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June 1, 2026

There are cruise ships that you get to know in three days. You learn where the best coffee is served, which sun lounger stays in the shade, and what time the buffet runs out. The Star Princess is different.

Those who spend a week on board continue to make new discoveries right up to the very last day: a door at the end of a cabin corridor that leads to an outdoor deck with an unobstructed view of the sea, or a restaurant that seems to be discreetly tucked away at the stern.

With the Star Princess, Princess Cruises has introduced the newest ship in its fleet into service. Built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, this vessel, together with the Sun Princess, inaugurates the new Sphere Class, characterized by a length of 345 meters and 21 decks. On board, up to 4,300 passengers can be accommodated, cared for by around 1,600 crew members.

With these dimensions, the ship exceeds the usual standards of the premium segment, where the number of guests rarely surpasses 3,500. The question therefore arises: can a ship of such proportions truly deliver the level of exclusivity and quality that Princess Cruises has promised for decades? The answer begins with its architecture.

The Piazza, the Dome, and the stern

These are the three areas that give the Star Princess its unique atmosphere. The first is located midship. Here, the ship’s side opens outward in a wide curve. This striking glass façade, called “The Sphere,” gives the entire class its name.

Through its glass walls, natural light floods the Piazza, the true heart of the ship. The atrium spans three decks, creating a bright and open environment. Those enjoying a cocktail at the bar on the lower level can look directly out through the curved glass at the waves passing alongside the hull. On every level, galleries with lounge areas and bars line the central space. At its center, a stage immediately draws attention: dance classes are held here during the day, while in the evening live bands perform, their music flowing harmoniously across all three levels.

Another remarkable space is located on Deck 18, high above the bow. “The Dome” is enclosed beneath a spectacular steel-and-glass cupola designed like a tiered amphitheater. During the day, this area serves as a sun deck and features a pool that extends from the indoor space to the open air. As evening falls, the atmosphere changes completely. During Candlelight concerts, the sound of an acoustic guitar creates an intimate and relaxing mood. Candlelight reflects off the large glass panels while, beyond them, the sea slowly fades into darkness. During evening shows, the Dome can accommodate around 250 guests.

The stern has always been one of the most captivating places for cruise enthusiasts. Here, the transparent wall of the Infinity Pool extends down to the floor. Those relaxing at the pool’s edge enjoy an unobstructed view of the ship’s white wake dissolving into the horizon.

The pools of the Star Princess

Each pool area on the Star Princess has its own identity and atmosphere.

At the Lido Pool on Deck 17, a large screen shows concert recordings in the afternoon, while in the evening it turns into an open-air cinema. This is also where the traditional Sail Away Party takes place on embarkation day. Just above it, a second sun deck wraps around the entire pool area, providing shaded areas for the lower level. Even on the busiest sea days, it is generally still possible to find a free sun lounger.

The atmosphere is much more peaceful at the Infinity Pool at the stern. This space feels designed for those who enjoy reading a book or spending relaxing moments as a couple. Drinks can be ordered from the adjacent bar or directly to your sun lounger via the Princess app.

The pool located in the Dome is partly indoor and partly outdoor, making it usable in all weather conditions. Finally, on Deck 19, there is a fourth exclusive area reserved solely for guests of the Sanctuary Collection.

Between stages and speakeasy: evening entertainment

The entertainment offering on the Star Princess unfolds simultaneously across multiple stages, so much so that a single week on board is hardly enough to experience everything.

In the Princess Arena, which spans two decks, the company presents original productions and the Latin show “Viva La Música.” The program is further enriched by guest performers, including American magician Joel Meyers.

In the Dome, Candlelight concerts alternate with DJ nights, while in the Piazza live bands perform, their music resonating across all three levels of the surrounding galleries. Those who wish to take center stage themselves can join karaoke nights held at Princess Live.

At O’Malley’s Irish Pub, an Irish band keeps the evenings alive well past midnight. For the Star Princess, Princess Cruises has also expanded the venue by adding 32 additional seats.

One of the most distinctive attractions is “Spellbound by Magic Castle,” a 1920s-style speakeasy bar. The venue pays tribute to the famous illusionist Richard Valentine Pitchford, known to audiences as “The Great Cardini.” For an additional charge and with advance reservation, guests can enjoy an exclusive experience that includes two cocktails and an up-close magic show.

Culinary variety: from steakhouse to Pop Art

On board the ship there are more than 30 restaurants and bars. The buffet restaurant “The Eatery,” located on the promenade deck, offers around 1,300 seats, 570 of which are outdoors. Those wishing to have breakfast in the open air will find the ideal spot here. Right next door is the Americana Diner. In the morning it operates as a buffet, while in the evening it serves American classics à la carte, from Buttermilk Fried Chicken to BBQ Ribs and Shrimp Po’ Boy. The traditional included dinner is served in the two main restaurants, Aurora and Celestial Dining Room, with a daily changing menu.

