cruise sets sail from Barcelona, with four port stops at Malaga, Gibraltar, Seville and Santa Cruz De Tenerife, before seafaring to Florida.

14-Day Eastern/Western Caribbean Adventurer

Spread over 14 days in the fresh sea air of the stunning Caribbean, passengers take pleasure in everything from Caribbean-inspired meals onboard, zip lining through a lush rainforest, shopping for handmade treasures in local markets and savouring culinary standouts such as jerk chicken in Jamaica.

14-Day Mediterranean with Greek Isles, France & Turkey

With exquisite food and wine in Marseille, shopping in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, and uncovering Mykonos’ scenic Little Venice and beaches, there’s lots to discover for the cruiser on this Mediterranean voyage. Beginning in Barcelona, Spain, and weaving through France, Italy, Greece and Turkey, it finally docks in the fascinating city of Athens, Greece.

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Things to do on Sun Princess

Shows and Performances

The Sun Princess features a range of live shows and performances, including musicals, comedy acts, and magic shows. One highlight is Spellbound By Magic Castle, where the captivating world of magic is blended with the art of mixology, inside a Victorian-era-inspired bar.

Lotus Spa

Passengers in need of extra rejuvenation can make luxurious appointments at Lotus Spa. From a soothing massage to therapeutic acupuncture, hot stone therapy to a La Therapie HydraLift Facial, the Lotus Spa is salve for the senses. After your treatment, take time out in the thermal suite with pool, steam room and inviting tranquil zones.

Mixology Masterclasses & Wine Tasting

With masterclasses tailored for wine lovers and aspiring mixologists, the Sun Princess offers some enticing sessions with talented experts. Join an exclusive wine-tasting session led by professional sommeliers, or learn to craft sophisticated drinks from expert mixologists so you can impress at your next gathering back home.

The Princess Casino

Play a hand at The Princess Casino, the largest casino ever built by Princess Cruises, with live tables featuring progressive games and more than 200 popular slots and video poker games. Princess Casino has an impressive and expansive layout, delivering unmatched comfort and world-class gaming excitement.

Pools on Sun Princess

Craving a refreshing dip on the Sun Princess? On board choose from five swimming pools, including an adults-only pool for Sanctuary guests. The main pool area is a favorite spot, featuring dining options and two huge swimming pools. For a peaceful retreat, the Wake View Infinity Pool offers breathtaking ocean views from the stern. Furthermore, you’ll find an indoor/outdoor pool at The Dome and nine hot tubs dotted across the ship.

Shopping on Sun Princess

Shopping on the Sun Princess is a world-class retail experience with ‘first-at-sea’ shops, 200 premium brands and an expansive floor space with interactive browsing concepts and pop-up shops. Find trending skincare brands at The Beauty & Wellness Boutique, prestigious watches at The Fine Timepieces Boutique, along with opulent jewellery, fashion and eyewear.

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Fun For Kids on Sun Princess

Kids’ Clubs

For cruising families, a well-organised kids’ club for tots to teens is vital, and the Sun Princess delivers dedicated spaces and activities for children of all ages. There are three age-appropriate zones in the Youth & Teen Centres, where children can explore, socialise, or chill. There’s the Firefly Park Kids Club for ages three to seven years, the Neon Grove Tweens Club for ages eight to 12 years, plus The Underground Teen Lounge, for ages 13-17 years.

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Dining Onboard Sun Princess

The range of dining options onboard the Sun Princess is astounding and delicious. There are 29 dining options available on Sun Princess, the most in the entire fleet. Eat in the expansive three-level main dining space, or sample culinary art designed by celebrity collaborators. Whether you’re in the mood for unforgettable fine dining or a fast poolside snack, the Sun Princess delivers an array of terrific cuisine that makes every moment flavourful.

Main and Casual Dining (included in cruise fare):

Horizons Dining Room

At the heart of Princess Cruises dining is their main restaurant, Horizons, which serves different varieties of casual meals across three levels, framed by mesmerising wake views. The dramatic triple-height space elevates traditional cruise dining up a few notches. Choose Soleil Dining Room for timeless dishes, Eclipse Dining Room for 24/7 dining and the All American Dining Room for USA classics.

