princess cruises longest cruise

26 countries in 116 days: Princess Cruises will sail its longest cruise ever in 2025

Many cruise lines have seen higher demand for long sailings , and now Princess Cruises is going bigger than ever. The cruise line announced a new 2025 World Cruise that will take guests to 26 countries over 116 days, the longest itinerary in its history, the line said Thursday.

The voyage will take guests to 51 destinations around the world, including the Mediterranean, Central America, Africa, Australia and more on the Island Princess ship, according to a news release .

"We're highly regarded for our World Cruises and our 2025 voyage promises to be one for the ages as our longest adventure ever offered," John Padgett, the line's president, said in the release. "Our expert itinerary planners have assembled an unmatched combination of popular ports and off-the-beaten-path locales for a global journey not found anywhere else."

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When is Island Princess' 2025 World Cruise?

Passengers can sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Jan. 5, 2025, or from Los Angeles on Jan. 20, according to Princess' website . They can also cruise from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale on a shorter 101-day itinerary.

Where will Island Princess' 2025 World Cruise cruise go?

The cruise will take guests to ports across the world, from Honolulu, Hawaii, to Bali and Barcelona, among others, including some firsts for the line. Princess will make its inaugural stops in Bar, Montenegro, and Taranto, Italy, during the sailing, and its first World Cruise visits to Patmos and Volos in Greece, according to the release.

As part of the trip, passengers can visit more than 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Singapore Botanic Gardens and Croatia's Old City of Dubrovnik , and spend more time in port during an overnight stay in Dubai and more than 10 late-night calls.

How much does Island Princess' 2025 World Cruise cost?

The round-trip option from Fort Lauderdale starts at $20,539, and while the round-trip option from Los Angeles starts at $19,999 per person based on double occupancy, excluding taxes, fees and port expenses, according to the line's website .

Travelers who book the round-trip 116-day itineraries and the 101-day option by May 31 can get some perks, like free round-trip economy airfare for guests in balcony staterooms and first-class flights for those in suites, Reserve Collection or mini-suites; the line's Princess Plus package; $500 per passenger in onboard credit for the first two guests in a cabin and more.

Portions of the voyage are also available to book in shorter installments.

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

Princess Cruises just unveiled its longest cruise itinerary ever — and it's a wowzer

Princess Cruises is out with a new itinerary that is longer than anything the company has offered in its 58-year history.

The around-the-world voyage , scheduled for 2025, will last 116 days — or about four months in total — and includes calls at 51 destinations across six continents.

Kicking off on Jan. 5, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, the sailing will take place on the line's 2,200-passenger Island Princess.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

It'll begin with a stop in Cartagena, Colombia, and a passage through the Panama Canal before a series of calls up the west coast of Central America on the way to Los Angeles. From there, the ship will cross the Pacific to the Hawaiian Islands and Fiji on the way to New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore and Sri Lanka.

Continuing westward, the ship will visit multiple destinations in the Middle East, including Dubai; Muscat and Salalah, Oman; and Aqaba, Jordan. Then, it will transit the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean.

Mediterranean stops will include Alexandria, Egypt (for a daytrip to Cairo); Ashdod and Haifa, Israel (for visits to Jerusalem and other places); Kusadasi, Turkey (for a visit to the ruins of Ephesus); and multiple destinations in Greece. More than a dozen calls in Croatia, Montenegro, Italy, France and Spain also are on the itinerary, as are calls in Morocco and the Canary Islands.

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

The voyage will end on May 2, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale after a nine-night Atlantic crossing from Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands.

In all, the routing will cover 33,500 nautical miles as the ship circles the globe. It'll visit 26 countries and offer the option to see 27 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Giza Pyramids and the Old City of Dubrovnik, among other destinations.

After arriving in Fort Lauderdale on May 2, 2025, Island Princess will continue on to Los Angeles on a 15-night sailing. The continuation will allow for an alternative world-circling option in 2025 in which passengers board the ship in Los Angeles on Jan. 20, 2025, and disembark the vessel in Los Angeles on May 17. Like the round-trip sailing from Fort Lauderdale, this route will also be 116 nights in length.

