In a dazzling celebration at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Princess Cruises officially christened its newest and most anticipated ship — the Star Princess — on November 6, 2025. The ceremony signified not only the introduction of the latest jewel in the Princess Cruises fleet but also a bold, modern twist on a time-honored maritime tradition.
Instead of the traditional champagne bottle, the Star Princess was christened with a bottle of Pantalones Tequila, a premium spirit owned by Matthew McConaughey and Camila Alves McConaughey, the ship’s celebrity godparents. The lively event symbolized a fusion of classic elegance and contemporary style, setting a new tone for the future of cruise travel.
A Tequila Twist on Tradition
The christening of the Star Princess stood out as one of the most unique in cruise industry history. The use of Pantalones Tequila was more than a publicity stunt — it represented a shift toward personalization and luxury experiences that reflect modern travelers’ tastes. The McConaugheys, dressed in chic all-white attire, led the ceremonial moment as the bottle of tequila struck the ship’s hull, officially welcoming the Star Princess into service.
Guests were treated to exclusive tastings of the couple’s tequila brand throughout the event, adding an extra layer of sophistication and flair. As part of the ceremony, Pantalones Tequila was also introduced as part of the ship’s Love Line Premium Liquor collection, allowing future passengers to enjoy the spirit during their voyages.
This new partnership exemplifies how cruise lines are evolving to integrate lifestyle brands, offering travelers not just a journey across the seas but a full immersion into curated luxury living.
The Star Princess: A Next-Generation Luxury Vessel
The Star Princess represents a significant evolution in Princess Cruises’ fleet, blending classic cruise traditions with the latest in design and technology. Built to reflect the brand’s commitment to comfort and innovation, the ship features sleek interiors, modern amenities, and expanded entertainment options.
Every stateroom aboard has been redesigned with a focus on spaciousness and ocean views, giving guests a sense of serenity and connection to the sea. Dining options include an impressive lineup of restaurants serving global cuisine, from fine dining to casual bites, all designed to provide diverse and memorable culinary experiences.
Entertainment has also taken center stage aboard the Star Princess. From Broadway-caliber productions and live music to themed events and immersive experiences, guests can expect a vibrant array of options every night of their voyage.
A Star-Studded Ceremony
The christening event was nothing short of spectacular. Guests were treated to an opening performance by the ship’s entertainment team, followed by a headline concert from Grammy Award-winning artist Sheryl Crow. Her live performance electrified the crowd, turning the ceremony into a celebration of both culture and innovation.
The evening concluded with a Northern Lights-themed drone show, illuminating the Florida night sky and symbolizing the Star Princess’s future voyages to breathtaking destinations. The creative spectacle underscored Princess Cruises’ commitment to merging tradition with innovation and delivering extraordinary guest experiences.
A New Wave of Destinations
The Star Princess has already embarked on its maiden voyage, beginning with an 11-day Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona in early October 2025. This inaugural itinerary showcases some of Europe’s most iconic destinations, including Italy, France, and Greece, offering travelers an enriching blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty.
After completing its European season, the ship will cross the Atlantic to Miami, where it will begin a Caribbean cruise series. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore sun-drenched islands, vibrant coral reefs, and tropical ports of call across the region.
Looking ahead to summer 2026, the Star Princess will transition to Alaska cruises, offering seven-day Inside Passage itineraries. Guests can look forward to breathtaking views of glaciers, wildlife, and scenic coastal towns — experiences that have made Alaska one of Princess Cruises’ most sought-after destinations.
Celebrity Appeal and Lifestyle Integration
The involvement of Matthew McConaughey and Camila Alves McConaughey brought Hollywood star power and authentic charm to the ceremony. Their partnership with Princess Cruises reflects the brand’s evolving strategy to connect with a broader audience — one that values authenticity, premium experiences, and lifestyle-driven travel.
The McConaugheys’ Pantalones Tequila will now be featured onboard across the Princess fleet, further aligning with the cruise line’s goal of enhancing its premium offerings. Guests can indulge in signature cocktails inspired by the brand, adding a modern, sophisticated touch to the onboard experience.
This strategic partnership is part of Princess Cruises’ larger effort to redefine luxury at sea by offering exclusive collaborations, curated menus, and immersive entertainment that appeal to contemporary travelers.
The Future of Princess Cruises
Speaking at the ceremony, Gus Antorcha, President of Princess Cruises, described the Star Princess as a “revolution in cruising” — a vessel that blends everything guests love about Princess with bold new innovations. He emphasized that this ship represents the next step in sustainable, experience-driven cruising, catering to both loyal guests and first-time travelers.
The Star Princess not only enhances the fleet’s global presence but also positions Princess Cruises as a frontrunner in redefining premium travel experiences. From eco-conscious engineering to immersive guest amenities, the ship embodies the cruise line’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
Conclusion
The christening of the Star Princess marks a milestone for Princess Cruises — a celebration of tradition, modern luxury, and creativity. By blending a tequila-inspired ceremony with cutting-edge design and unforgettable entertainment, the event signaled a new direction for the brand and the cruise industry as a whole.
For travelers, the Star Princess offers far more than just a journey — it delivers an experience rich with style, comfort, and personality. Whether sailing through the Mediterranean, exploring the Caribbean, or admiring the majestic glaciers of Alaska, passengers can expect every moment aboard the Star Princess to be infused with the same charm and spirit that defined its christening.
With its blend of Hollywood glamour, luxury innovation, and world-class destinations, the Star Princess ushers in a bold new era of cruise travel — one where every voyage is designed to inspire, indulge, and delight.
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