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All 16 Princess Cruises Ships, From Newest to Oldest

Here’s everything you need to know about the Princess Cruises fleet.

princess cruise ships

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Sailors of all ages love Princess Cruises for its quality, service, value, and serene style of cruising.  What’s more, the 2023 T+L World’s Best Award-winning mega-ship line   — which is also a WBA Hall of Fame Honoree — tends to steer clear of splashy entertainment (for example, you won’t find go-karts, water slides, or ziplines on board most ships) in favor of more refined activities. Discovery at SEA programming is a standout offering: In partnership with Discovery and Animal Planet, guests can partake in nature-centric onboard activities and shore excursions. Most Princess ships boast a majestic atrium modeled after an Italian piazza, and it’s here where you’ll find some of the best drinking, dining, and shopping venues on board. 

According to travel advisor and cruise specialist Jennaca Boose of Marvelous Mouse Travels , Princess’ fleet of 15 ships — 16 if you count the upcoming Sun Princess , which will make its long-anticipated debut this year — is family-friendly, and each vessel is “equipped to entertain all ages;” however, some cater towards specific age demographics better than others. For example, she says, travelers sailing with younger children will especially love Royal Princess and Regal Princess , which “have even more to offer” beyond the kids club, such as “outdoor play areas with jungle gyms and a separate teen space with a hot tub.” Meanwhile, says Boose, cruisers craving an intimate onboard experience may consider sailing aboard Coral Princess or Island Princess , which are two of the line’s smaller ships. 

Finally, it’s also worth noting that the line ​​offers dozens, if not hundreds, of itineraries across the globe, including Alaska, Mexico, Japan, the Mediterranean, and many more. “Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or an immersive cultural itinerary,” says Boose, “Princess has a ship for you.” Without further ado, keep scrolling for a breakdown of each ship in the Princess Cruises fleet to help you narrow down which vessels would be best for you. 

Related: 21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

Sun Princess

Inaugural Year: 2024

Ship Class: Sphere

Ship Capacity: 4,300 guests

The inaugural ship in Princess' new Sphere class, Sun Princess is the line's largest — and flashiest — vessel to date. Set to sail the Mediterranean and Caribbean, this 20-deck mega-ship is sure to make waves following its early 2024 debut. The Park19 family zone will offer nine fun-filled activities, including the Sea Breeze (the first Rollglider at sea), The Lookout (an open-air observation deck), and Coastal Climb (a climbing structure for adventure enthusiasts of all ages). There’s also a two-deck arena, the multi-level Dome entertainment space, and the brand-new Spellbound, a Victorian-themed bar where guests can watch magicians while sipping theatrical cocktails.

Discovery Princess

Inaugural Year: 2022

Ship Class: Royal

Ship Capacity: 3,660 guests

For an elegant onboard experience complete with world-class specialty dining that’ll entice any gourmand, spectacular live entertainment in the lavish Princess Theater, and the largest balconies at sea (spanning over 1,000 square feet) found in one of the ship’s splurge-worthy Sky Suites, look no further than Princess’ final Royal-class ship. Spend sea days soaking up the sun — and the ocean views — by the infinity Wake View Pool.

Enchanted Princess

Inaugural Year: 2021

The elegant Enchanted Princess is a haven for relaxation-seekers with four sparkling pools (including the infinity-edge Wake View Pool), 10 hot tubs, and a serene spa offering Asian-inspired treatments. For the ultimate splurge, reserve one of the sprawling Sky Suites, best known for their expansive balconies offering 270-degree sea views. Other honorable mentions include the Sanctuary, Discovery at SEA, movie screenings under the stars, and the SeaWalk, a 60-foot-long glass-enclosed hallway with floor-to-ceiling ocean vistas.

Sky Princess

Inaugural Year: 2019

The snazzy Sky Princess made its grand debut in 2019; fast-forward five years later, and the ship has retained its allure. The three-story atrium is the beating heart of the ship, dotted with shops, bars, and restaurants galore. Check out Chef’s Table Lumiere, or try your luck at the casino for the ultimate splurge. Finally, for the best ocean views, book one of the Sky Suites.

Majestic Princess

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Inaugural Year: 2017

Ship Capacity: 3,560 guests

This Royal-class ship was initially designed for cruises from Shanghai, which means passengers can expect Chinese-inspired decor along with the fantastic specialty restaurant, Harmony, which features mouthwatering Asian menu items like wok-fried lobster, spring rolls, and more. Also unique to Majestic Princess is the adults-only Hollywood Pool Club, a perfect spot for grown-ups looking to soak in style. Meanwhile, don’t miss the dazzling casino and incredible SeaWalk, where panoramic ocean views await.

Regal Princess

Inaugural Year: 2014

This 2014 mega-ship definitely delivers in terms of onboard attractions. A few fan favorites include movies under the stars (best enjoyed with popcorn and candy in hand, of course), original productions, an outdoor musical fountain show, and Princess Live!, where passengers will find interactive culinary shows along with late-night comedy and game shows that can be viewed in-person or from the comfort of one’s stateroom. Last but not least, don’t forget to snap a selfie on the SeaWalk.

Royal Princess

Inaugural Year: 2013

Prepare to receive the royal treatment (pun intended) aboard the 3,560-passenger Royal Princess . The ship’s dazzling common spaces, including the grand atrium and the SeaWalk, are sure to impress design lovers, while the drinking and dining options, including the extravagant Chef’s Table Lumiere — available only on Royal-class ships — will delight culinary connoisseurs of all ages. 

Ruby Princess

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Class: Crown

Ship Capacity: 3,080 guests

Entertainment options abound on the 19-deck Ruby Princess , from movies under the stars and basketball to golfing and (hopefully) winning big at the casino. While party-going cruisers can dance ‘til the wee hours of the night at Skywalkers, serenity-seeking travelers may choose to hit the sack early before waking up to enjoy the spa or The Sanctuary.

Emerald Princess

Inaugural Year: 2007

Last refurbished in 2019, Emerald Princess features something for families of all ages, including  reimagined Camp Discovery youth and teen centers and the serene Sanctuary, a kid-free slice of paradise in the middle of the sea. Passengers can also perfect their swing at the putting course, enjoy poolside movie screenings, unwind at one of several swanky bars and lounges, including the Speakeasy Cigar Lounge, hit the spa, or dance the night away at the onboard club. In summary, it’s pretty much impossible to be bored on this ship.

Crown Princess

Inaugural Year: 2006

Despite its 3,000-plus passenger capacity , Crown Princess never feels super crowded thanks to abundant onboard amenities and activities. Highlights include three main dining rooms, a three-story atrium, and, of course, ample activities and programming, which run the gamut from basketball courts and pajama movie nights for kids to karaoke and an onboard nightclub.

Diamond Princess

Inaugural Year: 2004

Ship Class: Grand

Ship Capacity: 2,670 guests 

Best known for its Asia itineraries, Diamond Princess is sure to wow cruisers of all ages with its unique onboard features. Wellness-seekers need not miss the Izumi Japanese Bath, where guests can enjoy a traditional Japanese bathing experience coupled with breathtaking ocean views. There’s also the adults-only Sanctuary sun deck, Broadway-caliber entertainment, ample restaurants (including five main dining rooms), a nightclub, and so much more.

Caribbean Princess

Ship Capacity: 3,140 guests

This massive 18-deck ship was last refurbished in 2019 to bring it up to par with the line’s latest vessels. The European-inspired piazza , boasting street performers, eclectic boutiques, restaurants and bars, and a striking spiral staircase, is the beating heart of the ship. Plus, as part of the line’s partnership with Discovery, guests can enjoy nature-filled activities and lectures.

Sapphire Princess

Ship Capacity: 2,670 guests

Those craving a traditional cruising experience need not look further than the 20-year-old Sapphire Princess . With an onboard nightclub, five main dining rooms (plus many other bars and lounges, including a cigar lounge), this 2,670-passenger ship is among the line’s buzziest. After dancing the night away, adults can spend the day relaxing at The Sanctuary, while families will surely appreciate the dedicated spaces for kids, tweens, and teens.

Island Princess

Inaugural Year: 2003

Ship Class: Coral

Ship Capacity: 2,200 guests

Island Princess was purposefully built to sail through the Panama Canal. This 2,200-guest, 20-plus-year-old ship offers a more refined onboard experience compared to the line’s newer, flashier vessels. Sea days are well spent at the spa, in swimming pools, or sipping cocktails in the massive atriums; come nighttime, watch movies under the stars (a Princess staple) or catch live musical performances before hitting the sack — and getting ready to do it all again the following day.

Coral Princess

Ship Capacity: 2,000 guests 

Coral Princess is Princess’ smallest ship; however, there is still plenty to see, do, and experience on board. Guests can make themselves right at home in the piazza-style grand atrium, where prime people-watching awaits. For some R&R, grown-ups can head to the tranquil, adults-only Sanctuary while the kids are at play at the children’s centers.

Grand Princess

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Capacity: 2,600 guests

Princess’ oldest ship underwent a major renovation back in 2019, adding fan-favorite restaurants like Alfredo's Pizzeria, Salty Dog Grill, and Coffee & Cones. Catch a Broadway-style show, relax at The Sanctuary, or partake in nature-centric activities as part of the line’s Discovery at SEA programming.

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Come feel the love on a Princess® cruise. We’ll give you the MedallionClass® experience others simply can’t, and it’s exclusively for everyone. Not to mention sharing all our favorite destinations and bringing you the best experiences around each and every one of them. With multicourse meals to remember, Broadway-style shows, comedy acts and bands, and comfortable staterooms featuring the Princess Luxury Bed – all included in one of the best vacation values around. Because The Love Boat® promises something for everyone.

