Is Princess Cruise Line Good A Detailed Review of Their Best Features and Experiences

Princess Cruise Line delivers a consistently high-quality, memorable vacation experience, combining elegant ships, diverse itineraries, and exceptional service across its fleet. With standout features like the adults-only Sanctuary, world-class dining, and immersive shore excursions, Princess excels in balancing relaxation, adventure, and value—making it a top choice for both first-time and seasoned cruisers.

Key Takeaways

• Excellent service: Crew members deliver consistently attentive and personalized care throughout your voyage.
• Diverse dining: Enjoy globally inspired cuisine with flexible and inclusive meal options for all diets.
• Top-tier entertainment: Broadway-caliber shows and live music rival land-based venues for quality.
• Comfortable accommodations: Staterooms blend elegance and function, maximizing space and comfort effectively.
• Unique excursions: Shore tours offer culturally immersive experiences led by local experts.
• Family-friendly: Kids’ clubs and teen zones keep young travelers engaged and entertained daily.
• Great value: Inclusive pricing covers most activities and dining, reducing unexpected costs onboard.

Is Princess Cruise Line Good? A Detailed Review of Their Best Features and Experiences

When it comes to choosing a cruise line, the decision often hinges on more than just the itinerary. Travelers want a seamless blend of comfort, entertainment, dining, and service—a holistic experience that justifies the investment. Enter Princess Cruises, a name synonymous with innovation and elegance in the cruise industry. With a fleet of over 15 ships and more than 330 destinations worldwide, Princess Cruises has built a reputation for delivering unforgettable vacations. But is Princess Cruise Line good? This comprehensive review dives into the heart of what makes Princess stand out, from its award-winning onboard amenities to its immersive destination experiences, and whether it truly delivers on its promises.

Founded in 1965, Princess Cruises has grown into one of the most recognized and trusted cruise brands globally, consistently earning accolades such as “Best Cruise Line for Families” and “Best Value for Money” from industry authorities like Cruise Critic and Travel + Leisure. Their slogan, “Come Back New,” encapsulates the transformative experience they aim to provide. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser, a seasoned traveler, or a family seeking a multigenerational getaway, Princess Cruises offers a diverse range of options. From the luxurious Discovery Princess to the intimate Pacific Princess, each vessel is designed to cater to different preferences and travel styles. In this review, we’ll explore the key features, standout experiences, and real-world insights to help you determine if Princess Cruises is the right fit for your next vacation.

Onboard Experience: Comfort, Design, and Innovation

Cabin Categories and Accommodations

One of the first considerations when evaluating a cruise line is the quality and variety of accommodations. Princess Cruises excels in this area by offering a tiered cabin structure designed to meet diverse needs and budgets. Whether you’re booking an interior stateroom or a suite with a private balcony, comfort and thoughtful design are evident throughout.

• Interior Staterooms: Starting at around $700 per person for a 7-day cruise, these rooms are compact but efficiently designed. They include modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, climate control, and premium bedding. Ideal for travelers who plan to spend minimal time in their cabin.
• Oceanview and Balcony Rooms: These offer natural light and outdoor space. Balcony cabins are particularly popular for their private verandas—perfect for morning coffee or stargazing. Princess’s balcony design includes retractable glass doors that create a seamless indoor-outdoor feel.
• Mini-Suites and Suites: For those seeking luxury, mini-suites (starting around $1,200) include extra square footage, a separate sitting area, and upgraded bathroom fixtures. The Reserve Collection and Sky Suite (on newer ships) offer exclusive perks like priority boarding, concierge service, and access to the private Horizon Court lounge.

Tip: Book a balcony cabin on a higher deck (e.g., Deck 10+) for better views and reduced noise from public areas. Princess also offers Accessible Staterooms with wider doorways, roll-in showers, and visual alert systems—ensuring inclusivity for all guests.

