Is Princess Cruises a Luxury Line Find Out the Truth Here

Princess Cruises is not a true luxury line, but rather a premium mid-tier cruise brand that offers elevated experiences without the all-inclusive opulence of luxury competitors. While it features upscale amenities, exceptional service, and high-quality dining, it lacks the intimate ships, personalized attention, and comprehensive inclusions that define the luxury cruise market.

Key Takeaways

• Not fully luxury: Princess Cruises offers premium experiences but isn’t classified as true luxury.
• <>MedallionClass tech: Enhances service with wearable tech for personalized, efficient onboard experiences.
• Upscale amenities: Features gourmet dining, spa services, and spacious staterooms near luxury standards.
• Value-focused pricing: Lower fares than luxury lines, appealing for budget-conscious travelers.
• Varied itineraries: Excursions cater to diverse interests, though not always exclusive or high-end.
• Service level: Professional but less personalized compared to top-tier luxury cruise brands.

What Defines a Luxury Cruise Line?

When travelers think of luxury cruise lines, images of opulent suites, gourmet dining, personalized service, and exclusive destinations often come to mind. Brands like Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, and Crystal Cruises dominate the high-end market with all-inclusive pricing, butler service, and itineraries that emphasize intimacy and exclusivity. But where does Princess Cruises fit into this spectrum? Is it truly a luxury line, or does it occupy a different niche in the cruise industry? The answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem, and understanding the nuances can help travelers set realistic expectations and choose the right cruise for their preferences.

Princess Cruises, founded in 1965 and now part of Carnival Corporation, is one of the most well-known names in the cruise industry. With a fleet of over 15 ships, it caters to a broad audience—from first-time cruisers to seasoned travelers. While it isn’t marketed as an ultra-luxury brand, it has evolved significantly in recent years, incorporating premium amenities, elevated dining experiences, and enhanced service standards. This raises an important question: Can a cruise line that balances affordability with upscale features still qualify as “luxury”? To answer this, we need to dissect the components that define luxury travel and see how Princess Cruises measures up across key categories such as accommodations, dining, service, itineraries, and overall value.

Accommodations: Balancing Comfort and Elegance

Stateroom Categories and Design

Princess Cruises offers a wide range of accommodations, from interior cabins to spacious suites. While it doesn’t feature the same level of extravagance found on ultra-luxury lines like Silversea or Regent, its higher-tier rooms—particularly the Sky Suite and Grand Suite—come close in terms of space and amenities. For example, the Sky Suite on the Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess spans over 1,000 square feet and includes a private balcony, separate living and dining areas, and access to the exclusive Suite Lounge, where guests enjoy complimentary cocktails, canapés, and personalized concierge service.

Even standard balcony and mini-suite rooms are well-designed, with modern décor, high-quality linens, and thoughtful touches like USB charging ports, premium toiletries, and 24-hour room service. The use of soft lighting, neutral color palettes, and functional layouts creates a sense of comfort and sophistication. However, unlike true luxury lines, standard staterooms do not include butler service—a hallmark of high-end cruising. Instead, guests in higher categories (Mini-Suite and above) receive Enhanced Service, which includes priority embarkation, dedicated dining reservations, and expedited disembarkation.

Suite Perks and Exclusive Access

One area where Princess Cruises begins to resemble a luxury line is in its suite offerings. The MedallionClass experience—introduced fleet-wide in 2018—allows suite guests to use the OceanMedallion wearable device for keyless entry, contactless payments, and personalized service. This technology enhances convenience and adds a layer of exclusivity. Suite guests also gain access to the Horizon Court (a private dining area) and the Princess Theater balcony with reserved seating.

Tip: If you’re seeking a more luxurious experience, consider booking a Grand Suite or Sky Suite. These rooms offer the best value for those wanting premium amenities without the price tag of ultra-luxury lines. Additionally, booking through a travel agent with Princess Cruises partnerships can unlock exclusive perks like onboard credits or complimentary specialty dining.

