How Many Floors Does the Emerald Princess Cruise Line Have Revealed

The Emerald Princess cruise ship features 19 passenger decks, offering ample space for luxury, dining, and entertainment across its expansive layout. With a total of 19 floors dedicated to guest use, travelers enjoy easy access to pools, theaters, staterooms, and panoramic views from the top decks. This mid-sized vessel balances comfort and capacity, making it a standout choice for unforgettable voyages.

Key Takeaways

• 12 decks total: Emerald Princess has 12 floors for guests, maximizing space and amenities.
• Cabins span 8 decks: Staterooms are located from Deck 5 to Deck 14 for convenience.
• Dining on Decks 5–7: Main restaurants and buffets are centrally located mid-ship.
• Top-deck entertainment: Pools, theater, and lounges dominate Decks 15–17 for easy access.
• Elevators connect all: High-speed lifts ensure seamless movement between floors.
• Accessible design: Wheelchair-friendly routes span all public decks for inclusivity.

How Many Floors Does the Emerald Princess Cruise Line Have Revealed

Imagine stepping onto a floating city—a world where your room, dining, entertainment, and relaxation are all within a few minutes’ walk. That’s the magic of a cruise ship, and the Emerald Princess is no exception. As one of the most beloved vessels in the Princess Cruises fleet, it offers a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and elegance. But if you’re planning your first cruise or even your tenth, you’ve probably asked yourself: How many floors does the Emerald Princess have?

This isn’t just a number—it’s a key to understanding the layout, accessibility, and overall experience on board. Whether you’re a family with young kids, a solo traveler, or a couple seeking a romantic getaway, knowing the ship’s vertical structure helps you pick the perfect cabin, avoid long walks, and find your favorite spots with ease. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the deck-by-deck breakdown of the Emerald Princess, revealing not just how many floors it has, but what each one offers. From the sun-kissed top decks to the cozy lower cabins, we’ll walk you through every level with real-world tips, personal insights, and practical advice to help you make the most of your cruise.

The Emerald Princess: A Quick Overview

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of deck numbers, let’s take a moment to appreciate what the Emerald Princess is all about. Launched in 2007 and refurbished in 2019, this Grand-class cruise ship is a favorite among seasoned cruisers and first-timers alike. With a gross tonnage of around 113,561 tons and a length of 951 feet, it’s a mid-sized giant that balances space and intimacy beautifully.

Ship Class and Capacity

The Emerald Princess belongs to the Grand-class family, which includes sister ships like the Ruby Princess, Crown Princess, and Caribbean Princess. These ships were designed to offer a “small ship feel with big ship amenities.” With a passenger capacity of about 3,080 (double occupancy) and a crew of 1,200, the ship feels busy but never overcrowded. It’s big enough to have variety—like multiple dining rooms, pools, and entertainment venues—but small enough that you won’t get lost in the crowd.

One of the standout features of the Grand-class ships is their thoughtful layout. Unlike some mega-ships that feel like mazes, the Emerald Princess uses a central atrium (the Piazza) as a navigational hub. From here, you can access most decks via elevators, stairs, or escalators, making it easier to get around—even if you’re on a higher floor.

Why the Number of Floors Matters

You might be thinking, “Why does it matter how many floors there are?” Well, it matters a lot. The number of decks (or floors) affects:

• Cabin selection: Lower decks are quieter and less affected by motion, while upper decks offer better views.
• Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, knowing which decks have elevators or ramps is crucial.
• Proximity to amenities: Want to be near the pool? The spa? The theater? Deck placement makes a difference.
• Walking distance: The more floors you have to climb, the more steps you’ll take. Elevators help, but they’re not always available during peak times.

So, how many floors does the Emerald Princess have? Let’s get to the core of it.

How Many Floors Does the Emerald Princess Have? The Full Deck Breakdown

The Emerald Princess has 19 decks, numbered from Deck 5 (the lowest passenger-accessible level) up to Deck 18 (the topmost public deck). Deck 19 exists but is strictly crew-only, so passengers don’t access it. That means you’ll be navigating 14 passenger decks (5 through 18), each with its own unique features and functions.