Ship Design and Public Spaces

Princess ships are known for their elegant, modern design that balances sophistication with functionality. The newer Princess MedallionClass ships (e.g., Enchanted Princess, Discovery Princess) feature open-concept layouts, natural lighting, and curated art installations. Key public spaces include:

• The Piazza: The heart of every Princess ship, this multi-level atrium is a social hub with cafes, live music, and specialty bars. It’s a great place to relax, grab a drink, or meet fellow travelers.
• Horizon Court: The main buffet, offering a rotating menu of international cuisine, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Breakfast here is a highlight, with made-to-order omelets and fresh pastries.
• Pool Decks and Outdoor Areas: Multiple pools (including an adults-only Sanctuary), hot tubs, and loungers are strategically placed for privacy and sun exposure. The SeaView Bar on the aft deck is a favorite for sunset cocktails.

Princess also prioritizes technology integration. The Medallion wearable device (a quarter-sized disc) enables contactless boarding, room access, and even personalized service—like having your favorite drink waiting at the bar when you arrive.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Evenings on a Princess cruise are anything but dull. The onboard entertainment lineup includes Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, live music, and themed parties. The Princess Theater hosts original productions like Magic to Do and The Secret Silk, which rival professional stage performances.

• Music and Dance: From jazz trios in the Piazza to high-energy dance clubs (e.g., Club Fusion), there’s something for every taste.
• Casino: The Princess Casino offers slots, table games, and poker tournaments. It’s smoke-free, a major plus for non-smokers.
• Late-Night Options: The Wheelhouse Bar and Speakeasy (on select ships) provide intimate settings for cocktails and conversation.

Tip: Check the daily Cruise Compass (delivered to your cabin or available via the Medallion app) for showtimes, trivia, and dance classes. Book theater seats early—popular shows sell out fast!

Dining Excellence: From Casual to Gourmet

Main Dining and Specialty Restaurants

Princess Cruises has redefined cruise dining with a focus on variety, quality, and customization. Unlike older cruise lines that rely on rigid dining times, Princess offers Anytime Dining—a flexible system where guests can eat at their preferred time (5:30 PM–9:30 PM) without reservations.

• Main Dining Rooms: Elegant, multi-level venues with rotating menus. Dishes range from classic steakhouse fare (e.g., filet mignon, lobster tail) to regional specialties (e.g., Thai green curry, Moroccan tagine). Vegetarian and vegan options are clearly marked.
• Specialty Dining: For an elevated experience, book one of the following (reservations required, additional fee applies):
  • Sabatini’s: Italian trattoria with handmade pasta and truffle risotto (~$35–$45).
  • Crown Grill: Premium steaks and seafood (~$39–$55).
  • Harmony: Asian fusion with wok-cooked dishes and sushi (~$35).
  • La Mer: French cuisine by Chef Emmanuel Renaut (~$55–$75).

Tip: The Chef’s Table Lumiere (~$125) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—a private dinner in a glass-enclosed kitchen with a 5-course tasting menu and sommelier pairings.

Casual and Quick-Service Options

For laid-back meals, Princess offers numerous casual venues:

• Horizon Court: The main buffet with 24-hour pizza, salad bars, and dessert stations.
• World Fresh Marketplace: A grab-and-go option with sandwiches, wraps, and fresh fruit.
• Alfredo’s Pizzeria: Hand-tossed Neapolitan pizza baked in a wood-fired oven (free).
• International Café: Coffee, pastries, and light snacks in the Piazza (free).

Princess also caters to dietary needs. Guests can pre-request special meals (gluten-free, kosher, halal) during booking, and chefs are trained to accommodate allergies.

Unique Culinary Experiences

Princess stands out with immersive food events:

• Chef’s Table at Sea: A 3-hour cooking demo and tasting led by the ship’s executive chef.
• Wine Tastings: Sommelier-led sessions in the Vines Bar (~$25–$50).
• Food & Wine Pairing Dinners: Themed events like “Taste of Italy” or “Pacific Rim Flavors.”

Pro Tip: The Princess Dining Package (~$129–$199) includes 3–5 specialty dinners, offering significant savings for foodies.

Excursions and Destination Immersion

Port Adventures and Shore Excursions

Princess Cruises shines in its shore excursion program, offering over 3,000 activities across 330+ ports. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, snorkeling in turquoise waters, or sampling local cuisine, Princess ensures a seamless experience.