Comparison to True Luxury Lines

While Princess suites are impressive, they lack some signature luxury features. For instance, Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn include in-room butler service, complimentary premium beverages, and all-inclusive shore excursions in their suite rates. Princess, by contrast, offers these as add-ons or perks for top-tier loyalty members. The absence of a full butler service in most suites means that while the accommodations are upscale, they don’t quite reach the “white-glove” standard of true luxury brands.

Dining and Culinary Experiences

Main Dining and Buffet Options

Princess Cruises has made significant strides in its culinary offerings. The main dining rooms—such as the Michelangelo and Da Vinci on newer ships—feature elegant décor, rotating menus curated by renowned chefs, and a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The line has embraced the “anytime dining” model, allowing guests to dine when and where they prefer, with reservations available through the MedallionClass app.

The World Fresh Marketplace buffet (found on most ships) is a standout, offering a diverse array of international cuisines, including made-to-order pasta, sushi bars, and regional specialties. Unlike older cruise ships, where buffets were often chaotic and overcrowded, Princess has redesigned these spaces to be more intimate, with multiple serving stations to reduce lines and improve flow. This attention to detail reflects a commitment to guest comfort and experience.

Specialty and Signature Dining

For travelers seeking a more elevated dining experience, Princess offers several specialty restaurants, including:

• Sabatini’s – Italian trattoria with handmade pasta and truffle-infused dishes
• Chef’s Table Lumière – An intimate, multi-course experience with wine pairings and a behind-the-scenes kitchen tour
• Ocean Terrace – Sushi and seafood bar with a curated sake menu
• The Salty Dog Gastropub – Gourmet burgers, craft beer, and elevated pub fare

These venues are designed to mimic high-end restaurants found on land, with attentive service and refined presentation. The Chef’s Table Lumière, in particular, is comparable to Michelin-starred experiences on luxury lines like Oceania and Crystal. Guests are greeted with a welcome cocktail, treated to a live cooking demonstration, and served a 7- to 10-course tasting menu with sommelier-selected pairings.

Value vs. Luxury: Beverage Packages and Inclusivity

One key differentiator between Princess and true luxury lines is the cost of dining. While Regent and Seabourn include premium wines, spirits, and specialty dining in their base fares, Princess charges extra for these. The Premier Beverage Package (starting at $70 per day) includes cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks, but it’s not mandatory. This “à la carte” approach keeps base prices lower but can add up quickly for guests who enjoy multiple drinks or frequent specialty restaurants.

Tip: To maximize value, consider booking during a “Free Specialty Dining” promotion, which is often offered on select sailings. Additionally, the Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages (available for an upgrade) include drink credits, gratuities, and Wi-Fi—making them excellent choices for travelers who want a more all-inclusive experience without the ultra-luxury price tag.

Service and Onboard Experience

Crew-to-Guest Ratio and Staff Training

Service is a critical component of any luxury cruise experience. Princess Cruises maintains a crew-to-guest ratio of approximately 1:2.5, which is competitive but not as low as ultra-luxury lines (e.g., Seabourn’s 1:1.5 ratio). The crew is well-trained, with many staff members having prior experience on luxury ships. The line emphasizes personalized service through the MedallionClass system, which allows crew members to access guest preferences (e.g., favorite drinks, dining times, and excursion interests) in real time.

Guests in higher-tier accommodations report receiving more attentive service, including turndown gifts, personalized notes, and proactive assistance. However, in standard staterooms, service is efficient but less personalized. Unlike luxury lines, where butlers anticipate needs before they’re voiced, Princess crew members are more reactive—responding to requests rather than proactively addressing them.

