Princess Cruises
Destinations
Cruise Type
Cruise Overview
What Sets Princess Cruises Apart?
- Sails all seven continents and over 330 destinations.
- A blend of classic and modern.
- Strong emphasis on relaxation.
Is it For You?
Princess Cruises offers a unique cruising experience, but like anything, it has its pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown:
What some like:
- Extensive Itineraries: Princess offers a huge variety of destinations, covering all seven continents. Whether you’re dreaming of Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, or even a world cruise, they likely have an itinerary that fits.
- Elegant Ships: Princess ships are generally well-maintained and offer a comfortable, classic cruise experience. They’re not the flashiest, but they’re certainly not outdated.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Princess tends to attract a more mature crowd, leading to a generally relaxed and laid-back onboard atmosphere. It’s a good choice for those who prefer a less “party-centric” cruise.
- Good Food: While not necessarily Michelin-star level, Princess generally receives positive reviews for its food quality in both the main dining rooms and specialty restaurants.
- “MedallionClass” Technology: Princess has invested heavily in its “MedallionClass” technology, which uses a wearable medallion to personalize your experience, from easy boarding and room access to personalized service and ordering.
- Loyalty Program: Princess has a strong loyalty program with benefits that increase as you cruise more with them.
What some may not like:
- Can Feel “Traditional”: While some appreciate the classic feel, others might find Princess a bit too traditional or even “dated” compared to newer, more innovative cruise lines.
- Nickel and Diming: While not as bad as some lines, Princess can still have a fair amount of extra charges for things like specialty dining, premium drinks, and shore excursions.
- MedallionClass Issues: While generally praised, the MedallionClass technology can sometimes be buggy or have glitches, leading to frustration for some passengers.
- Not the Best for Families with Young Kids: While they do allow kids, Princess isn’t known for being the most family-friendly line. Their kids’ clubs and activities are generally more low-key compared to lines like Royal Caribbean or Disney.
- Can Be Pricey: Depending on the itinerary and cabin type, Princess can be more expensive than some other mainstream cruise lines.
Overall:
Princess Cruises is a good fit for travelers who are looking for a classic, relaxed cruise experience with a wide range of destinations. They excel at providing a comfortable and enjoyable vacation with good food and service. However, if you’re looking for the latest innovations, a party atmosphere, or a super family-friendly environment, you might want to consider other options.
Key Takeaways:
Essentially, Princess Cruises differentiates itself by offering a well-rounded cruise experience with a focus on:
- Extensive and immersive itineraries
- Convenient technology
- Comfortable and elegant ships
- Relaxed atmosphere
- High-quality dining and entertainment
In short:
If these qualities under Takeaways align with your ideal cruise vacation, then Princess Cruises might be the perfect choice for you.
Included/Exclude
Included:
- Accommodation: Your stateroom, of course! This includes standard amenities like beds, a private bathroom, and basic toiletries.
- Dining: Meals in the main dining rooms and buffet are included. You'll have a variety of options, from casual to more formal dining.
- Basic Beverages: Water, iced tea, lemonade, and coffee are typically available for free in the buffet and sometimes in other select locations.
- Entertainment: Princess offers a range of included entertainment, such as production shows in the theater, live music, movies under the stars, and various onboard activities.
- Onboard Activities: Access to pools, fitness centers, and some recreational facilities is usually included.
- Transportation between ports: Your cruise fare covers transportation between the ports on your itinerary.
Not Included:
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic drinks are not included, but you can purchase them individually or through a beverage package.
- Specialty Dining: While basic dining is included, some specialty restaurants with more upscale menus may have an extra charge.
- Shore Excursions: Shore excursions, which allow you to explore the destinations you visit, are not included and must be booked separately.
- Gratuities: Gratuities (or "Crew Appreciation") are not automatically included in the base fare and are typically added to your onboard account daily. However, they are included if you book the "Princess Plus" or "Princess Premier" packages.
- Wi-Fi: Basic Wi-Fi is not included, but you can purchase a Wi-Fi package. "Princess Plus" and "Princess Premier" packages include Wi-Fi.
- Spa Services: Spa treatments and access to the spa's thermal suite are not included.
- Some Fitness Classes: While some fitness classes may be included, others, especially those considered specialty classes, may have an extra fee.
