How Many Ships Does Princess Cruise Lines Have in 2024 Fleet

Princess Cruise Lines operates a fleet of 15 ships in 2024, offering diverse itineraries across the globe, from Alaska to the Mediterranean. This mid-sized fleet balances intimacy and scale, featuring modern vessels like the Discovery Princess alongside classic favorites, ensuring a blend of innovation and tradition for every traveler.

Key Takeaways

• 18 ships make up Princess Cruises’ 2024 fleet, including 3 new vessels.
• Newest ships offer advanced tech and expanded luxury staterooms.
• Fleet diversity supports global itineraries from Alaska to Asia.
• MedallionClass ships provide keyless entry and personalized service.
• Retired 2 ships in 2023, optimizing for newer, efficient models.
• 2025 expansion includes 2 additional ships under construction.

How Many Ships Does Princess Cruise Lines Have in 2024 Fleet

Imagine standing on the deck of a massive cruise ship, the sun setting over the horizon, the gentle sway of the ocean beneath your feet, and the hum of excitement as you embark on a journey to far-flung destinations. For many, Princess Cruise Lines has been the gateway to such magical moments—offering everything from tropical island getaways to Arctic expeditions and transatlantic crossings. But if you’re planning your next vacation or just love the idea of life at sea, you might be wondering: How many ships does Princess Cruise Lines have in 2024?

As one of the most recognizable names in the cruise industry, Princess Cruises has built a reputation for elegance, innovation, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler who’s sailed with them before, knowing the size and scope of their fleet can help you choose the perfect ship for your dream trip. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into Princess’s current 2024 fleet, explore the different ship classes, highlight standout features, and even peek into future additions. We’ll answer your burning questions with honesty, clarity, and a touch of personal flair—because let’s face it, choosing the right cruise ship is a big decision!

The Current Princess Cruise Lines Fleet in 2024

As of 2024, Princess Cruise Lines operates a total of 15 active ships across five distinct classes. This number includes both long-standing vessels that have been upgraded over the years and newer, technologically advanced ships designed to meet modern traveler expectations. The fleet ranges from mid-sized ships perfect for intimate experiences to massive, resort-style vessels that can carry over 4,000 guests at full capacity.

What makes Princess unique is its commitment to a “ship within a ship” concept—especially with its MedallionClass experience—which uses wearable technology to personalize your cruise. But before we dive into the tech and amenities, let’s break down the current fleet by class and size.

Breakdown by Ship Class

• Royal Class (3 ships): The largest and most luxurious in the fleet, these ships are over 140,000 gross tons and feature cutting-edge design and entertainment.
• Grand Class (5 ships): Slightly smaller than Royal Class but still grand in scale, these ships strike a balance between size and comfort.
• Crown Class (3 ships): Mid-sized ships with a focus on refined service and destination immersion.
• Sun Class (2 ships): Smaller, more intimate vessels ideal for shorter voyages and first-time cruisers.
• Island Class (2 ships): The newest addition, designed for sustainability and enhanced guest experiences.

Each class offers a slightly different vibe, so your choice will depend on what kind of cruise you’re after. For example, if you want a high-energy, action-packed trip with Broadway-style shows and multiple pools, the Royal Class might be your best bet. But if you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed journey with fewer crowds, a Crown or Sun Class ship could be just right.

Why the Fleet Size Matters

You might think, “15 ships—how does that compare to other lines?” For context, Royal Caribbean has over 25 active ships, while Carnival operates around 20. So Princess sits in the middle—large enough to offer variety, but small enough to maintain a personal touch. This balance is one reason many cruisers choose Princess: you get the perks of a big cruise line (like diverse dining and entertainment) without the overwhelming scale of the largest operators.

Also, Princess has strategically phased out older vessels in recent years to focus on newer, more efficient ships. For instance, in 2023, the Princess Pacific Princess was retired after 25 years of service. This move reflects their commitment to modernizing the fleet and reducing environmental impact—something we’ll explore more later.

Ship Classes Explained: What Makes Each Unique

Princess doesn’t just label its ships by size—it designs entire experiences around each class. Understanding these differences can help you pick the perfect ship for your travel style. Let’s explore each class in detail, including standout features, ideal itineraries, and who they’re best suited for.