Deck-by-Deck Breakdown: What’s on Each Floor?

Let’s walk through each deck from bottom to top, so you can visualize where everything is and plan accordingly.

Deck 5 – Riviera Deck: This is the lowest passenger deck. It’s home to the Emerald Theater (main show lounge), the Wheelhouse Bar, and the Photo Gallery. Cabins here are mostly interior and oceanview, making them a budget-friendly option. Being low, it’s stable and great for those sensitive to motion.

Deck 6 – Plaza Deck: The heart of the ship. This is where you’ll find the Piazza Atrium, a stunning three-story open space with a bar, live music, and a coffee shop (Café Caribe). The International Café is here for 24/7 snacks. Cabins are a mix of interior and oceanview. The atrium connects to the Promenade Deck above via escalators.

Deck 7 – Promenade Deck: A favorite for strolling. This deck wraps around the ship with a full-length promenade walkway (perfect for morning jogs or sunset walks). You’ll also find the Library, Card Room, Photo Gallery, and the Future Cruise Sales Office. Cabins are mostly oceanview with balconies. This deck is also where the Wheelhouse Bar extends from Deck 5.

Deck 8 – Fiesta Deck: Primarily a cabin deck. Most rooms here are balcony cabins, with a few suites. It’s a quiet, residential area with easy access to the atrium via elevators. The Casino is also here, open during sea days and at night.

Deck 9 – Aloha Deck: Another cabin-heavy deck, but with a twist. This is where you’ll find the Spa & Fitness Center, including a gym, sauna, and treatment rooms. The Horizon Court (buffet) is also on this deck, making it a foodie favorite. Balcony and mini-suite cabins dominate.

Deck 10 – Caribe Deck: A mix of cabins and public areas. The Horizon Court continues here, with indoor seating. You’ll also find the Princess Theater (secondary stage), the Art Gallery, and the Internet Café. This deck connects to the Promenade via stairs or elevators.

Deck 11 – Lido Deck: The sun deck! This is where the action happens. You’ll find the Main Pool, Hot Tubs, Kids’ Pool, and the Poolside Grill (great for burgers and fries). The Horizon Court has outdoor seating here. Cabins on this deck are mostly interior or oceanview, with some balcony rooms at the aft. The Retreat Pool (adults-only) is also here.

Deck 12 – Marina Deck: A quieter deck with mostly balcony cabins. The Retreat Pool continues here, and there’s a small fitness area. This deck is perfect if you want to be close to the pool but not *in* the middle of the action.

Deck 13 – Dolphin Deck: All about cabins. This deck is almost entirely balcony rooms and mini-suites. It’s a peaceful, residential area with limited public spaces. Great for those who want a quiet retreat.

Deck 14 – Emerald Deck: Named after the ship itself! This deck has a mix of balcony cabins and the Skywalkers Nightclub, a popular spot for dancing and late-night fun. The Captain’s Circle Lounge (for past guests) is also here. It’s a bit of a “party deck” but still has a relaxed vibe during the day.

Deck 15 – Crown Deck: Mostly cabins, with a few suite options. This deck has the Youth & Teen Centers (for kids 3–17), making it ideal for families. The Admiral’s Lounge (for suite guests) is also here, offering complimentary snacks and drinks.

Deck 16 – Riviera Deck (Upper): This is the upper part of the Riviera Deck. It has the Princess Live! theater, a small but intimate venue for live music, trivia, and game shows. Cabins are mostly interior or oceanview. The Future Cruise Sales Office is also here.

Deck 17 – Sun Deck: The top outdoor deck. It’s home to the Sunset Bar, a few hot tubs, and plenty of lounge chairs. It’s a quiet, scenic spot for sunbathing or watching the sunset. No cabins here—just open space.

Deck 18 – Sky Deck: The highest passenger deck. It has the Skywalkers Nightclub (continued from Deck 14), a few more hot tubs, and the Top Deck Bar. This is the ultimate spot for panoramic views, especially during sunrise or when docking. Again, no cabins—just relaxation and sightseeing.