• Adventure Tours: Kayaking in Alaska, zip-lining in Costa Rica, or hiking the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

<

• Cultural Experiences: Flamenco shows in Spain, cooking classes in Tuscany, or temple visits in Japan.
• Relaxation: Beach breaks in the Caribbean, spa days in Bali, or wine tastings in Napa Valley.

Excursions are rated by difficulty (easy, moderate, challenging) and duration (1–8 hours), helping guests choose wisely. Prices range from $50 for a city tour to $300+ for exclusive experiences (e.g., private helicopter tour in Iceland).

MedallionNet and Onshore Connectivity

Princess’s MedallionNet Wi-Fi is a game-changer for staying connected ashore. Unlike traditional cruise Wi-Fi, which is often slow and expensive, MedallionNet offers high-speed internet at sea and in most ports. Packages start at $15/day for basic browsing or $25/day for streaming.

Tip: Use the Medallion app to book excursions, view real-time wait times for tenders, and track your group’s location during port visits.

Unique Itineraries and Themed Cruises

Princess specializes in destination-focused voyages:

• Alaska: Scenic Inside Passage cruises with glacier viewing, wildlife tours, and the North to Alaska enrichment program.
• Europe: Mediterranean, Baltic, and British Isles itineraries with extended port stays (e.g., overnight in Venice).
• Asia: Cruises to Japan, Vietnam, and China, featuring tea ceremonies, martial arts demos, and kimono rentals.
• Themed Cruises: From “Food & Wine” to “Music Icons” (e.g., Elton John tribute), these voyages include expert-led workshops and performances.

Example: The Grand Mediterranean cruise (12 days) includes stops in Rome, Santorini, and Istanbul, with optional excursions to the Colosseum, Oia sunset views, and Hagia Sophia.

Family and Multigenerational Travel

Kids and Teen Programs

Princess Cruises is a top choice for families, offering robust programming for all ages:

• Camp Discovery (Ages 3–12): Supervised activities like science experiments, arts & crafts, and movie nights. Open 9 AM–10 PM.
• Teen Lounges (Ages 13–17): Video games, dance parties, and social events. The Edge lounge has a DJ booth and karaoke.
• Family-Friendly Spaces: The Family Pool (with water slides) and Family Game Room (board games, puzzles).

Tip: The Family Fun Pass (~$49) includes unlimited arcade games, mini-golf, and ice cream.

Multigenerational Perks

Princess excels at catering to grandparents, parents, and kids together:

• Connecting Staterooms: Adjacent cabins with shared doors for privacy and proximity.
• Group Excursions: Family-friendly tours (e.g., dolphin encounters, chocolate factory visits).
• Onboard Activities: Trivia nights, dance classes, and scavenger hunts designed for all ages.

Example: The Alaska Glacier Discovery cruise includes a “Family Whale Watch” excursion and a “Junior Ranger” program at Denali National Park.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Princess Cruises is committed to accessibility:

• Wheelchair-Accessible Cabins: 20+ per ship with roll-in showers and grab bars.
• Mobility-Friendly Excursions: Tours with step-free boarding and accessible vehicles.
• Service Animals: Allowed onboard with proper documentation.

Note: Notify Princess at least 45 days before sailing for special assistance requests.

Value, Pricing, and Loyalty Program

Cost Breakdown and Inclusions

Princess Cruises is competitively priced, with 7-day Caribbean cruises starting at $800 per person (interior cabin). What’s included?

• Accommodations
• All meals (except specialty dining)
• Entertainment and activities
• Port taxes and fees
• MedallionNet Wi-Fi (basic package)

Extras: Gratuities (~$16/day/person), specialty dining, excursions, spa, and premium drinks. The Princess Premier Package (~$100/day) bundles Wi-Fi, gratuities, drink credits, and photo packages.

Loyalty Program: Captain’s Circle

Frequent cruisers earn rewards through Captain’s Circle:

• Bronze (50 points): Onboard credit, priority tendering.
• Silver (150 points): Free specialty dining, spa discounts.
• Gold (300 points): Suite upgrades, private lounge access.
• Elite (500+ points): Free cruise, VIP disembarkation.

