How Good Is Princess Cruise Line A Detailed Review

Princess Cruise Line delivers a premium, well-rounded cruise experience with exceptional service, diverse dining options, and enriching onboard activities that appeal to both first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers. Consistently praised for its innovative ships and scenic itineraries—including Alaska, Europe, and the Caribbean—Princess strikes a smart balance between relaxation, entertainment, and destination immersion, making it a top contender in the mid-to-upper cruise market.

Key Takeaways

• Exceptional service: Staff consistently deliver personalized, attentive care throughout your voyage.
• Diverse dining options: Enjoy gourmet meals, casual eats, and specialty restaurants onboard.
• Engaging entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, and enrichment programs shine.
• Comfortable accommodations: Staterooms blend modern amenities with elegant, functional design.
• Unique itineraries: Explore less-crowded destinations with expertly curated shore excursions.
• Value-added inclusions: Free amenities like fitness classes and 24-hour dining enhance affordability.

How Good Is Princess Cruise Line? A Detailed Review

Imagine standing on the deck of a massive ship, the sun setting over a calm, shimmering sea. The air is warm, a gentle breeze carries the scent of salt, and somewhere in the distance, a live band plays soft jazz. You’re on a Princess cruise—a name that’s been floating in your vacation dreams for years. But how good is Princess Cruise Line, really? Is it the dreamy escape you’ve imagined, or are there hidden catches behind the polished brochures?

Princess Cruises has been around since 1965, and today, it’s one of the most recognized names in the cruise industry. With a fleet of over 15 ships sailing to more than 380 destinations worldwide, they’ve built a reputation for offering a balance of elegance, adventure, and value. But reputation doesn’t always equal reality. As someone who’s sailed with Princess twice—once with my family and once with a group of friends—I’ve seen both the magic and the moments that left me scratching my head. In this detailed review, we’ll dive deep into what makes Princess Cruises stand out, where they fall short, and whether they’re the right fit for your next vacation. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sea traveler, this guide will help you answer the big question: how good is Princess Cruise Line?

Ships and Fleet: Size, Comfort, and Innovation

Modern and Mid-Sized Vessels

One of the first things you’ll notice about Princess Cruises is their ship sizes. Unlike some ultra-massive cruise lines (looking at you, Royal Caribbean), Princess keeps things more intimate. Their fleet ranges from the 2,000-passenger Caribbean Princess to the newer, slightly larger Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess, which carry around 3,600 guests.

This mid-sized approach means you won’t feel lost in a floating city. Elevators are less crowded, lines are shorter, and it’s easier to get from one end of the ship to the other—especially important if you’re chasing a sunset at the bow or a cocktail at the aft bar. I remember once on the Regal Princess, I walked from my cabin to the top deck in under five minutes. Try that on a 6,000-passenger ship during peak hours—good luck!

Staterooms and Cabins: Comfort with a Touch of Class

Princess cabins are generally well-designed. Standard inside and oceanview rooms are compact but functional. I stayed in an inside cabin on the Grand Princess and found the bed surprisingly comfy—like a hotel room at sea. The bathrooms are small, as expected, but they’re clean and well-maintained. The real winners, though, are the balcony cabins.

Princess was one of the first cruise lines to introduce “The Sanctuary”—a private, adults-only retreat with plush loungers, shade, and personalized service. It’s not free (prices range from $25–$50 per day), but it’s worth every penny if you want peace and quiet. I splurged on it during a Mediterranean cruise, and it was like having a VIP lounge on the water.

For families or groups, mini-suites and full suites offer more space and perks like priority embarkation and concierge service. The newer ships also feature “Sky Suites” with private balconies, oversized tubs, and even a dedicated concierge. If budget allows, they’re a game-changer.

Technology and Onboard Experience

Princess has embraced technology in smart ways. Their MedallionClass experience is one of the most innovative in the industry. Instead of a key card, you wear a small, wearable medallion (like a smartwatch). It unlocks your cabin, makes purchases, tracks your location, and even helps staff personalize your experience.