Pro Tip: Use the Deck Map App

Princess Cruises offers a free app (Princess Cruises MedallionClass) that includes an interactive deck map. Before your cruise, download it and explore the ship. You can click on any deck to see cabin types, amenities, and even real-time availability. It’s a game-changer for planning your perfect spot.

Why Deck Choice Matters: A Practical Guide

Now that you know the Emerald Princess has 19 decks (14 passenger-accessible), let’s talk about how to choose the right one for your needs. Your deck choice can make or break your cruise experience, so let’s break it down.

For Families with Kids

If you’re traveling with children, Deck 15 (Crown Deck) is your best friend. It’s home to the Youth & Teen Centers, which offer age-appropriate activities, games, and even supervised evening programs. Being on the same deck means less walking and more peace of mind. Plus, it’s close to the Retreat Pool on Decks 11–12, so you can keep an eye on the kids while relaxing nearby.

Tip: Book a cabin on Deck 15 or the adjacent Deck 14. Avoid lower decks if possible—kids love being near the action, and lower decks can feel a bit isolated.

For Couples Seeking Romance

For a romantic getaway, aim for the upper decks (12–14). These decks have mostly balcony cabins with quieter hallways and better views. Deck 12 (Marina) is especially peaceful, with the Retreat Pool just steps away. Deck 14 (Emerald) offers a nice balance—close to the nightclub if you want fun, but quiet enough for a romantic dinner on your balcony.

Tip: Request a cabin at the aft (back) of the ship. These rooms have unobstructed views and are often quieter, with less foot traffic.

For Seniors or Those with Mobility Issues

If you or a loved one has mobility concerns, lower decks (5–9) are your best bet. They’re more stable (less motion), and most public areas are on these levels. The Piazza Atrium (Deck 6) is a central hub with elevators, making it easy to access dining, entertainment, and services.

Tip: Request a cabin near the elevators. This reduces walking distance and makes it easier to get around. Also, avoid cabins directly above the theater (Deck 5) or nightclub (Deck 14)—they can be noisy at night.

For Foodies and Socializers

Love food and fun? Deck 11 (Lido) is your zone. The Horizon Court buffet is here, along with the Poolside Grill. The main pool is also on this deck, so it’s always lively. Deck 9 (Aloha) is another hotspot, with the Spa and the International Café nearby.

Tip: If you want to be close to the buffet but not in the middle of the pool party, book a cabin on Deck 12—it’s just one floor up and much quieter.

For Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler, you’ll want to be where the action is. Deck 6 (Plaza) and Deck 14 (Emerald) are great for meeting people. The Piazza is a social hub, and the Skywalkers Nightclub is perfect for dancing and mingling. Interior cabins on these decks are often cheaper, making them a budget-friendly choice.

Navigating the Ship: Elevators, Stairs, and Accessibility

With 14 passenger decks, getting around the Emerald Princess is easier than you might think—but it’s not without its quirks. Here’s how to navigate the ship like a pro.

Elevator Zones: Where Are They?

The ship has three main elevator banks:

• Forward Elevators: Located near the Piazza Atrium (Decks 6–14). These are the busiest and most central.
• Midship Elevators: Found near the Horizon Court (Decks 9–14). Great for accessing the buffet and pool.
• Aft Elevators: Located at the back of the ship (Decks 7–15). These are less crowded and perfect for accessing the Retreat Pool and Admiral’s Lounge.

Tip: During peak times (breakfast, dinner, show nights), the forward elevators can be packed. Use the midship or aft banks to avoid long waits.

Staircases and Escalators

There are multiple staircases throughout the ship, including in the atrium. The Piazza has escalators between Decks 6, 7, and 8—perfect for quick access. Stairs are a great way to get exercise, but they’re not always accessible for those with mobility issues.

Accessibility Features

The Emerald Princess is ADA-compliant, with:

• Wheelchair-accessible cabins on multiple decks
• Elevators with Braille buttons
• Accessible restrooms in public areas
• Priority seating in theaters and dining rooms

Tip: If you need accessible features, book early. These cabins are limited and go fast.

