Do All Princess Cruise Line Ships Have Shower Curtains Find Out Here

Not all Princess Cruise Line ships have shower curtains—while most standard cabins feature them, some newer or renovated ships offer walk-in showers with glass doors instead. Always check your specific ship and cabin type before booking to avoid surprises, as bathroom configurations vary across the fleet.

Key Takeaways

• Most cabins have shower curtains: Standard on nearly all Princess ships for privacy and water containment.
• Suites may differ: Upgraded rooms often feature glass doors instead of curtains.
• Check your cabin class: Interior and balcony cabins almost always include shower curtains.
• Newer ships innovate: Look for modern designs with semi-enclosed showers in select categories.
• Contact customer service: Verify specific cabin details before booking if unsure.
• Pack a backup: Consider a portable curtain if you have strong preferences.

Do All Princess Cruise Line Ships Have Shower Curtains? Find Out Here

When you’re preparing for a cruise, especially with a premium line like Princess Cruises, the details matter. From the moment you book your stateroom, you start envisioning your home at sea: the cozy bed, the ocean view (or balcony, if you’re lucky), and, of course, the bathroom. One question that often arises—especially among first-time cruisers or those with sensory preferences—is: Do all Princess Cruise Line ships have shower curtains? It might sound like a small detail, but for travelers with mobility concerns, privacy preferences, or simply a desire for comfort, the type of shower enclosure in your cabin can make a big difference.

Princess Cruises, known for its elegant ships, personalized service, and innovative features, has evolved its cabin designs over the decades. With over 15 ships in its fleet—ranging from the classic Caribbean Princess to the cutting-edge Discovery Princess—there’s variation in bathroom layouts, finishes, and fixtures. While many guests assume that all cabins come with traditional shower curtains, the reality is more nuanced. Some newer ships feature glass-enclosed showers, while others maintain the classic curtain setup. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the bathroom designs across the Princess fleet, explore the differences between ship classes, and help you know exactly what to expect in your stateroom—before you even board. Whether you’re booking a standard interior room or a luxurious suite, we’ve got the insider knowledge you need.

Understanding Princess Cruise Line’s Fleet and Ship Classes

To answer the question about shower curtains, it’s essential to understand the diversity within the Princess Cruises fleet. Not all ships are built the same, and bathroom design is one of the areas where differences emerge most clearly. Princess operates several distinct ship classes, each with unique architectural and interior design philosophies. These classes influence everything from cabin size to bathroom layout and, yes, the type of shower enclosure you’ll encounter.

Major Ship Classes in the Princess Fleet

• Grand Class: Includes Grand Princess, Golden Princess, Star Princess, and Diamond Princess. These were built in the early 2000s and feature classic cruise ship design with standard cabin bathrooms.
• Ruby Class: Comprised of Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess, these are slightly modernized versions of the Grand Class, with updated finishes and some layout improvements.
• Royal Class: This includes Royal Princess, Regal Princess, Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess, and Discovery Princess. These are among the newest and largest ships in the fleet, with contemporary design and enhanced cabin features.
• Sun Class: Sun Princess and Dawn Princess (now retired, but still relevant for past cruisers), with mid-sized cabins and older bathroom designs.
• Coral Class: Coral Princess and Island Princess, smaller ships designed for more intimate itineraries and often used for world cruises. These feature compact cabins with space-saving bathroom designs.
• MedallionClass Ships: A subset of Royal Class ships retrofitted with Princess’s OceanMedallion technology, which doesn’t affect bathroom hardware but indicates a more modern onboard experience.

How Ship Age and Class Affect Bathroom Design

The age and class of a ship directly impact its bathroom fixtures. Older ships, like those in the Grand and Sun Classes, were designed during an era when space was prioritized differently. Showers often used vinyl or fabric curtains due to cost, ease of replacement, and flexibility in layout. In contrast, newer Royal Class ships were built with a modern, spa-like aesthetic in mind. These vessels often feature frameless glass doors or semi-enclosed glass panels instead of curtains, offering a more open, luxurious feel and easier cleaning.

For example, on Royal Princess (launched in 2013), most standard staterooms and mini-suites have showers with glass doors or half-walls, while only some accessible cabins retain shower curtains for easier access. Meanwhile, on Caribbean Princess (a Grand Class ship launched in 2004), the majority of cabins still use standard vinyl shower curtains.

Shower Curtains vs. Glass Enclosures: What You’ll Find on Princess Ships

The core of the question—do all Princess ships have shower curtains?—is best answered by examining the two main types of shower enclosures used across the fleet: shower curtains and glass enclosures. Each has its pros and cons, and the choice depends on the ship, cabin category, and design era.

