Cruising has become an increasingly popular way to travel, with millions of people embarking on a cruise vacation every year. And while there are many different cruise lines and ships to choose from, one company stands out for its commitment to providing the ultimate luxury experience – Princess Cruises. Recently, the company made headlines when it announced that its newest ships will have the largest balconies at sea. This exciting news has sparked interest among travelers and cruise enthusiasts alike, and for good reason. In this article, we will explore what makes Princess Cruises stand out in the industry, and why their new ships with the largest balconies at sea are worth getting excited about.
1. Introducing Princess Cruises
Founded in 1965, Princess Cruises is a premium cruise line owned by Carnival Corporation & plc. The company was originally named the Princess Patricia and was operated by Canadian Pacific Limited. However, in 1974, it was acquired by P&O (Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company), which later merged with Carnival Corporation in 2003. Today, Princess Cruises is known for its luxurious ships, exceptional service, and unique itineraries that take passengers to some of the most beautiful destinations around the world.
History and Evolution
Princess Cruises has come a long way since its inception over 50 years ago. The company started with just one ship, the Princess Patricia, which offered cruises to Mexico. It wasn’t until the late 1960s that Princess expanded to Alaska, the Caribbean, and Europe. In the 1980s, the company introduced its first “Love Boat,” the Pacific Princess, which gained worldwide fame through the hit TV show of the same name. Over the years, Princess Cruises continued to grow and innovate, introducing some of the most luxurious and technologically advanced ships in the industry.
Reputation and Awards
Today, Princess Cruises is known for its exceptional service, elegant ships, and unique itineraries. The company has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, cementing its reputation as one of the leading cruise lines in the world. In 2018, Princess was named “Best Cruise Line In Alaska” by Travel Weekly for the 12th year in a row. The company has also been recognized for its culinary excellence, with its chefs winning several prestigious awards, including the “Best Cruise Line Chef” award by Saveur Magazine.
2. The Largest Balconies at Sea
The latest news from Princess Cruises has caused quite a stir in the cruising community – their newest ships will have the largest balconies at sea. Let’s take a closer look at what this means and why it’s such a big deal.
What Makes These Balconies So Special?
Princess Cruises has always been known for its luxurious accommodations, and their balconies are no exception. While most cruise ship balconies are around 20-50 square feet, the balconies on Princess’ new ships will be a whopping 1,000 square feet. That’s larger than some standard staterooms! These balconies will feature a private hot tub, lounge chairs, and even a dining area. This means that passengers can enjoy the beautiful ocean views and fresh sea air in unparalleled comfort and luxury.
The Benefits of Having a Large Balcony
Having a large balcony on a cruise ship offers a whole host of benefits. For starters, passengers will have plenty of space to relax and unwind, whether they want to soak up the sun or enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars. With a private hot tub, guests can also indulge in a spa-like experience without leaving their room. Additionally, these balconies provide the perfect spot for some privacy and quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the ship’s activities.
How to Book a Cabin with a Large Balcony
Princess Cruises currently has four ships in its Royal Class – Royal Princess, Regal Princess, Majestic Princess, and Sky Princess. The first three ships already have large balconies on their suites and mini-suites. However, the Sky Princess, which is set to debut in October 2019, will be the first to offer these spacious balconies on regular staterooms. To book a cabin with a large balcony, passengers can simply choose a stateroom in the “Sky Suite” category when making their reservation. These cabins are available for booking on all Sky Princess sailings after its launch.
3. What to Expect on a Princess Cruise Ship
Apart from the largest balconies at sea, what else can passengers expect when they book a cruise with Princess? Let’s take a look at some of the standout features and amenities of their ships.
State-of-the-Art Technology
Princess Cruises is at the forefront of technology in the cruise industry. Their newest ships feature some of the most advanced amenities and services, like the OceanMedallion wearable device that serves as both a room key and payment method. This innovative technology allows passengers to personalize their experience on the ship, from ordering their favorite drinks to having their meal preferences automatically noted by the restaurant staff.
World-Class Dining Options
Food lovers will be delighted by the dining options available on Princess Cruises. The company has partnered with renowned chefs, including Curtis Stone and Ernesto Uchimura, to bring guests a wide range of mouth-watering dishes. From traditional fine dining experiences to casual buffet-style meals, there’s something for every palate on board. Passengers can also take part in hands-on cooking demonstrations and wine tastings to enhance their culinary experience.