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Sky Princess

Debuted in October 2019, Sky Princess can accommodate 3,660 passengers and 1,346 crew members. With so much space, you'll find plenty of things to do on board. Spend your days playing ball at the sports court or swimming in one of three pools, or shop until you drop at the onboard boutiques. Nightfall brings deck parties, movie screenings under the stars and live performances at the theater by musicians, comedians and magicians. Kids won't be bored, either, as there are clubs designed specifically for three different age groups.

Sky Princess features traditional Interior, Oceanview and Balcony staterooms, as well as a number of Suite-category cabins – some of which are equipped with the largest balconies at sea. Every room comes fitted with a queen-sized bed or two twin beds, a refrigerator, a flat-screen TV and complimentary 24-hour room service.  The biggest accommodation on board are the Sky Suites. They are approximately 1,873 square feet and provide guests with 270-degree panorama views while cruising. The suite also comes with additional amenities such as complimentary balcony breakfast and dinner, luxury balcony furniture and a deluxe telescope for stargazing at night. 

When it's time to chow down, cruisers will have their choice of nine inclusive dining venues and five specialty options. In the main dining room, passengers can choose between a set dinner time every evening or the line's Anytime Dining option, which will allow them to dine whenever – and with whomever – they want. You'll also find a complimentary buffet, a pizzeria, a seafood bar, a gelateria and afternoon tea. For a specialty dining experience, consider the intimate Chef's Table Lumiere or Bistro Sur La Mer by Emmanuel Renaut, a three-starred Michelin chef.

Sky Princess sails throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe and the Mediterranean. The ship also completes some transatlantic sailings.

princess cruise ships

Regal Princess

Unique features – including a glass walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship – make Regal Princess stand out among competitors. Guests can expect quality service on the 3,560-passenger, 1,346-crew-member ship, which debuted in 2014 and was most recently updated in 2017.

Regal Princess offers plenty of onboard activities, from an indoor driving range to a photography studio to educational programming through Discovery at SEA events. While adults sip cocktails at one of the onboard lounges, kids and teens can enjoy age-appropriate youth clubs. Come mealtime, the whole gang can choose between the main dining rooms, a number of specialty restaurants (including Sabatini's Italian venue) and multiple laid-back eateries.

All cabins come appointed with minifridges and flat-screen TVs. While Interior cabins measure between 158 and 162 square feet, larger Balcony staterooms occupy 214 to 222 square feet. The ship also features Mini-Suite category cabins, which offer two flat-screen TVs, bathtubs and furnished balconies. Each guest aboard Regal Princess receives an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Regal Princess sails to Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe and beyond.

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Enchanted Princess

The 3,660-passenger, 1,346-crew member Enchanted Princess made its debut in November 2021. Part of the cruise line's MedallionClass, the ship features new technology and each cruiser is given an OceanMedallion wearable device. Cruisers can expect things like keyless cabin entry, contactless boarding, speedy Wi-Fi access (for a fee), food and drink delivery to anywhere on the ship and more.

With one main dining room, several casual eateries and four specialty dining venues – ranging from Italian to steak – guests will have no problem finding suitable spots to eat. As for entertainment, the Enchanted Princess offers musical productions, movie screenings under the stars, comedians, singers, magic acts, a casino, bars and more. Daytime activities might include playing a game of basketball or volleyball at the sports courts, relaxing in two deep tank pools and several hot tubs, or indulging in spa treatments at the Lotus Spa. The ship also has kids club offerings for youths ages 3 to 17.

When it comes to cabins, all Enchanted Princess staterooms are outfitted with flat-panel televisions, desks and minifridges. The lowest (and most affordable) cabin class, Interior, ranges from 158 to 162 square feet, while the roomiest option, Sky Suite, sprawls across 1,873 square feet of space. Several stateroom options also include balconies.

The Enchanted Princess is expected to sail around Mexico, the Caribbean, northern Europe and Canada and New England on its upcoming voyages.

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Grand Princess

First launched in 1998, the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess underwent a renovation in March 2019 that added new top-deck dining venues like Alfredo's Pizzeria, Salty Dog Grill and Coffee & Cones. The Princess Theater was also refreshed to provide a more immersive audio experience. Other onboard amenities include the adults-only Sanctuary, duty-free boutiques and educational programs through the Discovery of SEA program.

The ship houses numerous dining venues, including one main dining room, two specialty venues and a variety of casual eateries serving classics like burgers and pizza. Come nightfall, passengers can enjoy cocktails at their pick of lounges.

The recently refurbished accommodations are outfitted with amenities like flat-screen TVs and minifridges. Though only 76% of exterior cabins offer private balconies – a lower percentage than other ships in the fleet – guests describe cabins as comfortable and spacious. Plus, thanks to a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio (the ship features 1,150 crew members), past cruisers describe the onboard service as attentive and friendly. What's more, each guest aboard Grand Princess receives an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Grand Princess sails to destinations worldwide, including Alaska, Hawaii , Australia, the California coast and the South Pacific.

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Royal Princess

Like its sister ship,  Regal Princess , unique features like a top-deck pool and the SeaWalk (a glass-paneled walkway that stretches 28 feet beyond the ship's edge) make Royal Princess stand out among competitors.

The 3,560-passenger ship debuted in 2013 and was last refurbished in December 2018. Onboard activities include an indoor driving range, duty-free boutiques and educational programming through Discovery at SEA. Younger passengers can participate in age-appropriate youth clubs while adults play games in the casino or sip cocktails at one of multiple lounges.

When it's time to dine, passengers can choose from the main dining rooms, six specialty restaurants or several casual eateries. In terms of lodging, all cabins are appointed with minifridges and flat-screen TVs. While Interior cabins measure between 158 and 162 square feet, larger Balcony staterooms offer 214 to 222 square feet. Each guest aboard Royal Princess receives an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Royal Princess offers itineraries throughout Alaska, Canada, California, Mexico, Asia, Australia, Hawaii and the South Pacific.

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Discovery Princess

The newest ship in the Princess fleet, Discovery Princess launched in March 2022. The ship is equipped with Princess Cruises' signature MedallionClass technology, which allows cruisers access to Wi-Fi, touchless experiences (such as contactless payment) and food and beverage delivery anywhere on the ship. Discovery Princess holds 3,660 passengers and 1,346 crew members. Overall, the new ship gets positive reviews from recent cruisers, with many complimenting the staff and the modern, clean spaces.

Cabins range from interior rooms and ocean view accommodations (158 to 172 square feet) to balcony cabins and suites (214 to 1,873 square feet). There are a variety of dining options on board as well, serving everything from pizza and American classics to sushi and seafood. Specialty dining venues include the French Bistro Sur La Mer, Sabatini's Italian Trattoria, The Salty Dog Gastropub and Crown Grill steakhouse. Or, for an extra special experience, enjoy a meal on your balcony or snag a reservation for a multicourse dinner at the Chef's Table Lumiere. (Note: Specialty venues incur an additional fee and some require reservations.) When it comes to entertainment, Discovery Princess boasts a casino, a show lounge, a jazz club and a theater that puts on Broadway-style shows.

Other amenities cruisers can enjoy on this ship include several pools, movies under the stars, a spa and an art gallery. Meanwhile, traveling families will appreciate the kids clubs, which offer programming and activities for youths ages 3 to 17.

The only major complaint from recent cruisers was that the internet connection was fairly slow and sporadic.

Discovery Princess sails mostly in California, Mexico and Alaska, with stops at ports like Cabo San Lucas, Mexico , and Juneau, Alaska .

princess cruise ships

Ruby Princess

With offerings like movie screenings beneath the stars and massages at the adults-only Sanctuary, Ruby Princess is a good choice for couples. Debuted in 2008, the ship was most recently refurbished in October 2018 to add top-deck dining options like Slice Pizzeria and Coffee & Cones. Ruby Princess holds 1,200 crew members and 3,080 guests.

In terms of lodging, 80% of exterior cabins are appointed with balconies, and all rooms come equipped with flat-screen TVs and minifridges. While Interior cabins range from 158 to 162 square feet, Balcony category cabins offer more space and Pullman beds to accommodate extra guests. Each guest aboard Ruby Princess will receive an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Reviewers are complimentary of the ship's onboard programming and amenities. Activities include a nine-hole putting course, duty-free shopping boutiques and enrichment opportunities through the Discovery at SEA program. Dining is just as diverse, with a total of eight venues to choose from. Come nightfall, travelers can try their luck at the casino, see a show in the theater or dance until the wee hours at the top-deck nightclub.

Ruby Princess offers itineraries in California, Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico and more.

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Majestic Princess

Welcoming 3,560 guests and 1,346 crew members, Majestic Princess touts new features not available on any other Princess ship, including two specialty restaurants with dinner menus created by Michelin-starred chefs. Beyond the ship's specialty restaurants, passengers can dine in three main dining rooms and grab snacks and beverages at a handful of casual eateries, including lobster and wok-style noodles.

Similar to the rest of the Princess fleet, this ship houses the Lotus Spa, a casino, a fitness center, a sports and pool deck, and the SeaWalk – a glass-paneled walkway that stretches 28 feet beyond the ship's edge. Majestic Princess also features several bars, lounges and theaters. One of the ship's most noteworthy performances is the Watercolor Fantasy Show, a choreographed water show set to music.

Majestic Princess offers a variety of lodging types, with Interior cabins measuring between 158 and 162 square feet and Suites spanning 323 to 1,500 square feet. Though cabin sizes vary, all feature flat-screen TVs, minifridges and desks. 

