Star Princess Launches with New Amenities and Itineraries

Princess Cruises has officially launched its latest Sphere-class ship, Star Princess, which embarked on its maiden voyage from Barcelona on October 4, 2025. The 177,800-gross-ton vessel, capable of accommodating 4,300 passengers, is the second Sphere-class ship in the fleet and the 17th overall. Its inaugural journey, an 11-night Western Mediterranean cruise, has drawn global attention from cruise enthusiasts. Following this special sailing, the ship will head to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for its U.S. debut and official naming ceremony on November 6, 2025.

Key Features and Entertainment Highlights

Star Princess offers an impressive range of onboard amenities and entertainment options. Among its highlights:

• 30 dining and bar venues, including the exclusive Love Line Premium Liquor Collection featuring Pantalones Organic Tequila.
• Over 1,500 balcony staterooms and Sanctuary Collection suites designed for premium comfort.
• The Dome, a glass-enclosed venue hosting unique events such as the Candlelight Concert Series.
• Princess Arena, featuring two theatrical productions: Meridian, an exploration of high-society aboard a fictional ship, and Illuminate: A Spectacle of Joy, showcasing circus-themed nostalgia.
• Spellbound by Magic Castle returning with a refreshed theme, honoring the golden age of magic.
• Wellness options at Lotus Spa, SkyDeck jogging tracks, and dedicated pickleball and basketball courts for active travelers.

Deployment Timeline and Cruise Itineraries

Star Princess begins its season with cruises exploring Western Europe before transitioning across the Atlantic to Fort Lauderdale. A wealth of itineraries has been unveiled that span Caribbean destinations, the Panama Canal, Alaska, and the Pacific Coast.

• Western Europe Passage: Departing October 22, 2025, this 14-day transatlantic voyage from Barcelona features stops in Gibraltar, Mallorca, and the Azores, offering ample sea days to enjoy the ship.
• Western Caribbean: Beginning November 29, 2025, this week-long cruise from Fort Lauderdale includes stops in Routan, Honduras, Belize City, and Cozumel.
• Eastern Caribbean: Departing December 6, 2025, this itinerary offers visits to Amber Cove, Grand Turk, and Princess Cays, the cruise line’s private resort in the Bahamas.
• Panama Canal: A 20-day voyage starting April 13, 2026, departing from Fort Lauderdale with stops in Aruba, a full Panama Canal transit, Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas, Los Angeles, and concluding in Seattle, Washington.
• Alaska Inside Passage: Starting May 10, 2026, seven-day roundtrip cruises from Seattle include stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, along with scenic glacier cruises.
• Pacific Wine Country: Departing September 27, 2026, this seven-day voyage sets sail from Vancouver with stops in Victoria, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, and features performances by Magic Castle Conjurers.

Statements from Princess Cruises Leadership

Princess Cruises President Gus Antorcha celebrated the launch of Star Princess, stating, "Star Princess shines brightly as one of the largest and most spectacular ships we’ve ever built. We proudly welcome guests aboard her inaugural voyage, and we wish the entire crew much success."

Captain Gennaro Arma added, "It’s an honor to lead the Star Princess on her maiden voyage. Our dedicated crew looks forward to delivering extraordinary service that embodies the Princess Cruises experience."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When did Star Princess officially begin service?

The ship entered service on October 4, 2025, with an 11-night Western Mediterranean maiden voyage from Barcelona.

What are the headline entertainment offerings?

Entertainment highlights include Meridian and Illuminate: A Spectacle of Joy in Princess Arena, Spellbound by Magic Castle, and the Candlelight Concert Series at The Dome.

What destinations does the Panama Canal cruise visit?

The 20-day voyage departs from Fort Lauderdale and makes stops in Aruba, includes a full Panama Canal transit, visits Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas, Los Angeles, and concludes in Seattle, Washington.

Who are the ship’s godparents?

Matthew McConaughey and Camila McConaughey serve as godparents. Their Pantalones Organic Tequila is featured onboard as part of the Love Line Premium Liquor Collection.

When will Star Princess begin Alaska cruises?

The ship’s Alaska Inside Passage season starts on May 10, 2026, offering glacier sightseeing and wildlife encounters in destinations like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway.