As the second ship in Princess Cruises' revolutionary Sphere-class series, Star Princess promises to redefine luxury cruising when it debuts in October 2025.
Sailing from Barcelona for its inaugural Mediterranean season before repositioning to Fort Lauderdale for Caribbean adventures, this magnificent vessel combines the award-winning features of sister ship Sun Princess with exclusive enhancements designed to elevate the guest experience.
The ship represents a significant evolution in Princess Cruises' fleet, offering guests cutting-edge technology and sustainability features while maintaining the personal service and attention to detail that has made Princess "The Love Boat" for generations. With its groundbreaking design elements and innovative spaces, Star Princess will set new standards for premium cruising when it welcomes its first guests on October 4, 2025.
Ship Specifications and Capacity
Star Princess is an impressive feat of maritime engineering, measuring 1,133 feet in length and boasting a gross tonnage of 177,800. Built at the renowned Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, the ship can accommodate 4,300 passengers at double occupancy, served by a dedicated crew of 1,547.
The vessel features 2,162 staterooms across 20 decks, with 17 decks accessible to passengers. An impressive 70% of accommodations offer balcony access, with over 1,500 balcony staterooms providing panoramic ocean views. This includes 469 suites ranging from Mini-Suites to the spectacular two-bedroom Signature Suites.
A groundbreaking feature of Star Princess is its liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion system, making it one of the most environmentally conscious ships in the Princess fleet. The vessel is equipped with two Azipod propulsion units providing 360-degree thrust for enhanced maneuverability, along with four controllable-pitch bow thrusters for precise navigation. This advanced technology significantly reduces emissions while delivering superior performance and efficiency.
The Dome: A Revolutionary Glass Wonder
One of Star Princess's most spectacular features is The Dome, the first geodesic glass dome ever constructed at sea. This multi-level venue draws inspiration from the terraced architecture of Santorini, creating a stunning space that transforms throughout the day to offer completely different experiences.
During daylight hours, The Dome functions as a sophisticated relaxation destination featuring both indoor and outdoor pools surrounded by comfortable lounging areas. Guests can enjoy the unique water shows that play throughout the day, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding while taking in panoramic ocean views through the transparent glass ceiling.
As evening descends, The Dome undergoes a dramatic transformation. The pools become performance stages, and the entire venue shifts into an entertainment complex with a South Beach-inspired vibe. State-of-the-art lighting effects illuminate breathtaking performances by world-class entertainers, creating an unforgettable nightlife experience under the stars.
The Sphere: Architectural Centerpiece
At the heart of Star Princess sits The Sphere, a breathtaking three-story glass-enclosed Piazza that serves as the ship's architectural centerpiece. This stunning space features dramatic curved architecture with floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping 360-degree ocean vistas that change throughout your journey.
The Sphere provides comfortable seating areas perfect for socializing, people-watching, or simply enjoying the ever-changing seascape. A large movable LED screen delivers live entertainment, destination programming, and interactive experiences throughout the day and evening. Natural light floods the space during daytime hours, while sophisticated lighting creates an intimate atmosphere after sunset.
The Sanctuary Collection: Exclusive Luxury
Star Princess introduces The Sanctuary Collection, an elevated tier of accommodations offering guests exclusive access to premium spaces and services throughout the ship. Available to suite guests, mini-suite guests, and select deluxe balcony staterooms, this collection transforms the cruise experience into something truly extraordinary.
- Signature Suite: The pinnacle of luxury at approximately 1,262 square feet including balcony, featuring two separate bedrooms, expansive living areas, and access to all Sanctuary Collection amenities. These suites provide the ultimate space for families or groups seeking uncompromising comfort.
- Vista Suite: Spanning approximately 636 square feet with balcony, these suites offer separate living and sleeping areas, premium furnishings, and the perfect balance of space and intimacy for couples or small families.
- Premium Suite: At approximately 446 square feet including balcony, these suites deliver upscale accommodations with enhanced amenities and exclusive access to Sanctuary Collection facilities.
- Sanctuary Mini-Suites: Featuring separate seating areas with sofa beds, these 123 accommodations provide extra living space and full Sanctuary Collection benefits at exceptional value.
All Sanctuary Collection guests enjoy butler service, priority embarkation and disembarkation, complimentary mini-bar setup, and access to exclusive venues including the Sanctuary Restaurant, Signature Suite Lounge, Sanctuary Club, and the adults-only Sanctuary Star Deck. Morning premium coffee, bottled water, juices, and mocktails are complimentary throughout the sailing.
Stateroom Innovations
Beyond the Sanctuary Collection, Star Princess offers a diverse range of accommodations designed to meet every traveler's needs and preferences. The Reserve Collection introduces exclusive mini-suites with private restaurant access, providing enhanced dining privileges without the full suite investment.
