Star Princess
The Star Princess: A New Horizon of Luxury
The Star Princess stands out as a "next-generation" vessel, centered around The Dome—the first-of-its-kind geodesic glass structure at sea. This architectural marvel transforms from a sun-drenched indoor/outdoor pool space by day into a high-tech entertainment venue by night. With its focus on "The Love Boat" heritage updated for the modern traveler, the Star Princess offers a sophisticated yet high-energy atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate. Here is what guests can look forward to across the ship:
Pools & Relaxation: Water is the centerpiece of the Star Princess. Beyond the main pool decks, you’ll find the Wake View Terrace, featuring an infinity pool that seems to drop off into the horizon. For those seeking the ultimate escape, The Sanctuary offers a spa-inspired top-deck retreat for adults, complete with plush loungers, private cabanas, and attentive service, ensuring a serene environment away from the main hub of activity.
Bars & Lounges: Socializing is effortless here, from the heart of the ship at The Piazza to the specialized themed lounges. Good Spirits at Sea serves up cocktails with a story, while the Wheelhouse Bar offers a cozy, nautical-themed spot for a classic drink. For a truly unique experience, don't miss Spellbound by Magic Castle, a hidden lounge blending Victorian elegance with mind-blowing illusions and "magical" mixology.
Kids & Teens: Families are well-cared for with the Camp Discovery youth centers. These age-specific clubs are designed in partnership with Discovery Channel to provide more than just "babysitting." From scavenger hunts and science projects for younger kids to the Beach House—a trendy, surf-themed lounge for teens—there is a dedicated space for every age group to socialize and explore.
Sports & Activities: On the Star Princess, the focus on the top decks has shifted toward a more sophisticated "Sun, Sea, and Sky" experience. You’ll find a wide variety of outdoor pursuits that favor social interaction and active relaxation. The ship features multi-purpose sports courts perfect for a morning game of pickleball, basketball, or volleyball. For those who want to maintain their fitness routine with a view, the outdoor jogging track and high-tech fitness center offer floor-to-ceiling windows. Whether you’re joining a group fitness class on deck or enjoying a casual game of shuffleboard with the family, the activity spaces are designed to be open, airy, and centered around the stunning ocean backdrop.
Shopping: The retail experience on the Star Princess feels like a stroll through a high-end European mall. The Shops of Princess surround the Piazza and offer everything from duty-free luxury watches and fine jewelry to designer fragrances and exclusive Princess-branded apparel. It’s the perfect place to browse for a souvenir during sea days or find the perfect outfit for a special dinner.
The Lotus Spa: The Lotus Spa on this ship is a massive two-story sanctuary. It features the Enclave, Princess’s largest-ever thermal suite, including a hydrotherapy pool, heated stone beds, sensory showers, and specialized steam rooms. From traditional massages to advanced medi-spa treatments, the spa is designed to rejuvenate the body and mind in a tranquil, nature-inspired setting.
Dining Delights: The dining on Star Princess is a culinary journey with over 30 outlets. The ship features the stunning three-story Horizons Dining Room, offering breathtaking views and flexible dining. Guests can also indulge in Princess favorites like Crown Grill for premium steaks, Sabatini’s for authentic Italian, and the innovative Umai Teppanyaki, where the meal is as much a performance as it is a feast
Entertainment: The Star Princess takes entertainment to a new level with the Princess Arena, a technologically advanced theater with a circular design that brings the audience closer to the action. In the evening, The Dome hosts spectacular acrobatic performances inspired by the Cirque-style tradition, utilizing state-of-the-art lighting and water effects to create an immersive show unlike anything else at sea.
The Sanctuary on the Star Princess is the ultimate top-deck retreat, significantly expanded on this new class of ship to offer an even more exclusive, spa-like atmosphere. This adults-only oasis features plush, oversized loungers, private cabanas, and a dedicated service team that provides chilled towels, flavored waters, and a light-bite menu right to your seat. As a premium, add-on experience, it requires a reservation and a daily fee, which keeps the environment quiet and uncrowded. What truly sets this version apart is its location at the very front of the ship, offering panoramic, unobstructed views of the horizon that feel worlds away from the high-energy pool decks. Whether you are looking for a quiet morning with a book or a full day of "unplugged" relaxation, the Sanctuary provides a refined, boutique-hotel vibe that is widely considered the most peaceful real estate on the ship.
Why Choose the Star Princess?
The Star Princess is the ideal choice for the traveler who wants the best of both worlds: the sprawling amenities of a large, modern ship and the refined, destination-focused service that Princess is known for. With the revolutionary MedallionClass technology making your experience effortless, this ship represents the absolute peak of contemporary cruising.
PROS:
Cutting-Edge Architecture: The use of glass in The Dome and the three-story Horizons Dining Room offers some of the best ocean views in the industry, making the ship feel incredibly open and connected to the sea.
Next-Gen Tech: As a MedallionClass ship, the "hands-free" experience is seamless—from touchless cabin entry to having drinks delivered to you anywhere on the ship via the app.
Elevated Entertainment: The Princess Arena is a massive upgrade from traditional cruise theaters; its configurable stage allows for immersive, "in-the-round" performances that you won't see on older ships.
Updated Pro: Enhanced Relaxation Space – By moving away from the "theme park" style top deck, the ship offers significantly more room for lounging and enjoying the views without the noise of a ropes course or zip line.
The Princess Casino is one of the largest in the fleet, conveniently located off the Piazza. It offers a sophisticated atmosphere for both high rollers and casual players. With hundreds of the latest slot machines, classic table games like blackjack and roulette, and regular tournaments, the casino provides a vibrant, high-energy gaming experience deep into the night.
CONS:
Larger Crowds: With a capacity of over 4,000 guests, the Star Princess is significantly larger than the ships long-time Princess cruisers may be used to, which can lead to a busier atmosphere in high-traffic areas like the buffet.
Navigational Learning Curve: Because the ship uses a brand-new layout (the Sphere Class), even frequent Princess cruisers might find the deck plans a bit confusing to navigate during the first day or two.
Extra-Fee Experiences: While there are many inclusions, some of the most exciting new features—like the Spellbound magic lounge or certain specialty dining—require an additional cover charge or reservation.
Updated Con: Fewer High-Adrenaline Thrills – Families with older teens who are specifically looking for "adventure" activities like water coasters or hang-gliders may find this ship a bit more laid back than some of its competitors.
Choosing Your Fare: Standard, Plus, or Premier
Princess Cruises offers three ways to book, allowing you to customize your experience based on how much you want to be "all-inclusive."
Princess Standard: This is the base fare and is perfect for the "no-frills" traveler. It includes your accommodations, dining in the main dining rooms and buffet, and onboard entertainment. Anything extra—like Wi-Fi, drinks, or gratuities—is paid for individually as you go.
Princess Plus: This is the most popular choice for many cruisers. For a daily flat fee, you get a massive boost in value. It includes the Plus Beverage Package (covering drinks up to $15), unlimited Wi-Fi for one device, daily crew appreciation (gratuities), and even two "casual" specialty dining meals and two fitness classes.
Princess Premier: If you want the ultimate "white-glove" experience, Premier is the way to go. It includes everything in the Plus package but upgrades you to the Premier Beverage Package (drinks up to $20), Wi-Fi for up to four devices, and—most importantly—unlimited specialty dining. You also get a photo package and reserved seating in the Princess Arena for shows.