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Princess Cruise Line boasts a fleet of 15 ships in 2024, offering diverse itineraries across the globe, from Alaska to the Mediterranean. This modern fleet combines innovation and comfort, featuring award-winning ships like the Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess, ensuring unforgettable voyages for every traveler.
Key Takeaways
- Princess Cruises operates 15 ships in its 2024 fleet, offering diverse itineraries worldwide.
- Newest ships include Sun Princess, featuring modern design and innovative onboard experiences.
- Fleet spans 3 classes: Royal, Grand, and Sphere, catering to varied traveler preferences.
- Ship sizes range widely, from 2,000 to 4,000+ passengers, ideal for different group needs.
- Eco-friendly upgrades ongoing, with LNG-powered ships leading sustainability efforts in 2024.
- MedallionClass tech standard across fleet, enhancing convenience via wearable smart devices.
📑 Table of Contents
- How Many Ships Does Princess Cruise Line Have in 2024 Fleet
- Overview of the 2024 Princess Cruise Line Fleet
- Ship Classes and Their Unique Features
- New Additions and Recent Launches (2022–2024)
- Fleet Deployment and Itinerary Highlights
- Data Table: Princess Cruise Line 2024 Fleet Overview
- Conclusion: A Fleet Built for Every Traveler
How Many Ships Does Princess Cruise Line Have in 2024 Fleet
When it comes to premium cruising experiences, few names stand out like Princess Cruises. Known for its elegant ships, exceptional service, and unforgettable itineraries, Princess Cruise Line has become a favorite among seasoned travelers and first-time cruisers alike. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing through the icy fjords of Alaska, exploring the vibrant cultures of the Caribbean, or embarking on a transatlantic journey, Princess Cruises offers a diverse range of voyages designed to captivate and inspire. But one question that often arises among travel enthusiasts and curious cruisers is: How many ships does Princess Cruise Line have in 2024?
The answer is more than just a number—it reflects the brand’s evolution, its commitment to innovation, and its global reach. In 2024, Princess Cruises operates a fleet that combines modern engineering, luxurious amenities, and sustainable practices. From the groundbreaking MedallionClass technology to the introduction of new vessels built for eco-efficiency, the fleet is a testament to the cruise line’s forward-thinking approach. This blog post dives deep into the current fleet composition, ship classes, new additions, and what makes each vessel unique. Whether you’re planning your next vacation or simply fascinated by the maritime world, this comprehensive guide will give you a detailed look at Princess Cruise Line’s 2024 fleet.
Overview of the 2024 Princess Cruise Line Fleet
As of 2024, Princess Cruises operates 16 active cruise ships, making it one of the largest premium cruise lines in the world. These vessels are strategically deployed across global destinations, including Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific. The fleet is organized into distinct classes, each with its own design philosophy, size, and target market. From the intimate, destination-focused Discovery Princess to the massive, resort-style Royal-class vessels, Princess Cruises caters to a wide spectrum of traveler preferences.
Visual guide about how many ships does princess cruise line have
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Fleet Size and Global Presence
The 16-ship fleet allows Princess Cruises to maintain a strong presence in key markets. For example, the line deploys multiple ships in Alaska during the summer season to meet high demand for glacier tours and wildlife sightings. In the winter, several vessels reposition to the Caribbean, offering sun-drenched escapes with private island visits to Princess Cays in the Bahamas. The fleet’s global footprint is supported by a network of homeports in cities like Fort Lauderdale, Seattle, Los Angeles, Vancouver, Sydney, and Civitavecchia (Rome), enabling seamless embarkation for international guests.
Princess Cruises also collaborates with its parent company, Carnival Corporation & plc, to share port infrastructure, fueling, and logistics, which enhances operational efficiency. This synergy allows the line to maintain a competitive edge while investing in new ships and sustainability initiatives.
Fleet Classification System
Princess Cruises organizes its fleet into four main classes, each representing a different era and design philosophy:
- Sun-class: The smallest and oldest vessels, ideal for intimate cruising and regional itineraries.
- Diamond-class: Mid-sized ships offering a balance of luxury and destination immersion.
- Royal-class: The largest and most modern vessels, featuring cutting-edge technology and expansive public spaces.
- Discovery-class: The newest class, emphasizing sustainability and MedallionClass innovation.
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This classification helps travelers choose the right ship based on their preferences—whether they prioritize onboard activities, destination access, or technological convenience. For instance, a traveler seeking a quiet, scenic cruise through the Norwegian fjords might opt for a Diamond-class ship, while someone interested in Broadway-style shows and gourmet dining might prefer a Royal-class vessel.