This ship sails to destinations in Alaska, Australia, Mexico, California, Hawaii  and the South Pacific.

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Crown Princess

Debuted in 2006 and last refurbished in April 2018, the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess features some megaship amenities like a casino, a kids clubs and a 300-square-foot poolside theater. The ship also features quiet nooks, like a library and the Sanctuary (an adults-only area that requires an extra fee). Updates for 2018 included new luxury beds in every room, new dining venues and an upgraded spa. 

Past cruisers were satisfied with the ship's relaxing atmosphere, describing public areas as pleasant and rarely overcrowded. Another main selling point for previous guests is the ship's versatile dining choices. Cruisers can choose from seven eateries, including the main dining room and three informal restaurants. For specialty dining, guests can choose between Italian at Sabatini's, or steak at Crown Grill or burgers at The Salty Dog Gastropub.

In terms of lodging, 80% of Crown Princess' exterior cabins feature private balconies. All staterooms are appointed with minifridges and satellite TVs, but guests who opt for Mini-Suite and Suite cabins can enjoy extra amenities like bathtubs, multiple TVs and 57-square-foot balconies. The Reserve Collection cabins feature all the amenities of Mini-Suites, plus access to an exclusive dining venue with expanded menu options, priority boarding and a complimentary one-time wine setup. What's more, each guest aboard Crown Princess now receives an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Crown Princess cruises through Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, Australia, Mexico and the California coast.

princess cruise ships

Caribbean Princess

Launched in 2004, the 3,140-passenger Caribbean Princess was last refurbished in May 2019, which updated the ship's staterooms, added new dining options, reimagined the Reef Splash Zone for kids and more. Grown-ups will enjoy the adults-only Sanctuary, where they can sip craft cocktails in private cabanas.

Guests can choose from a variety of dining venues, including a main dining room, a fresh marketplace, a pizzeria, two specialty restaurants and more. Lodging options are just as varied; travelers have the choice of Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, Mini-Suite, Club Class and Suite category staterooms. Standard amenities include minifridges, flat-screen TVs and refreshed decor, and more than half of the exterior cabins offer balconies. 

Onboard activities and entertainment range from sports courts and mini-golf to more enriching pursuits, like educational programs in partnership with Discovery Communications. Thanks to the ship's 1,200 crew members, Caribbean Princess ensures that service is a priority. What's more, each guest on all Caribbean Princess sailings now receives an OceanMedallion wearable device to unlock his or her stateroom, make onboard payments, track down friends and family and more.

Caribbean Princess departs from a variety of ports for sailings in the Caribbean, Canada, New England, Mexico and Europe.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Inside Passage Roundtrip San Francisco

10 or 11-day alaska cruises.

Travel the Inside Passage on 10 or 11-day Alaska cruises from San Francisco and allow the natural landscapes to inspire your day’s adventures. Begin by sailing beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and along the Pacific Coast. As you voyage into the Inside Passage, enjoy one of the best ways to explore the fjords, small towns and natural landmarks with your favorite people.

Learn more about cruises from San Francisco

Alaska glaciers on an inside passage cruise to alaska from vancouver

Inside Passage Roundtrip Vancouver

Alaska cruises that inspire.

Feed your hunger for adventure on a roundtrip Alaska cruise from Vancouver, B.C. Wind your way through fjords, by bright-green forests and through quaint Gold Rush-era towns on your way to the wonders of Glacier Bay National Park. Then experience age-old traditions with the locals.

Learn more about cruises from Vancouver

A whale breaching the water on a Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure cruise to Alaska from Vancouver

Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure

14-day alaska cruises.

Sail 500 miles deeper into the Gulf of Alaska and Prince William Sound on our back-to-back Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise. Spend 14 days roundtrip from Vancouver, B.C., stopping in historic port cities like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Enjoy three glacier-viewing experiences on every itinerary — including Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier and College Fjord.

View Cruises new long voyages from San Francisco

NEW Alaska Long Voyages

New for 2025, we have crafted longer adventures at sea with a 22-day roundtrip voyage sailing from San Francisco that coincides with Summer Solstice and a 17-day roundtrip cruise from Seattle, featuring three days of scenic glacier viewing as well as charming ports like Wrangell and Valdez. For those voyagers seeking to sail from Southern California all the way up the Pacific coast to Alaska, try a new 16-day roundtrip Inside Passage voyage from Los Angeles.

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2025 Alaska New Cruise & Cruisetour Itineraries. Learn more

National Park Service Authorized Concessioner

With its roaring glaciers, rugged mountains and deep fjords, Glacier Bay National Park feels like a dream. With 3.3 million acres to explore, cruise to this world-renowned landmark — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and let the landscapes inspire your next adventure. Princess Cruises is an authorized concessioner of Glacier Bay National Park.

Alaska Cruise Experience

Stunning mountains and national parks in Alaska

Alaska Glaciers

One of the biggest reasons people visit.

Glaciers feel alive. They groan, creak and shudder on their march to the sea, punctuated by the booms and crashes of "white thunder" — a sound that echoes across the water when ice calves into the ocean below. On an Alaska cruise, let us show you Glacier Bay National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.

Learn more about Alaska Glaciers

Alaska wildlife experience: A grizzly bear catching a fish

Alaska Wildlife

Untamed, just like alaska.

Alaska is home to a rich array of wildlife, from the famous Big Five animals that live in Denali National Park — grizzly bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep and caribou — to bald eagles and humpback whales that migrate through the Inside Passage. On a cruise to Alaska, live a nature lover's dream in the land where guests can catch postcard-worthy sights.

Learn more about Alaska Wildlife

Stunning mountains and national parks in Alaska

Alaska Mountains & National Parks

National treasures.

With national parks and four of North America’s tallest mountains, Alaska’s wilderness has been preserved for generations. Denali National Park is larger than Vermont and home to the highest peak on the continent. Meanwhile, Glacier Bay National Park has over 2,000 square miles of glacial coverage. Along with Wrangell-St. Elias and Kenai Fjords, a world of natural wonders awaits on an Alaska cruise or cruisetour.

Learn more about Alaska Mountains & National Parks

Couple casting a fishing line out on an Alaska excursion

Alaska Excursions

Don't just visit this famous land, live it on Alaska excursions. Rush across the snow on a dog sled with a professional musher, fly fish for salmon in fresh rivers and soar over miles of glacial tundra in a helicopter. Watch migrating humpback whales from the deck of a catamaran or Native craftsman carve a traditional totem pole, and expand your Alaska cruise experience.

Learn more about Alaska Excursions

Alaska Cruise Ports of Call

cruise port at Juneau, Alaska

College Fjord

Alaska cruise to College Fjord Alaska

The Harriman Expedition discovered College Fjord in 1899 and named the towering glaciers after the great East Coast universities of the United States, like the Harvard Glacier. With the largest collection of tidewater glaciers in the world, your scenic Alaska cruise through the fjord will make a lasting memory.

View cruises with College Fjord

Endicott Arm

A couple enjoying scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord on an Alaska cruise

Endicott Arm is a jewel in Alaska’s crown. This 30-mile waterway is surrounded by cliffs, valleys and dozens of waterfalls. Icebergs and harbor seals decorate the water below while Dawes Glacier soars into the sky above. Revel in the beauty of Mother Nature’s masterpiece and listen closely as the scenery whispers secrets of times long ago during your cruise to Alaska.

View cruises with Endicott Arm | View Endicott Arm shore excursions

Glacier Bay National Park

Passengers with a park ranger at glacier bay on board Alaska cruise

When you cruise to Alaska with Princess, sail through one of the most iconic locations in the Great Land — Glacier Bay National Park. Listen to Margerie Glacier’s signature crack and boom rumble across the waves. Bring binoculars and scan both the shore and the waves for wildlife like brown bears and migrating whales while Park Rangers teach you the history and geology of the park.

View cruises with Glacier Bay National Park | Learn more about Glacier Bay National Park

Hubbard Glacier

Two men taking a photos of hubbard glacier on Alaska cruise

The largest tidewater glacier in North America, Hubbard Glacier has been moving its mass towards the ocean at a rate faster than most of its kind. Towering above the water over 30 stories, the glacier often calves 100-foot chunks of ice into the ocean. What lies beneath the waves is almost as impressive, where ice plunges 1,200 feet beneath the surface. See it for yourself on an Alaska cruise with Princess.

View cruises with Hubbard Glacier | View Hubbard Glacier shore excursions

Icy Strait Point

View of a grizzly bear at Icy Strait Point on Alaska cruise

Icy Strait Point is home to the remote Tlingit village of Hoonah, home to fewer than 800 people and a deep Native history. The nearby Spasski River Valley holds one of the world’s largest populations of brown bears, who are often found hunting for salmon in the rivers. Zipline over the wilderness, watch a tribal dance or kayak in coastal waters to see the wildlife up close during your Alaska cruise vacation.

View cruises with Icy Strait Point | View Icy Strait Point shore excursions

Gondola Lift at Juneau on an Alaska cruise

Juneau is unlike any other city in the United States. With no roads connecting it to the rest of Alaska or North America, it is truly a protected destination. Founded as a gold mining town and now the state’s capital, Juneau has one foot in history and one in the future. Embark on a whale watching tour, or sail past Mendenhall Glacier on an Alaska cruise.

View cruises with Juneau | View Juneau shore excursions | Watch video: Juneau port overview

A man catching a fish in Ketchikan on Alaska cruise

Known for its timber, Ketchikan hosts the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, where athletes throw, race and chop their way to victory. Explore one of the world’s oldest collection of totem poles at the Totem Pole Heritage Center, or stroll along Creek Street. As the salmon capital of the world, Ketchikan’s waters make for incredible fishing. Cast your rod into a sea of opportunity on a cruise to Alaska.