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Cruise Amenities
Accepts Credit Cards
Bar
Casino
Fine Dining
Fitness Center
Hot Tub
Laundry Service
Luxury Cabins
Nightclub
Outdoor Seating
Reservations
Restaurant
Sauna
Shopping
Shows
Shuttle (Fee)
Spa
Swimming Pool
WiFi Available
WiFi Free
Cruise Ports of Call
Princess Cruises offers a wide variety of Caribbean itineraries, visiting a diverse range of ports. Here are some of the common ports of call you might encounter on a Princess Caribbean cruise:
Eastern Caribbean:
- St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands: Known for its beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and stunning views.
- St. Maarten: A unique island shared by the Netherlands and France, offering a blend of cultures and experiences.
- San Juan, Puerto Rico: A historic city with colorful architecture, forts, and vibrant culture.
- Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos: A small island with pristine beaches, excellent diving and snorkeling, and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Princess Cays, Bahamas: Princess Cruises' private island, offering a relaxing beach day with water sports and activities.
- Amber Cove, Dominican Republic: A newer port with a focus on adventure activities, beaches, and cultural experiences.
- Tortola, British Virgin Islands: A lush island with beautiful beaches, sailing opportunities, and a relaxed vibe.
Western Caribbean:
- Cozumel, Mexico: A popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and exploring Mayan ruins.
- Roatán, Honduras: An island known for its stunning coral reefs, wildlife encounters, and eco-tourism.
- Belize City, Belize: Gateway to Mayan ruins, rainforest adventures, and the world-famous Great Blue Hole.
- Costa Maya, Mexico: A developing port with Mayan ruins, beaches, and opportunities for water sports.
- Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands: Famous for its Seven Mile Beach, stingray city, and duty-free shopping.
- Ocho Rios, Jamaica: Home to Dunn's River Falls, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant culture.
Southern Caribbean:
- Aruba: Known for its white-sand beaches, constant sunshine, and Dutch colonial architecture.
- Curaçao: A colorful island with a unique blend of Dutch and Caribbean cultures.
- Bonaire: A diver's paradise with pristine reefs and abundant marine life.
- Barbados: An island with beautiful beaches, rum distilleries, and a rich history.
- St. Lucia: A volcanic island with stunning scenery, rainforests, and luxurious resorts.
- Grenada: Known as the "Spice Isle" for its nutmeg and other spices, with beautiful beaches and lush landscapes.
Other potential ports:
- Nassau, Bahamas: A popular port with historical sites, beaches, and casinos.
- Key West, Florida: A quirky and charming island with a laid-back atmosphere and historic sites.
- Labadee, Haiti: Royal Caribbean's private destination with beaches, water sports, and a market.
- Falmouth, Jamaica: A historic port with Georgian architecture and access to attractions like Dunn's River Falls.
Important Notes:
- The specific ports visited will vary depending on the itinerary and the length of the cruise.
- Princess Cruises often offers different itineraries that focus on specific regions of the Caribbean (Eastern, Western, Southern).
- Some itineraries may combine ports from different regions.
- It's always best to check the specific itinerary for your chosen cruise to see the exact ports of call.
To find the most up-to-date information on Princess Cruises' Caribbean ports of call, I recommend visiting their website or contacting their customer service. You can also use their website to search for cruises by destination or port.
Princess Cruises offers a wide variety of Mediterranean itineraries, visiting numerous ports across the region. Here are some of the most popular and noteworthy destinations you might encounter on a Princess Mediterranean cruise:
Italy:
- Rome (Civitavecchia): Explore the ancient wonders of the Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain, and more.
- Florence/Pisa (Livorno): Discover Renaissance art and architecture in Florence, or visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
- Naples: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine of Naples, and perhaps take a day trip to Pompeii.
- Venice: Experience the unique charm of Venice with its canals, gondolas, and iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Square.
- Sicily (Messina, Palermo): Explore the diverse history and landscapes of Sicily, from ancient ruins to volcanic landscapes.
Greece:
- Athens (Piraeus): Visit the Acropolis, Parthenon, and other ancient sites that showcase the glory of ancient Greece.
- Santorini: Admire the breathtaking views of the caldera, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches.
- Mykonos: Enjoy the lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic windmills of Mykonos.
