Star Princess Begins Inaugural Mediterranean Voyage, Expanding Fleet to 17

Princess Cruises has unveiled its newest Sphere-class vessel, the Star Princess, which embarked on its maiden voyage from Barcelona on October 4. The inaugural Mediterranean journey marks a significant expansion of the company’s fleet, now comprising 17 ships. This 177,800-ton vessel, with a capacity of approximately 4,300 passengers, is designed to deliver an elevated travel experience featuring cutting-edge innovations, luxury accommodations, and diverse entertainment options.

Details of the Maiden Voyage

The maiden cruise spans 11 days, offering guests the opportunity to visit picturesque Mediterranean destinations including Marseille, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Sicily, Cartagena, and Gibraltar. After completing this itinerary, the ship will embark on a seven-day Mediterranean cruise before transitioning to its first transatlantic crossing. Upon arrival in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on November 5, 2025, the Star Princess will welcome guests for its U.S. debut alongside a formal naming ceremony scheduled for November 6.

Camila and Matthew McConaughey, who are acting as godparents for the vessel, will officiate the ceremony. They have also collaborated with Princess Cruises to feature their Pantalones Organic Tequila as part of the Love Line Premium Liquors collection available onboard. Following the ceremony, the ship will commence winter Caribbean cruises and eventually reposition for seven-day Alaska Inside Passage itineraries during the summer of 2026.

Onboard Features and Entertainment

The Star Princess, the second ship in the Sphere class, sister to the Sun Princess, is among the largest in the Princess Cruises fleet. It features over 1,500 balcony staterooms, including the exclusive Sanctuary Collection suites catering to guests seeking heightened privacy and comfort. A redesigned Piazza provides panoramic views, while the Lotus Spa, fitness facilities, and SkyDeck offering jogging tracks and sports courts aim to cater to wellness and activity needs.

Dining options abound across 30 venues, ensuring variety for every palate. Entertainment includes innovative offerings such as Spellbound by Magic Castle, a reimagined show celebrating golden-age illusionists. Guests can experience two new theatrical productions, Meridian and Illuminate, in the technologically advanced Princess Arena. Additionally, The Dome transforms into an immersive space for the Candlelight Concert Series, blending music and light to create a distinct ambiance.

Industry Perspectives and Official Statements

Gus Antorcha, President of Princess Cruises, remarked, “The Star Princess shines brightly as one of the largest and most spectacular ships we’ve ever built, and we proudly welcome excited guests on her inaugural voyage. May her voyages be safe, her sunsets unforgettable, and may she shine, as her name promises, in the sky and on the seas.”

Captain Gennaro Arma, who played a critical role leading the ship’s development at the Monfalcone shipyard, added, “From leading the newbuild team to watching our amazing crew guide her on her maiden voyage with our very first guests, this journey is truly an honor for me and our dedicated crew. We warmly invite guests to come aboard to experience the extraordinary service Princess is known for.”

Princess Cruises continues its investment in expanding its fleet and enhancing onboard experiences, positioning itself as a leader in luxury travel amidst heightened competition within the cruise industry.

Additional Maritime Industry Updates

The debut of the Star Princess coincides with broader industry developments. Hurricane Priscilla impacted itineraries for several vessels on the U.S. West Coast, including Carnival Panorama, Quantum of the Seas, and Navigator of the Seas. These last-minute changes have prompted alternative port calls to destinations such as Catalina Island and Ensenada for ships departing from California.

Simultaneously, Victoria Cruises Line faces legal scrutiny and customer dissatisfaction following reports of unfulfilled promises on residential cruise offerings. This underscores ongoing challenges for the industry as firms navigate fluctuating consumer expectations, regulatory hurdles, and operational pressures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What destinations are included on the Star Princess maiden Mediterranean voyage?

The 11-day itinerary consists of stops in Barcelona, Marseille, Rome, Naples, Sicily, Cartagena, and Gibraltar, showcasing culturally rich and scenic locales.

What is notable about the onboard entertainment offerings?

Highlights include Spellbound by Magic Castle with a refreshed golden-age theme, two theatrical productions (Meridian and Illuminate) in the Princess Arena, and the Candlelight Concert Series held in The Dome.

When is the christening ceremony for the Star Princess?

This ceremonial event will be held in Fort Lauderdale on November 6, 2025, with Matthew and Camila McConaughey officiating as godparents.

How does Star Princess compare to its sister ship?

The Star Princess is the second Sphere-class vessel, sharing similar capacity, design innovations, and luxurious features with the Sun Princess, which debuted earlier.

What destinations will the ship visit after its Mediterranean season?

The ship will sail Caribbean cruises during winter 2025–2026 and seven-day Alaska Inside Passage itineraries from Seattle in summer 2026 following a transit through the Panama Canal.