Two calls on the world sailing — Bar, Montenegro, and Taranto, Italy — are particularly notable, as they are destinations Princess ships have never visited.

Related: The 3 classes of Princess Cruises ships, explained

Fares for the 116-night sailing departing from Fort Lauderdale start at $20,539 per person, based on double occupancy. Fares for the 116-night sailing departing from Los Angeles start at $19,999 per person, based on double occupancy.

The fares don't include taxes, fees and port charges, which are $2,040 and $2,035 per person, respectively, for the two versions of the itinerary.

Early booking benefits

Intrigued by this newly announced routing? Note that you'll get some major perks for free if you book it soon.

Princess has announced the following early booking benefits for those who put down a deposit for the trip by May 31:

• Free airfare to reach the ship. Passengers who book suites, Reserve Collection cabins or mini-suites will get included first-class flights to and from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles to reach the ship. Passengers who book balcony cabins will get economy flights. The air inclusion is only available to passengers flying to the ship from the U.S. or Canada.
• Extra onboard spending money. The first two passengers in a cabin will each receive $500 in onboard credits to use during the voyage.
• Free specialty dining. Each passenger will be able to dine up to four times at extra-charge restaurants during the voyage without paying the standard cover charge.
• Extra savings for Captain's Circle members. Members of the Princess frequent cruiser program, the Captain's Circle, will get up to $1,000 in additional savings per passenger for the first two passengers in a cabin when booking.

Additionally, customers who pay in full for the world cruise by May 31 will receive a future cruise credit in the amount of 5% of their world cruise fare.

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Princess Cruises Announces Longest Voyage Ever with 116-Day Cruise

Princess Cruises Sends Island Princess on the Line’s Longest Voyage in History 

Princess Cruises has planned its longest voyage ever in 2025. It will be an epic 116-day World Cruise traveling over 33,500 nautical miles, visiting 51 destinations in 26 countries and six continents.

Now open for reservations, this amazing world adventure includes visits to Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, Central America, Africa, Asia and beyond.

Sailing on Island Princess, the 116-day World Cruise offers two roundtrip options with departures from both Ft. Lauderdale, embarking January 5, 2025, and Los Angeles on January 20, 2025.

This destination dreamers delight also includes Princess’ first-ever visit to historic Bar, Montenegro and Taranto, Italy, along with inaugural World Cruise calls to the idyllic Greek Island of Patmos and to Volos – for the Monasteries of Meteora. 

“We’re highly regarded for our World Cruises and our 2025 voyage promises to be one for the ages as our longest adventure ever offered,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “Our expert itinerary planners have assembled an unmatched combination of popular ports and off-the-beaten-path locales for a global journey not found anywhere else.”

All told, Island Princess’s 2025 around the world cruise will provide access to 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Included is the cruise line’s return to Alexandria, Egypt for historic Cairo and the pyramids and ancient treasures of Giza.

Additional sites include the Singapore Botanical Gardens, Old City of Dubrovnik, The Ancient Greek City of Ephesus (from Kusadasi) and The Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse (from Patmos).

READ NEXT:  Take a First Peek at Princess Cruises’ New Sun Princess

This unique voyage includes an overnight in ultra-modern Dubai, as well as 11 “More Ashore” late-night calls. These later departures will give guests more time to enjoy exploring the old town of Cartagena, Colombia, shopping in Casablanca or making a toast to the nightlife in Sydney.

With and array of optional shore excursions, guests can tap into their inner Indiana Jones and discover the Hypogeum of Hal Saflieni, Malta’s oldest underground temple and necropolis.

In addition, they can walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans wandering the District of the Roman Forum in Cartagena, Spain and stand in awe before Leonardo da Vinci’s magnificent The Last Supper in Milan, Italy.