MedallionClass: The Digital Heart of the Fleet
One of the defining features of the 2024 Princess fleet is the MedallionClass experience, powered by the OceanMedallion™—a wearable device the size of a quarter. This technology is available on all 16 ships and transforms the cruising experience by enabling:
- Contactless embarkation and room access
- Personalized service (e.g., crew knows your name and drink preference)
- On-demand food and beverage delivery anywhere on the ship
- Real-time navigation and interactive maps
- Enhanced safety features, including proximity alerts for children
For example, on the Sky Princess, guests can use the OceanNow™ app to order a margarita at the poolside bar without leaving their lounge chair. The Medallion also enables keyless stateroom entry, so you can walk straight into your cabin without fumbling for a card. This seamless integration of technology has become a hallmark of the Princess experience and is a major reason why the line continues to attract tech-savvy travelers.
Ship Classes and Their Unique Features
The 2024 Princess fleet is not a one-size-fits-all operation. Each class of ship is designed with specific goals in mind, from maximizing guest capacity to enhancing environmental performance. Understanding these differences can help travelers select the ideal vessel for their vacation.
Sun-Class: Intimate and Agile
The Sun-class consists of two ships: Sun Princess and Dawn Princess. These vessels, originally launched in the 1990s, have undergone multiple refurbishments to modernize their interiors and systems. At approximately 77,000 gross tons and carrying around 2,000 guests, they are the smallest in the fleet.
Why choose a Sun-class ship?
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- Smaller size allows access to ports too tight for larger vessels (e.g., smaller Caribbean islands, French Polynesia)
- More personalized service due to lower guest-to-crew ratio
- Lower price point compared to newer ships
- Ideal for shorter cruises (3- to 7-day itineraries)
For example, the Dawn Princess frequently sails from Sydney to the South Pacific, visiting destinations like Fiji and Vanuatu—ports where larger ships cannot dock. This makes the Sun-class perfect for travelers who value authentic cultural experiences over onboard mega-attractions.
Diamond-Class: The Perfect Balance
The Diamond-class includes four ships: Diamond Princess, Sapphire Princess, Emerald Princess, and Coral Princess. These vessels are slightly larger (around 116,000 gross tons) and carry approximately 2,600 guests. They strike a balance between size and intimacy, offering more amenities than the Sun-class without the overwhelming scale of the Royal-class.
Key features of Diamond-class ships:
- Two-story Piazza atrium with live music and dining
- Expanded spa and fitness center (The Sanctuary)
- Outdoor movie screen (Movies Under the Stars)
- Multiple specialty restaurants (e.g., Sabatini’s, Crown Grill)
- Dedicated family zones and teen centers
These ships are often deployed in Alaska, where they offer glacier-viewing decks and onboard naturalists. The Coral Princess, for instance, is a favorite for Alaskan voyages due to its stable design and large viewing windows in the public lounges.
Royal-Class: The Flagship Experience
The Royal-class is the crown jewel of the Princess fleet, consisting of four massive ships: Royal Princess, Regal Princess, Sky Princess, and Enchanted Princess. These vessels range from 142,000 to 145,000 gross tons and carry up to 3,660 guests. They are designed as floating resorts, with amenities rivaling those of high-end land-based hotels.
What sets Royal-class ships apart?
- SeaWalk: A glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the ship’s edge
- Two-story atrium with LED lighting and live performances
- Expanded pool deck with multiple pools and whirlpools
- Broadway-style theater with professional productions (e.g., “The Secret Silk”)
- More dining options (over 20 restaurants and bars)
The Sky Princess, launched in 2019, features the largest Sky Suites in the fleet—two-bedroom accommodations with private balconies, butler service, and access to a private lounge. These ships are ideal for travelers who want a high-energy, activity-rich vacation with endless entertainment options.
Discovery-Class: The Future of Cruising
The Discovery-class is the newest addition to the fleet, with Discovery Princess (launched in 2022) and Sun Princess (rebranded and relaunched in 2024 after a major refit). These ships represent the next generation of cruising, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and guest experience.
Highlights of the Discovery-class:
- LNG-ready engines (can switch to cleaner fuel when available)
- Advanced wastewater treatment systems
- Expanded MedallionClass integration (e.g., AI-powered concierge)
- New dining concepts like “The Catch by Rudi” (seafood by celebrity chef Rudi Sodamin)
- Larger staterooms with smart TVs and USB charging
The Discovery Princess is currently sailing in Alaska, where its eco-friendly systems help reduce environmental impact in sensitive ecosystems. The 2024 Sun Princess (formerly the original Sun Princess) has been completely rebuilt with new interiors, energy-efficient systems, and a modernized layout, making it a true “new” ship in every sense.