The Eatery

The Eatery is a served buffet restaurant on the Sun Princess, and has an impressive variety of global dishes to satisfy every taste.

International Cafe

A Princess guest favourite, the International Cafe has a tempting array of quick bites such as sandwiches, pastries and sweet treats.

The Lido

Located on the top deck, The Lido is a fun and unfussy eating zone with hand-made favourites on the menu such as pizza slices, burgers, tacos and more. Don’t miss the Coffee & Cones section, for complimentary ice cream cones and speciality coffee.

Promenade

The Promenade is a relaxed, al fresco dining experience where guests gather to savour a laid-back meal and marvel at the endless ocean views.

Speciality Dining

Love by Brito

New for Sun Princess is Love by Britto, a feast for the senses inspired by the art of Brazilian sculptor and painter, Romero Britto. Perfect for art aficionados and food lovers alike, admire one of Britto’s murals while savouring a dish brimming with bold ingredients and inventive culinary art.

The Butcher’s Block by Dario

Another debut for Sun Princess, this chic bistro on deck nine is a partnership between Princess Cruises and Dario Cecchini, known as ‘the world’s most famous butcher’. Expect top quality cuts of beef from tartare to t-bone, prepared with Italian flare and served family style.

Umai Teppanyaki

Enjoy delicious Japanese food and entertaining performances at Umai Teppanyaki. With live-action teppan stations, you’ll have a front-row seat as the talented chefs prepare your meal on the sizzling hot plates.

Alfredo’s Pizzeria

Get a taste of Italy wherever in the world you’re cruising at Alfredo’s. Authentic, Neopolitan-style pizza is made from scratch with the freshest ingredients. The cheerful restaurant is inspired by the colours and landscapes of the Amalfi Coast.

Crown Grill

Celebrated among the ‘Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses’ by USA TODAY, this sophisticated steakhouse delights with perfectly aged cuts of beef and the freshest seafood. The open-concept kitchen captivates diners as they watch chefs prepare top-quality cuts of premium proteins to order.

Sabatini’s℠ Italian Trattoria

The Italian specialty restaurant on the Princess Fleet, Sabatini’s, celebrates Italian culinary heritage with authentic family recipes. Gather in this lively trattoria to enjoy handmade pasta, braised meat dishes and bold Italian wines.

The Catch by Rudi

A celebration of the sea, The Catch serves up the finest seafood on a menu crafted by Princess Cruises’ Head of Culinary Arts, Rudi Sodamin. Choose from the raw seafood bar, whole lobster, classic bisques or the fresh catch of the day.

The Chef’s Table

Commemorate a special occasion with a sumptuous multi-course meal created and hosted by the Crown Princess executive chef. An extraordinary culinary journey for both gourmet enthusiasts and cuisine novices, diners interact with the chef and gain insight into techniques and flavours.

OceanReady® Delivery

Order freshly made burgers and artisan cocktails directly to your lounge chair! 24 hour OceanReady® uses MedallionClass® app technology to deliver refreshments to wherever you are on the Crown Princess ship. A one-time usage fee applies.

Signature Collection Guest Dining

Signature Collection guests can dine at the intimate Signature Restaurant, relax with a drink in the Signature Lounge and rejuvenate on the private Signature Sun Deck within the adults-only zone, The Sanctuary. At the gorgeous Signature Restaurant, select from a bespoke chef’s menu and dine in your own time, reservation-free.

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Bars and Lounges

Bellini’s Cocktail Bar

Inspired by the dazzling beauty of gems, Bellini’s is a glamorous bar nestled at the heart of The Piazza with the finest Champagne and cleverly concocted cocktails on the drinks list.

Cascade Bar

Bask in the sunlit allure of Cascade Bar, an inviting modern lounge nestled beneath the breathtaking Dome. Sip cocktails with local flavours, fine wines from across the world or cold craft beers.

The Pool Bars

Take a dip then sip in the outdoor drinking venues on the Sun Princess. Take your pick from the Sun Bar, Lido Bar, The Mix, Promenade Bar and Wake View Terrace, with its pretty infinity pool and infinite views.