- Corfu: Explore the lush green island of Corfu with its Venetian architecture and stunning coastline.
- Rhodes: Discover the medieval city of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history.
Spain:
- Barcelona: Experience the vibrant culture, stunning architecture of Gaudí, and delicious cuisine of Barcelona.
- Palma de Mallorca: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Mallorca and explore the historic city of Palma.
- Gibraltar: A unique British territory with a fascinating history and the iconic Rock of Gibraltar.
France:
- Marseille: Discover the vibrant port city of Marseille with its rich history and diverse culture.
- Nice: Explore the French Riviera with its glamorous atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and charming towns.
Turkey:
- Istanbul: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Istanbul, a city that spans two continents.
- Ephesus (Kusadasi): Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world.
Croatia:
- Dubrovnik: Explore the stunning walled city of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history.
- Split: Discover the historic Diocletian's Palace in Split, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Montenegro:
- Kotor: Explore the beautiful Bay of Kotor with its stunning scenery and medieval towns.
Other Destinations:
Princess Cruises also offers itineraries that include other Mediterranean destinations such as:
- Malta (Valletta)
- Cyprus (Limassol)
- Israel (Haifa)
- Morocco (Casablanca)
Tips for Choosing a Princess Mediterranean Cruise:
- Consider your interests: Do you want to focus on history, culture, beaches, or a mix of everything?
- Choose the right itinerary: Look at the specific ports of call and the length of the cruise to find the best fit for you.
- Check the time of year: The Mediterranean cruise season typically runs from spring to fall.
- Look for deals and promotions: Princess Cruises often offers discounts and promotions on Mediterranean cruises.
To get the most up-to-date information on Princess Cruises' Mediterranean itineraries and ports of call, I recommend visiting their website or contacting their customer service.
You're looking for Princess Cruises ports in the US, but not in the Caribbean! Here are some of the US ports they visit outside of that region:
United States:
- Alaska: Princess is very well-known for their Alaska cruises. Ports include:
- Anchorage (via Whittier)
- Juneau
- Ketchikan
- Skagway
- California Coast:
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- Pacific Northwest:
- Seattle
- East Coast:
- Boston
- New York City
- Texas:
- Galveston
Canada:
Princess Cruises offers a variety of itineraries that include Canadian ports of call, primarily focusing on the eastern provinces and the Pacific coast. Here are some of the common Canadian ports you might encounter on a Princess cruise, excluding any ports in the United States:
Eastern Canada:
- Québec City, Québec: A historic walled city with a distinct European flair, Québec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a highlight of many Canada & New England cruises.
- Saguenay, Québec: Located on the Saguenay Fjord, this port offers stunning natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island: The capital of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown is a charming city known for its Victorian architecture and Anne of Green Gables connections.
- Sydney, Nova Scotia: Situated on Cape Breton Island, Sydney is a gateway to scenic landscapes and Scottish heritage.
- Halifax, Nova Scotia: The capital of Nova Scotia, Halifax boasts a rich maritime history and is a great base for exploring Peggy's Cove and other attractions.
- Saint John (Bay of Fundy), New Brunswick: This port provides access to the Bay of Fundy, famous for its dramatic tides and unique natural wonders.
Western Canada:
- Vancouver, British Columbia: A vibrant city surrounded by mountains and ocean, Vancouver is a popular embarkation port and a destination in itself.
Important Notes:
- Princess Cruises often combines Canadian ports with destinations in New England (USA) on their itineraries. So, you'll likely see ports like Boston and Bar Harbor on the same cruise.
- The specific Canadian ports included in your cruise will depend on the itinerary and the time of year.
- Princess Cruises may offer different itineraries that focus more heavily on Canada, so it's worth exploring their website or contacting a travel agent to find the best option for you.
To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on Princess Cruises' Canadian ports of call, I recommend visiting their official website or consulting with a travel professional.