New Additions and Recent Launches (2022–2024)
Princess Cruises has been actively modernizing its fleet, with several significant launches and transformations in recent years. These additions reflect the line’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and guest satisfaction.
Discovery Princess (2022)
Launched in March 2022, Discovery Princess is the first of the new Discovery-class ships. At 143,700 gross tons and carrying 3,660 guests, it features:
- The largest Sky Suites in the fleet (1,000+ sq. ft.)
- Expanded adults-only Sanctuary area
- New “Take Five” jazz lounge with nightly performances
- Enhanced family programming with a dedicated youth center
The ship’s debut was delayed due to the pandemic, but it has since become a favorite for Alaskan and Caribbean cruises. Its eco-friendly design includes shore power connectivity, allowing it to plug into local grids in ports like Seattle and Juneau to reduce emissions.
Sun Princess Reimagined (2024)
In a bold move, Princess Cruises rebranded and relaunched the original Sun Princess in 2024 after a $300 million refit. The vessel was stripped to its steel frame and rebuilt with:
- New staterooms and suites (all with balconies)
- Modernized public spaces with a Mediterranean-inspired design
- Advanced HVAC and lighting systems for energy efficiency
- Full MedallionClass integration
This transformation turned a 1990s-era ship into a modern, competitive vessel capable of sailing in premium markets. The new Sun Princess now operates in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, offering 7- to 14-day itineraries to destinations like Barcelona, Rome, and Copenhagen.
Upcoming: Star Princess (2025)
While not yet in the 2024 fleet, Star Princess is worth mentioning as the next major addition. Scheduled to launch in August 2025, this 175,000 gross ton ship will be the largest in the Princess fleet and the first to be fully powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG)—a cleaner, low-emission fuel.
Expected features of Star Princess:
- Over 2,100 staterooms, including 300 new suite categories
- Expanded outdoor deck space with a new “Horizon” pool area
- Next-generation MedallionClass AI (predictive service)
- New specialty dining venues, including a teppanyaki grill
The ship will debut in the Mediterranean before repositioning to the Caribbean, marking a new era of sustainability and luxury for Princess Cruises.
Fleet Deployment and Itinerary Highlights
With 16 ships, Princess Cruises can offer a vast array of itineraries tailored to different travel styles. The fleet is strategically deployed to maximize guest experience and operational efficiency.
Alaska: The Summer Powerhouse
During the summer months (May–September), seven Princess ships operate in Alaska, including:
- Discovery Princess (newest vessel)
- Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess (Royal-class)
- Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess (Diamond-class)
- Coral Princess (smaller, more agile)
- Regal Princess (larger, resort-style)
These ships sail the Inside Passage, visiting ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, with glacier-viewing stops at Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park. The smaller Coral Princess is often chosen for its ability to dock in remote areas, while the larger ships offer more onboard entertainment.
Caribbean: Winter Escape
In winter, the fleet shifts to the Caribbean, with ships like Royal Princess, Regal Princess, and Emerald Princess offering 7-day Eastern and Western itineraries. Highlights include:
- Private island visit to Princess Cays (Bahamas)
- Scenic stops in St. Thomas, Cozumel, and Grand Cayman
- Onboard activities like cooking classes, wine tastings, and dance lessons
The Sky Princess often sails longer 10- to 14-day voyages, including transatlantic crossings and Panama Canal adventures.
Europe and Asia: Cultural Journeys
Princess Cruises operates multiple ships in Europe, with itineraries ranging from 7-day Mediterranean cruises to 14-day Northern Europe voyages. The Sun Princess (2024 model) is a standout for European summers, offering port-intensive itineraries with late-night departures for maximum exploration.
In Asia, the Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess sail from Tokyo, Shanghai, and Singapore, visiting destinations like Kyoto, Hanoi, and Bali. These voyages often include cultural enrichment programs, such as onboard tea ceremonies and traditional dance performances.
