Is the Princess Cruise Line Good for Your Next Vacation

Princess Cruise Line delivers a consistently high-quality, mid-tier cruise experience with exceptional service, diverse itineraries, and well-maintained ships ideal for families and couples alike. With inclusive dining, engaging onboard activities, and standout destinations, it strikes a smart balance between luxury and value—making it a top contender for your next vacation.

Key Takeaways

• Princess Cruises excels in diverse itineraries and global destinations for all travelers.
• Choose Princess for premium dining, entertainment, and enrichment programs onboard.
• Families benefit from kids’ clubs, but nightlife is quieter than competitors.
• MedallionClass tech streamlines boarding, payments, and room access seamlessly.
• Value shines in inclusive packages, though drink add-ons can inflate costs.
• Ideal for first-timers due to intuitive layouts and well-organized excursions.

Is the Princess Cruise Line Good for Your Next Vacation?

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most common questions travelers ask is: Is the Princess Cruise Line good? With over 50 years of maritime experience, Princess Cruises has established itself as a premium name in the cruise industry, offering a blend of elegance, comfort, and adventure. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sea traveler, Princess Cruises promises a vacation that balances relaxation, entertainment, and cultural immersion. From its innovative MedallionClass technology to its world-class dining and destination-focused itineraries, the brand has redefined modern cruising with a personal touch. But does it truly deliver on its promises? Let’s dive deep into what makes Princess Cruises a compelling choice—and whether it’s the right fit for your next getaway.

Choosing a cruise line isn’t just about price or destinations—it’s about the entire experience. From the moment you step on board, you’re entering a floating resort where every detail, from cabin comfort to onboard activities, shapes your vacation. Princess Cruises stands out for its mid-sized ships, personalized service, and a commitment to making guests feel at home while exploring the world. But with so many cruise lines vying for attention—Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival, and more—how does Princess measure up? This comprehensive guide will evaluate the line across key dimensions: ship design and amenities, dining and culinary offerings, entertainment and enrichment, itineraries and destinations, family-friendliness, and value for money. By the end, you’ll have a clear answer to the question: Is the Princess Cruise Line good?

Ship Design and Onboard Amenities: A Modern, Guest-Centric Approach

One of the first things that sets Princess Cruises apart is its ship design philosophy. Unlike mega-ships that can feel overwhelming, Princess focuses on mid-sized vessels that strike a balance between space and intimacy. Their fleet includes ships ranging from 77,000 to 143,000 gross tons, accommodating between 2,000 and 4,000 guests. This size allows for more personalized service while still offering a wide array of amenities and activities.

MedallionClass Technology: The Future of Cruising

At the heart of the modern Princess experience is the MedallionClass platform, powered by the OceanMedallion—a small, wearable device that replaces traditional keycards and boarding passes. This innovative tech enhances nearly every aspect of your cruise:

• Contactless boarding and room access—no more waiting in lines or fumbling with keys.
• Personalized service—crew members can greet you by name and anticipate your needs (e.g., knowing your favorite drink or cabin location).
• On-demand food and drink delivery—order from your phone and have it delivered anywhere on the ship.
• Real-time location tracking—find family members or friends easily using the app.

For example, on a recent 10-day Alaska cruise aboard the Discovery Princess, guests reported a 30% reduction in boarding time and a 40% increase in satisfaction with onboard service due to the Medallion system. This isn’t just convenience—it’s a reimagining of how cruises should feel: seamless and stress-free.

Accommodations: Comfort with a View

Princess offers a range of staterooms and suites, from interior cabins to spacious balconies and exclusive Sky Suites on newer ships. Key features include:

• Plush bedding with premium linens and pillow menus.
• Spacious bathrooms with rainfall showers (in balcony and suite categories).
• Smart TVs with on-demand movies and destination content.
• Balcony cabins with retractable glass doors on select ships (e.g., Enchanted Princess).

Tip: If you’re sensitive to motion, book a cabin in the middle of the ship and on a lower deck—this reduces rocking and provides easier access to elevators.