A variety of specialty restaurants ensures culinary diversity. The Crown Grill offers classic American steakhouse cuisine, while Butcher’s Block by Dario was created in collaboration with the renowned Tuscan butcher Dario Cecchini. At The Catch by Rudi, the focus is on fish and seafood, while Sabatini’s serves Italian specialties. Japanese flavors await guests at Makoto Ocean, with its sushi offerings, as well as at Umai Teppanyaki and Umai Hot Pot. The International Café provides coffee, pastries, and takeaway snacks 24 hours a day.

The most original restaurant on board is located at the stern on Deck 17: “Love by Britto.” The Brazilian Pop Art artist Romero Britto designed this space together with chef Rudi Sodamin. The theme of love runs through every detail, from the interior design to the presentation of the dishes. Britto created the colorful murals and tableware. The kitchen complements the concept with artistic touches such as butter shaped into letters and delicately crafted cucumber hearts. Each course is a visual tribute to the heart and to love. The five-course tasting menu offers high-end cuisine with dishes such as Wagyu beef, Chilean sea bass, pistachio-crusted rack of lamb, and butter-poached lobster.

Cabins designed with attention to detail

The balcony cabin on the Star Princess impresses with its smart, well-thought-out solutions. Motion sensors located under the bedside table and in the bathroom activate a soft night light. This allows guests who get up during the night to find their way without having to search for a switch. The rest of the cabin remains completely dark, thanks to the balcony door curtain, which ensures full blackout conditions. Power outlets and USB ports are available in abundance. The desk provides enough space for a laptop and work documents. Storage space is also more than sufficient, both in the bathroom and throughout the cabin. On the balcony, a table and two chairs invite guests to enjoy a relaxing breakfast for two with a sea view.

Those seeking more space can choose one of the 123 Mini Suites, featuring a larger living area and a separate seating corner, or one of the 80 Suites. The two exclusive Sky Suites located on Deck 18 even offer direct access to the Dome terrace. The suites also include butler service and access to the Sanctuary Collection. The most affordable option is represented by interior cabins located on the midship decks. For guests with reduced mobility, there are 51 accessible cabins designed without architectural barriers.

The premium experience begins with the balcony cabin

With the Star Princess, Princess Cruises makes the ship’s most exclusive area accessible already from the moment of booking a balcony cabin. The new “Sanctuary Collection” category is available across all cabin types. Guests who choose this option gain access to the Sanctuary Club, located at the stern on Deck 19: an adults-only area for guests aged 16 and over, featuring dedicated sun loungers and exclusive service, with a maximum capacity of 430 guests. A particularly distinctive feature is the bell mounted on the wall: those who ring it between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. receive a glass of champagne.

According to Princess Cruises, the Sanctuary concept was developed to encourage multi-generational family travel. For example, grandparents can book a luxurious suite, while grandchildren can stay in a more affordable balcony cabin within the Sanctuary Collection, while still sharing the same exclusive onboard experience.

Spa, sports, and children’s clubs

Those seeking relaxation during sea days will find it at the Lotus Spa. The treatment area is located on Deck 6, while the Lotus Salon, offering hair and beauty services, is situated on Deck 18. Massages, facials, and acupuncture sessions can be conveniently booked in advance. Since the most popular time slots fill up quickly, it is worth joining the free tour offered on embarkation day, during which the team presents all available treatments.

Guests who prefer physical activity can head to the upper decks of the Star Princess. On Deck 19, there are two net-covered sports courts for basketball and tennis, as well as a panoramic jogging track that runs around the deck with stunning sea views. At the Lido Pool, regular pool volleyball tournaments are also held. The fitness center on Deck 18 is open 24 hours a day, while in the morning the Piazza hosts Zumba and line dance classes with no prior registration required.

For families, there are three dedicated areas for different age groups: Firefly Park for children aged 3 to 7 on Deck 6, the Neon Grove Tweens Club for ages 8 to 12, and the Underground Teen Lounge for teenagers aged 13 to 17 on Deck 7. The children’s program is well structured, although the Star Princess clearly places its main emphasis on shared multi-generational experiences.

Itineraries: between Alaskan glaciers and tropical beaches

In the summer of 2026, the Star Princess will inaugurate its first season in Alaska. Departing from Seattle, eight-day itineraries through the famous Inside Passage will be offered until September, with calls at historic ports such as Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.

At the end of the summer season, the ship will head south. The journey will continue via Vancouver and through the Panama Canal to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where the winter Caribbean season will begin. From there, the Star Princess will operate cruises in both the Eastern and Western Caribbean, reaching destinations such as Grand Turk, St. Thomas, and Roatán. A return to Alaska is already planned for the following summer. The second season in the region will even include nine-day itineraries featuring a visit to the spectacular Hubbard Glacier, one of the most impressive glaciers in North America.

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Tanja Neumann

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