Crooners

Crooners is a sophisticated piano bar on the second level of The Piazza. It has the inviting ambiance of vintage Hollywood along with dazzling views through the sphere windows. Relax with a classic drink and listen to the talented pianists or jazz band.

Good Spirits at Sea

Conveniently located beside the Crown Grill, watch as master mixologists craft your favourite cocktail with fresh ingredients from the region Sun Princess is navigating through.

Sea View Bar

Outside The Dome pool, the Sea View Bar is the perfect spot to grab a maritime-inspired cocktail and reenergise in the bow-facing observation lounge on the Sun View Terrace.

Wheelhouse Bar

The perfect pre-dinner drinking venue, this nautical-themed bar is a popular go-to on many Princess Cruises ships. From 4pm to late each evening, select from top-shelf spirits, boutique wines or a share the extraordinary cocktail, Ship In A Bottle, for two.

O’Malley’s Irish Pub

This warm and inviting pub brings the spirited energy of a traditional Dublin alehouse to the seas. Taste cocktails blended from exclusive Grace O’Malley spirits and tap your toes to the live music. A fabulous go-to spot after dinner or a show.

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Entertainment

The Sun Princess is brimming with amusement each evening with thrilling entertainment to delight every guest. From energetic cocktail demonstrations at Good Spirits at Sea, crowd-pleasing karaoke, comedy and game shows, live vocalists and the magical illusion performances at Spellbound by Magic Castle, Sun Princess is renowned for its animated atmosphere. The cruise ship also houses a state-of-the-art entertainment venue with performances from contemporary dance to live music.

The Piazza

Step into the alluring charm of The Piazza, a next-generation space reminiscent of Europe’s lively squares. Bathed in natural light by day, come nightfall The Piazza comes alive with starlit energy featuring musical performances, game shows and dancing.

The Dome

The versatile design of The Dome is inspired by the domed terraces of Santorini. In daylight hours it offers a wonderful aquatic playground with an indoor/outdoor pool and a distinctive water feature. As night beckons, the pool is transformed into a performance area to stage thrilling avant-garde shows.

Spellbound by Magic Castle

An intimate entertainment venue in its own right, Spellbound by Magic Castle is tucked discreetly behind an unassuming black door near Crooners Lounge. This enchanting evening is part private dinner, part mind-bending illusions and part secreted away speakeasy. Once you book Spellbound, it’s yours for the evening — guests can leave and reenter as many times as desired.

Princess Arena

Princess Arena is a standout performance venue within the fleet, boasting cutting-edge design. This impressive, state-of-the-art space has an immersive circular configuration, offering unparalleled flexibility for an array of events. An innovative LCD panel brings productions to life with dynamic visuals.

Princess Live!

At Princess Live! the entertainment is non-stop 24/7, with crowd-pleasing game shows, live music, comedy shows, trivia and the Daily Wake show. It’s a popular space with a small stage, big LED screen and lots of laughs.

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Accommodation on Sun Princess

Sun Princess’ accommodation options range from comfortable interior rooms to lavish suites with plenty of space to unwind and high-end amenities. The cabins all have a contemporary, curve-centric design with pale timbers and world-famous comfy Princess beds.

The Sun Princess has tiers of cabins that range from opulent suites, mini-suites, balcony, ocean view and interior. Within the tiers of staterooms and suites, there is the next-level class of Sanctuary Collection, which gives guests staying in any of the 80 Signature Collection Suites, 123 Sanctuary Mini Suites and 12 Premium Deluxe Balconies, exclusive benefits during their voyage. Sanctuary guests have private access to the top-deck retreat zone, exclusive private dining at Sanctuary Restaurant, plus a Princess Premier bundle.

Suites: Elevated Accommodation for a Luxurious Stay

The elite Sanctuary Collection suites offer premium stateroom amenities, exclusive dining, and lounge areas, as well as access to the outdoor sun deck.

Sky Suite: Luxuriate in our most expansive stateroom and balcony, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, elegant dining area and room for up to five guests. The Signature Sky Suite offers exclusive access to Sanctuary areas, premium bathroom amenities and complimentary mini bar setup.