Over 1,500 balcony staterooms feature private outdoor spaces where guests can enjoy morning coffee, sunset cocktails, or simply watch the ocean glide by from the comfort of their own retreat. Many balcony staterooms accommodate triple or quadruple occupancy with sofa beds, making them ideal for families traveling together.
The ship features 186 oceanview staterooms, each fitted with large picture windows that flood the space with natural light while providing spectacular sea views. This represents a welcome return of oceanview accommodations, which were absent from some previous Princess ship classes.
Star Princess doubles down on accommodating solo travelers and families with 100 interconnecting staterooms and thoughtfully designed spaces throughout. Additionally, 55 staterooms are wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that all guests can experience the magic of Star Princess regardless of mobility needs.
Dining Excellence: 30 Venues to Explore
Star Princess elevates Princess Cruises' already impressive culinary program with an astounding 30 food and beverage venues, including multiple specialty restaurants, casual dining options, and innovative concepts that bring destination flavors onboard.
- Love by Britto: This exclusive art-inspired dining venue represents a collaboration between internationally renowned artist Romero Britto and celebrity Chef Rudi Sodamin. The restaurant offers a seven-course fusion menu in a vibrant setting adorned with Britto's signature colorful artwork. Star Princess features an expanded Love by Britto with 20 additional seats beyond what's offered on Sun Princess.
- Sanctuary Restaurant: Reserved exclusively for Sanctuary Collection guests, this elegant venue offers gourmet cuisine with personalized service in an intimate setting. The restaurant provides a refined alternative to the main dining rooms with enhanced menu options and impeccable presentation.
- Crown Grill: Princess Cruises' signature steakhouse delivers premium cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and classic accompaniments in a sophisticated atmosphere reminiscent of an upscale urban steakhouse.
- Sabatini's: This beloved Italian specialty restaurant features authentic recipes, fresh pasta, and classic preparations that transport guests to the trattorias of Italy.
- O'Malley's Irish Pub: Serving traditional Irish fare alongside an impressive selection of beers and whiskeys, this popular venue on Star Princess has been expanded with 32 additional seats. Live music and an authentic pub atmosphere make it a favorite gathering spot throughout the voyage.
- Alfredo's Pizzeria: Authentic Italian pizza prepared fresh throughout the day, named after Alfredo Marzi, Princess Cruises' beloved master chef who created the original recipes.
Revolutionary Dining Concept
Star Princess introduces an innovative dining approach with three distinct main dining room options, allowing guests unprecedented flexibility in their evening meal experience. The Traditional option offers assigned seating at either early or late dinner times, perfect for guests who prefer structure and enjoy dining with the same tablemates throughout their cruise.
The Reservable Dining option allows guests to select their preferred dining time each evening through the ship's advanced reservation system, providing flexibility while ensuring a guaranteed table. The Walk-in Anytime option offers open seating without reservations, ideal for spontaneous diners who want to eat whenever hunger strikes.
This flexible system integrates seamlessly with the OceanNow service, allowing guests to order anything from any venue and have it delivered anywhere on the ship. World Fresh Marketplace provides 24-hour casual dining with international cuisines, healthy options, and comfort foods available around the clock.
The Arena: Entertainment Reimagined
Star Princess features The Arena, Princess Cruises' most technologically advanced theater to date. This shapeshifting performance venue transforms to accommodate different types of productions, from elaborate theatrical shows to intimate concerts and interactive experiences.
The theater boasts cutting-edge sound systems, dramatic lighting capabilities, and large LED screens that create immersive environments for each performance. Professional performers with Broadway-level talent deliver evening shows that rival anything found on land, while daytime programming includes enrichment lectures, destination previews, and interactive experiences.
- Spellbound by Magic Castle: Born from a collaboration with Hollywood's legendary Magic Castle, this captivating speakeasy experience combines intimate magic performances with craft cocktails in a sophisticated setting. The venue recreates the mystique and wonder of the famous Hollywood establishment, offering guests close-up magic and illusions they'll never forget.
- Princess Live: Multiple venues throughout the ship host live music performances ranging from piano bar sing-alongs to Caribbean-inspired bands, creating the perfect soundtrack for your vacation. The entertainment programming changes nightly, ensuring fresh experiences throughout even the longest voyages.
Casino and Gaming
Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate Star Princess's expanded casino, which features a significant enhancement over sister ship Sun Princess with 68 additional slot machines in newly designated non-smoking sections. This thoughtful addition caters to the growing number of guests who prefer smoke-free gaming environments while maintaining traditional gaming areas for those who don't mind.
The casino offers a full complement of table games including blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker, staffed by professional dealers who create an exciting yet welcoming atmosphere. Regular tournaments and special events add extra excitement throughout each sailing.
