Princess Cruises‘ newest ship Sun Princess has started her maiden voyage, a Grand Mediterranean cruise roundtrip from Rome.
The 10-day inaugural sailing began in Civitavecchia near Rome, Italy on February 28 and will visit Naples, Crete, Kusadasi, Athens, Sicily, Mallorca, and Barcelona. The new 177,882-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess was originally scheduled to set sail from Barcelona on February 8, but the ship’s delivery was delayed at the shipyard.
“This is an historic day as our new Sun Princess sets sail on her inaugural voyage, and our guests get to experience our sensational, next-level, Love Boat firsthand,” Princess Cruises’ president John Padgett said in a press release.
“The ship is a magnificent showcase of advanced design, technology and craftsmanship, with elevated spaces and experiences all focused on taking the Princess vacation experience to a new level,” Padgett continued.
Sun Princess is the first LNG (liquefied natural gas) vessel for the cruise line, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and featuring energy recovery systems for eco-conscious cruising.
Sun Princess is the first Sphere Class ship
The new Sun Princess is the first of Princess’ Sphere class vessels, introducing an innovative new ship platform for the brand.
Sun Princess debuted brand new venues including The Dome at the top of the ship, a geodesic, glass-enclosed structure inspired by the terraces of Santorini.
The namesake of this new class of ship, the Sphere Atrium, expands the central Piazza hub of the ship into an external, suspended space. In this innovative space, guests can enjoy an open layout with wide-ranging views of the ocean.
“The Sun Princess is absolutely gorgeous and guests are going to love her. The architecture is unbelievable and the amenities on board are next level, especially the glass dome at the front of the ship which is incredibly stunning,” said Monika Best of Nova Scotia, Canada, the most-traveled guest on the inaugural voyage who is sailing for the 141st time aboard a Princess ship.
The new ship features 30 dining and drinking spots
Sun Princess offers cruisers 30 restaurant and bar venues with an unprecedented collection of celebrity collaborators including:
- Spellbound by Magic Castle: Blending the world of magic with the art of culinary and mixology to create an immersive dining experience
- Kai Sushi by Makoto: Master of Edomae-style sushi, Chef Makoto Okuwa reimagines traditional sushi, creating whimsical, beautifully presented dishes that honor Japanese traditions
- Love by Britto: Celebrating love and art from world-renowned artist Romero Britto, this upscale boutique restaurant offers the most romantic view from the ship
- The Butcher’s Block by Dario: A new specialty pop-up restaurant from famed butcher Dario Cecchini serving beef and steak, including Cecchini’s signature cuts
- The Catch by Rudi: A dinner venue from renowned Chef Rudi Sodamin showcasing delectable seafood dishes
- Good Spirits at Sea with Rob Floyd: One-of-a-kind cocktail creations from celebrity mixologist Rob Floyd
The three-story main Horizons Dining Room offers Princess’ first menus developed in partnership with the Culinary Institute of America. Sun Princess also features guest favorites like Crown Grill, Sabatini’s, and Crooners, all with new design elements.
Read more: Princess Cruises Shares First Look at Dining Options on Sun Princess
Sun Princess expands entertainment options
The Princess Arena on Sun Princess, the most technologically advanced theater at sea, offers original productions including performances in the round.
At night, The Dome presents acrobatic performances by Cirque Éloize, and cruisers can also enjoy entertainment in the Piazza with its retractable stage and immersive Champagne waterfall.
Sun Princess is also home to the cruise line’s largest casino, a two-story Lotus Spa, and an expanded retail environment with more than 200 premium brands.
The retail space includes several firsts at sea including an upscale showroom dedicated to luxury watches showcasing TAG Heuer and Breitling. More than 25 new brands are available to cruise guests including Italian handbag brand Pinko and athleisure favorites Beyond Yoga and Varley.
Park19, Princess’ first-ever family activity zone, provides entertainment for all ages on the top decks. From decks 19, 20, and 21, guests can enjoy amazing views from the Sea Breeze glider ride or the Coastal Climb climbing structure.
The new Sun Princess offers a wide range of accommodation options, including over 1,500 staterooms with balconies. Newly-designed Cabana Mini-Suites offer additional space for private outdoor relaxation.
More news about Princess Cruises
- Sun Princess Sets Sail on Inaugural Voyage
- Princess Cruises Delays Delivery of Sun Princess and Cancels Inaugural Sailing
- Princess Cruises Announces Captains for Star Princess
- Princess Cruises’ Star Princess Keel Laying Marks Start of Construction
- Princess Cruises Will Debut Its Largest Casino Ever on New Sun Princess
- Princess Cruises Begins Countdown to Inaugural Season from Port Canaveral
Are you planning to sail aboard the new Sun Princess? What are you most looking forward to experience on the ship? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
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