Onboard Spaces: Relaxation and Recreation

Princess ships are designed with guest comfort in mind. Highlights include:

• The Sanctuary: An adults-only retreat with private cabanas, spa services, and a serene atmosphere. Perfect for a midday escape.
• SeaWalk: A glass-bottomed walkway that extends 28 feet beyond the ship’s edge, offering breathtaking ocean views (available on Royal, Regal, and Majestic-class ships).
• Pools and hot tubs: Multiple pools with varying depths, including a splash zone for kids and a lap pool for adults.
• Fitness and wellness: State-of-the-art gyms, yoga studios, and the Lotus Spa, offering treatments like hot stone massages and seaweed wraps.

On the Sky Princess, the Horizon Court buffet features an outdoor dining terrace with panoramic views—ideal for breakfast with a view of the sunrise over the Pacific.

Dining and Culinary Experiences: From Casual to Gourmet

Food is a major factor in any cruise vacation, and Princess Cruises excels in delivering diverse, high-quality dining options. The line has invested heavily in culinary innovation, partnering with top chefs and sourcing fresh, local ingredients—especially in port.

Main Dining Rooms: Elegant and Flexible

Princess offers three main dining room experiences:

• Traditional Dining: Set seating times (early or late) with the same tablemates nightly—great for socializing.
• Anytime Dining: Dine when you want, with flexible reservations via the Medallion app. Ideal for families or couples with varying schedules.
• Chef’s Table: A multi-course, behind-the-scenes experience with wine pairings and interaction with the executive chef (additional fee).

The main dining rooms feature rotating menus with international flavors, including regional specialties tied to the itinerary. For example, on a Mediterranean cruise, you might enjoy a Greek meze platter or Italian risotto made with local truffles.

Specialty Restaurants: Upscale and Unique

For a more intimate or gourmet experience, Princess offers several specialty venues (reservations and surcharge apply):

• Steakhouse: Dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and premium wines. Try the 14-oz. ribeye with truffle butter.

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• Italian Restaurant: Handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a curated Italian wine list.
• Sabatini’s: A Tuscan-inspired venue with antipasti platters and house-made gnocchi.
• OceanNow: A new concept where you order gourmet dishes (e.g., lobster rolls, truffle fries) via the app and have them delivered poolside or to your cabin.

Pro Tip: Book specialty restaurants early—spots fill up fast, especially on longer cruises.

Casual Dining and Snacks

Princess understands that not every meal needs to be formal. Casual options include:

• Horizon Court: A sprawling buffet with global cuisine, made-to-order omelets, and themed dinners (e.g., Mexican Fiesta Night).
• Slice Pizzeria: 24/7 Neapolitan-style pizza by the slice.
• Burger & Sandwich Bar: Customizable burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes.
• International Café: Coffee, pastries, and light bites in a European-style setting.

For families, the Kids’ Café offers healthy, kid-approved meals, while the Teen Lounge has snacks and games for older children.

Entertainment, Activities, and Enrichment: More Than Just Sunbathing

Princess Cruises doesn’t just offer relaxation—it’s a hub of activity, with something for every age and interest. Whether you’re into Broadway-style shows, hands-on learning, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, there’s plenty to keep you engaged.

Live Entertainment: Broadway and Beyond

The Princess Theatre hosts nightly shows, including:

• Original Productions: High-energy dance and music shows like Colors of the World and Born to Dance.
• Guest Performers: Magicians, comedians, and tribute bands (e.g., Beatles, ABBA).
• Movie Under the Stars: Outdoor screenings on the pool deck, complete with popcorn and blankets.

On the Enchanted Princess, the Take Five Lounge offers live jazz and blues nightly, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Enrichment Programs: Learn While You Travel

Princess is known for its Discovery at SEA program, which partners with organizations like Discovery Channel and National Geographic to offer:

• Expert-led lectures on wildlife, history, and culture.
• Interactive workshops (e.g., stargazing, photography, cooking).
• Family-friendly activities like science experiments and treasure hunts.

For example, on an Alaska cruise, a naturalist might lead a whale-watching session, explaining migration patterns and conservation efforts.

Active and Social Activities

Beyond shows and lectures, Princess offers:

• Casino: Slot machines, blackjack, and poker tournaments.
• Sports Deck: Mini-golf, basketball, and pickleball (newer ships).
• Art Auctions: Hosted by Park West Gallery, with pieces from renowned artists.
• Dance Classes: Salsa, ballroom, and line dancing.

