A Shining Princess

Step aboard the exquisite Sun Princess, Princess Cruises' newest marvel, and be enchanted by the majesty of the new Sphere Class. With its glittering glass dome and luxurious Sanctuary enclave, this ship promises an unforgettable experience. Discover what makes Sun Princess a true gem of the seas.

Sun Princess, Princess Cruises’ 16th ship, is heralding the line’s new Sphere Class

Princess Cruises' Sun Princess, the line's sweet 16th ship, heralds the upscale, elegant, new Sphere Class with its striking new exterior design and more stylish interiors for 4,300 guests.

The ship's extravagantly enormous glass dome on the top deck looks like a glistening diamond crown. Midship, it looks as if the ship has swallowed a giant crystal golf ball, with curves reaching out for sea and sky views. These two brilliant architectural features bring a wealth of natural sunlight inside.

NEW SANCTUARY ENCLAVE

Sun Princess Sanctuary Suite

The ship marks many other firsts for the line besides its modern royal look, boasting its first 'ship-within-a-ship' concept, a private-access enclave called the Sanctuary Collection for discerning guests who like a VIP experience.

While there are 2,157 staterooms in total on board, the Sanctuary has three special categories of staterooms such as 80 full suites, 123 mini-suites and 12 balcony suites. These three options allow for savings within families or groups who can choose the suite that suits them. Children 16-plus are also permitted.

The Sanctuary also has its own restaurant, pool, hot tub, private cabanas, luxurious two-storey lounge and two bars. Additional perks include the Princess Premier package for premium drinks, unlimited specialty dining, the highest-performing Wi-Fi, reserved theatre seating and more.

ONBOARD FEATURES

Lounge Sanctuary

There are five pools – including a stunning infinity-style pool at the aft and an indoor/outdoor pool under the spectacular dome – as well as nine hot tubs.

The signature Piazza atrium is the heart of many Princess ships and for Sun Princess, additional seating now accommodates about 300 guests who can enjoy watching live music, dancing, performances and other activities.

A two-storey spa, a thermal suite, salon and gym are also available and the top deck has a netted sports court and running track. Princess also went 'all in' with a casino that's the largest of the fleet. Retail space has been expanded and features more than 200 premium brands.

ENHANCED DINING

Sabatini's Italian Trattoria

Designed to be a foodie destination at sea, Sun Princess has 29 restaurants and bars to tantalize all tastes. While beloved favourites such as the 116-seat Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and 132-seat Crown Grill remain, the ship introduces an exciting array of new dining experiences, highlighted by celebrity collaborations.

Love by Britto, a boutique restaurant featuring the vibrant works and tableware of renowned Brazilian artist Romero Britto, has a whimsical seven-course meal designed for 68 guests and presented with heart-shaped food.

Sushi master Chef Makoto Okuwa brings his creations to Makoto Ocean, where traditional sushi is redefined for 70 guests.

World-renowned butcher Dario Cecchini presents Butcher's Block by Dario, an 88-seat family-style restaurant featuring the finest cuts of beef.

Spellbound by Magic Castle offers a fun, immersive dining experience with a magician/comedian, spooky spaces and Instagram-worthy cocktails.

The Catch by Rudi, another culinary gem that's on four Princess ships, features seafood specialties with international influences curated by Chef Rudi Sodamin. The venue accommodates 88 diners.

Guests can also indulge at the Love Line Premium Liquors Collection, a collaboration with celebrities like Matthew McConaughey and his Pantalones organic tequila and Blake Lively and her new Betty Booze and Betty Buzz (non-alcoholic) sparkling beverages. Renowned mixologist Rob Floyd delights guests with his globally-inspired cocktails.

Model Tyra Banks has her unique Smize ice cream on board. Chef Darren McGrady's delightful High Tea presentation (he's served both Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana) adds to the onboard culinary tapestry.

ENTERTAINMENT FOR MULTIGENERATIONS

San Princess Arena

Eager to appeal to younger generations including those 35-plus, Princess has curated more engaging, late-night entertainment. There are three new large-scale production shows at the 980-seat Arena theatre with four lead vocalists and 13 talented dancers. Smaller shows featuring eight extraordinary acrobats perform at the Piazza and in the 250-seat dome (the indoor part of the indoor/outdoor pool can be covered with a stage).

The vibrant entertainment is complemented by sail-away parties, interactive game shows and silent discos (great for people-watching even if not participating). Throughout the ship there are bars and lounges featuring high-quality live entertainment and DJs. On the top deck, an outdoor giant TV screen is ideal to watch movies and sporting events.

While many loyal, repeat Princess guests may feel a bit lost on the new Sun Princess because some traditional venues are in different places than its fleet mates, others say it was time for a change and that the ship both 'surprises and delights' in many wonderful ways.

Star Princess, a twin to the Sun Princess, will debut in fall 2025.

Written by DIANE TIERNEY for Cruise and Travel Lifestyles (Spring/Summer 2025)