Traditional Shower Curtains: Where You’ll Find Them

Shower curtains are still common on several Princess ships, especially those from the early 2000s. These are typically made of durable, mildew-resistant vinyl or polyester fabric and are attached to a curved or straight rod above the tub or shower base. They offer:

• Affordability and ease of replacement for the cruise line
• Flexibility in layout—curtains can be pulled back to open up the bathroom space
• Accessibility—easier for guests with mobility aids or walkers to enter and exit

You’ll find shower curtains in most standard cabins on:

• Grand Princess (all standard staterooms)
• Golden Princess (interior, oceanview, and balcony cabins)
• Coral Princess (especially in interior and oceanview rooms)
• Caribbean Princess (most standard cabins, except suites)

On these ships, the curtain is typically white or off-white, with a clear vinyl panel at the bottom to reduce splashing. Some guests report that the curtains can cling when wet or develop mildew over time, though Princess maintains high cleaning standards.

Glass Enclosures: The Modern Upgrade

Starting with Royal Princess in 2013, Princess Cruises began a shift toward glass shower enclosures. These are now standard on all Royal Class ships and are increasingly found in upgraded cabins on older vessels. Benefits include:

• A more luxurious, hotel-like appearance
• Reduced water spray—glass doors contain splashes better than curtains
• Easier to clean and maintain—no fabric to mildew
• Modern, minimalist design that opens up the bathroom visually

On Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess, for example, even standard balcony cabins feature semi-frameless glass doors with a small threshold. The doors swing inward or slide, depending on the cabin layout. In suites, you’ll often find full glass enclosures with rainfall showerheads and built-in benches.

Tip: If you’re booking a Royal Class ship and want to avoid a shower curtain, opt for a balcony, mini-suite, or suite cabin. These are more likely to have glass enclosures. Interior rooms on newer ships may still have curtains in some cases, so check cabin photos or contact guest services.

Accessibility Considerations

Princess Cruises prioritizes accessibility, and this extends to bathroom design. On all ships, accessible staterooms (designed for guests with mobility impairments) typically use shower curtains or roll-in showers with no curtain at all for easier wheelchair access. These showers often have:

• Fold-down seats
• Grab bars
• Handheld showerheads
• No threshold or low threshold for easy entry

Even on newer Royal Class ships, accessible cabins may retain curtains or open showers for practicality. So, while the trend is toward glass, accessibility needs sometimes override design trends.

How to Find Out What’s in Your Specific Cabin

Now that you know the general trends, the next step is figuring out what your exact stateroom will have. Princess Cruises doesn’t always list shower type in cabin descriptions, but there are several ways to get accurate, up-to-date information before you sail.

1. Check the Official Princess Website

Start with princess.com. When you view a specific ship and cabin category (e.g., “Oceanview Stateroom” on Regal Princess), scroll down to the “Cabin Features” section. While it rarely says “shower curtain” or “glass door,” it may mention:

• “Walk-in shower” – often indicates a glass enclosure
• “Tub with shower” – more likely to have a curtain
• “Spacious bathroom with modern fixtures” – suggests newer design, possibly glass

Also, look at the 360-degree virtual tour if available. Many Royal Class ships have interactive cabin walkthroughs where you can click into the bathroom and see the shower setup. This is one of the most reliable ways to confirm what you’ll get.

2. Use Third-Party Cabin Review Sites

Websites like CruiseCritic, CruiseMates, and CruiseHabit host thousands of user-submitted cabin reviews and photos. Search for your ship and cabin number (or category), and you’ll likely find:

• Photos of the bathroom and shower
• Comments like “The glass door was a nice upgrade” or “Curtain kept sticking”
• Tips from past guests about water temperature, space, and accessibility

For example, a review of Cabin D321 on Sky Princess might state: “The glass shower door was sleek and didn’t leak, but the handle was a bit low for tall guests.” This kind of detail is invaluable.

3. Contact Princess Guest Services

If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to call or email Princess Cruises. Ask specifically: “Does Cabin [number] on [ship] have a shower curtain or a glass door?” Be polite and provide your booking details. While agents may not have every cabin memorized, they can often check the ship’s deck plans or consult with the design team.

Pro Tip: If you have a medical condition or mobility issue, mention it when booking. Princess can assign you an accessible cabin with a curtain or open shower if needed, even on a newer ship.

4. Consult a Travel Agent

A knowledgeable cruise travel agent can access detailed deck plans and cabin specs that aren’t public. They often know which ships have been retrofitted with glass showers and which still use curtains. Plus, they can help you choose a cabin based on your preferences—like avoiding a curtain if you dislike the feel of vinyl.

Tips for Dealing with Shower Curtains (If You Get One)

Even if you prefer glass enclosures, there’s a chance you’ll end up with a shower curtain—especially on older ships or in budget-friendly cabins. The good news? With a few simple strategies, you can make the experience more comfortable and less frustrating.

Prevent the “Cling Effect”

One of the biggest complaints about cruise shower curtains is that they cling to your body when wet, making it hard to shower comfortably. This happens due to static electricity and the curtain’s material. Here’s how to fix it:

• Spray with a water-repellent spray: Bring a travel-sized bottle of Scotchgard or Rain-X for fabrics. A light mist on the inside of the curtain reduces surface tension and prevents clinging.
• Use a hairdryer: Before showering, blow warm air on the curtain to reduce static. Works instantly!
• Attach a small weight: Some travelers use a paperclip or small magnet to weigh down the bottom corner, keeping it from moving.