Enhanced Service for Premium Guests

Princess Cruises has introduced Enhanced Service for guests in Mini-Suites and above. This includes:

• Priority check-in and embarkation
• Dedicated dining reservations (even during peak hours)
• Expedited disembarkation
• Access to the Horizon Court private dining area
• Enhanced room amenities (e.g., premium bath products, robes, and slippers)

These perks significantly elevate the experience for suite guests, making them feel valued and well-cared for. The Suite Lounge, in particular, is a hidden gem—offering a quiet space for relaxation, complimentary cocktails, and a dedicated concierge who can assist with reservations, excursions, and special requests.

Entertainment and Enrichment

Princess Cruises stands out for its entertainment and enrichment programs, which rival those of luxury lines. The Princess Theater hosts Broadway-style shows, live music, and comedy acts. The Discovery at SEA program partners with Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, and BBC Earth to offer interactive lectures, wildlife encounters, and stargazing events. Guests can also participate in cooking classes, wine tastings, and art auctions.

For families and multi-generational travelers, the Youth & Teen Centers provide age-appropriate activities, while the Retreat Pool (an adults-only area) offers a serene escape with premium loungers and a dedicated bar. These features enhance the overall experience, making Princess a strong contender for those who value both relaxation and engagement.

Itineraries and Destinations

Global Reach and Unique Ports

Princess Cruises is renowned for its extensive itineraries, offering voyages to over 380 destinations across all seven continents. Whether you’re exploring the glaciers of Alaska, the fjords of Norway, or the coral reefs of the South Pacific, Princess provides access to some of the world’s most breathtaking locations. The line is particularly strong in Alaska, with its North to Alaska program featuring immersive shore excursions, wildlife viewing, and onboard experts from the Discovery Channel.

Unlike ultra-luxury lines, which often focus on smaller, more exclusive ports, Princess balances popular destinations with lesser-known gems. For example, a Caribbean cruise might include stops in Grand Cayman, Cozumel, and Roatán—offering a mix of beaches, culture, and adventure. A Mediterranean voyage could feature Barcelona, Florence, and Athens, with optional excursions to hidden villages and archaeological sites.

Expedition and Adventure Cruises

In recent years, Princess has expanded into expedition cruising, partnering with Lindblad Expeditions to offer small-ship voyages to destinations like Antarctica, the Galápagos, and the Arctic. These cruises, operated on the Discovery Princess and Island Princess, feature expert naturalists, Zodiac landings, and immersive experiences. While not as exclusive as lines like Silversea Expeditions, they provide a more affordable entry point into adventure cruising.

Shore Excursions and Inclusivity

Princess offers over 2,000 shore excursions, ranging from cultural tours to adrenaline-pumping adventures. While these are not included in the base fare (unlike luxury lines), the quality and variety are impressive. The MedallionClass app allows guests to book and manage excursions in advance, with real-time updates and GPS tracking for guided tours.

Tip: For the best value, book excursions directly through Princess rather than third-party vendors. The line guarantees the lowest prices and offers full refunds if an excursion is canceled due to weather or operational issues.

Value and Pricing: Where Princess Stands

Base Fares and Inclusions

One of the most compelling arguments for Princess Cruises is its value proposition. A 7-night Alaska cruise, for example, can start as low as $800 per person (excluding taxes and fees), compared to $3,000+ on luxury lines. This affordability makes Princess accessible to a broader audience, including families, retirees, and budget-conscious travelers.

However, it’s important to note that the base fare is not all-inclusive. Guests pay extra for:

• Specialty dining (Sabatini’s, Chef’s Table, etc.)
• Beverage packages
• Shore excursions
• Gratuities
• Wi-Fi and premium activities

This à la carte model allows travelers to customize their experience but can lead to unexpected costs if not planned carefully.