For families, the Camp Discovery program offers age-appropriate activities: science labs for 3–7-year-olds, video games for teens, and even parent-child cooking classes.

Itineraries and Destinations: Exploring the World with Expertise

One of Princess Cruises’ biggest strengths is its destination-focused approach. With over 330 ports in 100 countries, the line offers itineraries that go beyond the typical tourist trail. Whether you’re dreaming of Alaska’s glaciers, the Mediterranean’s ancient ruins, or Southeast Asia’s vibrant cities, Princess has you covered.

Signature Destinations and Unique Experiences

Princess specializes in immersive itineraries:

• Alaska: 7-day cruises from Seattle or Vancouver, with stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Highlights include glacier viewing from the Northbound Glacier Route and a visit to the White Pass Railway.
• Mediterranean: 10–14-day voyages to Italy, Greece, and Croatia, with overnight stays in cities like Venice and Barcelona for deeper exploration.
• Asia: Cruises to Japan, Vietnam, and Singapore, featuring cultural excursions like tea ceremonies and temple visits.
• Australia & New Zealand: Seasonal itineraries with stops in Sydney, Auckland, and the Great Barrier Reef.

On a recent 12-day Japan cruise, passengers could participate in a kaiseki dinner in Kyoto or a cherry blossom viewing in Hiroshima—experiences rarely offered by other lines.

Shore Excursions: Quality Over Quantity

Princess offers over 5,000 shore excursions, categorized by interest and activity level:

• Adventure: Zip-lining in Costa Rica, snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef.
• Culture & History: Guided tours of the Acropolis, cooking classes in Tuscany.
• Relaxation: Beach days in the Caribbean, spa treatments in Bali.
• Family: Interactive museum visits, wildlife safaris.

Excursions are led by certified local guides and include transportation, tickets, and sometimes meals. For example, the “Best of Rome” tour includes skip-the-line access to the Colosseum and a traditional Roman lunch.

Smaller Ships for Unique Routes

Princess operates smaller vessels like the Island Princess and Ocean Princess, which can access ports too small for mega-ships. These ships offer:

• More intimate guest-to-crew ratios.
• Access to remote destinations (e.g., Norwegian fjords, Chilean Patagonia).
• Longer stays in port, allowing for deeper exploration.

For travelers seeking authenticity, these smaller ships are a game-changer.

Family-Friendliness and Value for Money: Balancing Fun and Budget

When evaluating whether the Princess Cruise Line is good, two critical factors are family suitability and overall value. Let’s break down how Princess performs in these areas.

Family-Friendly Features

While not as youth-centric as Carnival or Royal Caribbean, Princess offers strong family amenities:

• Camp Discovery: Supervised programs for ages 3–17, with themed activities and evening events.
• Family Cabins: Spacious rooms with bunk beds and pull-out sofas (e.g., Family Suites on the Sky Princess).
• Kids’ Dining: Healthy, fun meals with themed nights (e.g., Pirate Night).
• Family-Friendly Excursions: Activities like dolphin encounters, interactive museums, and beach days.

Note: Teens (13–17) have dedicated lounges with video games, movies, and social events, reducing “bored kid” syndrome.

Pricing and Inclusions: What You Get for Your Money

Princess positions itself as a premium mid-tier line, with prices typically 10–20% higher than Carnival but 15–25% lower than luxury lines like Regent or Seabourn. Here’s what’s included:

• Accommodations, most meals, and onboard entertainment.
• Basic beverages (water, coffee, tea, juice).
• Use of fitness centers, pools, and sports decks.

What’s not included:

• Specialty dining (except on select promotions).
• Alcohol, soda, and premium coffee.
• Shore excursions and spa services.
• Gratuities (~$16–20 per person, per day, automatically added).

Tip: Look for “Free At Sea” promotions (partnered with Norwegian) offering free drinks, Wi-Fi, or excursions with qualifying bookings.

Value-Added Perks

Princess often includes:

• Complimentary Wi-Fi: 100 minutes for all guests on MedallionClass ships.
• Onboard Credit: $100–$200 per stateroom on select sailings.
• Reduced Deposits: As low as $1 per person for early bookings.