You're looking for Princess Cruises in Europe, but want to explore beyond the Mediterranean! That opens up some fantastic options. Here are some of the regions and ports they visit outside of the Med:
Northern Europe:
- British Isles: Explore the history and charm of England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Ports might include:
- Southampton (London)
- Edinburgh (South Queensferry)
- Belfast
- Dublin (Dun Loaghaire)
- Liverpool
- Invergordon (for the Scottish Highlands)
- Norwegian Fjords: Witness breathtaking scenery and charming villages in Norway. Expect to see:
- Bergen
- Stavanger
- Ålesund
- Geirangerfjord (often a scenic cruising day)
- Olden
- Skjolden
- Baltic Sea: Discover the fascinating history and culture of countries like:
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Stockholm, Sweden
- Helsinki, Finland
- Tallinn, Estonia
- Riga, Latvia
- Klaipeda, Lithuania
- Gdynia (for Gdansk), Poland
- Iceland: Experience the unique landscapes of fire and ice. Ports may include:
- Reykjavik
- Akureyri
- Ísafjörður
- Seyðisfjörður
- North Cape: Journey to the northernmost point of continental Europe for a truly unforgettable experience.
- Transatlantic: These voyages often include ports in Northern Europe as part of their journey across the Atlantic.
Other European Regions:
- Canary Islands, Madeira, Azores: These islands offer a unique blend of European and African cultures, with beautiful scenery and pleasant weather.
- Eastern Atlantic: Some itineraries may include ports in Portugal or Spain that are not on the Mediterranean coast.
To find specific Princess Cruises itineraries and ports:
- Visit the Princess Cruises website: Their website has detailed information on their itineraries, including maps and port descriptions. You can filter by region and dates to find the perfect cruise for you.
- Contact a travel agent: A travel agent specializing in cruises can help you navigate the options and find the best deals.
When planning your Princess cruise to Europe (excluding the Mediterranean), consider:
- Time of year: The best time to visit Northern Europe is generally during the summer months (June-August) for warmer weather.
- Length of cruise: Princess offers a variety of cruise lengths, from short getaways to longer voyages.
- Interests: Consider what you want to see and do on your cruise. Do you want to explore historical sites, enjoy natural beauty, or experience different cultures?
With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find a Princess cruise that takes you to the European destinations of your dreams!
Princess Cruises offers a variety of itineraries in East Asia, with a wide range of ports of call. Here are some of the popular destinations you might encounter on a Princess Cruises East Asia voyage:
Japan:
- Tokyo: A vibrant metropolis blending modern skyscrapers with traditional temples and gardens.
- Kyoto: The cultural heart of Japan, known for its ancient temples, traditional teahouses, and geishas.
- Osaka: A bustling city famous for its street food, lively nightlife, and friendly locals.
- Hiroshima: A city that has risen from the ashes of the atomic bomb, now a symbol of peace and resilience.
- Nagasaki: A historic port city with a unique blend of Japanese and European influences.
- Kobe: A cosmopolitan city known for its delicious beef and stunning views of the harbor.
- Hakodate: A charming port city on the island of Hokkaido, known for its seafood and scenic beauty.
- Aomori: A city in northern Japan famous for its apple orchards and Nebuta Festival.
- Other Japanese Ports: Princess Cruises also visits other ports in Japan, including Beppu, Miyazaki, Kagoshima, Toba, Shimizu, and more.
South Korea:
- Busan: A vibrant port city with beautiful beaches, temples, and markets.
- Jeju Island: A volcanic island known for its stunning natural scenery, including waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails.
Taiwan:
- Taipei: The capital of Taiwan, a bustling city with a mix of modern and traditional architecture.
- Keelung: A port city near Taipei, offering access to the city's attractions and surrounding areas.
- Hualien: A city on the east coast of Taiwan, known for its stunning Taroko Gorge National Park.
China:
- Hong Kong: A vibrant city with a mix of Eastern and Western cultures, known for its stunning skyline and delicious food.
- Shanghai: A modern metropolis with a rich history, known for its iconic Bund waterfront and bustling shopping streets.
Southeast Asia:
- Singapore: A modern city-state with a diverse culture, known for its clean streets, gardens, and delicious food.
- Vietnam: Princess Cruises may visit various ports in Vietnam, such as Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Nha Trang, and Da Nang.
- Thailand: Cruises may include stops in Bangkok (Laem Chabang) or Phuket.
- Malaysia: Ports of call could include Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) or Penang.
Other Destinations:
- Princess Cruises may also offer itineraries that include other destinations in East Asia, such as the Philippines, Indonesia, or even Australia and the South Pacific.
Important Notes:
- The specific ports of call on a Princess Cruises East Asia itinerary will vary depending on the cruise length, departure port, and time of year.