For example, when I boarded the Discovery Princess, the concierge knew my name, my drink order (a mojito, please!), and even that I liked my cabin temperature cool. It felt like being a VIP without the VIP price tag. The Medallion also powers the OceanNow app, which lets you order food and drinks directly to your location—whether you’re by the pool, in a theater seat, or on a beach in Cozumel. No more standing in line for a margarita while the sun sets!

That said, the app isn’t perfect. On my first day, it crashed twice, and I had to go to the bar the old-fashioned way. But once it worked, it was smooth sailing.

Dining Options: From Casual Bites to Gourmet Feasts

Main Dining Rooms and Flexible Seating

Princess offers two main dining options: traditional set-time seating or “Anytime Dining.” I prefer the latter. It lets you eat when you want, with whom you want, and even switch tables if you feel like socializing. On one cruise, I started with a group of friends but ended up joining a couple celebrating their 50th anniversary. The staff made it feel natural, not forced.

The main dining rooms are elegant—think white linens, soft lighting, and attentive service. The food is solid, not spectacular. You’ll find classic dishes like prime rib, salmon, and pasta, all well-prepared but not mind-blowing. Portions are generous, though, and the presentation is always polished. I never left hungry, but I also never said, “Wow, that was the best meal of my life.”

Specialty Restaurants: When You Want to Splurge

If you’re craving something more upscale, Princess has several specialty restaurants. My favorites:

• Chef’s Table Lumière – A private, behind-the-scenes experience with a multi-course tasting menu and wine pairing. It’s pricey (around $150 per person), but worth it for a special occasion. I celebrated my birthday there, and the chef came out to greet us. Felt like a five-star night.
• Sabatini’s – An Italian favorite with handmade pasta, truffle butter, and a cozy, candlelit vibe. The tiramisu? Divine.
• Steakhouse – A solid option for meat lovers. The filet mignon is perfectly cooked, and the sides (especially the truffle fries) are addictive.

Pro tip: Book these early. They fill up fast, especially on longer cruises.

Casual Eats and 24/7 Options

For quick meals, Princess delivers. The Horizon Court buffet is spacious, with rotating themes (Mexican, Asian, Mediterranean) and fresh options. I loved the made-to-order omelet station in the morning and the fresh salad bar at lunch.

The International Café is open 24/7 and serves pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. Perfect for late-night cravings or early risers. And the Slice Pizzeria by the pool? A lifesaver when you’re too lazy to change out of your swimsuit. The margherita pizza is simple but delicious.

One downside: the 24/7 pizza and burger stations can get crowded at peak times. I once waited 15 minutes for a slice at 11 p.m. Not the end of the world, but worth noting if you’re hangry.

Entertainment and Activities: Something for Everyone

Live Shows and Theater

Princess theaters are impressive—modern, well-designed, and equipped with top-tier sound and lighting. Their original productions, like Born to Dance and Rock the Boat, are Broadway-quality. I saw Born to Dance on the Regal Princess, and it blew me away. The choreography, costumes, and vocals were all professional-level.

They also host guest performers—comedians, magicians, tribute bands. I caught a Queen tribute act that had the entire theater singing “We Will Rock You.” It was electric.

Pools, Spas, and Wellness

The main pool area is lively but not overwhelming. On the Enchanted Princess, I counted three pools, including a quiet “retreat” pool for adults. The water was warm, the loungers comfy, and the drink service prompt.

The Lotus Spa is a sanctuary. I treated myself to a hot stone massage and left feeling like a new person. Prices are on par with other cruise lines ($120–$180 for an hour), but they often run promotions. I got a 20% discount by booking on embarkation day.

For fitness buffs, the gym is well-equipped with cardio machines, weights, and even Peloton bikes. I squeezed in a morning ride and loved the ocean views from the windows.