Grand Suite: Enjoy space for up to four guests, extra living space with a separate seating area, full bath and ocean views from your private balcony.

Vista Suite: Sleep like royalty in your Vista Suite with two bedrooms housing Princess Luxury Beds, a spacious bathroom with separate shower and tub, plus Sanctuary restaurant dining.

Signature Suite: Stylish and comfortable, the Signature Suite has a separate seating area with sofa bed and extra space for relaxing. Guests receive all the Sanctuary Collection benefits, like a complimentary mini-bar in suite, private restaurant dining and more.

Mini Suites

Mini-Suite: Mini suites are a haven of relaxation boasting a comfy Princess bed, sofa bed, plenty of storage and a private balcony. Guests have the option of upgrading for exclusive dining.

Cabana Mini-Suite: With a resort-style ambience, this inspired stateroom offers room for up to five guests, a separate sitting area and private cabana to enjoy sea views in comfort. Guests indulge in enhanced amenities in select Cabana Mini Suites, offering a luxurious retreat.

Sanctuary Mini-Suite: A fabulous option for a group of up to four guests with a separate sitting area, more living space than a balcony cabin and all those benefits of Sanctuary Collection.

Cabana Deck Mini-Suite: Similar to the Cabana stateroom features, these select mini suites are approximately 36m2, with a private cabana, comfortable queen bed, a balcony with unique outdoor furniture plus access to the exclusive Cabana Deck.

Balcony Staterooms

Cove Balcony: This stateroom sleeps up to four guests and has a spacious balcony with table and chairs, along with a queen bed or pair of twin beds.

Deluxe Balcony: Take a front-row seat for beautiful coastal scenery on your voyage in the Deluxe with private balcony, high-end outdoor furniture and 100% cotton, high-thread-count linens.

Premium Deluxe Balcony: Perfect for a leisurely breakfast on your large balcony featuring extra space and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors.

Sanctuary Balcony: Not only do these deluxe accommodations have more living space, private balcony featuring stunning views, these staterooms feature special suite only benefits from the Sanctuary Collection upgrades.

Ocean View: From the comfort of your premium stateroom enjoy the spectacular soothing outlook of the ocean to give an airy atmosphere to this good-value room with a view.

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Safety and Security

The health and wellbeing of guests and crew is the highest priority. On embarkation day, all guests perform their safety drill at their muster station using their Princess Medallion, a wearable device integral to the personalised services on board, including guest safety. ​​

The OceanSafety system accelerates and strengthens safety and security operations on board by allowing the ship and crew to operate more efficiently during embarkation, safety drills, port calls, and disembarkation.

General Emergency Protocol
The general emergency alarm, identified by seven short blasts followed by one long blast, signals the need to proceed to your muster station. Access your stateroom to obtain your life jacket, warm clothing, suitable footwear, and required medication. Follow directions from crew officers at your muster station or through announcements.

If someone falls overboard, promptly shout ‘man overboard’, throw a buoyant object to mark the location, and notify a crew member immediately. Compliance with these procedures ensures a safe and secure environment for all guests and crew aboard.

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Accessibility and Special Needs

Princess Cruises strive to accommodate guests with additional needs. Their barrier-free design ensures easy access to restaurants, theatres, spas, lounges, and open-deck areas. Wheelchair-accessible staterooms are available on all ships, although guests must bring their own mobility devices. Collapsible wheelchairs are recommended, and guests should travel with someone able-bodied to assist onboard and ashore.

Accessible bathrooms include roll-in showers with fold-down seats, emergency call systems, handheld showerheads, and grab bars. Cabins also feature touchless Medallion door systems. Some ports may not accommodate mobility devices; the Captain will determine ashore access for safety.

For hearing and visual impairments, Princess offers ‘All-In-One Kits’ with TTY devices, closed-captioned TVs, assistive listening systems, and Braille/tactile signage. Large print and Braille menus are available, and internet cafés have screen readers.

Princess must be notified of wheelchair usage, special needs, or service animals before sailing. Emotional support animals are not allowed onboard.