World Cruise 2025 early booking benefits are available for guests booking the 116-day roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale or Los Angeles voyages and the 101-day World Cruise option from Los Angeles to Ft. Lauderdale by May 31, 2023.

Princess Cruises Early Booking Benefits

• First-Class or Economy Roundtrip Airfare– guests booked in suites, Reserve Collection or mini-suites fly first class to and from LAX or FLL, while guests booking a balcony stateroom receive free economy airfare. Only valid on flights departing the United States or Canada.
• Princess Plus – gives guests almost 60% off a retail value of $140 if components are purchased separately. The enhanced package includes the Plus Beverage Package, single device wi-fi plan and daily crew appreciation, plus two premium crafted desserts, two smoothies or juices, two fitness classes and free shipping of Medallions prior to cruise.
• Onboard Spending Money – for shopping, shore excursions, spa treatments and more, with $500 per guest (for the first two guests in a stateroom).
• Specialty Dining– each guest can dine at award-winning specialty restaurants up to four times during the voyage without worrying about the cover charge. 
• Captain’s Circle Benefits – as a thank you for their loyalty, Captain’s Circle Members enjoy an extra up to $1,000 USD in savings per guest, good for the first two guests in a stateroom.
• Limited Time Offer on Liners to or from Dubai – guests booking the 51-, 50-, 65- or 66-day World Cruise Liner itinerary options to or from Dubai, receive $200 per guest onboard spending money.

Guests paying in full for the World Cruise by May 31, 2023, will receive an additional 5% Future Cruise Credit on their cruise fare.

Source:  Princess Cruises

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Princess Cruises Is Launching a 116-Day Sailing in 2025

It will be the longest cruise ever offered by the company..

Princess Cruises is going big, offering its longest voyage ever with a new 116-day World Cruise that will visit 26 countries on six different continents. The new itinerary will cover 33,500 nautical miles, stop at 51 destinations, and provide access to 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This immense sailing experience is set to embark on January 5, 2025, from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and from January 20, 2025 from Los Angeles, California. Departures from either location will be roundtrip. The Island Princess ship will serve as host for the nearly four-month-long cruise, which continues the growing cruise industry trend of increasingly lengthy sailings available for travelers looking to get a taste of life at sea.

"We're highly regarded for our World Cruises and our 2025 voyage promises to be one for the ages as our longest adventure ever offered," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises, in a shared statement . "Our expert itinerary planners have assembled an unmatched combination of popular ports and off-the-beaten-path locales for a global journey not found anywhere else."

The itinerary includes stops in Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, Central America, Africa, Asia, and more. Locations will include Bar, Montenegro, Taranto, Italy, the Greek islands of Patmos and Volos, the Pyramids of Giza, the Singapore Botanical Gardens, the old town of Cartagena, and so much more.

There will be 12 overnight stays at various destinations. Booking for the cruise is available now. Bookings include roundtrip airfare—economy for balcony stateroom and first class airfare for Reserve Collection, mini-suites, and suites. You can also get discounts for onboard packages that include fitness classes, spa treatments, shore excursions, wifi, and more.

You can check out the complete itinerary and explore booking options at Princess.com .

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Princess Cruises has unveiled its longest 116-day world cruise as extended itineraries continue to see 'record' success

• Princess Cruises unveiled its longest itinerary yet, a 2025 116-day world cruise to 51 locations.
• Extended and around-the-world cruises have seen "record-breaking" booking success.
• Cruise lines like Oceania Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, and now Princess have been capitalizing on this trend.

Travelers have been craving longer cruises now more than ever before.

And in response, cruise lines — from smaller luxury companies to cruising giants — have been unveiling more extended itineraries to "record breaking" success.

Source: Insider

From a one-month transoceanic cruise to a nine-month circumnavigation of the globe, travelers now have plenty of options for these longer sailings.

Booking a similar around-the-world or extended vacation using planes, trains, cars, and hotels instead of a cruise ship could be a complicated logistical nightmare.

