Princess is known for offering a high-end cruise experience. Now, a brand-new ship from a new generation of vessels looks to set the bar even higher.
Princess unveiled its newest and largest ship — and the first of the Sphere class — when it announced the Sun Princess this week. The ship will be able to accommodate over 4,000 passengers, comes in at more than 175,000 gross tons, is powered by LNG, and also offers some stunning new features not seen elsewhere.
“Sun Princess is a new and bespoke ship platform, designed to simultaneously embrace Princess heritage while boldly pressing into the future with iconic, elegant and pure lines unique to our brand,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “A show-stopping, first-of-its-kind Dome on the top deck and suspended glass Piazza in the center of Sun Princess offer innovative designs showcasing expansive ocean views for incredible opportunities to connect with the sea.”
The Dome will be one of the distinguishing features of the vessel. Princess says that it’s inspired by “the terraces of Santorini.” It will have a fully glass-enclosed dome that covers multiple levels. Inside, there’s an indoor/outdoor pool, but at night the area becomes an entertainment venue with stage.
Elsewhere around the ship, the Piazza on Sun Princess serves as the focal point of the interior. The large atrium space spans three decks, complete with an LED screen that can be used for entertainment.
But more than anything the renderings of Sun Princess show what looks to be an incredibly luxurious new ship.
Coming in at 21 decks, 1,133 feet and with 2,157 cabins, Sun Princess will have a staggering 1,500 balconies — the most of any shop in the fleet. It will also offer nearly 30 bars and restaurants.
The ship will feature a new suite area called the Signature Collection, with premium cabins, as well as its own restaurant, lounge, and sun deck.
Throughout the ship seems to be design and style that’s a step above what’s seen on most cruise ships. There are no “loud” colors or crazy new go-kart tracks or roller coasters. Instead, it’s a focus on luxury with calming design choices that are on par with a high-end hotel you’d seen on land, along with areas to relax that you won’t get anywhere else. For instance, an outdoor spot — Wake Club — offers a place to lounge, complete with a swim spot that hangs out over the edge of the ship and should offer sweeping ocean views.
The new ship is set to debut in early 2024 with trips to the Mediterranean. Those trips go on sale starting this week. A sister ship is set to arrive for Princess in 2025.