Entertainment and Activities
Princess Cruises offers an array of entertainment and activities for passengers of all ages. The ships feature Broadway-style productions, live music performances, and a variety of themed parties. There are also plenty of onboard activities to keep guests occupied, from art auctions to fitness classes. For those looking for relaxation and pampering, the Lotus Spa offers a range of treatments and services, including massages, facials, and hair styling.
4. Princess Cruises Destinations and Itineraries
One of the main reasons people choose to go on a cruise is to see different destinations without having to pack and unpack multiple times. With Princess Cruises, passengers can travel to some of the most beautiful and iconic destinations around the world. Here are some of the top destinations and itineraries offered by the company.
Alaska
Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations, and for good reason. With Princess Cruises, passengers can sail through the breathtaking landscapes of the Inside Passage, visit charming ports like Ketchikan and Juneau, and witness majestic glaciers up close. The company offers several itineraries ranging from 5-10 days, giving travelers the chance to explore this stunning region at their leisure.
Caribbean
The Caribbean is another favorite among cruise enthusiasts, and Princess Cruises has several options to choose from. Passengers can embark on a classic Eastern or Western Caribbean itinerary, or opt for a more unique Southern Caribbean trip that includes stops in less frequented ports like St. Lucia and Bonaire. Caribbean cruises with Princess typically last 7-14 days, depending on the route.
Europe
For those looking for a more culturally enriching experience, a European cruise with Princess is the way to go. The company offers a wide range of itineraries, from Mediterranean adventures to Northern Europe discovery voyages. Passengers can explore iconic cities like Rome, Barcelona, and Paris, as well as lesser-known gems like Alesund in Norway and Kotor in Montenegro.
World Cruises
For those with time on their hands and a sense of adventure, Princess Cruises has several world cruise options. These once-in-a-lifetime voyages can last up to 111 days and cover thousands of miles, taking passengers to some of the most exotic destinations on Earth. On a world cruise with Princess, passengers will experience different cultures, visit iconic landmarks, and create unforgettable memories.
5. Tips for Booking a Princess Cruise
Now that you’re eager to book your next cruise with Princess, here are some tips to keep in mind to make the most out of your vacation.
Book Early
Princess Cruises is incredibly popular, and their cruises tend to fill up quickly. To ensure that you get the itinerary, stateroom, and price you want, it’s best to book as early as possible. This also gives you more time to plan and prepare for your trip, so you can make the most out of your time on board.
Be Flexible with Dates and Itineraries
If you have a specific destination or date in mind, you may have to be flexible when booking with Princess. Some itineraries may sell out faster than others, so it’s always a good idea to have a few options in mind before making your reservation. Also, keep an eye out for special promotions and deals that may offer discounts or additional perks.
Consider a Travel Agent
While it’s possible to book directly with Princess Cruises, consider using a travel agent to take care of the details for you. Not only can they help you find the best deals, but they can also assist with any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring a smooth and stress-free booking process.
6. Why Choose Princess Cruises?
With so many different cruise lines to choose from, why should you opt for Princess Cruises for your next vacation? Here are some reasons that sets this company apart from others in the industry.
Luxury and Comfort
Princess Cruises is known for its luxurious ships, world-class amenities, and exceptional service. The company goes above and beyond to make sure that every guest feels pampered and comfortable during their trip. From plush bedding and spacious cabins to delicious dining options and top-of-the-line technology, Princess has something for everyone.
Unique Itineraries and Destinations
As mentioned earlier, Princess Cruises offers a variety of itineraries to some of the most sought-after destinations in the world. With over 380 ports of call in more than 100 countries, passengers can embark on a truly unique and enriching experience with Princess. And with their new ships featuring the largest balconies at sea, travelers can enjoy these destinations in unparalleled comfort and style.
Exceptional Service
One of the things that sets Princess Cruises apart is its outstanding crew members. From the moment guests step onboard, they are greeted by friendly and attentive staff who go out of their way to ensure a memorable experience. The company’s commitment to providing exceptional service is evident in the multiple awards and recognition they have received over the years.
Conclusion: Why Princess Cruises is Worth Considering
With its history of innovation, reputation for luxury and service, and now featuring the largest balconies at sea, Princess Cruises is definitely a cruise line worth considering for your next vacation. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-packed journey, there’s something for everyone on board a Princess ship. From their state-of-the-art technology to the variety of destinations and activities offered, this company continues to raise the bar and set themselves apart from other cruise lines. So why not book your next cruise with Princess and see for yourself what makes them stand out in the industry?
