Bernard Spragg. NZ from Christchurch, New Zealand (Wikimedia Commons, CC0) · CC0
Princess Cruises
Carnival Corporation & plc · premium
Come Back New
Princess Cruises offers premium voyages on 15 ships to over 330 ports worldwide, from Alaska to Antarctica. Known for innovative MedallionClass technology and exceptional service.
At a glance
Overview
Princess Cruises was founded in 1965 by Stanley B. McDonald, who chartered the Princess Patricia for Mexican Riviera cruises from Los Angeles, marking the start of a line that would become a cruise industry icon. Acquired by P&O in 1974 and later by Carnival Corporation in 2003, Princess has grown into a premium cruise operator headquartered in Santa Clarita, California, known for its innovative ships and the iconic 'Love Boat' TV series filmed on its vessels like Island Princess and Pacific Princess. With a fleet of 15 ships as of recent records, expanding with newbuilds like Star Princess in 2025, Princess distinguishes itself through elegant yet accessible cruising, blending classic maritime traditions with modern amenities and a focus on destination immersion.
Best for
Princess Cruises is ideal for mature adults, couples, and multigenerational families seeking a relaxed, upscale vacation with sophisticated yet unpretentious vibes. It's perfect for travelers who prioritize longer port-intensive itineraries, enriching experiences like lectures and cultural programs, and a balance of active pursuits and leisurely onboard life, making it great for anniversaries, reunions, or first-time cruisers wanting value without luxury pricing. Active retirees and food enthusiasts also thrive here, drawn to wellness options, diverse dining, and worldwide adventures without high-energy party atmospheres.
Fleet & capacity
Princess operates a fleet of 15 ships across classes like Grand (up to 3,100 passengers), Royal (3,500+), and Sphere (newer LNG-powered vessels like Discovery Princess at 4,166 passengers). Sizes range from mid-sized Sun and Dawn classes (around 2,000-3,000 guests) to mega-ships like the Excel-class (Discovery, Sky, and upcoming Star Princess in 2025, over 4,000 passengers each). Notable vessels include the recently transformed Grand Princess post-2011 drydock and the innovative Sun Princess, emphasizing spacious designs and varied capacities for intimate or grand sailings.
Destinations
Princess sails worldwide, with primary focus on Alaska (summer gold-rush itineraries from Vancouver/Seattle), Caribbean (year-round from Florida), and Mediterranean (summer Europe circuits). Seasonal routes include Mexican Riviera winters, Panama Canal transits, Asia-Pacific voyages, and world cruises spanning 100+ days across multiple continents. Unique ports feature exclusive Princess Cays private beach in the Bahamas since 1988, and glacier-viewing in Alaska, with immersive stops in Japan, Australia, and South America.
Onboard experience
The onboard atmosphere is elegant-casual, with 'smart casual' dress codes most evenings (no formal nights mandated) and daily life revolving around destination-focused enrichment like naturalist talks and cooking demos. Dining shines with flexible anytime options, specialty venues like Sabatini's Italian and Crown Grill steakhouse, plus fresh seafood from sustainable sources; entertainment includes Broadway-style shows, Movies Under the Stars, and live music without high-octane nightclubs. Activities span Lotus Spa wellness, sports courts, libraries, and art auctions, fostering a refined, low-key vibe for relaxation and exploration.
Staterooms
Cabins range from interior rooms (150-200 sq ft, basic amenities like queen beds and TVs) to oceanview and balcony standards (200-350 sq ft with verandahs for sea views). Suites include mini-suites (up to 400 sq ft with tubs), Club Class balconies (priority services), and top-tier Sky Suites on Excel-class ships (over 1,000 sq ft with whirlpools and concierge). Unique types feature family cabins connecting for groups, accessible options, and Reserve Collection suites with exclusive dining; all boast plush bedding, interactive TVs, and refrigerators, setting Princess apart with spacious, value-driven designs.
Pricing & value
Fares start at mid-range premium levels ($100-200/night per person), including meals, entertainment, and basic drinks; extras like Wi-Fi, specialty dining ($30-50/person), and excursions add up. Structures offer Princess Plus (beverages, Wi-Fi, tips included) and Princess Premier (top perks like premium drinks, laundry); promotions include 'Better Than Best Price Guarantee' and frequent sales. Compared to competitors like Celebrity or Holland America, Princess delivers strong value through larger ships, more inclusions, and port-heavy itineraries without ultra-luxury markups.