Comparison Table: Princess vs. Luxury Lines

Feature	Princess Cruises	Ultra-Luxury Lines (e.g., Regent, Seabourn)
Base Price (7-night Alaska)	$800–$1,500 per person	$3,000–$7,000 per person
All-Inclusive Drinks	No (add-on packages)	Yes (premium spirits, wine, champagne)
Butler Service	No (except for top-tier suites)	Yes (all suite guests)
Shore Excursions Included	No	Yes (one per port)
Crew-to-Guest Ratio	1:2.5	1:1.5
Specialty Dining Inclusions	No (pay per visit)	Yes (unlimited)
Technology (e.g., MedallionClass)	Yes	No (more traditional service)

As the table shows, Princess Cruises offers a hybrid experience—combining upscale amenities with budget-friendly pricing. For travelers who prioritize value and flexibility, it’s an excellent choice. For those seeking a fully all-inclusive, white-glove luxury experience, ultra-luxury lines may be more suitable.

When Princess “Feels” Luxurious

Despite its mid-tier pricing, Princess Cruises can feel luxurious in many ways. The MedallionClass technology, enhanced suite perks, and high-quality dining options create a premium atmosphere. On newer ships like the Enchanted Princess, the décor, lighting, and public spaces rival those of luxury lines. For travelers who book suites, upgrade to Princess Premier, and take advantage of onboard promotions, the experience can be remarkably close to true luxury—without the hefty price tag.

Conclusion: Is Princess Cruises a Luxury Line?

So, is Princess Cruises a luxury line? The short answer is: not quite—but it’s getting closer. While it doesn’t meet all the traditional criteria of ultra-luxury brands (such as all-inclusive pricing, butler service, and ultra-low guest ratios), it offers a compelling blend of upscale amenities, innovative technology, and exceptional value. For travelers seeking a premium cruise experience without the ultra-luxury price, Princess is an outstanding choice.

The line shines in areas like dining, entertainment, and itineraries, where its offerings are competitive with—and sometimes surpass—those of luxury lines. The MedallionClass system, in particular, sets it apart, providing a level of personalization and convenience that few competitors can match. For suite guests, the experience is even more elevated, with exclusive lounges, enhanced service, and premium perks that blur the line between premium and luxury.

Ultimately, Princess Cruises is best described as a premium mainstream line with luxury aspirations. It’s ideal for travelers who want comfort, style, and memorable experiences—without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler looking for value, Princess delivers a high-quality experience that, in many ways, feels luxurious. So, while it may not wear the crown of “ultra-luxury,” it certainly earns its place among the most refined options in the mid-tier market. The truth? Princess Cruises is as close to luxury as you can get without the ultra-luxury price tag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Princess Cruises considered a luxury cruise line?

Princess Cruises is often categorized as a premium, mid-tier cruise line rather than a luxury one. While it offers upscale amenities and personalized service, it lacks the all-inclusive pricing and ultra-exclusive features of true luxury lines like Regent or Seabourn.

What luxury amenities does Princess Cruises offer?

Princess Cruises features high-end touches such as the adults-only Sanctuary, premium dining venues like Crown Grill, and spacious Sky Suites. However, these amenities are optional upgrades, not standard inclusions like on luxury lines.

How does Princess Cruises compare to luxury lines in service?

Princess Cruises provides attentive service with a 1:22 staff-to-guest ratio, but luxury lines typically offer a 1:10 ratio or better. The service is polished but less personalized compared to true luxury brands.

Are Princess Cruises’ staterooms as luxurious as those on high-end lines?

While Princess offers modern, well-appointed cabins—including balcony staterooms and exclusive suites—luxury lines feature more spacious accommodations with higher-end finishes and butler service for all rooms.

Is Princess Cruises a luxury line for value-focused travelers?

Yes, Princess Cruises delivers a near-luxury experience at a more accessible price point. It’s ideal for travelers seeking elevated comfort without the premium price tag of all-inclusive luxury cruises.

Does Princess Cruises offer luxury shore excursions?

Princess Cruises provides premium shore excursions, such as private tours and exclusive events, but these come at an additional cost. True luxury lines often include such experiences in their base fare.