View cruises with Ketchikan | View Ketchikan shore excursions | Watch video: Ketchikan port overview

Scenic cruise in Sitka on an Alaska cruise

On an Alaska cruise, take your pick of attractions in the port of Sitka. See how bald eagles and local bird populations receive first-class treatment at the Alaska Raptor Center. Encounter wildlife in their natural habitat at the Fortress of the Bear. Or experience the culture of Russian Alaska on a visit to St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church, and relive Native history at the Sheldon Jackson Museum.

View cruises with Sitka | View Sitka shore excursions

White Pass Railway passing through treacherous maintain in Skagway, Alaska

Once the gateway to Alaska's Gold Rush, Skagway strikes a dramatic image nestled between the water's edge and mountains. Follow in the footsteps of miners with a ride on a scenic train along the famous White Pass route through coastal mountains. During your Alaska cruise, explore the Yukon's pristine wilderness, pan for gold with professionals or meet sled dog puppies in training.

View cruises with Skagway | View Skagway shore excursions | Watch video: Skagway port overview

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Valdez is situated in Prince William Sound and serves as the gateway to the interior of Alaska. Often referred to as the "Little Switzerland", Valdez is known for its breathtaking panorama of snow-capped mountains and glaciers. It is also well-known for its role in the transportation of crude oil from the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, which ends in Valdez. Explore the charming waterfront area and take in the flavors of Valdez through culinary experiences at restaurants such as the Valdez Brewery and the Fat Mermaid.

View cruises with Valdez

Victoria, B.C.

Butchart Gardens in Victoria B.C

At first glance many mistake Victoria for an English coastal city or northern European town. Full of greenery, pubs and Victorian architecture, it's difficult to believe that this was a tent city full of rough and tumble miners just 150 years ago. On a cruise to Alaska, explore the Butchart Gardens, tour the pub scene and taste some of the local brews or sail the bay for a whale-watching adventure.

View cruises with Victoria, B.C. | View Victoria, B.C. shore excursions

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Wrangell is a charming and scenic harbor known for its local fishing industry. It is not as bustling as larger ports in Alaska and maintains its historic charm and offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Explore its historic downtown and learn about the local culture and Native heritage while in Wrangell.

View cruises with Wrangell

#PrincessCruises Alaska Connection

Alaska cruise onboard experience.

Princess presents North To Alaska logo

Our award-winning North to Alaska program brings local personalities, culture and cuisine on board and ashore to immerse you in all things Alaska during your cruise to the Great Land.

Learn more about our North to Alaska Program

A family taking pictures with some of Skagway’s newest sled dogs on Alaska cruise

Alaska Seafood

Fresh and bountiful, like alaska itself.

Alaska's seafood is famous, and we bring the best to you with locally inspired dishes from the state’s best eateries. With Cook My Catch excursions, catch your own salmon or halibut with the help of a local expert, and in the evening our talented chefs will prepare your haul for your dinner — a Princess exclusive. From ship to shore, the best is at your fingertips on our Alaska cruises.

Artist Kenneth White on board Princess showing a totem carving exhibition to a young group

Meet Local Alaskans

Real alaska from local alaskans.

Alaskans are inviting people who love to share what makes their state unique. Watch lumberjacks in action, learn from Glacier Bay National Park rangers and craft with a Native totem pole carver. Or listen to harrowing Tales from the Deadliest Catch fishermen and climbers who have summited Denali during your Alaska cruise.

A family taking pictures with some of Skagway’s newest sled dogs on Alaska cruise

Unique Alaska Cruise Experiences

Great experiences from the great land.

Travel back in time and pan for gold like a prospector during the Gold Rush. Snuggle sled dog puppies in the ship's Piazza, or see the Northern Lights in the planetarium. At the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, explore our treehouse and enjoy unmatched views of Denali. Or savor tree-inspired bites at our very own Sappy Hour. Dive deeper into what makes the Great Land special on your cruise to Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Articles and Videos

Read about Alaska’s must-see attractions, signature cuisine, and how to prepare for a wild adventure into the heart of The Great Land.

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Discover Alaska with Princess in 2023-2024

The best cruise line in Alaska just keeps getting better! From top-rated cruises that visit Glacier Bay National Park to scenic rail travel and exclusive Princess lodges, you will find a seamless Alaska experience with Princess.

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Best Dishes to Try on Your Alaska Cruise

No one does seafood quite like Alaska—which is why we brought the best of the Great Land on board, so you can experience it all with Princess.

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Top Alaska Cruise Destinations

From exploring Denali National Park to fishing for salmon in Anchorage, discover the top Alaska destinations on a Princess cruise.

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Inside Passage Alaska Cruise

From exploring historic gold mines to venturing in the footsteps of early explorers, learn about Alaska’s Inside Passage and discover the wonders awaiting you.

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Alaska Ports of Call

From the sweeping mountains of Juneau to the fish-bearing seas of Ketchikan, discover our Alaska cruise ports and set sail into the adventures that await you.

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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Check out our helpful checklist so that you know exactly what to pack for an Alaska cruise with Princess.

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Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

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Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go.

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Learn more about transfers

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Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax.

Extend your Alaska cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

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Cruise Mummy

Princess Cruise Ships Ranked From Best To Worst

This post may contain affiliate links. if you click one, i may earn a commission at no cost to you. as an amazon associate, i earn from qualifying purchases..

Princess Cruises is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world, with a large fleet of ships that offer very different experiences.

If you’re not familiar with the fleet, you might want to know which is the best ship, and which is the worst. So I’ve put together this guide that ranks all of the ships in popularity order.

Cruise mummy with Princess Cruise Ship

How I gathered the data

The only fair way to rank the Princess Cruises ships is to look at the overall popularity of each. It’s not right if I just decide my own personal preference, because:

  • I haven’t cruised on every Princess ship
  • I’m not you, and we might like different things!

So what matters to me is understanding an average review of the ships. Therefore I’ve taken the data from three of the biggest review sites on the internet for cruise ships – Cruise Critic , Cruiseline.com and TripAdvisor – and created an aggregate score for each ship.

(It helps that they all rank ships out of 5, so creating an average isn’t too difficult!)

This list is ranked from the ship with the best average score, down to the worst. And whenever I rank ships in this way, I like to clarify that “worst” doesn’t mean “bad”.

To prove my point – the top-scoring ship on this list has an average score of 4.07 out of 5, while the “worst” ship still has a score of 3.53 out of 5 – so well above average.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at all 15 ships in the Princess Cruises fleet, and see which is the best and which has been reviewed the worst. I’m pretty surprised by numbers 13 and 15, let me tell you!

Which Princess cruise ship is the best?

According to customer reviews, the best Princess Cruises ship is the Regal Princess, the second of the Royal-class ships to launch when she debuted in 2014. Her sister ship Enchanted Princess is actually rated the worst of the cruise line’s ships.

The Best Princess Cruise Ships By Reviews

Here’s the full list of all the ships in the Princess fleet, organised by average score.

1. Regal Princess

Regal Princess

If you stepped onboard Regal Princess today, you might struggle to believe that she’s almost 10 years old. It might be an exaggeration to say that she looks brand new, but she has definitely maintained a very high standard and her decor remains contemporary to this day.

The ship is an identical twin to Royal Princess and so didn’t introduce anything new or innovative, but that doesn’t matter – guests still really enjoy the balance of the ship. She has a lot to offer for daytime and evening activities, but unlike some of the mega ships sailing for other cruise lines she never feels extremely crowded.

Entertainment, Princess Theater, Production Show

Guests do have some minor complaints but they tend to be inconsistent issues – bad dining experiences that are in the minority, patchy WiFi, staff maybe having a bad day and not offering the best service.

Read more: Regal Princess Cabins

2. Coral Princess

Coral Princess

I love some of the surprises that these ranked lists throw up, and Coral Princess being the second-most popular ship in the Princess fleet definitely counts as one.

She’s not the eldest ship in the fleet (although you don’t have to read much further for that), but she’s the second eldest and more importantly, she is the smallest ship in the fleet , tied with her sister ship Island Princess.

Coral Princess - pool deck

So why the popularity?

She tends to offer more unusual itineraries, and her smaller size gives her a really pleasant, intimate atmosphere – the combination suits a lot of people who want an exciting adventure with excellent service. Onboard features are limited so she feels more like a classic cruise ship – albeit one that is beautifully maintained.

Read more: Coral Princess Cabins

3. Royal Princess

Royal Princess

Royal Princess was a major ship launch for Princess Cruises in 2013. The first new ship in 5 years, she was also significantly larger than prior ships in the fleet and she debuted exciting features including the SeaWalk, the glass-bottomed walkway extending over the side of the ship.

She remains really popular because she is spacious, and has a lot to offer for days at sea, but she never feels too busy.

Royal Princess - stateroom

The only consistent criticism from guests is that some of the more basic staterooms aren’t huge, but with so much to do onboard it’s not a major problem.

Read more: Royal Princess Cabins

4. Grand Princess

Grand Princess

I said it wouldn’t be long until we got to the oldest ship in the Princess fleet . And having launched in 1998, Grand Princess is one of the oldest ships still sailing for any of the major American cruise lines.

When she debuted, Grand Princess was the largest and most expensive ship ever built in the world!

Her high review scores are not just based in nostalgia though – yes, she tends to be preferred by older guests who want a more classical cruising experience, but her exciting Alaska and Australia itineraries, and her great dining and evening entertainment, are the basis of her position near the top of this list.