Onboard Activities and Enrichment

Princess stands out for its enrichment programs. They offer:

• Discovery at SEA – Partnerships with Discovery Channel, offering wildlife talks, stargazing, and science demos.
• Princess Cruises Cooking Channel – Live cooking shows with celebrity chefs.
• ScholarShip@Sea – Lectures on history, culture, and science. I attended a talk about ancient Rome and learned more in 45 minutes than in a semester of college.

For families, there’s the Camp Discovery kids’ club, with age-appropriate activities, arts and crafts, and even a teen lounge. My niece loved it—she came back every day with a new friendship bracelet.

One tip: Check the daily schedule (via the Medallion app or printed newsletter) to avoid missing out. The best activities fill up fast.

Itineraries and Destinations: Where Princess Shines

Alaska: The Crown Jewel

Princess is the undisputed king of Alaskan cruises. They own and operate the Princess Wilderness Lodges in Denali and Kenai Fjords, offering seamless land-and-sea packages. I did the “Voyage of the Glaciers” route—7 nights from Vancouver to Anchorage, with a 2-night land tour in Denali.

The cruise itself was stunning. We sailed past Hubbard Glacier, where chunks of ice the size of houses cracked off in a thunderous roar. Onboard, naturalists gave talks about wildlife, and the crew pointed out bears, whales, and eagles. The land tour included a scenic train ride and a visit to Denali National Park. It was the highlight of my cruise career.

Pro tip: Book an inside passage cruise in late August or early September. The weather is milder, and the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are higher.

Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Exotic Routes

Princess also excels in the Mediterranean. Their “Grand Mediterranean” itineraries stop in iconic ports like Barcelona, Rome, and Athens. I loved how they offered overnight stays in cities like Venice and Istanbul—giving you time to explore without rushing.

In the Caribbean, they focus on lesser-known ports (like Bonaire and Dominica) alongside classics like St. Thomas. This mix keeps things fresh. I visited a local coffee farm in Dominica and tasted some of the best coffee I’ve ever had—something I wouldn’t have found on a mainstream tour.

For something truly different, check out their “World Cruise” options. A 111-day journey from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, visiting 41 destinations across 27 countries. It’s not for the faint of heart (or wallet), but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Port Experiences and Shore Excursions

Princess offers a wide range of shore excursions, from snorkeling in Cozumel to wine tasting in Santorini. I’ve done both—and while the snorkeling was great (vibrant coral, lots of fish), the wine tour was underwhelming. The guide seemed bored, and the vineyard was overcrowded.

Lesson learned: read reviews before booking. The Princess website has ratings and photos, but I’ve found TripAdvisor and Cruise Critic more honest. Also, consider booking independent tours. In some ports, local operators offer better value and more personalized experiences.

Value, Pricing, and Who Princess Is (and Isn’t) For

Pricing: What You Get for Your Money

Princess sits in the mid-to-upper tier of cruise pricing. A 7-night Caribbean cruise starts around $800–$1,200 per person (inside cabin), while a 14-night Alaska voyage can run $2,500–$4,000. That includes:

• Accommodation
• Most meals (except specialty restaurants)
• Entertainment and onboard activities
• Port fees and taxes

What’s not included: gratuities ($15–$18 per person, per day), drinks (alcohol, soda, specialty coffee), Wi-Fi, and shore excursions. These can add $1,000+ to your total. I learned this the hard way on my first cruise—my final bill was 40% higher than the initial quote.

That said, Princess runs frequent promotions: “Free Gratuities,” “Drink Packages,” “Onboard Credit.” Sign up for their email list and watch for flash sales. I once booked a Mediterranean cruise with $300 in onboard credit and a free specialty dinner—saving me over $500.

Who Should Choose Princess?

Princess is ideal for:

• Couples and families – The balance of relaxation and activities works well for all ages.
• First-time cruisers – The MedallionClass tech makes boarding and navigating the ship easy.
• Nature and culture lovers – Their Alaska and European itineraries are top-notch.
• People who want a “resort at sea” vibe – Less party, more polish.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

Consider other lines if:

• You want non-stop partying – Carnival or Norwegian might be better.
• You’re on a tight budget – Royal Caribbean often has lower base prices.
• You want ultra-luxury – Regent or Seabourn offer more personalized service.
• You’re a young, single traveler – The social scene is quieter than on some competitors.