Data Table: Princess Cruise Line 2024 Fleet Overview
| Ship Name | Class | Launch Year | Gross Tons | Guest Capacity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Discovery Princess | Discovery | 2022 | 143,700 | 3,660 | Largest Sky Suites, Take Five jazz lounge, eco-friendly systems |
| Sky Princess | Royal | 2019 | 143,700 | 3,660 | SeaWalk, Broadway theater, expanded pool deck |
| Enchanted Princess | Royal | 2020 | 145,000 | 3,660 | Two-story atrium, Movies Under the Stars, Crown Grill |
| Regal Princess | Royal | 2014 | 142,200 | 3,660 | SeaWalk, expanded spa, multiple specialty restaurants |
| Royal Princess | Royal | 2013 | 141,000 | 3,660 | First with SeaWalk, Piazza atrium, enhanced fitness center |
| Diamond Princess | Diamond | 2004 | 115,875 | 2,670 | Alaska-focused, two-story Piazza, The Sanctuary |
| Sapphire Princess | Diamond | 2008 | 115,875 | 2,670 | Asia and Alaska deployments, outdoor movie screen |
| Emerald Princess | Diamond | 2007 | 113,561 | 3,114 | Caribbean and Alaska itineraries, expanded family zones |
| Coral Princess | Diamond | 2002 | 92,000 | 2,000 | Smaller size for remote ports, Alaskan voyages |
| Sun Princess (2024) | Discovery | 1995 (refit 2024) | 77,000 | 2,000 | Reimagined interiors, MedallionClass, Mediterranean cruises |
| Dawn Princess | Sun | 1997 | 77,000 | 2,000 | South Pacific voyages, intimate experience |
| Island Princess | Diamond | 2003 | 92,000 | 2,200 | World cruises, Panama Canal, enhanced staterooms |
| Caribbean Princess | Diamond | 2004 | 116,000 | 3,114 | Caribbean and transatlantic, expanded spa |
| Grand Princess | Grand | 1998 | 109,000 | 2,600 | California coast, Alaska, enhanced dining options |
| Ruby Princess | Diamond | 2008 | 113,561 | 3,114 | Caribbean and Panama Canal, Movies Under the Stars |
| Star Princess (2025) | Discovery | 2025 | 175,000 | 4,300 | LNG-powered, next-gen MedallionClass, Horizon pool area |
Note: Star Princess is scheduled for 2025 but included for future reference.
Conclusion: A Fleet Built for Every Traveler
In 2024, Princess Cruises operates 16 active ships, each offering a unique blend of luxury, innovation, and destination-focused experiences. From the intimate Sun-class vessels perfect for remote ports to the massive, resort-style Royal-class ships with Broadway shows and glass-bottomed SeaWalks, the fleet caters to every type of traveler. The introduction of the Discovery-class ships, including the eco-conscious Discovery Princess and the reimagined Sun Princess, signals a commitment to sustainability and modern luxury.
With the upcoming launch of Star Princess in 2025—the first LNG-powered ship in the fleet—Princess Cruises is poised to lead the industry in environmental responsibility. Whether you’re drawn to the glaciers of Alaska, the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, or the cultural richness of Europe and Asia, there’s a Princess ship designed for your dream vacation. The MedallionClass technology, now standard across the fleet, ensures that every journey is personalized, seamless, and unforgettable.
So, how many ships does Princess Cruise Line have in 2024? The answer is 16 active vessels, each a floating masterpiece of design, comfort, and innovation. As the fleet continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: the promise of “Come Back New”—a philosophy that transforms every cruise into a journey of discovery, relaxation, and wonder. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, the Princess fleet offers something truly special. Start planning your next adventure today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ships does Princess Cruise Line have in its 2024 fleet?
As of 2024, Princess Cruise Line operates a fleet of 15 ships, ranging from mid-sized vessels to its latest LNG-powered ships like Sun Princess. This fleet size allows Princess to offer diverse itineraries across all seven continents.
What is the newest ship in the Princess Cruise Line fleet?
The newest ship in the Princess fleet is Sun Princess, launched in early 2024 as the first Sphere-class vessel. It features innovative LNG propulsion and expanded balcony staterooms, reflecting the line’s commitment to sustainability and modern design.
How does Princess Cruise Line’s fleet size compare to other major cruise lines?
With 15 ships in 2024, Princess Cruise Line’s fleet is smaller than Royal Caribbean (27 ships) but larger than luxury-focused lines like Seabourn (6 ships). Its mid-sized fleet balances global coverage with personalized service.
Are any new Princess Cruise Line ships planned for 2024 or beyond?
Yes, Princess has two additional Sphere-class ships on order, with the second (Star Princess) scheduled for delivery in 2025. These vessels will further modernize the fleet with eco-friendly technology and expanded capacity.
Which Princess ships are retiring soon from the fleet?
Princess Cruise Line has not announced any retirements for 2024, but older vessels like Sea Princess (1998) are expected to exit the fleet within the next 3-5 years as newer ships join. The line typically phases out ships after 25+ years of service.
How many ships does Princess Cruise Line have for world cruises?
Princess dedicates 2-3 ships annually to world cruises, including the 2024 World Cruise aboard Island Princess. These extended voyages typically use smaller, more agile ships capable of navigating diverse global ports.