Princess Cruises: Overview, Tips & Prices

Princess Cruises has long been synonymous with elegant travel, immersive destinations, and unforgettable onboard experiences. Founded in 1965 and now operating as part of Carnival Corporation, Princess Cruises offers travelers the chance to explore over 330 destinations across the globe—from the icy fjords of Alaska to the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean. With a fleet of 15 state-of-the-art ships, including innovative new additions like the LNG-powered Sphere-class, the cruise line has something to offer everyone—from solo adventurers and couples to families and large groups.

What truly sets Princess Cruises apart is its ability to blend classic luxury with modern convenience. Guests enjoy world-class dining, Broadway-style entertainment, and enriching activities while sailing between iconic ports. Plus, with flexible pricing options and travel packages like Princess Plus, the cruise experience can be tailored to meet different budgets and travel styles.

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser curious about what to expect, or a seasoned traveler seeking insider tips and pricing strategies, this comprehensive guide offers everything you need to know. From destination overviews and dining highlights to money-saving tips and frequently asked questions, get ready to plan the perfect voyage with one of the world’s most respected cruise lines.

Overview of Princess Cruises

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1965, Princess Cruises has grown into one of the world's premier cruise lines. As a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation & plc, the company operates 15 ships, serving approximately 2 million guests annually. Headquartered in Santa Clarita, California, Princess Cruises offers voyages to over 330 destinations worldwide.

Fleet and Innovation

Princess Cruises' fleet comprises a mix of ship classes to accommodate various preferences:

• Royal Class: Featuring ships like the Royal Princess and Regal Princess, these vessels offer elegant designs and luxurious amenities.
• Grand Class: Including ships such as the Ruby Princess and Caribbean Princess, these ships are known for their spacious layouts and family-friendly features.
• Coral Class: Smaller ships like the Coral Princess and Island Princess provide access to unique itineraries, including Panama Canal transits.
• Sphere Class: The newest addition, the Sphere-class ships, are LNG-powered and boast innovative features like The Dome, a versatile entertainment

Destinations and Itineraries

Princess Cruises offers an extensive array of itineraries, catering to diverse travel interests:

Alaska: Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, Princess Cruises provides immersive Alaskan experiences, including land-based tours and wilderness lodges.

Caribbean: With departures from ports like Fort Lauderdale and San Juan, travelers can explore pristine beaches and vibrant cultures.

Mediterranean: Voyages encompass historic cities such as Rome, Athens, and Barcelona, offering rich cultural experiences.

Asia & Australia: Princess Cruises has expanded its presence in Asia and Australia, providing unique itineraries that blend Eastern traditions with modern luxuries.

World Cruises: For the adventurous, Princess Cruises offers around-the-world voyages, allowing guests to explore multiple continents and numerous ports of call.

Dining Options

Princess Cruises prides itself on a diverse culinary offering:

Main Dining Rooms: Complimentary dining with a variety of international cuisines.

Specialty Restaurants: For an additional fee, guests can indulge in gourmet experiences at venues like Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and Crown Grill.

Casual Dining: Buffets and 24-hour eateries provide flexible dining options throughout the day.

Beverages: While basic coffee and tea are included, specialty coffees, alcoholic beverages, and bottled water typically incur additional charges. Packages are available for purchase to enhance the dining experience.

Entertainment and Activities

Princess Cruises ensures that guests are never short of activities:

Broadway-Style Shows: Theaters host nightly performances, including musicals and comedy acts.

Live Music: Various lounges feature live bands and solo artists.

The Piazza: A central hub offering street performances, gelato, and a vibrant atmosphere.

The Sanctuary: An adults-only retreat providing relaxation with al fresco massages and refreshing beverages.

The Dome: Exclusive to Sphere-class ships, this innovative space transforms from a daytime lounge to a nighttime entertainment venue.

Pricing and Value

Pricing for Princess Cruises varies based on itinerary, ship, and cabin selection:

Interior Cabins: Starting around $100 per night.

Balcony Cabins: Typically range from $150 to $250 per night.

Suites: Prices can exceed $300 per night, offering premium amenities and services.

Promotions, such as the Princess Plus plan, often include perks like beverage packages and onboard spending credits, enhancing the overall value.

Tips for First-Time Cruisers

Book Early: Securing reservations well in advance ensures better cabin selection and access to popular shore excursions.

Travel During Off-Peak Times: Sailing during non-holiday periods, like May or September, can offer more relaxed experiences and potential savings.

Arrive Early: Arriving a day before departure helps mitigate travel delays and allows for a stress-free embarkation.

Pack Smart: Consider the climate of your destinations and pack accordingly. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, medications, and formal attire for specialty dining.

Utilize the Princess App: The app provides daily schedules, deck plans, and allows for easy booking of onboard activities and dining reservations.

Final Thoughts

Princess Cruises remains a top-tier cruise line for travelers seeking comfort, culture, and high-quality service. With routes to some of the world’s most scenic and historic destinations—from the glaciers of Alaska to the ruins of the Mediterranean—there’s truly something for everyone.

Its fleet continues to evolve with the introduction of LNG-powered Sphere-class ships and cutting-edge onboard experiences like The Dome. Add to that flexible dining, robust entertainment, and options for every type of traveler, and it's easy to see why Princess Cruises is a favorite among both first-timers and seasoned cruisers.

Whether you're planning a relaxing week in the Caribbean or a globe-trotting world cruise, understanding the pricing structure, available packages, and onboard amenities will help you get the most out of your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is included in the cruise fare?

The base fare typically covers accommodations, main dining meals, onboard entertainment, and most onboard activities. Specialty dining, beverages, shore excursions, and gratuities are usually additional costs

Q2: What is the Princess Plus package?
The Princess Plus package is an upgraded fare option that includes a beverage package, unlimited Wi-Fi for one device per guest, and prepaid crew appreciation (gratuities). It’s designed to offer better value for travelers who would otherwise purchase these amenities separately, saving up to 50% compared to buying them individually.

Q3: Are gratuities included in the cruise fare?
Gratuities are not included in the standard cruise fare but are included if you purchase the Princess Plus or Princess Premier packages. Otherwise, Princess Cruises adds daily gratuities to your onboard account, typically ranging from $16 to $18 per person, depending on your stateroom category.

Q4: What is the dress code on Princess Cruises?
Princess Cruises has a "Smart Casual" dress code for most evenings, while some nights may be designated as "Formal Evenings," where cocktail dresses, suits, or evening wear are recommended. Daytime attire is resort-casual, and swimsuits are appropriate at the pool and sundeck areas only.

Q5: How can I stay connected while at sea?
Princess Cruises offers its proprietary MedallionNet Wi-Fi, which is available across the fleet. It is known for being fast and reliable—even for video streaming. This is included in the Princess Plus and Premier packages or can be purchased separately.

Q6: Is Princess Cruises good for families?
Yes, Princess Cruises caters well to families. Their youth and teen programs are divided by age groups and offer engaging activities and themed parties. The ships also include pools, movies under the stars, and family-friendly shore excursions.

Q7: Are shore excursions included in the price?
No, shore excursions are not included in the standard fare. You can book excursions directly through Princess Cruises or with third-party providers. Booking early is recommended as popular tours tend to fill quickly.

Q8: What’s the cancellation policy?
Princess Cruises has a tiered cancellation policy based on how far in advance you cancel. Cancellations made closer to the departure date are subject to higher penalties. Travel insurance is strongly advised to protect your investment.