Princess Cruises recently celebrated the maiden voyage of its newest Sphere-Class ship, Star Princess, followed by a star-studded naming ceremony in Fort Lauderdale, FLA. In a radiant evening celebration, Star Princess was officially named by godparents Camila and Matthew McConaughey.
Our very own Teena Dowd, owner of Vacations for Canadians, was invited to attend the Star Princess’ sparkling debut celebration, followed by a preview sailing. Here are some of her first impressions of the ship.
The 177,800-ton, 4,300-guest Star Princess is ready to welcome guests onboard. Cruise travellers will find 30 distinct dining and bar venues, elevated entertainment and activity offerings and luxurious accommodations. The vessel will spend winter 2025 through spring 2026 sailing sun-drenched Caribbean cruises, then Star Princess will sail through the Panama Canal to Seattle for a debut season of 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage cruises in the summer of 2026. Star Princess will be the newest and most spectacular ship offering Alaska itineraries.
“To put it simply, Star Princess is beautiful,” says Dowd. “Who doesn’t love a brand new ship, and everything onboard is stunning. We’ve also been lucky enough to spend some time at The Sanctuary lounge and restaurant on this sailing, and have been really impressed with the quality and service.”
“And, for anyone shopping for an Alaskan itinerary, what an experience to experience glacier views from this gorgeous new ship next year.”
After its acclaimed debut on sister ship Sun Princess, Spellbound by Magic Castle comes to Star Princess with a new theme honouring the golden age of magic. This one-of-a-kind speakeasy experience at sea enchants guests with its mesmerizing illusions, spaces, and theatrical spirits.
Two new, original theatrical shows debut during the ship’s inaugural season in the most technologically advanced Princess Arena yet. Meridian is a sweeping, cinematic spectacle of longing and liberation, set to an original score and reimagined chart-toppers. Illuminate takes place under the velvet canopy of a nostalgic circus tent and peels away illusion to reveal chromatic reverie and unexpected wonder.
From vibrant deck parties and lively Piazza celebrations to a reimagined Champagne waterfall, Star Princess comes alive after dark. Dance to live music, mingle at themed events, or simply savour the sparkling atmosphere. A new Candlelight Concert Series transforms the glass-enclosed Dome into a glowing haven of music and light. Guests are immersed in works reimagined for today, where live performance and a candlelit atmosphere create magic under the stars at sea.
With more than 1,500 balcony staterooms, more guests can enjoy panoramic views from the privacy of their own staterooms. Exclusive Sanctuary Collection suites, mini-suites and balcony staterooms offer a private getaway with exclusive amenities. Sweeping outdoor spaces offer incredible views for guests to enjoy.
Indulge in relaxation at the two-story Lotus Spa or stay active at the fitness centre, join a dynamic class, or indulge in the pools and spas. On the SkyDeck, there is a new sports court for pickle-ball and basketball, along with a jogging track, splash pad, and shaded lounge areas—all with stunning views overlooking the sea.
A signature space of Princess, the elevated Piazza onboard Star Princess offers panoramic views from a sphere of glass. It’s the perfect spot to socialize, dine, and enjoy a multitude of entertainment throughout the day and night.
Choose from 30 restaurant and bar venues with an unprecedented collection of celebrity collaborators, high-end ingredients, and culinary experiences. An expanded O’Malley’s Irish Pub features more seating, and the Love by Britto specialty dining space has also been expanded.
“Everything we had onboard this sailing was excellent, but we really enjoyed the meal we had at casual dining venue O’Malley’s Irish Pub. It’s a really popular spot, and it’s great that it has been expanded on Star Princess,” says Dowd.
The original line of the Love Boat now offers Princess’ Love Line Premium Liquor Collection. This selection of thoughtfully curated wines and spirits includes both spirited and non-alcohol creations by renowned celebrities including Pantalones Organic Tequila by Camila and Matthew McConaughey, Sláinte Irish Whiskey by Liev Schreiber, Kylie Minogue’s No Alcohol Sparkling Rosé, MEILI Vodka by Jason Momoa and Love Prosecco by Artist Romero Britto.
Ready to experience the sparkle onboard the new Star Princess?