But on a cruise vessel, all of the destinations, planning, food, and accommodations are already included.

There's no need to transfer airports or unpack and repack between hotels.

All the traveler has to do is sit back, take a nap on the pool deck, and wait for the ship to sail from destination to destination.

And this more relaxing form of extended travel has been catching the eyes of cruise fans.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises unveils its around the world cruises and extended "grand voyages" annually.

And for five years in a row, the cruise line has seen "unprecedented demand" for its global cruises, which consistently sell out in "record time."

Regent has also been breaking its own records for the length of its itineraries.

Its most recently announced $95,000 to $266,500 per person global cruise — 154-night itinerary roundtrip from Miami in 2026— will be its longest sailing yet.

This shatters the previous record set only one year prior when Regent unveiled its 150-night 2025 world cruise, which was fully reserved before it even opened for bookings.

Source: Insider , Regent Seven Seas Cruises

New-to-brand travelers made up over one-third of bookings for this 2025 cruise, a spokesperson told Insider in an email.

This ratio of returning to new travelers is the same for Oceania Cruises' currently underway 2023 world sailing, a spokesperson for the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' brand told Insider.

The Oceania cruise departed for its circumnavigation of the world in mid-January and will complete its journey in July.

Those travelers were lucky to have snagged a spot. The 180-day cruise sold out in under a day, a spokesperson told Insider …

… noting that Oceania has "significantly" increased its number of other extended voyages.

It's "as if [travelers are] making up for time spent at home [during COVID-19]," a Silversea spokesperson told Insider in an email.

Like Regent Seven Seas and Oceania, Silversea Cruises has seen "strong demand" for its extended cruises.

This year the Royal Caribbean Group brand will operate five-times more 21 days and over itineraries compared to 2019, a testament to the demand it's been seeing.

And it's not just the little guys — some of the world's biggest cruise brands are capitalizing on this boom as well.

On April 6, Princess Cruises announced its 2025 116-day world cruise itinerary.

Source: Princess Cruises

Princess unveils world cruises almost annually but this 2025 sailing aboard the Island Princess will be its longest yet.

The global vacation will stop in 51 locations across 26 countries and 33,500 nautical miles ...

... bringing travelers to destinations like 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and several new to the brand or world cruise destinations.

Just two months prior, budget friendly Carnival Cruise Line also unveiled one of its longest cruises yet, a 31-day transpacific journey in 2024 starting at $3,450.

Source: Insider , Insider

It's one of Carnival's 150 "long cruises" now available for booking, a spokesperson told Insider.

But a month at sea is nothing compared to MSC's recently announced 116-day 2025 world cruise.

Almost one-third of the bookings for this 2025 cruise have come from Americans, the most of any nationality, a spokesperson told Insider.

And there's a good chance the cruise could be fully booked come 2025: MSC's global itineraries have consistently sold out since its first one in 2019.

But so far, no around the world itinerary will top the length of Royal Caribbean's upcoming 274-night Ultimate World Cruise setting sail in December starting at $61,000.

In the first week bookings opened in 2021, 70% of suites and staterooms were claimed.

At the time, Michael Bayley — the cruise line's president and CEO — believed the Ultimate World Cruise would sell out.

Now nine months out, there's still some interior and ocean view staterooms left while all of the balcony staterooms and suites have already been reserved.

The nine-month cruise will be segmented into four shorter portions that can individually be booked.

But half of the booked customers have committed to the nine months at sea. Let's just hope they — along with the rest of these extended cruise fans — have sea legs.

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Princess Cruises opens sales for its longest ever world voyage

The 2,200-passenger island princess will stop in 51 destinations during princess cruises' 2025 world cruise..

Cruises and vacation experiences continue to see ‘very strong demand’: Naftali Holtz

Royal Caribbean Group Chief Financial Officer Naftali Holtz discusses the strong consumer demand for cruises and the impact the pandemic had on the industry on ‘Mornings with Maria.’