Read more: Grand Princess Cabins

5. Island Princess

Island Princess

Proof that the older Princess Cruises ships are some of the most loved, the 2003 Island Princess is the second Coral-class vessel for the cruise line and despite lacking some of the modern features of later ships, guests still rate her highly.

Island Princess - dinning experience

With Island Princess it’s less about the itineraries – she offers similar Mediterranean and Northern Europe cruises to other ships – and more about the relaxing atmosphere of this smaller ship. Another good example of a ‘classic’ cruise ship experience, but with modern decor and a good variety of dining options.

couple enjoying Mediterranean shore

Read more: Island Princess Cabins

6. Ruby Princess

Ruby Princess

Ruby Princess is a mid-sized ship that offers a varied cruise experience. Unlike some of the smaller ships in the fleet, Ruby feels more suited to families – she isn’t packed with features, but she has enough to keep kids of all ages entertained on a couple of sea days, with a great kids club too.

Ruby Princess - Kids masterchef

Her itineraries are interesting too, including a mix of sailings around the Caribbean and Alaska, including Panama Canal sailings while repositioning between the two.

couple in Ruby Princess

The ship is generally well maintained, although the decor is starting to show its age, especially in some of the staterooms. A minor gripe really, as guests generally have a really positive experience onboard.

Read more: Ruby Princess Cabins

7. Discovery Princess

Discovery Princess

Discovery Princess is, for now, the newest ship in the Princess Cruises fleet , having launched in 2022. Part of the Royal Class, she’s larger than Royal Princess and Regal Princess after some design changes which began with 2019’s Sky Princess.

The extra space is used for suites and staterooms, rather than adding more entertainment features or facilities, so the day-to-day experience is similar to her sisters, although despite the extra room there are more complaints from guests about service being slow or the ship feeling crowded.

This could be teething issues, although based on the placement of Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess in this list, it could show that the design tweaks weren’t quite right.

Read more: Discovery Princess Cabins

8. Majestic Princess

Majestic Princess

Majestic Princess is a unique ship in the Princess fleet, in that she was originally built with the Chinese cruise market in mind.

She’s part of the Royal Class, and shares a lot of similarities, but she has features such as the Harmony restaurant, offering Chinese cuisine, and the Hollywood Pool Club area, that set her apart.

Majestic Princess - Pool

Reviews are broadly positive but she shares some of the same criticisms of other Royal-class ships – particularly in the size of the standard staterooms, which can feel a little cramped. Some complaints also mention how everything relies on the app and the Medallion, and sometimes they fail, which can cause frustrations.

Read more: Majestic Princess Cabins

9. Sapphire Princess

Sapphire Princess Cruise Ship

Sapphire Princess is another older ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, having been sailing for around 20 years. And while there are elements of the ship that are showing that age, an extensive refurbishment in 2018 has helped to keep it looking fresh and removed many of the really dated features.

She’s the largest ship in the Grand Class but she carries the fewest passengers, which helps give her a more spacious feel (not that any of the Grand Class ships feel particularly cramped).

The best features, according to reviews, are the itineraries and the service offered by the crew. The most frequent comments in negative reviews mention the food being a little basic, and those dated areas of the ship – especially the public bathrooms . 

Read more: Sapphire Princess Cabins

10. Emerald Princess

Emerald Princess

Emerald Princess is another mid-sized ship that’s considered part of the Grand Class for Princess, although that class has a number of sub-classes too. She’s another ship that offers a fun mix of cruises on both US coastlines, including the Caribbean, cruises to Hawaii and cruises to Canada and New England.

Emerald Princess - dining service

Reviews for the ship are more mixed. Most of the positive comments focus on the food and the service, while most of the criticism are levied against the evening entertainment. There are also some experienced Princess cruise passengers who think the ship just isn’t what she used to be, and that there’s more nickel-and-diming than there used to be.

Read more: Emerald Princess Cabins

11. Caribbean Princess

Caribbean Princess

Caribbean Princess is considered part of the Grand Class, but she is also the only Caribbean-class ship sailing for Princess. First launching in 2003 she is a little older than some of the other ships sailing for the fleet, but she’s been maintained to a relatively high standard.

Caribbean Princess swimming pool

Originally built exclusively for the Caribbean, she now offers sailings in Europe too, although her lack of an enclosed pool due to her original design can sometimes be a drawback. She’s definitely a Caribbean ship – there’s not a huge amount to do during the day, since you’re more likely to be exploring tropical islands, but at night she is a lot of fun.

Read more: Caribbean Princess Cabins

12. Diamond Princess

Diamond Princess

Diamond Princess is a sister ship to Sapphire Princess, and both were built in Japan. The difference is that Diamond Princess has largely remained there – her home port is Yokohama. 

This makes for some exciting itineraries, but it also means the ship is much more international than her sister, which can be a positive or a negative. Crew will broadly speak English, so it shouldn’t cause any real issues.

Diamond Princess pool deck

Most guests really enjoy her unique atmosphere, but she is a little dated now and even a 2019 refurbishment hasn’t stopped some guests from commenting on how her age is showing in places. If you love international cuisine though then definitely put this ship nearer the top of your list.

Read more: Diamond Princess Cabins

13. Sky Princess

Sky Princess

Sky Princess launched in 2019 and she remains one of the largest ships in the fleet, being an enhanced design of the Royal Class. I’m surprised to see her down so low because she’s thought of as one of the more popular ships to sail from the UK , she has a lot of facilities and she’s very modern.

But the criticisms of the ship seem to be that she’s a little too busy even for her size, and that can sometimes impact the quality of the service onboard too. Plus, because she’s quite new and big, cruises can sometimes be more expensive.

Sky Princess - Sky Suite balcony

Plus, one of the more exciting features of the ship was the new Sky Suite, with the largest balcony at sea, and that’s too costly for most guests to experience, so is hardly going to have a big impact on review scores.

Read more: Sky Princess Cabins

14. Crown Princess

Crown Princess

Crown Princess is considered both a Crown-class and a Grand-class ship, similar to others in her class she is a comfortable mid-sized ship that offers a good balance of space and entertainment, but is perhaps starting to show her age.

Crown Princess pool deck view

She has been updated, so she doesn’t feel too dated, and positive reviews do talk about how her simple style is refreshing compared to feature-packed ships. She just isn’t that exciting though, so her review scores tend to be closer to average.

Read more: Crown Princess Cabins

15. Enchanted Princess

Enchanted Princess

Enchanted Princess is another of the newer Royal-class ships, launching between Sky Princess and Discovery Princess. Unfortunately, guests see her more like her earlier sister Sky, meaning there are some criticisms about how busy she feels, or how expensive the cruises are compared to other ships that offer a similar standard of cruising.

And similar to her earlier Royal-class sisters, there are a handful of customer reviews criticising the size of the rooms and the balconies. Unless you’re in a suite , don’t expect the most spacious accommodation.

Enchanted Princess - Balcony Stateroom

Read more: Enchanted Princess Cabins

Choosing The Best Princess Cruise Ship For You

There’s no single answer on which is the best Princess Cruise ship. As you can see from the rankings, the ships have a lot of differences. You’re going to have a very different cruise on Island Princess compared to Discovery Princess.

And people have different tastes. A lot of the decision will come down to the itineraries but you need to bear in mind the atmosphere and facilities too. A busier ship may be more entertaining but can also feel overwhelming if you want peace and quiet.

The nicest Princess Cruise ship is likely the Discovery Princess, being the newest ship with the most contemporary features. However if your idea of a nice ship is one with a more relaxing atmosphere, and the modernity of the decor is less important, then the best ship is likely the Coral Princess.

Discovery Princess is the largest ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, although her sister ships Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess are almost identical in size. Despite their size, guests often view them as feeling the busiest and most cramped. The new Sun Princess, sailing in 2024, will surpass these ships.

There are a number of Princess Cruises ships that offer sailings to Alaska, and the best-reviewed ship of these is Royal Princess. She is relatively modern, she has a lot of great entertainment, and she has plenty of space to enjoy the stunning Alaska views.

There are currently six ships in the Princess Cruises fleet with sailings to Hawaii. These are Crown Princess, Discovery Princess, Emerald Princess, Royal Princess, Ruby Princess and Sapphire Princess. Of these, Royal Princess is the most popular with guests.

There are four cruise ships in the Princess Cruises fleet currently sailing the Panama Canal. These are Caribbean Princess, Emerald Princess, Island Princess and Ruby Princess. Of these ships, the most popular according to customer reviews is Island Princess.

The Princess Cruises ships that have an Alfredo’s Pizza are Discovery Princess, Grand Princess, Majestic Princess, Regal Princess, Royal Princess, Sapphire Princess and Sky Princess. Coral Princess and Island Princess have pop-up Alfredo’s within the Sabatini’s Restaurant, while Enchanted Princess has Gigi’s – same menu, but a different name.

The Grand-Class ships for Princess Cruises have two-bedroom Family Suites. This includes the Grand Princess, Diamond Princess, Sapphire Princess, Caribbean Princess, Emerald Princess, Crown Princess and Ruby Princess. The Sky Suites on Enchanted Princess, Sky Princess and Discovery Princess also have two bedrooms but are much more expensive.

None of the Princess Cruises ships have water slides. The ships are suitable for families, and have entertaining kids clubs, but the pool areas are designed for relaxation rather than having high-speed slides that you’ll find on other cruise lines.

The Bottom Line

One thing you can definitely say about Princess Cruises’ fleet – it proves that newer ships aren’t always the most popular. Yes, some of the more recent Princess ships are near the top of the list, but some are down at the bottom too, and a lot of guests prefer the quieter atmosphere of the older ships.