Final Verdict: How Good Is Princess Cruise Line?

So, how good is Princess Cruise Line? In a word: very good—but not perfect.

What they do well: elegant ships, innovative tech (MedallionClass), solid dining, enriching activities, and standout itineraries—especially in Alaska and the Mediterranean. The onboard experience feels polished without being stuffy. It’s not the flashiest or the cheapest, but it’s reliable, comfortable, and often surprisingly personal.

Where they fall short: pricing transparency (those add-ons add up), some underwhelming shore excursions, and a quieter social scene that might not thrill younger travelers. The food is good but not gourmet, and the entertainment, while professional, can feel a bit safe.

But here’s the thing: I’ve recommended Princess to friends, family, and even strangers on Reddit. Why? Because they deliver on the core promise of a cruise: a stress-free, immersive vacation where you can disconnect, explore, and make memories. The MedallionClass tech makes it easier than ever to customize your experience. The staff are genuinely friendly. The ports are well-chosen. And the overall vibe? Calm, classy, and just a little bit magical.

If you’re looking for a cruise that balances comfort, culture, and value—and you’re not chasing wild parties or five-star Michelin meals—Princess is a fantastic choice. It’s not the best in every category, but it’s consistently good across the board. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you want.

So, is Princess Cruise Line worth it? For most travelers, yes. Just pack your sense of adventure, your appetite, and maybe a sweater for the deck at night. The sea awaits.

Category	Rating (out of 10)	Notes
Ships & Cabins	8.5	Modern, well-designed, but bathrooms are small.
Dining	7.5	Solid main dining, great specialty options, 24/7 snacks.
Entertainment	8	Top-tier shows, enriching programs, but quieter social scene.
Itineraries	9	Alaska and Mediterranean are exceptional; Caribbean is solid.
Value	7.5	Mid-range pricing, but add-ons can inflate costs.
Overall Experience	8.2	Reliable, comfortable, and consistently enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Princess Cruise Line stand out from other cruise lines?

Princess Cruise Line distinguishes itself with its exceptional service, diverse itineraries, and innovative onboard amenities like the adults-only Sanctuary and Movies Under the Stars. Their MedallionClass experience, featuring wearable tech for contactless service, enhances convenience and personalization.

How good is Princess Cruise Line for families with kids?

Princess Cruise Line offers robust family-friendly features, including dedicated kids’ clubs, teen lounges, and interactive activities like STEM programs and movie nights. While not as theme-park-focused as some competitors, it balances relaxation for adults with engaging options for children.

Is Princess Cruise Line known for high-quality dining options?

Yes, Princess Cruise Line excels in dining with flexible venues, including specialty restaurants like Crown Grill and Sabatini’s, plus 24-hour room service. Their focus on fresh, regionally inspired cuisine and partnerships with culinary experts ensures memorable meals.

How good is Princess Cruise Line for first-time cruisers?

Princess Cruise Line is ideal for first-timers, offering intuitive layouts, clear signage, and a welcoming crew to guide newcomers. Their MedallionClass tech simplifies logistics, making the experience stress-free and enjoyable from boarding to disembarking.

What are the best destinations for Princess Cruise Line voyages?

Princess Cruise Line shines in Alaska, the Caribbean, and Europe, with unique itineraries like glacier-viewing in Alaska and immersive shore excursions. Their “More Ashore” program also allows extended stays in port cities for deeper exploration.

Does Princess Cruise Line offer good value for money?

Princess Cruise Line provides strong value with inclusive packages covering dining, entertainment, and Wi-Fi, alongside seasonal discounts. While premium add-ons exist, their base pricing remains competitive, especially for the quality of service and amenities.