Royal Class: The Pinnacle of Luxury and Scale

The Royal Class is where Princess goes all out. These are the largest ships in the fleet, and they’re packed with amenities that make them feel like floating cities. The three ships in this class are:

• Royal Princess (2013)
• Regal Princess (2014)
• Sky Princess (2019)

Each Royal Class ship is over 143,000 gross tons and carries up to 3,660 guests. But what really sets them apart is the SeaWalk—a glass-floored walkway that extends 28 feet beyond the ship’s edge, giving you a breathtaking view of the ocean below. It’s like walking on water!

Other highlights include:

• Princess Live! – A TV studio that hosts live broadcasts, game shows, and interviews.
• The Piazza – A central atrium with a circular bar, live music, and specialty coffee shops.
• Multiple specialty dining options – From Sabatini’s Italian trattoria to the Crown Grill steakhouse.

These ships are perfect for cruisers who want it all: top-tier entertainment, gourmet dining, and plenty of space to spread out. They’re commonly used for Caribbean, Alaska, and transatlantic itineraries.

Grand Class: The Sweet Spot of Comfort and Choice

The Grand Class is the backbone of the Princess fleet. With five ships, it’s the most represented class, and for good reason. These vessels offer a great mix of size, comfort, and value. The ships include:

• Grand Princess (1998, extensively refurbished)
• Caribbean Princess (2004)
• Crown Princess (2006)
• Emerald Princess (2007)
• Ruby Princess (2008)

At around 116,000 gross tons, these ships carry about 3,080 guests. While slightly older than the Royal Class, they’ve all undergone major renovations in the last decade, so they still feel fresh and modern.

One standout feature is the Skywalkers Nightclub, located on the aft deck with panoramic ocean views. It’s a favorite spot for late-night dancing and stargazing. These ships also feature the Princess Theater, which hosts nightly shows, and multiple pool decks with retractable roofs for all-weather swimming.

Grand Class ships are ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a well-rounded experience without breaking the bank. They’re frequently deployed on 7- to 14-day Caribbean, Mexico, and Alaska routes.

Crown Class: Elegance and Destination Focus

The Crown Class (not to be confused with Crown Princess, which is part of the Grand Class) includes three ships:

• Discovery Princess (2022)
• Enchanted Princess (2020)
• Regal Princess (already listed above, but also part of this class due to shared design)

Wait—didn’t we already mention Regal Princess? Yes! The Crown Class is a bit of a hybrid. It includes the original Crown and Emerald Princess (refurbished into the Crown Class standard) and the newer Enchanted and Discovery Princess. These ships are about 143,000 gross tons—same as Royal Class—but with a different interior layout focused on destination immersion.

Key features include:

• Horizon Court – An expansive buffet with themed stations and ocean views.
• Princess Arena – A multi-use theater for shows, lectures, and movies.
• Expanded balcony cabins – Many staterooms have larger balconies for private outdoor space.

These ships are often used for longer voyages, including repositioning cruises and world cruises. They’re perfect for travelers who want a luxurious basecamp to explore multiple destinations.

MedallionClass: The Tech That Transforms Your Cruise

If you’ve heard about Princess Cruises in the last few years, you’ve probably heard about MedallionClass. This isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a game-changer in how you experience a cruise. But what is it, and how does it work?

The MedallionClass system is powered by a small, wearable device called the OceanMedallion—about the size of a quarter. You wear it as a pendant, clip, or band, and it connects to a network of sensors throughout the ship. Here’s how it transforms your cruise:

Personalized Service at Your Fingertips

When you board, your Medallion automatically recognizes you. Staff can greet you by name, remember your drink preferences, and even know which cabin you’re in—without you having to swipe a card or show ID. Imagine walking into the buffet and being handed your favorite coffee without saying a word. That’s MedallionClass.

It also enables:

• Contactless payment – Tap your Medallion to buy drinks, souvenirs, or excursions.
• Keyless stateroom entry – No more fumbling with keycards. Just walk up to your door.
• Real-time location tracking – Find family members or friends on the ship via the app.
• Interactive wayfinding – Get turn-by-turn directions to your cabin, the pool, or the spa.

Enhanced Entertainment and Dining

The OceanMedallion also powers OceanNow, a service that lets you order food and drinks from anywhere on the ship. Want a margarita while sunbathing on Deck 12? Just tap the app, and it’ll be delivered to your lounge chair in minutes.

