Breaking Cruise News: Princess Introduces the Sun Princess, but Some Cruisers are Skeptical
In a September 15, 2022 press release, Princess announced the line’s newest ship: the Sun Princess. As the largest Princess ship ever constructed, the Sun Princess will weigh in at 175,500-tons and accommodate over 4,000 passengers. The press release described some of her unique features as follows…
Press Release: Princess Cruises Unveils Bespoke Next Generation Ship – Sun Princess
The line’s Piazza, spans three stories, forming an iconic architectural feature offering guests an outward looking suspended space with comfortable seating and areas to enjoy the ocean views in every direction. An impressive LED screen is also showcased in the center of the Piazza that can be moved and configured to deliver live entertainment programming.
The other stand-out structure onboard Sun Princess is The Dome. Inspired by the terraces of Santorini, it is a multi-level covered deck and first-of-its-kind true glass-enclosed dome ever constructed on a cruise ship. During the day, the Dome features an indoor/outdoor pool, and unique water feature, in a comfortable and relaxed space. At night, the pool becomes a stage, and the Dome completely transforms into an entertainment venue with a South Beach vibe, state-of-the-art lighting effects and the ability to deliver stunning aerial performances.
Launching exclusively on Sun Princess will be a new level of suite accommodations, the Signature Collection. In addition to premium stateroom amenities, Signature Collection suites include access to the Signature Restaurant, Signature Lounge, and Signature Sun Deck, a private area of the Sanctuary.
With Sun Princess, Club Class accommodations onboard this ship, and all Princess ships will now be called Reserve Collection, which are the best-located mini suite staterooms. Within the Reserve Collection will be Reserve Collection Cabana rooms, resort-style staterooms that offer a balcony and private cabana, an extra-large outdoor lounge space. These premium accommodations also include access to the Reserve Collection Restaurant.
In addition to the ship’s stunning design are the sustainable elements being engineered in the vessel. Sun Princess is part of Carnival Corporation’s green cruising focus and is one of 11 new ships in the corporate fleet powered by LNG fuel technology.
Some Cruisers are Skeptical of Princess’s Newest Ship
While the industry is abuzz, some Princess cruisers have expressed skepticism:
“Bigger. Of course it’s bigger! I’m waiting for them to announce a smaller ship with a larger library. That’s what I’m waiting for!”
“First the app, then the Medallion, and now a transforming entertainment dome? Who is going to help me figure all this out now that my grandson has stopped taking my calls?”
“That’s all well and good, but what about the Promenade deck? How wide is it and does it wrap all the way around the ship? I hope Princess has considered my daily morning walks in their plans!”
“Oh great, more exclusive areas to get turned away from while searching 45 decks for a place to get a simple slice of pizza.”
“As a young person, I’m very disappointed in the lack of brass accents. They remind me of my grandparents house and that’s exactly what I’m looking for in a Spring Break venue!”
“Powered by LNG fuel technology? What kind of fru-fru nonsense is that? I’m about to pull up next to her in my Carnival ship and roll coal!”
What’s Next for the Sun Princess?
Love her or hate her, the Sun Princess is currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard. Her inaugural season will begin in early 2024 with Mediterranean itineraries, the first three of which will go on sale at 3pm EST on September 16. Will you be booking one?
And with that…
Class Dismissed.
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Not for me!! My favorite ship was the Pacific. Guess I’ll be moving to Azamara.