It’s down to you and your own personal preferences, but also remember that none of these ships are “bad”. They might have some bad reviews but every ship scored higher than an average rating, so most people enjoy their cruise on every ship in the Princess fleet.

Still, if you’re planning a Princess cruise, make sure you consider which ship would be more suited to your style of cruising. And it’ll be interesting to see where Sun Princess – the upcoming newest ship in the fleet – will end up in this ranking.

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Cruise Mummy

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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2 thoughts on “Princess Cruise Ships Ranked From Best To Worst”

We have now been on a number of these ships. The Grand was our very first cruise ever and we have a soft spot for her. We now have been 3 times on the Grand, not by design. We take whatever ship has the itinerary that we want. Next summer we will be on the Majestic and I anticipate we will enjoy her.

My wife and I were on the Coral Princess from Sydney to Grenock, Scotland. We got off a few days early to attend a Scotish wedding. The ship was VERY sick. The Coral Cough was rampant. I got COVID which was a mild case, but both of us got very sick. The itinerary included ports that were extremely hot (extreme summer heat was a problem all over the world). We felt that the very cold dinning rooms and lack of newer air circulation were the cause of many sicknesses on the ship. That said, the crew was great and met many fun loving Aussies and Kiwis. Final comment – I will never cruise on the Coral Princess again.

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Princess Cruise Reviews

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Sail Date: April 2024

Review for a Europe - British Isles & Western Cruise on Sky Princess

Firstly, this ship is too big with far too many people onboard and not enough staff. Unfortunately this cruise was during half term so the pools were taken over by children who even had their own blow-up toys in the water. Not enough seating in the public areas. Sunbeds on the decks are almost touching each other. Poor service in the dining room. Wine is served to you already in a glass and not by ... Read More

Review for a Europe - Western Mediterranean Cruise on Sky Princess

In summary, a fantastic cruise. Recently, we've sailed with so-called budget lines (MSC\Costa) with an NCL cruise dotted in. Sometimes it's worth paying that bit extra and Princess certainly felt like that. The quality of the food was 1st class (Bit disappointed with Crown Grill to be honest - scallops overcooked but Sabitinis was absolutely fantastic). Buffet selection was superb. ... Read More

Review for a Asia Cruise on Diamond Princess

Japan and busan were delightful, but this boat is a bore! most of the entertainment has been soloists - a juggler, a magician, a pianist, a harmonica player - and this is in the main theater! the ship is small and there aren't many options provided. the same two violinists, one pianist and a small band rotating around doing the same songs over and over. the food has been unimpressive. some ... Read More

Review for a Caribbean - Eastern Cruise on Enchanted Princess

The only good experience was our room housekeeper and our bed. The premium balcony that we bid up for had no footstools, so they brought us little table things. An officer was out smoking in an area that blew his smoke right into our balcony making us go inside. The crew elsewhere in santorini seemed unhappy. we ordered at salty dog-the girl wrote down wrong number, so as we waited for our ... Read More

Review for a Transatlantic Cruise on Regal Princess

Least favourite of Princess ships. Food is of poorer quality even though the dinner menu is the same on all Princess ships. ventilation system is extremely poor. Did they forget about COVID on this ship. Had many issues on ship but these were addressed quickly ie. shower didn’t work, food was cold in dining room and dirty balcony with broken glass. I am now officially turned off Princess cruises. ... Read More

Review for a Mexican Riviera Cruise on Discovery Princess

Okay this is an objective review based upon our direct experience and conversations onboard with other seasoned cruisers aged between 40 and 60. All of the other cruisers we spoke with were couples and most were US citizens, with the other being British, like ourselves. Discovery Princess was immaculately presented, with no signs of wear and tear or damage anywhere. The deluxe balcony cabin ... Read More

Review for a Pacific Coastal Cruise on Discovery Princess

We decided to give Princess a try for the short 3-day cruise and opted fora mini-suite with the plus package. We started out our first day with lunch in the Skagway didning room so we could try the orance souffle. Service was very odd and our waiter seemed like he really was not having a good morning. When the food did finally arrive it was lukewarm and a little bland. It was just okay. The room ... Read More

Sail Date: March 2024

I recently embarked on a voyage with Princess Cruise Line on the Discovery Princess. While the ship itself was beautiful, my overall experience was disappointing and didn’t meet my expectations. The ship lacked a variety of activities for children. They had a multi-purpose court and two ping pong tables, but the equipment was worn down and in need of repair. They didn’t organize many outdoor ... Read More

Traveled with children

Review for a Europe - Eastern Mediterranean Cruise on Sun Princess

princess cruise ships

Whilst not everything on the ship is working, deck 19, the rest of the ship is fantastic. We had a mini suite. Thd cabin is well appointed, slightly disappointing that there was no coffee machine in the cabin but as we could get fresh coffee and drinks on the lido, literally just a 1 min walk from the cabin or use ocean now delivery, so not the end of the world. The restaurants are fantastic with ... Read More

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Princess Cruises' Star Princess ship delayed, 9 sailings canceled

princess cruise ships

Travelers will have to wait longer than planned to sail on Princess Cruises’ upcoming ship.

The delivery of Star Princess, which was set to debut next summer, will be pushed back by about two months. The cruise line said the delay was a “mutual” decision with shipbuilder Fincantieri.

“Following a comprehensive review of the remaining construction milestones, both parties have elected to adjust the ship's delivery date from July 29, 2025 to September 26, 2025, which will result in the cancellation of the nine inaugural sailings,” Princess said in a news release .

Guests whose cruises are impacted will be able to rebook on any Princess ship and, depending on which sailing they pick, receive future cruise and onboard credits. They will also be able to opt for a full refund of their fare instead.

“Despite our collective dedication and relentless pursuit to deliver the ship in late July, it has become evident that additional time is required to ensure the Star Princess is delivered to the highest standards expected by our guests,” Princess Cruises President John Padgett said in the release.

Your cruise was canceled: Now what?

The ship’s new inaugural itineraries will include 11 and seven-day Mediterranean cruises on Oct. 4 and 15, 2025, respectively. Those will be followed by a two-week transatlantic voyage to Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Oct. 22, 2025.

Those sailings will be available to book on April 30.

Star Princess will be the second in the line’s Sphere Class. Sister ship Sun Princess was also delayed ahead of its launch earlier this year, with Princess citing “additional technical work” needed at the shipyard.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

princess cruise ships

8 New Cruise Ships Launching in 2024 That You Need to Know About

E veryone loves the thrill of sailing on a brand new cruise ship. If you’re wondering what new cruise ship options you’ll have in 2024, there are eight ships set to launch. One of them, the Sun Princess from Princess Cruise Line, has already made its debut.

Sun Princess

  • Launched February 2024

Princess Cruise just launched its biggest ship, the Sun Princess, with a 4300-passenger capacity. This new ship is designed to be more family-friendly, with the aim of attracting younger cruise-goers. On the top deck, they’ve introduced a hang-gliding ride, the first of its kind on a cruise ship. Additionally, there’s a ropes course, a splash zone, a wider range of restaurants, a high-tech theater, and a glass-covered dome entertainment venue.

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  • Launching June 2024

Cunard’s latest addition to its fleet is the Queen Anne, the company’s first new ship in over a decade. This 2794-passenger cruise liner will embark on its maiden voyage in Europe, with sailings in the Mediterranean and Scandinavia. The ship’s design is a modern take on the classic “golden age” of cruising, featuring new restaurants and a two-deck Royal Court theater. Check the prices for Cunard cruises .

Utopia of the Seas

  • Launching in July 2024

Royal Caribbean is introducing another massive cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas, which will soon become the second largest cruise ship worldwide, surpassed only by Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. Utopia of the Seas is an impressive ship, with a passenger capacity of 6,700, a total weight of 237,000 tons, and 2,830 cabins. 

It is part of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class of ships featuring an impressive array of amenities, such as an indoor ice skating rink, a zip line, a FlowRider surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, a water park, a 259 ft Ultimate Abyss waterslide, an aqua theater, and neighborhoods filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. Cruise passengers will be entertained with Broadway-caliber shows.

Utopia of the Seas will sail on short getaway itineraries from Port Canaveral (Orland), offering 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday itineraries to the Bahamas and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Check the prices for Royal Caribbean cruises .

Disney Treasure

  • Launching December 2024

Disney Treasure, the latest addition to the Disney Cruise Line, will launch in December this year, marking a significant milestone after a decade since the launch of the last Disney cruise ship. The ship has 1256 cabins and suites, each designed with a theme inspired by Disney movies like Aladdin, The Lion King, and Pocahontas. 

Passengers on the cruise are in for a treat, with exciting Broadway-style musicals and the Aqua Mouse, a thrilling Disney water ride. The themed restaurants on board are another highlight, featuring a Marvel-themed restaurant and a Mexican restaurant inspired by the movie Coco. And if that wasn’t enough, the ship also features a new Haunted Mansion-themed bar, resembling a classic ocean liner’s haunted drawing room, serving ghostly cocktails.

  • Launching August 2024

Silversea Cruises is preparing to launch its newest ship, the Silver Ray, in the summer of 2024. The Silver Ray is the second Nova Class ship in the Silversea fleet, and it promises to bring ultra-luxury cruising to a new level. With a capacity of 728 passengers, the Silver Ray is a small ship that offers an all-balcony cabin experience, complete with walk-in closets and butler service. 

But that’s not all. The Silver Ray is also an eco-friendly cruise ship, making it the first hybrid, luxury cruise ship to be completely emission-free while in port. It does this by using fuel cells and batteries to power the ship. 