For families, there’s OceanCompass, which lets you track your kids’ locations and even set geofenced alerts (e.g., “Notify me if they leave the kids’ club”).

And here’s a fun one: PlayOcean. This is an interactive game system that turns the ship into a giant playground. You can play trivia, scavenger hunts, and even augmented reality games using your Medallion and the ship’s screens.

Is It Worth It?

Some cruisers love the high-tech convenience. Others find it a bit overwhelming or intrusive. I’ll be honest—when I first tried it, I was skeptical. But after a few days, I was hooked. No more losing my room key, no more waiting in line to order a drink. It made the cruise feel smoother and more personalized.

That said, the system isn’t perfect. On busier days, the app can lag, and not all staff are fully trained on how to use it. But Princess is continuously improving it, and by 2024, it’s now available on all 15 ships in the fleet.

Environmental Commitments and Fleet Modernization

In recent years, Princess Cruises has made sustainability a top priority. As travelers become more eco-conscious, cruise lines are under pressure to reduce emissions, waste, and environmental impact. Princess has responded with several key initiatives—and the size and composition of its fleet play a big role.

LNG-Powered Ships: The Future is Cleaner

The two newest ships in the fleet—Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess—are powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a cleaner-burning fuel that reduces sulfur emissions by 97% and nitrogen oxides by 85%. This is a major step toward reducing the cruise industry’s carbon footprint.

LNG is more expensive and logistically complex than traditional fuel, but Princess sees it as a necessary investment. These ships also feature advanced waste treatment systems, energy-efficient lighting, and hull coatings that reduce drag and fuel consumption.

Retiring Older Ships for a Greener Future

As mentioned earlier, Princess has retired several older vessels in the past few years. The Pacific Princess (launched in 1999) and Ocean Princess (2000) were both sold in 2023. While these ships were beloved by loyal cruisers, they were less fuel-efficient and harder to upgrade with modern tech.

By focusing on newer, more efficient ships, Princess can offer a better guest experience while reducing environmental impact. It’s a win-win—especially as destinations like Alaska and the Caribbean push for stricter environmental regulations.

Onboard Sustainability Practices

Beyond the engines, Princess has implemented several onboard practices:

• Single-use plastic reduction – Replaced plastic straws, bottles, and bags with reusable or biodegradable alternatives.
• Food waste tracking – Using AI to predict demand and reduce overproduction.
• Water conservation – Advanced desalination and recycling systems to reduce freshwater use.

These efforts have earned Princess several sustainability awards, including recognition from Green Marine and Seatrade Global. While there’s still room for improvement (like full zero-emission ships), the direction is clear: Princess is committed to a greener future.

Upcoming Additions and Future of the Fleet

Princess isn’t done growing. In fact, 2024 marks the beginning of a new chapter with two exciting additions to the fleet—ships that will push the boundaries of luxury, sustainability, and guest experience.

Sun Princess (2024): The First LNG-Powered Ship in a New Class

Launched in early 2024, the Sun Princess is the first of the new Island Class ships. At 175,500 gross tons, it’s the largest ship ever built for Princess—and the first to use LNG as its primary fuel.

But size isn’t the only thing that sets it apart. The Sun Princess features:

• The Dome – A glass-enclosed, multi-level entertainment space with a retractable roof.
• Horizon Dining Room – A 360-degree dining experience with panoramic ocean views.
• Expanded suite options – Including the new “Signature Collection” with private lounges and concierge service.

The ship will sail Mediterranean and Caribbean itineraries, with a focus on destination-rich experiences. It’s already receiving rave reviews for its spacious design and eco-friendly features.

Star Princess (2025): The Sister Ship with Even More Innovation

Scheduled to launch in late 2025, the Star Princess will be the second Island Class ship. It will be nearly identical to the Sun Princess but with some upgraded tech, including enhanced MedallionClass features and AI-driven guest services.

Both ships will use hydrogen-ready engines, meaning they can be retrofitted to run on hydrogen fuel when the infrastructure becomes available. This forward-thinking design shows Princess’s long-term vision for zero-emission cruising.

What This Means for the Fleet Size

With the addition of the Sun Princess in 2024 and Star Princess in 2025, the Princess fleet will grow to 17 active ships by 2026. This expansion is strategic: it allows Princess to offer more itineraries, cater to growing demand, and stay competitive with other major cruise lines.