Keep the Curtain Clean and Mildew-Free

Mildew is a common concern, especially on longer cruises. Princess cleans cabins daily, but you can help:

• After each shower, pull the curtain fully closed to allow airflow and drying.
• Wipe down the rod and rings with a dry towel to remove moisture.
• Use a mildew-resistant shower liner: Pack a disposable vinyl liner (available at camping stores) to place inside the existing curtain. Replace it weekly.

Enhance Privacy and Comfort

Some guests feel that curtains offer less privacy than glass doors, especially if the material is semi-transparent. To improve this:

• Hang a second liner: Use a white or opaque liner behind the existing one for better coverage.
• Adjust lighting: Turn on the bathroom light during your shower to reduce visibility from outside (if the cabin has a shared bathroom door).

What to Pack

Consider bringing these items to improve your shower experience:

• Travel-sized fabric softener sheet (to reduce static)
• Disposable shower cap (for hair protection)
• Waterproof phone case (if you like to listen to music in the shower)
• Non-slip bath mat (for added safety, though most cabins have textured floors)

Data Table: Shower Features Across Princess Ships (2024)

Ship Name	Ship Class	Year Built	Standard Cabins (Balcony/Oceanview)	Mini-Suites & Suites	Accessible Cabins	Notes
Grand Princess	Grand	1998 (refurb 2022)	Shower curtain	Shower curtain	Shower curtain or open roll-in	Most cabins unchanged post-refurb
Royal Princess	Royal	2013	Glass door (semi-frameless)	Full glass enclosure	Curtain or open shower	First ship with glass showers standard
Sky Princess	Royal	2019	Glass door (sliding or swing)	Full glass with rainfall head	Open roll-in or curtain	Interior cabins may have curtain in some cases
Coral Princess	Coral	1999 (refurb 2018)	Shower curtain	Shower curtain	Open roll-in	Compact bathrooms; curtain common
Discovery Princess	Royal	2022	Glass door (low threshold)	Glass with bench and dual heads	Open roll-in with handheld	Most modern bathroom design in fleet
Emerald Princess	Ruby	2007	Shower curtain (some glass in suites)	Glass door (upgraded cabins)	Curtain or open	Mixed setup; check cabin photos

Conclusion: The Final Word on Shower Curtains on Princess Ships

So, do all Princess Cruise Line ships have shower curtains? The answer is a definitive no. While many older ships—especially in the Grand, Sun, and Coral Classes—still use traditional vinyl or fabric shower curtains in standard cabins, the newer Royal Class vessels have largely transitioned to glass-enclosed showers for a more modern, luxurious experience. This shift reflects broader trends in cruise ship design, where space efficiency, aesthetics, and guest comfort take priority.

Your specific cabin’s shower setup depends on three key factors: the ship’s class and age, the cabin category, and accessibility needs. If you’re sailing on a 2013 or newer Royal Class ship, you’re very likely to get a glass door—especially in balcony rooms and above. On older ships, expect curtains, though some suites may have been upgraded.

The good news is that Princess Cruises provides tools to help you know what to expect: virtual tours, detailed cabin photos, and responsive guest services. By doing a little research before booking, you can choose a cabin that matches your preferences—whether you love the sleek look of glass or appreciate the flexibility of a curtain.

And if you do end up with a shower curtain? Don’t worry. With a few simple hacks—like using a water-repellent spray or a second liner—you can make your shower experience just as enjoyable as any glass enclosure. After all, the real magic of a Princess cruise isn’t in the bathroom hardware, but in the ocean views, the dining experiences, and the unforgettable moments at sea.

Now that you’re armed with this insider knowledge, you can book your next Princess cruise with confidence—knowing exactly what’s behind that bathroom door.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all Princess Cruise Line ships have shower curtains in their cabins?

Most Princess Cruise Line ships feature shower curtains in standard cabins, but some newer or renovated ships may have glass doors instead. It’s best to check the specific ship’s cabin details before booking.

Are shower curtains standard on Princess Cruise Line ships?

Yes, shower curtains are standard on most Princess Cruise Line ships, especially in interior and ocean-view cabins. However, suites and upgraded staterooms may have upgraded glass enclosures.

What should I expect in a Princess Cruise Line bathroom—shower curtain or door?

While many Princess ships use shower curtains for practicality, newer vessels like the Discovery Princess may have glass doors. The Princess Cruise Line shower curtain setup varies by ship and cabin category.

Can I request a cabin with a shower curtain on a Princess cruise?

You can’t specifically request a shower curtain, but booking a standard cabin (not a suite) on older ships increases the likelihood. Contact Guest Services to confirm your ship’s bathroom fixtures.

Do luxury or suite cabins on Princess ships still have shower curtains?

No, most suite cabins on Princess Cruise Line ships have glass shower doors or enclosures for a more modern look. Shower curtains are typically found in standard staterooms.

Why do some Princess Cruise Line ships have glass doors instead of shower curtains?

Newer ships and renovated cabins use glass doors for a sleeker, more upscale feel and easier maintenance. The shift from Princess Cruise Line shower curtains reflects evolving design trends.