Princess Cruises are the third largest cruise company in the world with 18 ships in their fleet and over 160 different cruise itineraries available across an impressive 300 different ports around the globe. They have 5 ships that sail from Australia with 2 of those being permanently based here all year round.
Princess are renowned for having some of the best shore tours and activities of any cruise ship. Their onboard education programs are also second to none, which offers an in-depth look at the places that you are sailing to.
In 2017 Princess are launching a new program called “More Ashore” which will offer even more itineraries and chances to discover new places.
With the program the ship will dock for 2 nights at a time in some places like Dublin and Saint Petersburg, offering their guests time to experience not only day time activities but also the nightlife.
Princess Cruises Destinations
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Caribbean
- Mexican Riviera
- South America
- Hawaii
- New England
- Alaska
- Bermuda
- Europe
- Panama Canal
- Pacific Islands
- Tahiti
- New Zealand
Value
Princess Cruises offer some great value holidays, and even won an award for ‘Best Cruise Ship for Value‘ in 2016.
“Named ‘Best Cruise Ship for Value’ in 2016”With their focus on the best itineraries and shore tours you won’t be disappointed with lacklustre destinations. They really look after you and make sure you get the true cultural experience out of each port.
They have been ramping up their ships over the last 5 years and made a lot of improvements and are fast becoming front runners in value for money cruising. With the size of their fleet and the amount of choice you get with Princess, they’re certainly on the right track.
If you check their website before booking you will always find some great deals like free beverage packages, discounts on original fares and room credit that you can spend anywhere on the ship.
Food & Drink
Aussie chef Curtis Stone has recently ‘jumped aboard’ the Princess Cruises line creating new menu items that are available in the main dining area which is all included in your fare.
Or if you’re feeling a little more lavish, you can head to The Chefs Table, and sample his three-course menu which I have heard is quite delicious.
Also on board are a number of restaurants including The Salty Dog Gastropub, Sabatini’s Italian fare, The Crown Grill, Sterling Steakhouse and the Bayou Cafe. Or if you’re looking for something more casual, you can wander into the Horizon Court buffet. Don’t forget to try the pizza which has been said to be the best at sea.
Have a special occasion coming up? Why not book their Ultimate Balcony Dining experience and make it unforgettable!
Entertainment
The entertainment on a Princess Cruises is among the best going around, they have just secured Stephen Schwartz, the composer of the musical Wicked, to write a new production called ‘Magic To Do’.
“They are known for incredible entertainment”They have their very own version of the hit TV show The Voice, there are Broadway productions, an abundance of live music, comedians and even a hypnotist!
The Vegas style casino is loaded with all the favourites, poker, blackjack, craps and roulette, fancy a spin? They also have pokie machines and electronic poker tables which where you can take on the crew in a tournament.
Children are also well catered for with programs for kids aged 3 right up to 17. For the older kids there is the Teen lounge which has a PlayStation, Wii, air hockey and also hosts dance parties and late night movies. The younger kids can join in the fun with t-shirt colouring, ice-cream and pizza parties, art projects and family fun fairs.
Amenities
If you like a nice soft luxurious bed to sleep on at night, Princess been collaborating with sleep expert Dr Michal Breus as well as a design expert to create the new Princess Luxury Bed which has been rolled out to every stateroom across the fleet. There’s nothing like a good night’s sleep to get you ready for holiday fun!
An adults only retreat, The Sanctuary, offers plush soft loungers, stewards that wait on you, a healthy drink and snack bar and soft soothing music to help relieve all the stresses of everyday life.
The Lotus Spa is also a great place to go for a relaxing massage or facial, or if you are feeling a little more energetic you can visit the fitness centre and try one of their classes or chat to a personal trainer.
Loyalty Program
Princess Cruises offer their Captains Circle loyalty program with four tiers, Gold, Ruby, Platinum, and Elite.
The Gold tier will automatically come into effect after your first cruise. Then you will receive rewards such as special cruise prices, a gold pin, access to member only areas and a princess passport.
The more you sail with them the higher up the tiers you will go and the more benefits you will receive a free mini bar, free laundry and priority access on and off the boat.