Princess Cruises opened sales for its longest voyage yet- a 116 day cruise, touring six continents and starting at $19,999 per person. 

The full cruise starts at $19,999 per person for an inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

The 2,200-passenger Island Princess will visit 51 destinations , sailing to the Mediterranean, Central America, Africa, Asia and Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Two passenger cruise ships of the Princess company and one more of the Holland America Line company are anchored on the outskirts of Bahia de la Paz (Alfredo Martinez/Getty Images / Getty Images)

In total, passengers will experience 26 countries and cover 33,500 nautical miles.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CEO 'OPTIMISTIC' ABOUT FUTURE OF SAILING DESPITE GROWING RECESSION TALK

World travelers will be given the option to depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Jan. 5, 2025 or in Los Angeles, California on Jan 20, 2025.

The voyage includes an overnight stop in Dubai and 11 'More Ashore' late-night calls in Sydney, Australia; Aqaba, Jordan; Cartagena, Colombia; and Genoa, Italy.

The cruise will give guests access to 27 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including a stop in Alexandria, Egypt enabling passengers to visit the Giza pyramids. The UNESCO sites also including the 164-year-old Singapore Botanical Gardens, Old City of Dubrovnik in Croatia, and the Ancient Greek City of Ephesus in Turkey.

REAL ESTATE GIANT MAKES PREDICTION OVER HOUSING AFFORDABILITY SQUEEZE

According to a Princess Cruise press release, guests can shorten their cruise to 51 to 66 days if they are unable to make the entirety of the trip. Guest who choose the shorter voyage can depart from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles to Dubai, or from Dubai to either American city. 

A Princess Cruise Line ship docked somewhere in the Gulf of Mexico. (HUM Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images / Getty Images)

"We’re highly regarded for our World Cruises and our 2025 voyage promises to be one for the ages as our longest adventure ever offered," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises in a press release . "Our expert itinerary planners have assembled an unmatched combination of popular ports and off-the-beaten-path locales for a global journey not found anywhere else."

THIS CRUISE LINE CAN'T TURN YOU DOWN

Guests booking the entire 116-day roundtrip voyage or the 101-day Los Angeles-to-Fort Lauderdale option will receive first-class or economy roundtrip airfare depending on their stateroom category, $500 per guest for onboard spending or shore excursions, and four specialty dining opportunities. 

Two cruise ships of the Princess company and one more of the Holland America Line company are anchored on the outskirts of the Bahia de la Paz. (Alfredo Martinez/Getty Images / Getty Images)

Princess Cruises's Captain's Circle loyalty members will save up to $1,000 per guest for the first two guests in the stateroom.

Guests who book by May 31, 2023, will receive an additional 5% future cruise credit on their cruise fare.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company’s website at www.princess.com .

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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.

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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Princess Cruises Adds Historic America Cruisetour Ahead of 250th Anniversary of America

14-night land and cruise experience highlights america’s roots with nation’s capital, philadelphia, williamsburg & more.

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FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. (May 13, 2024) – Princess guests discovering the scenic east coast on a 2025 Canada & New England cruise sailing out of New York City can now immerse themselves in historic America as they tour the nation’s capital, interact with early settlers at a living history museum, visit Independence Hall in Philadelphia, and stand on the same soil as Thomas Jefferson at his Monticello estate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This Historic America cruisetour takes guests on a seven-night, hosted land tour with overnight stays in Washington D.C., Williamsburg, Staunton, Gettysburg and Philadelphia prior to boarding a seven-day Canada/New England cruise onboard Enchanted Princess roundtrip from New York City.

“Visiting our nation’s capital, nearby historic cities and landmarks always ranks high on travelers’ lists of places to visit in their lifetime,” said Terry Thornton, chief commercial officer, Princess Cruises. “We make traveling to historic America easy, educational and memorable with our knowledgeable and inspiring tour guides sharing the incredible stories of our country’s settlers, leaders, landmarks and historic sites.”