But don’t expect a massive fleet explosion. Princess is focused on quality over quantity, investing in fewer, more advanced ships rather than flooding the market with older models.

Choosing the Right Ship for Your Cruise

So, now that you know how many ships Princess has—and what each one offers—how do you pick the right one for your trip? Here are a few tips based on real traveler experiences:

For First-Time Cruisers

If you’re new to cruising, consider a Sun Class ship like Sun Princess or Star Princess (once it launches). These are smaller, easier to navigate, and less overwhelming. They’re also great for shorter 3- to 7-day itineraries.

For Families

Go with a Grand Class or Royal Class ship. These have more kids’ clubs, family-friendly dining, and entertainment options. The Sky Princess has a fantastic kids’ pool and arcade, while Caribbean Princess offers excellent family suites.

For Couples and Honeymooners

The Crown Class ships like Enchanted Princess offer romantic touches: private dining on the balcony, spa packages, and sunset cocktail cruises. The expanded balconies are perfect for intimate evenings at sea.

For Adventure Seekers

If you’re doing an Alaska or Arctic cruise, choose a Grand Class ship. They’re built for cold-weather conditions and often have better viewing decks for wildlife spotting. The Emerald Princess is a favorite for Alaskan routes.

And remember: check the itinerary first. Even the best ship won’t make up for a boring route. Use Princess’s website to compare ports, shore excursions, and onboard activities.

Ship Class	Number of Ships	Passenger Capacity (approx.)	Key Features	Best For
Royal Class	3	3,660	SeaWalk, Princess Live!, The Piazza	Luxury seekers, families, entertainment lovers
Grand Class	5	3,080	Skywalkers, Princess Theater, multiple pools	Families, couples, first-time cruisers
Crown Class	3	3,660	Horizon Court, Princess Arena, large balconies	Romantic trips, world cruises, destination focus
Sun Class	2	2,200	Intimate design, relaxed vibe, shorter itineraries	First-time cruisers, couples, retirees
Island Class	2 (launching 2024–2025)	4,300	LNG-powered, The Dome, Horizon Dining	Eco-conscious travelers, luxury seekers, tech lovers

So, how many ships does Princess Cruise Lines have in 2024? The answer is 15 active ships, with two more on the way. But beyond the numbers, what matters is the experience—the blend of comfort, innovation, and destination-focused travel that has made Princess a favorite for millions of cruisers.

Whether you’re drawn to the high-tech magic of MedallionClass, the grandeur of the Royal Class, or the eco-conscious design of the new Island Class, there’s a Princess ship that’s right for you. And as the fleet continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: Princess’s commitment to making every journey unforgettable.

So go ahead—browse the itineraries, compare the ships, and pick the one that calls to you. Because at the end of the day, the best ship is the one that feels like home, even when you’re thousands of miles from shore.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many ships does Princess Cruise Lines have in 2024?

As of 2024, Princess Cruise Lines operates a fleet of 15 ships, ranging from mid-sized vessels to the latest LNG-powered ships like Sun Princess. This number reflects recent additions and retirements to modernize their offerings.

What is the size of the Princess Cruise Lines fleet compared to other cruise lines?

Princess Cruise Lines’ 15-ship fleet is smaller than giants like Carnival (27 ships) but larger than luxury-focused lines like Seabourn (6 ships). The 2024 fleet balances capacity with premium onboard experiences.

Has Princess Cruise Lines added new ships recently?

Yes, Princess introduced the 4,300-guest Sun Princess in early 2024, the first of their Sphere-class vessels. A second Sphere-class ship, Star Princess, is scheduled for delivery in 2025.

How many ships does Princess Cruise Lines have dedicated to specific regions?

While all ships sail globally, Princess assigns several vessels to key regions like Alaska (4 ships), the Caribbean (5 ships), and Europe (3 ships) for seasonal itineraries. The 2024 fleet optimizes regional demand.

Are there any plans to expand the Princess fleet in the near future?

Beyond Star Princess in 2025, Princess has two more Sphere-class ships on order for delivery by 2028. These additions will replace older vessels to maintain a 15-18 ship fleet size.

Which is the largest ship in the Princess Cruise Lines fleet?

The Sun Princess (2024) is currently the largest, with a 175,500 GT and capacity for 4,300 guests. It surpasses the previous record-holder, Enchanted Princess, by 15% in size.