SkyDeck Sports and Recreation
Star Princess introduces an enhanced SkyDeck Sports Court and Track on the top deck, providing active guests with multiple options for staying fit and having fun while at sea. The multi-purpose court accommodates pickleball, basketball, and other sports, with equipment available for guest use.
A wraparound jogging track allows fitness enthusiasts to maintain their running routines while enjoying ocean breezes and changing seascapes. Shaded relaxation areas provide spots to catch your breath and take in the views between activities.
Lotus Spa and Wellness
The Lotus Spa on Star Princess offers a comprehensive wellness experience with ocean-view treatment rooms, thermal suite experiences, and a full menu of massages, facials, and body treatments. Couples can enjoy side-by-side massages in private rooms designed for shared relaxation.
The spa's thermal suite features aromatic steam rooms, therapeutic saunas, heated loungers, and sensory showers that provide a journey through different therapeutic experiences. A modern fitness center equipped with cardio machines, strength training equipment, and free weights allows guests to maintain their workout routines while sailing.
Princess MedallionClass Technology
Star Princess fully embraces Princess MedallionClass technology, a wearable device that seamlessly enables a personalized vacation experience from the moment you board. The Medallion functions as your room key, payment method, and personal concierge throughout your journey.
The OceanNow app allows guests to order food, drinks, and retail items from anywhere on the ship for delivery directly to their location. Whether you're by the pool, in your stateroom, or at a show, everything you need is just a tap away. The technology also enables contactless embarkation and disembarkation, eliminating lines and wait times.
Youth and Family Programs
Princess Cruises' award-winning youth programs continue aboard Star Princess with age-specific clubs designed to keep children and teenagers engaged throughout the voyage. The kids' centers feature the latest video games, movies, arts and crafts supplies, and organized activities led by trained youth staff.
Younger children enjoy karaoke sessions, pizza parties, and pajama nights, while teenagers have their own dedicated spaces with activities designed for their age group. Foosball, board games, and creative projects ensure there's always something fun happening in the youth areas.
Inaugural Itineraries
Star Princess will embark on its maiden voyage on October 4, 2025, with an 11-day Western Mediterranean sailing from Barcelona. This inaugural journey will visit some of Europe's most spectacular ports before the ship crosses the Atlantic for its Caribbean season.
- Mediterranean Season (Fall 2025): Star Princess will offer Western Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona, visiting iconic destinations including Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Cartagena, Gibraltar, Málaga, and Palma de Mallorca. These sailings allow guests to explore ancient history, savor Mediterranean cuisine, and experience the rich cultural heritage of Southern Europe.
- Caribbean Season (November 2025 - April 2026): Beginning November 7, 2025, Star Princess will homeport in Fort Lauderdale, offering seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Eastern Caribbean sailings visit Princess Cays (the cruise line's private destination in the Bahamas), Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, Grand Turk, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. Western Caribbean voyages call on Roatán in Honduras, Belize City, Cozumel, and Costa Maya in Mexico.
- Alaska Adventures (Spring 2026): Star Princess will reposition to the Pacific Northwest for its inaugural Alaska season, offering spectacular Inside Passage and Glacier itineraries from Seattle and Vancouver. These sailings will showcase Alaska's pristine wilderness, magnificent glaciers, and charming coastal towns, with opportunities for whale watching, glacier viewing, and immersion in frontier history.
What Sets Star Princess Apart
Star Princess distinguishes itself through several enhancements beyond its sister ship Sun Princess. The expanded non-smoking casino sections, additional seating in popular venues like O'Malley's Irish Pub and Love by Britto, and the enhanced SkyDeck Sports Court all reflect Princess Cruises' commitment to listening to guest feedback and continuously improving the experience.
The ship represents the culmination of Princess Cruises' evolution toward larger, more innovative vessels while maintaining the personalized service and attention to detail that have made the cruise line beloved by millions. From groundbreaking environmental technology to cutting-edge entertainment venues, every aspect of Star Princess has been designed to exceed expectations.
The combination of The Dome and The Sphere creates architectural signatures that set this ship apart from anything else sailing the seas. These stunning venues provide guests with completely unique spaces that simply don't exist on other cruise ships, offering new perspectives on what's possible in cruise ship design.
Ready to Experience Star Princess?
Star Princess represents the future of premium cruising, combining innovative design, exceptional dining, world-class entertainment, and the legendary service Princess Cruises is known for. Whether you're seeking Mediterranean cultural immersion, Caribbean tropical escapes, or Alaska's natural wonders, this extraordinary ship promises to deliver unforgettable experiences that will exceed your expectations. To book your voyage aboard Star Princess, visit CruiseDirect for the best rates and availability.