This Historic America cruisetour includes hotels, motorcoach transportation, sightseeing and most breakfasts and dinners. Sample itinerary details:

• Day 1: Arrive Washington, DC
• Day 2: Tour Arlington Cemetery, Embassy Row, National Cathedral, museums of choice, evening illumination tour of Lincoln, Vietnam, World War II, and Korean War Memorials
• Day 3: Visit Mount Vernon, George Washington’s iconic estate, and Jamestown Settlement before arriving in Williamsburg for dinner at a Colonial Williamsburg Tavern
• Day 4: Full day of Colonial Williamsburg historic area
• Day 5: Tour Richmond National Battlefield Park and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate
• Day 6: Enjoy Harpers Ferry National Historic Park and guided tour of Gettysburg Battlefield
• Day 7: City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, for Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, First Bank, Carpenter’s Hall, Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley and Christ Church
• Day 8: Arrive in New York City to embark Enchanted Princess for cruise
• Day 9: Newport, Rhode Island
• Day 10: Boston, Massachusetts
• Day 11: Portland, Maine
• Day 12: At Sea
• Day 13: Halifax, Canada
• Day 14: At Sea
• Day 15: Return to New York City

On sale now, there are 10 Historic America cruisetour options in 2025 with departure dates of August 16, 23, 30; September 6, 13, 20, 27; October 4, 11 and 18, 2025. Rates start at $4,529 per person.

Thornton added, “With the upcoming 250th anniversary of America in 2026, now is the time to visit our nation’s historic landmarks and celebrate our independence.”

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com.

Media Contacts

Contact information for members of the media

Negin Kamali, +1 661-753-1539, [email protected]

Briana Latter, +1 661-753-1538, [email protected]

About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

Additional media information is available at princess.com/news

Not a member of the media? 

Contact us at: 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or 1-661-753-0000

More contact information is available on our Contact Us page

Princess Cruises ships from newest to oldest — a complete list

What is the newest Princess Cruises ship? If you're in the market for a Princess cruise, it's something worth knowing.

The newest Princess cruise ship is typically also the Princess ship with the most up-to-date restaurants, bars, attractions and cabins. It's the one to choose if you want the very latest and greatest in a vessel for your Princess cruise vacation.

As of this year, the newest Princess cruise ship is Sun Princess — the first of a new class of vessels for the line. It just sailed on its maiden voyage in February.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Other relatively new Princess ships include Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess, Sky Princess and Majestic Princess. All began sailing in the last seven years.

In all, Princess Cruises operates 16 vessels. On average, the line comes out with one new ship every two years or so, and it typically keeps vessels in its fleet for around 20 to 30 years before retiring them. The oldest Princess Cruises ship, Grand Princess, is 26 years old.

In general, Princess Cruises' newest ships are bigger and more venue-packed than its older ships. If you crave a lot of options for restaurants, bars and pool areas for your Princess cruise vacation, you'll want to stick to vessels built in the last 10 or so years.

Related: The 4 types of Princess Cruises ships, explained

The oldest Princess cruise ships — those built in the late 1990s and early 2000s — can be as much as 30% smaller than the line's newest vessels.

Here, every Princess ship currently in operation is ranked from newest to oldest:

1. Sun Princess

Maiden voyage: 2024

Size: 177,882 gross tons

Passenger capacity: 4,300

2. Discovery Princess

Maiden voyage: 2022

Size: 145,000 gross tons

Passenger capacity : 3,660

3. Enchanted Princess

Maiden voyage: 2020

Size: 144,650 gross tons

4. Sky Princess

Maiden voyage: 2019

5. Majestic Princess

Maiden voyage: 2017

Size: 143,700 gross tons

Passenger capacity : 3,560

6. Regal Princess

Maiden voyage: 2014

Size: 142,229 gross tons

7. Royal Princess

Maiden voyage: 2013

8. Ruby Princess

Maiden voyage: 2008

Size: 113,561 gross tons

Passenger capacity : 3,080

9. Emerald Princess

Maiden voyage: 2007

10. Crown Princess

Maiden voyage: 2006

11. Caribbean Princess

Maiden voyage: 2004

Size: 112,894 gross tons

Passenger capacity : 3,149

12. Sapphire Princess

Size: 115,875 gross tons

Passenger capacity : 2,670

13. Diamond Princess

14. island princess.

