Princess Cruises has officially added the Star Princess, their newest Sphere-Class vessel, to their fleet. Delivered at the esteemed Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, this 177,800-ton, 4,300-guest ship is the highly anticipated sister vessel to the celebrated Sun Princess. This significant milestone was marked by a formal handover ceremony, attended by key executives from both Princess Cruises and Fincantieri, alongside local dignitaries. The Star Princess is poised to redefine luxury cruising with its extensive amenities and innovative design, promising an exceptional experience for its future passengers across multiple enchanting destinations, including the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Alaska.
The formal delivery event for the Star Princess was a moment of immense pride for Princess Cruises. Gus Antorcha, President of Princess Cruises, expressed his gratitude and admiration for the collaborative effort, acknowledging the outstanding craftsmanship and innovation demonstrated by Fincantieri. This partnership has consistently produced vessels that stand at the forefront of naval architecture and passenger comfort. The Star Princess, with its impressive capacity and advanced features, represents a continuation of this tradition, reinforcing Princess Cruises' commitment to delivering unparalleled sea voyages.
Following its delivery, the Star Princess is currently being prepared for its maiden voyage. A dedicated team of 1,600 crew members is diligently working to ensure every detail is perfect for the arrival of its first guests. The ship is scheduled to depart for Barcelona, from where it will embark on its inaugural 11-day Western Mediterranean sailing on October 4. This initial European debut will showcase the ship's luxurious offerings against the backdrop of iconic Mediterranean landscapes, setting the stage for its subsequent transatlantic journey and diverse seasonal itineraries.
Beyond its European introduction, the Star Princess is slated for an exciting Caribbean season, commencing on November 7, 2025, from Fort Lauderdale. This will offer guests the chance to explore the vibrant culture and breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean islands. Following this, the vessel will undertake a remarkable transit through the Panama Canal, en route to its inaugural Alaska season. These varied itineraries highlight the ship's versatility and Princess Cruises' dedication to providing a wide array of travel experiences to suit every preference.
The Star Princess boasts an array of sophisticated features designed to enhance the passenger experience. It includes over 1,500 balcony staterooms, offering stunning ocean views, and 30 distinct dining and bar venues to cater to diverse culinary tastes. Among its standout attractions are The Dome, a cutting-edge space for relaxation and entertainment, and The Arena, which is touted as the cruise line's most technologically advanced theater. The ship's architectural centerpiece, The Piazza, captivates with its dramatic curves and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, creating an airy and elegant atmosphere.
Further distinguishing the Sphere-Class vessels is the exclusive Sanctuary Collection, an elevated private retreat at sea. This premium offering provides an exclusive restaurant, the adults-only Sanctuary Club pool deck, and enhanced amenities, establishing a new benchmark for luxury cruising. Additionally, guests can indulge in Spellbound by Magic Castle, a speakeasy-style experience developed in collaboration with Hollywood’s renowned Magic Castle, adding a touch of enchantment to their journey.
The addition of the Star Princess brings the total number of vessels in the Princess Cruises fleet to 17. This expansion underscores the cruise line's ongoing growth and its unwavering commitment to innovating and elevating the cruise experience. Each new ship brings with it enhanced capabilities and fresh attractions, ensuring that Princess Cruises continues to be a leader in the global cruise industry.
The delivery of the Star Princess represents a significant expansion for Princess Cruises, enhancing their capacity to offer diverse and luxurious voyages. This new vessel is expected to be a popular choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure across some of the world's most beautiful destinations.