Loyalty program
The Captain's Circle loyalty program has five tiers: Gold (automatic after one cruise, 10% off packages), Platinum (5 cruises/80 points, priority boarding/tender, complimentary laundry), Ruby (15 cruises/150 points, free unlimited specialty dining for two), Diamond (25 cruises/250 points or 600 points, elite lounge access), and Pinnacle (700 points, top perks like free mini-bar, 50% off fares). Points earn via nights sailed (1 pt/night) or paid fare percentage; benefits escalate with suite stays doubling points, making it rewarding for repeat cruisers focused on onboard credits and services.
Sustainability
Princess leads with LNG-powered Excel-class ships (Discovery, Sky, Star Princess) reducing emissions by up to 40%, alongside shore power connectivity in ports to cut idling fuel use. Initiatives include waste-to-energy programs, single-use plastic bans, and seafood sustainability via Marine Stewardship Council partnerships; Carnival Corporation's carbon intensity reduction goals target 20% by 2026. Certifications like ISO 14001 for environmental management underscore commitments to ocean conservation and green cruising technologies.
Accessibility
Princess offers 20+ wheelchair-accessible cabins per ship with roll-in showers, lowered sinks, and adjustable beds; mobility aids like scooters are rentable onboard. Service animals are welcome with advance notice, dietary needs (gluten-free, kosher) accommodated via main dining alerts, and special needs support includes priority embarkation and sensory guides. Elevators serve all public decks, with ASL interpreters available on select sailings and quiet zones for neurodiverse guests.
Booking tips
Book 6-12 months ahead for Alaska/Europe peak seasons or world cruises to secure best cabins and rates; opt for mid-ship balconies on larger ships for stability. Travel agents should leverage Princess's trade portal for commissions up to 16%, group perks, and 'Princess Perfect Match' for customized itineraries; insider tip: watch for wave season (Jan-Mar) sales with onboard credits. Select Princess Plus for value on drinks/Wi-Fi, book excursions early for popular ports like Juneau, and consider suite upgrades for families.
What sets us apart
Love Boat Legacy
Iconic from the 1970s TV series filmed on Island and Pacific Princess, evoking nostalgic romance and celebrity appeal that defines the brand's charm.
Princess Cays Beach
Private Bahamian island since 1988 offers exclusive turquoise waters, BBQ lunches, and water sports for relaxed port days unique to Princess guests.
Movies Under the Stars
Massive LED poolside screens for blockbuster films with popcorn and blankets create a signature open-air cinema experience day or night.
MedallionClass Tech
Wearable OceanMedallion enables keyless entry, personalized service, location tracking, and app-ordered drinks delivered anywhere onboard.
Enrichment Lectures
Expert-led talks on destinations, history, and culture by naturalists and scholars enhance port visits with educational depth.
LNG-Powered Fleet
Eco-friendly Excel-class ships like Discovery Princess lead in clean propulsion, slashing emissions for sustainable luxury cruising.
World Cruise Experts
Epic 100+ day voyages circling the globe with rare ports and themed segments cater to adventurous long-haul travelers.
Where they sail
Reviews & ratings
Princess Cruises receives generally positive feedback for its excellent food, friendly and attentive crew, clean ships, and solid entertainment, making it a strong all-rounder choice for couples and families seeking midpriced quality. Common complaints include long lines at eateries and boarding, overcrowding on some ships, and occasional customer service lapses. Best suited for mature travelers (50+) who value service and itineraries over cutting-edge luxury.
What travellers love
- •Excellent food quality and variety
- •Attentive and friendly crew service
- •Clean and well-maintained ships
- •Good entertainment and activities
- •Comfortable cabins and beds
Common critiques
- •Long lines and wait times
- •Overcrowding and understaffing
- •Inconsistent customer service
- •Noise and dated ships on some sailings
- •Poor handling of complaints
Sister brands
Carnival
contemporary
Carnival Cruise Line is the world’s most popular cruise line, delivering multi-generational family fun and entertainment at exceptional value with short, budget-friendly itineraries from U.S. ports.
Carnival Cruise Line
contemporary
Carnival Cruise Line is a fun-focused, value-oriented brand offering casual, lively cruises for families and first-timers, centered on short Caribbean and Bahamas sailings.
Holland America Line
premium
Premium cruise line with 150+ years of heritage offering spacious ships, award-winning service, and immersive cultural experiences across all seven continents.
Did you know?
- Princess pioneered the 'Love Boat' TV series in the 1970s, boosting cruise popularity.
- All ships feature OceanMedallionClass with 4,000 sensors for personalized experiences.
- Serves 2 million guests annually across 170 itineraries up to 111 days.
- Fleet includes 15 vessels with 42,520 berths, registered in Bermuda.
- Destinations span 13 regions including South Pacific and World Cruises.