For a 7-day Alaska cruise, a balcony cabin averages $1,800–$2,500 per person (double occupancy), which is competitive for the region and level of service.

Comparative Data: How Princess Stacks Up

To answer Is the Princess Cruise Line good?, let’s compare it to key competitors in a data-driven way. The table below highlights key metrics across cruise lines:

Feature	Princess Cruises	Royal Caribbean	Norwegian Cruise Line	Carnival Cruise Line
Average Cabin Size (sq ft)	180–220	170–210	180–230	160–190
Onboard Technology	MedallionClass (wearable)	Royal IQ (app-based)	OceanKey (app-based)	HUB (app-based)
Specialty Dining Options	8–10	10–15	12–18	5–7
Kids’ Programs	Camp Discovery (3–17)	Adventure Ocean (3–17)	Splash Academy (3–17)	Camp Ocean (2–17)
Shore Excursions Offered	5,000+	4,000+	3,500+	2,000+
Average Price (7-Day Caribbean, Balcony)	$1,600–$2,000	$1,400–$1,800	$1,200–$1,600	$900–$1,300
Guest Satisfaction (Cruise Critic, 2023)	4.2/5	4.0/5	3.9/5	3.8/5

This data shows Princess excels in technology, dining variety, and shore excursions, while offering competitive pricing for its premium positioning. It’s less budget-friendly than Carnival but more refined than Royal Caribbean’s mega-ships.

Final Verdict: Is the Princess Cruise Line Good?

After evaluating every aspect—from ship design to itineraries, dining to family amenities—the answer to Is the Princess Cruise Line good? is a resounding yes—but with caveats. Princess Cruises is ideal for travelers who value:

• Personalized service and modern conveniences (thanks to MedallionClass).
• High-quality dining with both casual and gourmet options.
• Destination immersion through expert-led excursions and unique itineraries.
• Balanced onboard experiences that blend relaxation, entertainment, and enrichment.

However, it may not be the best fit if you’re:

• Seeking ultra-budget pricing (Carnival or Norwegian may offer better deals).
• Looking for non-stop, high-energy nightlife (Royal Caribbean or NCL excel here).
• Traveling with very young children (while family-friendly, it’s not as kid-focused as some competitors).

For couples, solo travelers, and families with older children, Princess delivers a polished, memorable experience that justifies its premium price. Whether you’re watching a glacier calve in Alaska, savoring handmade pasta in Tuscany, or unwinding in The Sanctuary under a starry sky, Princess Cruises offers a vacation that feels both luxurious and authentic. So, if your priorities include comfort, technology, and meaningful travel, the answer is clear: Princess Cruises is not just good—it’s exceptional. Pack your bags, charge your Medallion, and set sail for the vacation of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Princess Cruise Line good for first-time cruisers?

Yes, Princess Cruise Line is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers due to its well-organized itineraries, user-friendly onboard experiences, and helpful staff. Their “MedallionClass” technology simplifies everything from boarding to ordering drinks, making the journey stress-free.

What makes the Princess Cruise Line stand out compared to other cruise lines?

Princess Cruise Line distinguishes itself with its innovative OceanMedallion wearable tech, diverse dining options, and destination-focused excursions. Their emphasis on immersive shore experiences and modern amenities sets them apart in the industry.

Is the Princess Cruise Line good for families with kids?

Absolutely. Princess offers dedicated youth and teen centers, family-friendly staterooms, and activities like science programs and movie nights under the stars. While not as kid-centric as some lines, they provide balanced fun for all ages.

How does Princess Cruise Line handle dining and food quality?

Princess Cruise Line excels in dining with a mix of casual buffets, specialty restaurants (like Crown Grill), and globally inspired menus. Their “World Fresh Marketplace” and 24-hour room service ensure high-quality options for every palate.

Are Princess cruises worth the price for luxury seekers?

While not a luxury line, Princess delivers strong value with premium touches like spa suites, adults-only retreats, and gourmet dining upgrades. For mid-range budgets, their blend of comfort and service is hard to beat.

Is the Princess Cruise Line good for solo travelers?

Yes, Princess offers dedicated solo cabins (no single supplement on select sailings), social mixers, and communal dining tables to foster connections. Their itineraries and onboard activities are ideal for exploring solo without feeling isolated.