Tip: Points are earned per cruise day. A 14-day cruise = 14 points.

Best Value Tips

• Book early (6–12 months) for the best rates and cabin selection.
• Look for last-minute deals (30–60 days before sailing).
• Use Princess’s Price Promise—if prices drop after booking, they’ll refund the difference.

Conclusion: Is Princess Cruise Line Good?

After a deep dive into its offerings, the answer to “Is Princess Cruise Line good?” is a resounding yes—with a few caveats. Princess Cruises delivers an exceptional blend of comfort, innovation, and destination immersion that caters to a wide audience. Their MedallionClass technology sets a new standard for personalized service, while their diverse dining options and shore excursions ensure unforgettable experiences. Families will appreciate the robust kids’ programs, and luxury seekers will love the Reserve Collection suites and gourmet restaurants.

However, no cruise line is perfect. Some travelers note that onboard crowds can be high on popular itineraries (e.g., Alaska in summer), and specialty dining prices add up. Additionally, while Princess excels in many areas, it may not match the ultra-luxury of lines like Regent or Seabourn.

Ultimately, Princess Cruises is ideal for:

• First-time cruisers wanting a stress-free introduction to cruising.
• Families and multigenerational groups seeking inclusive activities.
• Destination-focused travelers who value port time and cultural immersion.
• Tech-savvy guests who enjoy seamless, contactless service.

With its slogan “Come Back New,” Princess doesn’t just promise a vacation—it promises transformation. Whether you’re sipping wine under the stars in Santorini, spotting glaciers in Alaska, or laughing with your kids at a deck party, Princess Cruises delivers moments that linger long after the journey ends. So pack your bags, embrace the Medallion magic, and set sail with a line that consistently raises the bar.

Feature	Highlights	Best For
Accommodations	Balcony cabins, Reserve Collection suites, accessible rooms	Luxury seekers, families, mobility-impaired guests
Dining	Anytime Dining, specialty restaurants, dietary accommodations	Foodies, vegetarians, gourmet enthusiasts
Technology	Medallion wearable, MedallionNet Wi-Fi, app integration	Tech-savvy travelers, families with kids
Excursions	3,000+ activities, themed tours, overnight ports	Adventure seekers, culture lovers, photographers
Loyalty Program	Captain’s Circle with free cruises, upgrades	Frequent cruisers, repeat guests

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Princess Cruise Line good for first-time cruisers?

Yes, Princess Cruise Line is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers, offering a balanced mix of structured activities, onboard amenities, and relaxed exploration. Their user-friendly app, clear signage, and diverse dining options make the experience approachable and enjoyable.

What makes Princess Cruise Line stand out from competitors?

Princess Cruise Line distinguishes itself with its innovative “MedallionClass” technology, offering keyless stateroom entry, on-demand food delivery, and personalized service. They also excel in destination immersion, with expert-led shore excursions and themed cruises to global hotspots.

Does Princess Cruise Line offer good value for the price?

Princess Cruise Line provides strong value, especially with inclusive amenities like multiple dining venues, live entertainment, and enrichment programs. While not the cheapest option, their mid-tier pricing aligns well with the quality of service, itineraries, and onboard experiences.

Is Princess Cruise Line good for families with kids?

While Princess caters to a more adult-oriented crowd, they do offer dedicated youth programs, teen lounges, and family-friendly shore excursions. However, families with young children may find competitors with larger water parks or kids’ clubs more appealing.

What are the best features of a Princess Cruise Line vacation?

Top features include the OceanMedallion wearable tech, award-winning “Discovery at SEA” enrichment programs, and the relaxing Sanctuary adult retreat. Their “Dine My Way” flexible dining and diverse itineraries (Alaska, Europe, etc.) are also standout perks.

Are Princess Cruise Line’s dining options worth it?

Absolutely—Princess offers a wide range of complimentary dining (Main Dining Room, World Fresh Marketplace) and specialty venues like Crown Grill and Sabatini’s. Their focus on fresh, regionally inspired dishes and wine pairings enhances the culinary experience.