Maiden voyage: 2003

Size: 92,822 gross tons

Passenger capacity : 2,200

15. Coral Princess

Maiden voyage: 2002

Size: 91,627 gross tons

Passenger capacity : 2,000

16. Grand Princess

Maiden voyage: 1998

Size: 107,517 gross tons

Passenger capacity : 2,600

What is the newest Princess cruise ship?

The newest Princess cruise ship is Sun Princess. As noted above, it just debuted in February.

Measuring 177,882 gross tons, Sun Princess is the biggest Princess cruise ship ever built and has more restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top pool space than any other Princess ship.

Sun Princess is the first vessel in Princess Cruises' new Sphere Class of ships and considerably bigger than the vessels in the line's last new series of ships, the Royal Class. A second ship in the Sphere Class series, Star Princess , is under construction and will debut in October 2025.

For more details on Sun Princess, including what venues are on board and what it's like to sail on the vessel, see TPG's comprehensive first look at Sun Princess after an early sailing.

What is the oldest Princess cruise ship?

The oldest Princess cruise ship is Grand Princess. Unveiled way back in 1998, it's the namesake vessel for the line's Grand Class of vessels, which remain at the core of the Princess fleet.

There are seven Grand Class vessels in the Princess fleet in all, making it the biggest grouping of ships at the line. Unveiled between 1998 and 2008, the Grand Class vessels are smaller than the Sphere Class and 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 Sphere Class and Royal Class ships, as the vessels can access some smaller ports that aren't as accessible to the bigger ships.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises

Still, the Grand Class vessels are big enough to offer a lot of onboard venues. The Grand Class ships carry between 2,600 to 3,100 passengers at double occupancy.

What new Princess cruise ships are coming?

Princess currently has one new cruise ship on order: Star Princess. As noted above, it's the second vessel in Princess' new Sphere Class series of ships, which for now will be made up of just two ships (Princess could order more Sphere Class ships in coming years — we'll see).

As noted above, Star Princess is scheduled to debut in October 2025. The ship was scheduled to debut earlier in 2025 but recently was delayed by several months due to construction issues.

The Sphere Class vessels are being built at the Fincantieri shipyard near Monfalcone, Italy.

What is the newest Princess cruise ship available for booking?

Star Princess is the newest Princess cruise ship you can book right now. While the vessel isn't yet in operation, its initial sailings scheduled for October 2025 already are on sale, as are future voyages through March 2026.

What is the newest class of Princess cruise ships?

The Sphere Class is the newest class of Princess ships. It'll be made up of at least two vessels, the first of which (Sun Princess) is already sailing.

At 177,882 tons, Sun Princess is about 22% bigger than the previous biggest ships in the Princess fleet — a significant jump in size for the line. And yet, while it's 22% bigger, it's designed to hold just 17% more passengers.

In other words, its space-to-passenger ratio is greater, making the ship feel roomier — if only modestly.

Related: Everything to know about Princess cabins and suites

In addition to being significantly bigger than past Princess ships, Sun Princess is also the first Princess ship with suites that come with exclusive access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck — a sign Princess hopes to draw more upmarket travelers.

In all, the vessel is designed to hold 4,300 passengers at double occupancy.

What's the difference between newer and older Princess ships?

Newer Princess ships generally are bigger than older Princess ships and thus have more and bigger onboard venues than the line's older vessels.

On the newest Princess cruise ships, the Sphere Class and Royal Class vessels, for instance, you'll find the largest piazza-like central atriums in the Princess fleet surrounded by lots of bars and restaurants; multiple entertainment venues for live shows, comedy acts and more; and expansive pool decks with more space for sunning than you'll find on smaller Princess vessels.