The Silver Ray will begin its maiden voyage season sailing in the Mediterranean, before repositioning to Fort Lauderdale, where it will offer South America cruise itineraries. Check the prices for Silversea cruises .

Brilliant Lady

  • Launching TBA 2024 

Virgin Voyages, the popular adults-only cruise line, is launching its newest ship, the “Brilliant Lady,” sometime in 2024. The brand new ship will have a capacity of over 2700 passengers and will be an adults-only cruise—perfect for anyone seeking an indulgent cruising experience. 

Explora II is the latest ship of Explora Journeys, MSC Group’s newest addition to its luxury brand. With a capacity of slightly over 900 passengers, it’s a smaller cruise ship that promises a more personalized experience for its guests. 

Passengers on board the ship will be treated to a range of luxurious amenities that include oversized suites, welcome champagne bottles, an exclusive whiskey and cigar bar with rare whiskeys, an expansive spa, and plenty of bespoke experiences. The ship will sail in the Mediterranean, perfect for passengers looking for a luxurious and intimate cruising experience.

Mein Schiff 7

  • Launching Summer 2024

Mein Schiff 7 is the latest addition to TUI Cruises’ fleet and is expected to launch in the summer of 2024. TUI Cruises, a German-based cruise line co-owned by Royal Caribbean, has designed Mein Schiff 7 as a mid-size ship with a passenger capacity of 2896. 

The brand new cruise ship has 12 restaurants and bistros, 17 bars and lounges, and cabins for solo travelers. The ship also features a reinvented casino concept that combines a lounge and casino. The ship will sail in the Baltic and British Isles.

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The post 8 New Cruise Ships Launching in 2024 That You Need to Know About appeared first on Suburbs 101 .

Everyone loves the thrill of sailing on a brand new cruise ship. If you’re wondering what new cruise ship options you’ll have in 2024, there are eight ships set to launch. One of them, the Sun Princess from Princess Cruise Line, has already made its debut. Sun Princess Princess Cruise just launched its biggest ship, […]

The 4 classes of Princess Cruises ships, explained

Gene Sloan

Of the seven big cruise lines that account for the majority of cruises taken by North Americans, Princess Cruises has the simplest fleet.

The vast majority of the line's 16 ships fall into one of just two groups, known as "classes" in cruise industry lingo: The Royal Class and the Grand Class.

Each of these two groups is made up of ships that were constructed around the same time to the same basic design. If you know one member of the group, you know them all.

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In total, the Princess fleet has six Royal Class ships and seven Grand Class ships, and the line operates just three ships that are not part of these two groups: Sun Princess , Coral Princess and Island Princess.

Sun Princess is the line's newest and biggest vessel, and the sole ship in the line's new Sphere Class of vessels. Coral Princess and Island Princess are the line's oldest and smallest vessels and part of what's called the Coral Class.

An introduction to Princess Cruises ships

Princess downsized its fleet considerably during the COVID-19 pandemic with the removal of five ships. But it's still the world's fifth-biggest cruise line by passenger capacity, with 16 vessels that together offer roughly 50,000 berths.

In general, Princess operates big ships. But they're not quite as big as the vessels operated by Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises — the two lines best known for giant ships. The biggest Princess vessel, the line's new Sun Princess, measures around 177,000 tons. That's about 29% smaller than the biggest ship operated by Royal Caribbean. The line's Royal Class vessels are more than 40% smaller than the biggest Royal Caribbean ships.

Sun Princess is, without a doubt, the belle of the ball in the Princess fleet. Newer, bigger and more venue-filled than the line's other ships, it debuted in early 2024 and carries 4,300 passengers at double occupancy.

Also relatively new and chock-full of lots of venus are the line's five Royal Class ships, which measure between 142,229 and 145,281 tons. These vessels began rolling out in 2013 and carry about 3,600 passengers apiece at double occupancy.

Still, the biggest cohort of ships in the Princess fleet are its seven Grand Class vessels. Unveiled between 1998 and 2008, the vessels in this class are smaller than the Royal Class vessels at around 107,000 to 116,000 tons in size. This smaller size allows them to operate a wider range of itineraries than the Royal Class ships. However, they're still big enough to offer a lot of onboard venues. The Grand Class ships carry between 2,600 to 3,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises

Rounding out the Princess fleet are its two Coral Class ships which, at around 92,000 tons, are the smallest of the line's ships. They each carry around 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Sphere Class

Ships in class: Sun Princess (2024); Star Princess (2025)

Size: 177,882 tons

princess cruise ships

The Sphere Class is just starting to debut at Princess — for now, just one of the ships is sailing. But it's already making waves as a class of Princess ships that's a significant evolution from what came before.

Notably, the one ship in the series so far, Sun Princess, is more lively, more kid-friendly and offers more dining, drinking and entertainment options than any other Princess ship at sea.

That's in part because Sun Princess is a much bigger ship than is typical for Princess, giving it room for more venues. At 177,882 tons, it's a whopping 21% bigger than the next biggest Princess ship and nearly double the size of the line's smallest ships.

Related: TPG's take on the new Sun Princess

It also carries far more passengers than earlier Princess ships — 4,300 at double occupancy and 5,189 with every berth filled.

In short, if you're in the "bigger is better" camp when it comes to cruise ships, this is the Princess ship for you.

princess cruise ships

Among the most significant differences between Sun Princess and earlier Princess ships is that it has a far more diverse array of eateries — a conscious effort by the line to offer its customers more options.

In addition to the two specialty restaurants found on almost every Princess ship (the Crown Grill steakhouse and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria), Sun Princess is home to the Butcher's Block by Dario, a new meat-focused grill designed in partnership with celebrity Italian butcher Dario Cecchini (if you've seen Netflix's "Chef's Table," you know who he is).

Related: New Princess ship is serving breakfast for dinner

It also has three new Asian dining options: Makoto Ocean, a sushi eatery designed by James Beard Foundation honoree Makoto Okuwa; teppanyaki-serving Umai Teppanyaki; and hot pot venue Umai Hot Pot (the latter two outlets share the same space). There's also a new restaurant called Love by Britto, designed in partnership with artist Romero Britto, and a version of The Catch by Rudi, a seafood restaurant designed by Princess head of culinary arts Rudi Sodamin that is on a handful of Princess vessels.

princess cruise ships

The wider range of eateries is complemented by the most diverse array of entertainment venues ever on a Princess ship. They include an innovative main theater that can be reconfigured three ways for performances; a secondary performance venue for comedy shows and karaoke nights; a central atrium that houses musical performances, game shows and other lively events throughout the day; and a covered-by-a-glass-dome nightspot atop the ship rigged for aerial shows.

In addition, Sun Princess is home to a clubby, magic-infused nightspot called Spellbound by Magic Castle, which is a first-of-its-kind venue at sea. Open to just 90 passengers a night (who pay for the exclusive access; the cost currently is $149 per person), it's a floating version of Magic Castle, the iconic, private club for magicians and their guests in Los Angeles.

Related: My strange night out at Princess Cruises' new magic-infused nightspot

Sun Princess also has a large family-friendly play zone on its top deck called Park19, a first for a Princess ship. Park19's marquee attraction is Sea Breeze, a hang gliding-like ride experience; it also features a ropes course and a climbing wall.

The vessel is also the first Princess ship with a separate suite complex aimed at the growing number of big-ship-loving vacationers willing to pay big bucks to be pampered while at sea.

Royal Class

Ships in class: Discovery Princess (2022); Enchanted Princess (2020); Sky Princess (2019); Majestic Princess (2017); Regal Princess (2014); Royal Princess (2013)

Size: 142,229 to 145,281 tons

princess cruise ships

The six Royal Class ships in the Princess fleet aren't as big as Sun Princess. But they're still significantly bigger than the rest of the line's vessels and, like Sun Princess, offer more of everything — more lounge space, more restaurants, more bars and more entertainment — than you'll find across most Princess ships.

On the Royal Class ships, you'll find all of the things for which Princess is known: lively, piazza-like central atriums surrounded by bars and restaurants that serve as central gathering points; lots of entertainment venues for live shows, comedy acts and more; and relatively uncluttered pool decks with lots of space for sunning.

You'll also find some "extras" not found on the other ships including, on some of the vessels, a glass-floored "seawalk" that extends over the side of the ship.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess ship

Each of the Royal Class ships has at least half a dozen eateries, including main restaurants and a casual buffet where meals are included in the fare. Extra-charge restaurants on the vessels include versions of the line's signature steakhouse, Crown Grill, and Italian restaurant, Sabatini's.

Some of the ships also have the seafood restaurant The Catch by Rudi that is on Sun Princess, serving up the likes of Dover sole, mussels Provencale and lobster. Plus, you'll find pizzerias on the vessels and the gourmet hot dog- and taco-serving Salty Dog Grill.

princess cruise ships

Royal Class ships also have some of Princess' most elaborate spas with large thermal suites. If you're a spa lover, you'll revel in the hydrotherapy pools, Turkish-style steam baths and other spa features found on these vessels.

The most recent vessels in the series — Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess and Discovery Princess — also have more suites than is typical for Princess, which has never been known for high-end accommodations (though not as many suites as you'll find on Sun Princess). If you're looking to live it up on a Princess cruise, these three ships as well as Sun Princess probably are the ships for you.

Sky Princess, notably, was the first Princess ship ever to have truly big suites — a pair of so-called Sky Suites that measure more than 1,800 square feet and lord over the main pool area. They were also the first cabins at the line that could accommodate more than four people. With two bedrooms plus a living room with a pullout sofa, they're designed for up to five people.