Data Table: Emerald Princess Deck Summary

Deck	Name	Main Features	Cabin Types	Best For
5	Riviera	Emerald Theater, Wheelhouse Bar	Interior, Oceanview	Budget travelers, motion-sensitive
6	Plaza	Piazza Atrium, International Café	Interior, Oceanview	Socializers, families
7	Promenade	Promenade walkway, Library	Oceanview, Balcony	Walkers, strollers
8	Fiesta	Casino, Balcony cabins	Balcony, Mini-suite	Gamers, couples
9	Aloha	Spa, Horizon Court buffet	Balcony, Mini-suite	Foodies, spa lovers
10	Caribe	Princess Theater, Art Gallery	Balcony, Interior	Theater fans
11	Lido	Main Pool, Poolside Grill	Interior, Oceanview, Balcony	Families, sunbathers
12	Marina	Retreat Pool, Balcony cabins	Balcony	Quiet seekers, couples
13	Dolphin	Balcony cabins, quiet	Balcony, Mini-suite	Peaceful retreat
14	Emerald	Skywalkers Nightclub, Captain’s Circle	Balcony, Mini-suite	Party lovers, past guests
15	Crown	Youth Centers, Admiral’s Lounge	Balcony, Suite	Families, suite guests
16	Riviera (Upper)	Princess Live! Theater	Interior, Oceanview	Live entertainment fans
17	Sun	Sunset Bar, lounge chairs	None (public space)	Sunset watchers
18	Sky	Top Deck Bar, panoramic views	None (public space)	Photographers, sightseers

Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Deck Awaits

So, how many floors does the Emerald Princess cruise line have? The answer is 19 decks, with 14 accessible to passengers. But as we’ve seen, it’s not just about the number—it’s about what each deck offers. Whether you’re chasing sunsets on the Sky Deck, enjoying a quiet morning on the Promenade, or dancing the night away in Skywalkers, there’s a perfect floor for every traveler.

Remember, your deck choice shapes your cruise experience. Think about your priorities: Do you want to be near the kids’ activities? Close to the buffet? Or tucked away in a quiet balcony cabin with a view? Use this guide to pick the right floor, and you’ll sail smoothly from start to finish.

And don’t forget—cruising is about discovery. Even if you’re on Deck 5, take the time to explore the upper decks. You might find a hidden gem: a quiet bench on the Sun Deck, a new friend in the Piazza, or a stunning photo op from the Sky Deck. The Emerald Princess isn’t just a ship—it’s a world waiting to be explored, one deck at a time.

Now, go book that cabin, pack your bags, and get ready to sail. Your perfect floor is out there—and it’s time to find it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many floors does the Emerald Princess cruise line have?

The Emerald Princess cruise ship has 19 decks (floors), including passenger-accessible levels and crew-only areas. This count places it among the larger vessels in Princess Cruises’ fleet.

What is the total number of decks on the Emerald Princess?

Emerald Princess features 19 total decks, with 15 open to passengers for staterooms, dining, entertainment, and outdoor spaces. The remaining decks house technical and crew facilities.

Which deck is the top floor of Emerald Princess?

The highest passenger-accessible deck is Lido Deck (Deck 15), home to pools, the buffet, and the top of the atrium. The actual top floor (Deck 19) is a sun deck with crew-restricted areas.

How many floors does Emerald Princess have for cabins?

Staterooms are spread across 11 decks (Decks 5–12, 14–16) on the Emerald Princess. Most cabins are located mid-ship for optimal stability and noise reduction.

Does Emerald Princess have a deck 13?

Like many ships, Emerald Princess skips numbering a “Deck 13” due to superstition. The sequence jumps from Deck 12 to Deck 14, maintaining 19 functional levels.

How does Emerald Princess compare to other Princess ships in deck count?

As a Grand-class ship, Emerald Princess’s 19 decks match sister ships like Ruby Princess. Newer classes (e.g., Royal-class) have 18–19 decks, with slightly different layouts.