You'll also find some only-on-the-Royal-class-ships extras, including, on some of the Royal Class ships, a glass-floored "SeaWalk" that extends over the side of the vessel.

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

Princess' oldest cruise ships are significantly smaller than its newest ships and lack some of the above features. They have a more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships, and they hold fewer people. While Sphere Class and Royal Class ships can hold more than 4,500 passengers with every berth full, the line's oldest vessels (particularly the relatively small Island Princess and Coral Princess) often sail with just 2,000 or so passengers on board.

That makes them a good choice for someone who wants to try Princess Cruises but isn't eager to travel with huge crowds. The oldest ships in the Princess fleet thus appeal to a subset of Princess fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also often less expensive to sail on, on a per-day basis.

Related: Don't miss out on these Princess loyalty perks

In addition, because of their size, the oldest ships at Princess Cruises are able to operate itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of Sun Princess.

Note that all Princess Cruises ships are renovated and upgraded on a regular schedule every few years, so even the oldest Princess vessels have newer carpeting, updated furniture, modern decor in cabins and other updates. In many cases, they also have had entire eateries and bars renovated over the years with concepts that first debuted on newer vessels.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

P&O Cruises to retire its brand in Australia, fold operations into Carnival Cruise Line

P&O Cruises Australia has announced its fleet will soon be sailing to its final berth, ceasing its operations in 2025 after more than 90 years on the water.

The Australian travel brand will fold its operations into parent company Carnival Cruise Line from March 2025.

P&O's Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure ships and workforce will be rebranded and transferred to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, while the Pacific Explorer, previously known as the Dawn Princess, will be retired.

Passengers set to cruise in 2024 will not be affected, while customers who had cruises booked on the Pacific Explorer after March 2, 2025 will have the option of a refund or credit for Carnival with extra onboard spending money.

It is the end of an era for the popular brand, which first sailed from Sydney on December 23, 1932, on a seven-day itinerary calling at Brisbane and Norfolk Island.

The company's first permanent ship in Australia, the Fairstar — heavily promoted as "the fun ship" — was part of the fleet for nine years until 1997.

P&O Cruises Australia issued its surprise notice to customers on Tuesday.

"As a result, all itineraries on Pacific Explorer scheduled to sail after 2nd March 2025 are being cancelled," it said.

"If you are booked on one of these itineraries you will be contacted by guest services in the coming days with refund details.

"We are all immensely proud of P&O Cruises Australia's 90-year heritage of dedicated operations in the region, and Carnival Cruise Line are honoured to carry forward its storied legacy and continue to deliver the same onboard experiences and itineraries."

Crews on the Pacific Explorer were expected to be redeployed to other ships, but a small number of workers in the P&O Australia head office would lose their jobs, a spokeswoman said.

Acting P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Australia lead Peter Little will be retained under the new title of country manager.

Carnival Cruise chief executive Josh Weinstein hailed P&O Cruises as a storied brand with an amazing team and lauded its accomplishments in Australia and the broader region.

"However, given the strategic reality of the South Pacific's small population and significantly higher operating and regulatory costs, we're adjusting our approach," he said.

The Carnival brand will see its fleet boosted by eight ships after also acquiring vessels from sister line Costa Cruises and ordering new ships to come into operation in 2027 and 2028.

Under the changes, Carnival will continue to be the largest cruise operator in the region with 19 ships, representing almost 60 per cent of the market.

The P&O ships will have technology upgrades, including an ordering app and loyalty program, but will retain the "familiar feel and much of the same experiences" for Australian guests, Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy said.

Who owns P&O Cruises?

P&O Cruises is owned by Carnival Corporation & plc. 

Carnival Corporation & plc owns a number of different brands including Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruises.

What does P&O stand for?

The initials P and O stand for "Peninsular and Oriental", an abbreviation of The Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company.

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