As noted above, the Royal Class ships can carry about 3,600 passengers apiece, based on double occupancy (two people per cabin). However, it's possible you'll find even more people than that on these ships when you sail on them. When additional berths from pull-down bunks and pull-out sofas are factored in, the total capacity of the ships jumps to around 4,600 passengers.

In case you're curious, the name of the Royal Class series ties to the godmother of the initial Royal Class vessel. Dubbed Royal Princess, it was famously christened by a royal, the U.K.'s Catherine, Princess of Wales (known as the Duchess of Cambridge at the time). The cruise line's first Royal Princess, which debuted in 1984, was christened by Diana, Princess of Wales.

Grand Class

Ships in class: Ruby Princess (2008); Emerald Princess (2007); Crown Princess (2006); Caribbean Princess (2004); Sapphire Princess (2004); Diamond Princess (2004); Grand Princess (1998)

Size: 107,517 to 115,875 tons

princess cruise ships

The Grand Class ships have long been at the core of the Princess fleet, and they continue to be highly popular with Princess fans. About 20% smaller, on average, than the line's Royal Class ships, the seven vessels in the series offer a more intimate feel than the Royal Class ships while still being big enough to offer a lot of features and activities.

Like the Royal Class ships, the Grand Class vessels have interiors that revolve around lively, piazza-like atriums with cafes that serve as central gathering places. They also have big theaters that are home to production shows, comedy clubs and multiple restaurants and bars spread across their interiors.

On their top decks, they feature lots of quiet and relaxing pool and lounge areas where you can enjoy the experience of being at sea without a lot of hustle and bustle — a notable difference from the vibe on a lot of big ships at competing lines.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess cabins and suites

Indeed, what you won't find on the Grand Class ships (or any Princess ship other than the new Sun Princess, for that matter) are a lot of family-focused deck-top attractions. Unlike many of its competitors in the big-ship market — most notably Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises — Princess hasn't been known to load up the tops of its vessels with sprawling water parks, go-kart tracks, laser tag courses and other flashy diversions.

Compared to most of its big ship-operating rivals, Princess is known for a more serene, almost "old school" sort of cruising that isn't about a lot of attractions.

While all of the Grand Class ships are roughly similar, you'll find a fair amount of variation from ship to ship, as they were built in clusters with some design changes along the way.

princess cruise ships

Among the biggest differences is that the three oldest of the Grand Class vessels — Grand Princess, Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess — each have one fewer deck than the rest of the ships in the class.

You'll also find some variation in restaurant choices on the seven Grand Class vessels. All have a signature Princess steakhouse (either called Crown Grill or Sterling Steakhouse), and a Sabatini's Italian eatery. But two of the ships — Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess — also have a gastropub called Salty Dog that isn't found on the other vessels. Some of the vessels have a seafood outlet called Steamers.

In addition, one of the Grand Class ships — Diamond Princess — has been specially overhauled to appeal to the Japanese market with extensive Japanese baths, a sushi restaurant and cabin bathrooms retrofitted with Japanese-style bidets. This ship often sails around Japan on voyages that target the local market, but also Americans and Australians.

Three of the Grand Class ships — Ruby Princess, Emerald Princess and Caribbean Princess — have more elaborate spas than the others with thermal suites. Additionally, one of the vessels, Caribbean Princess, features a family-focused pool deck with a splash pool — a nod to family vacationers that's unique among ships in the class. As a result, Caribbean Princess makes for a top choice for Princess fans who will be cruising with small children.

Coral Class

Ships in class: Island Princess (2003); Coral Princess (2002)

Size: 91,627 tons

princess cruise ships

The Coral Class ships are even smaller than the Grand Class ships — about 15% to 20% smaller — and have a more cozy feel. Because of their smaller size, they also have somewhat fewer features and amenities than the ships in the other Princess classes.

In general, these are ships that appeal to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience on a cruise than what you'll find on the big Royal Class ships. They also draw cruisers who care more about the destinations that they visit on a cruise than onboard attractions.

Along those lines, Princess often deploys the Coral Class ships on its more far-flung, destination-rich itineraries, including lengthy around-the-world cruises.

For the coming year, for instance, Island Princess is sailing a 116-day world cruise out of Los Angeles (starting Jan. 20, 2025) and will also offer lengthy trips to the Arctic and the Baltic.

Related: Everything to know about the Princess Captain's Circle loyalty program

Coral Princess will spend much of the coming year based in the Australian ports of Sydney and Brisbane for sailings to Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. These sorts of itineraries mostly draw local Australians, but Americans are welcome, too. Coral Princess will also sail a 110-day, around-the-world voyage out of Sydney that will begin April 30.

As is typical for Princess ships, both Coral Class vessels have a restaurant scene that revolves around main restaurants, a casual pool deck buffet, a steakhouse (in this case, one with a New Orleans theme called Bayou Cafe and Steakhouse) and an Italian eatery called Sabatini's.

The casual pool deck buffet on each of the ships is, notably, located at the bow, which allows for great views over the water and what some Princess fans say is a better flow than buffets located further back on pool decks.

Entertainment venues on the ships include a relatively large main theater for production shows, secondary lounges that offer comedy shows and other entertainment, and a casino. Like other Princess ships, the top decks of the vessels are mostly devoted to pool areas with hot tubs and lounge chairs. Both ships also have spas.

Bottom line

The Princess fleet is relatively easy to understand. There are just four types of ships in the Princess fleet and for the most part, they aren't wildly different from each other.

Princess believes strongly in offering a consistent product from ship to ship, and it generally doesn't make revolutionary changes with each class of vessels it unveils (though the newest Sphere Class has relatively more differences from earlier classes). The big difference among the line's four classes of ships is the size of the vessels in the classes. If you're a fan of big ships, you'll want to gravitate to the new Sphere Class and Royal Class vessels. If you like your cruise ships more intimate, you'll probably want book the Grand Class or Coral Class vessels.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

  • The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
  • The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
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IMAGES

  1. Cruise ship review: Princess Cruises' Star Princess

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  2. Princess Cruises FAQ

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  3. Caribbean Princess cruise ship turned back to US after more than 300

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  4. Royal Princess Sailing The West Coast In 2019

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  5. Grand Princess cruise ship passengers back in Canada

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  6. All the classes of Princess Cruises ships, explained

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COMMENTS

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    On December 7, 2019, Princess Cruises honored two pioneering women of the U.S. Space Program: Captain Kay Hire, and engineer Poppy Northcutt, who served as the godmothers, and officially named Sky Princess. Captain Hire began her 30-year NASA career as a mechanical systems engineer, helping to launch more than 40 space missions. ...

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  14. Princess Cruises: Star Princess

    There's no sibling rivalry here. Sun Princess® can't wait to welcome her sister ship, Star Princess®, to the fleet - the third ship with this celestial name. She'll feature the new Dome, out-of-this-world views in the Piazza, Signature Collection Suites and more. Inaugural Cruise: 2025. Guest Cabins: 2,150. Guest Capacity: 4,300.

  15. Caribbean Princess

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  18. Island Princess

    Find Cruises. Guests 2,200. Crew 900. Refurbished Dec 2017. More Facts. Island Princess is your own private retreat on the sea. Whether you crave relaxation or exhilaration, you'll find the soothing Lotus Spa®, live entertainment, gourmet cuisine, casino gaming and more. And for a special treat, try the Bayou Café and Steakhouse, which ...

  19. Princess Cruises: Alaska Cruises 2023-2024

    Our Alaska cruises are your ticket to adventure amidst the Great Land's glaciers, wildlife and national parks. Voyage through the untamed beauty from the comfort of our world-class ships, exclusive rail service and Princess Wilderness Lodges near national parks. Choose from a variety of Alaska cruise and cruisetour itineraries and connect ...

  20. Princess Cruises welcomes its biggest ship ever with help from a star

    Princess Cruises on Tuesday officially hailed the arrival of its newest megavessel — at 177,882 tons, its biggest ever —with the help of "Ted Lasso" star Hannah Waddingham. The Emmy Award-winning actress and singer presided over a star-studded 19-minute christening ceremony in the ship's Princess Arena theater that included a traditional ...

  21. Princess Cruise Ships Ranked From Best To Worst

    A guide to rank the popularity of 15 Princess Cruises ships based on customer reviews from three review sites. Find out which ship is the best and which has been reviewed the worst, and learn about the features, itineraries and ratings of each ship.

  22. Princess Cruise Reviews (2024 UPDATED): Ratings of Princess Cruises

    1 - 10 of 19,620 Princess Cruise Reviews. Enchanted Princess - TRULY Enchanted! Review for a Caribbean - Western Cruise on Enchanted Princess. hellfyrekat. 10+ Cruises • Age 50s. Read More. Sail ...

  23. Princess Cruises delays new ship, cancels 9 cruises

    Travelers will have to wait longer than planned to sail on Princess Cruises' upcoming ship. The delivery of Star Princess, which was set to debut next summer, will be pushed back by about two ...

  24. 8 New Cruise Ships Launching in 2024 That You Need to Know About

    Princess Cruise just launched its biggest ship, the Sun Princess, with a 4300-passenger capacity. This new ship is designed to be more family-friendly, with the aim of attracting younger cruise-goers.

  25. Enchanted Princess

    †Guests may call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® Cruises app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 USD per person per voyage will apply for ...

  26. The 4 classes of Princess Cruises ships, explained

    The Princess Cruises ship Coral Princess. PRINCESS CRUISES. The Coral Class ships are even smaller than the Grand Class ships — about 15% to 20% smaller — and have a more cozy feel. Because of their smaller size, they also have somewhat fewer features and amenities than the ships in the other Princess classes.