On September 29, 2025, the Star Princess was officially handed over to Princess Cruises in Monfalcone, Italy. Built by Fincantieri, the Italian shipbuilding giant, this moment marked the arrival of the second vessel in the innovative Sphere-Class series. Weighing in at 177,800 tons and capable of carrying more than 4,300 guests, the ship is now the 17th jewel in the Princess Cruises fleet.
The handover ceremony symbolized more than a transfer of ownership—it highlighted the collaboration between the cruise line, Fincantieri, and Italian officials. With construction now complete, the Star Princess is ready to welcome passengers to experience the future of luxury cruising.
A Floating City of Elegance
The Star Princess has been designed with one purpose in mind: to set new standards in luxury cruise travel. Featuring over 1,500 balcony staterooms, passengers will enjoy private panoramic ocean views. Inside, the ship is home to 30 dining and bar venues, each crafted to offer unique culinary experiences, from global flavors to intimate fine dining.
The ship mirrors the success of her sister vessel, the Sun Princess, yet brings its own innovations. One of the most exclusive highlights is the Sanctuary Collection, a tranquil, adults-only retreat. With private dining, an exclusive pool, and enhanced services, it offers travelers the ultimate in relaxation and sophistication.
Standout Attractions at Sea
The Star Princess is more than a cruise ship—it is a destination in itself. Some of its most remarkable features include:
- The Dome – A glass-enclosed space for relaxation and entertainment, inspired by terraces found in Santorini.
- The Arena – A state-of-the-art theater with immersive shows and technologically advanced performances.
- The Piazza – The central heart of the ship, designed with soaring glass windows for sweeping sea views.
- Spellbound by Magic Castle™ – A speakeasy venue developed in partnership with Hollywood’s Magic Castle, offering enchanting live performances.
These attractions, combined with elegant staterooms and personalized services, ensure guests experience comfort and entertainment at sea unlike ever before.
Itineraries That Inspire Wanderlust
The debut season of the Star Princess is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting in cruise history. On October 4, 2025, the ship will begin her inaugural journey: an 11-day Western Mediterranean cruise departing from Barcelona. Guests will sail to iconic European ports, blending history, culture, and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
From November 7, 2025, the ship will reposition to Ft. Lauderdale, beginning her Caribbean season. Passengers will enjoy turquoise waters, tropical islands, and vibrant local cultures in complete luxury. Afterward, the Star Princess will embark on a Panama Canal journey, showcasing one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels, before traveling west to Alaska for her first summer season.
This global itinerary ensures travelers can experience Europe, the Caribbean, and North America in a single year aboard one of the most advanced ships on the sea.
Impact on Global Tourism
The unveiling of the Star Princess is not just a milestone for Princess Cruises—it is a defining moment for the cruise industry worldwide. Luxury cruising continues to attract international travelers seeking unique, all-inclusive experiences. With its blend of high-end amenities and diverse destinations, the Star Princess is expected to set new benchmarks for competitors.
By offering routes across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Alaska, Princess Cruises positions itself at the forefront of tourism growth. These voyages will encourage more travelers to consider cruising not just as transportation, but as a complete vacation experience.
The introduction of innovative spaces like The Dome and Spellbound reflects a broader shift toward immersive travel experiences, where passengers are entertained and engaged at every turn.
Why the Star Princess Matters for Travelers
For vacationers, the Star Princess offers the opportunity to enjoy both adventure and relaxation without compromise. Travelers who seek serenity can indulge in private balcony suites or the Sanctuary Collection. Those craving excitement will find dynamic performances, world-class dining, and excursions that bring destinations to life.
Whether it’s sipping cocktails in the Piazza, attending a live theater show, or exploring Alaska’s glaciers, the ship delivers something for every type of traveler. It embodies the future of luxury cruise travel, where the journey is just as extraordinary as the destination.
Shaping the Future of Luxury Cruising
As global travel demand continues to rise, the launch of the Star Princess demonstrates how cruise lines are evolving to meet travelers’ expectations. By prioritizing personalization, exclusivity, and cultural variety, Princess Cruises ensures that this ship is more than a vessel—it is an experience that will leave lasting memories.
The Star Princess is not just another ship; it is a statement. A statement that the cruise industry is entering a new golden age, where innovation and luxury redefine how we explore the world.
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