- It's always best to check the Princess Cruises website or consult with a travel agent to get the most up-to-date information on specific itineraries and ports of call.
I hope this gives you a good overview of the potential ports of call on a Princess Cruises East Asia voyage!
Princess Cruises offers a variety of itineraries that include ports in South and West Asia. Here are some of the destinations you might encounter on their voyages:
South Asia:
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India:
- Mumbai: A bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture, offering a mix of colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India.
- Cochin: A historic port city in Kerala with a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, known for its spice trade, Chinese fishing nets, and backwaters.
- Goa: A former Portuguese colony with beautiful beaches, a laid-back atmosphere, and a unique blend of Indian and European cultures.
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Sri Lanka:
- Colombo: The capital city, a mix of modern and colonial architecture, with bustling markets, temples, and beaches.
- Galle: A historic city with a Dutch fort, charming streets, and beautiful beaches.
-
Maldives:
- Malé: The capital island, offering stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts.
West Asia:
-
United Arab Emirates:
- Dubai: A modern city with futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, and desert adventures.
- Abu Dhabi: The capital of the UAE, with impressive mosques, cultural centers, and entertainment options.
-
Oman:
- Muscat: A historic port city with a blend of ancient forts, modern buildings, and beautiful beaches.
- Salalah: Known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and frankincense trees.
-
Jordan:
- Aqaba: A coastal city on the Red Sea, offering access to the ancient city of Petra and the Wadi Rum desert.
-
Israel:
- Haifa: A port city with a beautiful Baháʼí Gardens and a mix of cultures.
- Ashdod: A gateway to Jerusalem and other historical sites.
-
Turkey:
- Istanbul: A transcontinental city with a rich history, offering iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
- Ephesus: An ancient city with well-preserved ruins, offering a glimpse into Roman history.
Please note:
- The specific ports visited by Princess Cruises may vary depending on the itinerary and time of year.
- Some itineraries may focus more on Southeast Asia and include only a few ports in South or West Asia.
- It's always best to check the Princess Cruises website or consult with a travel agent for the most up-to-date information on their itineraries and ports of call.
I hope this gives you a good overview of the possibilities for your Princess Cruises adventure in South and West Asia!
Princess Cruises offers a wide variety of itineraries that include Australia and the Pacific Islands. Here are some of the ports they visit in these regions:
Australia:
- Major Cities:
- Sydney, New South Wales (often a home port)
- Brisbane, Queensland (often a home port)
- Melbourne, Victoria
- Perth (Fremantle), Western Australia
- Adelaide, South Australia
- Hobart, Tasmania
- Other Ports:
- Airlie Beach (for the Whitsundays), Queensland
- Cairns, Queensland
- Darwin, Northern Territory
- Eden, New South Wales
- Newcastle, New South Wales
- Port Douglas, Queensland
- Willis Island (for scenic cruising), Queensland
- Albany, Western Australia
- Busselton (Margaret River), Western Australia
- Port Lincoln, South Australia
- Kangaroo Island, South Australia
New Zealand:
- Auckland (often a home port)
- Bay of Islands
- Tauranga
- Wellington
- Picton (for the Marlborough wine region)
- Christchurch (Lyttelton)
- Dunedin (Port Chalmers)
- Napier
- Fiordland National Park (scenic cruising)
Pacific Islands:
- Fiji:
- Suva
- Lautoka
- Dravuni Island
- French Polynesia:
- Papeete (Tahiti)
- Moorea
- Bora Bora
- Raiatea
- New Caledonia:
- Nouméa
- Lifou
- Vanuatu:
- Port Vila
- Luganville
- American Samoa:
- Pago Pago
- Other Islands:
- Mystery Island
- Conflict Islands
- Aneityum Island
Things to Note:
- Princess Cruises offers a variety of itineraries, so the specific ports you visit will depend on the cruise you choose.
- Some itineraries focus primarily on Australia and New Zealand, while others include a mix of these destinations and Pacific Islands.
- Princess Cruises also offers "Cruisetours" that combine a cruise with a land tour, allowing you to explore inland destinations like Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Australia.
To find the most up-to-date information on Princess Cruises' itineraries and ports of call, I recommend visiting their website or contacting their customer service.
