What Cruise Line Is Princess in 2026 Top Picks Revealed

Princess Cruises remains a top-tier cruise line in 2026, renowned for its luxurious ships, immersive itineraries, and exceptional service. As a standout choice for travelers seeking unforgettable voyages, Princess continues to lead with innovative onboard experiences, global destinations, and exclusive MedallionClass technology that personalizes every moment at sea.

Key Takeaways

• Princess Cruises remains a top choice for 2026 with diverse itineraries.
• MedallionClass tech enhances onboard experience via personalized service.
• Alaska and Europe are standout destinations in 2026 offerings.
• Premium pricing delivers value with inclusive packages and amenities.
• Sustainability focus sets Princess apart with eco-friendly ship upgrades.

What Cruise Line Is Princess in 2026: Top Picks Revealed

When it comes to choosing the perfect cruise line for your next vacation, few names stand out as prominently as Princess Cruises. But what exactly defines this iconic brand in 2026, and why has it remained a top choice for millions of travelers worldwide? Known for its elegant ships, immersive destinations, and innovative onboard experiences, Princess Cruises has evolved into a global leader in the cruise industry. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, understanding what sets Princess apart is key to unlocking a truly unforgettable journey.

As we step into 2026, Princess Cruises continues to redefine the cruising experience with a blend of tradition and innovation. From its MedallionClass technology to its award-winning shore excursions and sustainability initiatives, the brand has positioned itself at the forefront of modern cruising. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into what makes Princess Cruises unique, explore its top destinations, onboard amenities, and fleet highlights, and reveal the best itineraries and ships to book in 2026. Whether you’re dreaming of a Mediterranean escape, an Alaskan adventure, or a tropical Caribbean getaway, this guide will help you answer the essential question: *What cruise line is Princess?*—and why it might just be your perfect match.

Princess Cruises: A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence

The Origins and Evolution of Princess Cruises

Founded in 1965 by Stanley B. McDonald, Princess Cruises began as a modest operation with the SS *Princess Italia*, offering voyages between California and Mexico. Over the decades, the brand grew rapidly, becoming a household name thanks to its association with the popular TV show *The Love Boat* in the 1970s and 1980s. This exposure helped cement Princess Cruises as a symbol of romantic, luxurious, and accessible ocean travel. Today, the company is a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation & plc, the world’s largest cruise operator, giving it access to unparalleled resources and global reach.

What sets Princess Cruises apart is its consistent focus on destination immersion. Unlike some cruise lines that prioritize onboard entertainment over the ports of call, Princess emphasizes the journey itself—encouraging guests to truly experience the cultures, cuisines, and natural wonders of the places they visit. This philosophy is reflected in its itineraries, which often include longer port stays, overnight stays in key cities, and curated shore excursions led by local experts.

MedallionClass: The Future of Personalized Cruising

One of the most revolutionary developments in Princess Cruises’ recent history is the introduction of MedallionClass, a wearable technology platform launched in 2017 and now standard across the entire fleet. The OceanMedallion—a small, quarter-sized device—transforms the guest experience through:

• Contactless embarkation and boarding
• Keyless stateroom entry
• Personalized service (e.g., crew who know your name and preferences)
• On-demand food and beverage delivery anywhere on the ship
• Real-time location tracking for families and groups
• Interactive wayfinding and itinerary updates via the Medallion app

For example, if you’re lounging by the pool and crave a mojito, simply tap the OceanMedallion on a nearby reader or use the app to order. Within minutes, a crew member arrives with your drink—no waiting in line, no cash, no hassle. In 2026, MedallionClass continues to evolve, with AI-driven recommendations and expanded digital concierge services, making Princess Cruises one of the most tech-forward lines in the industry.

Top Princess Cruise Ships to Sail in 2026

Newest and Most Anticipated Vessels

In 2026, Princess Cruises is set to debut Sun Princess, the first vessel in its new Sphere Class of ships. This 175,500-ton, 4,300-guest mega-ship is designed to blend cutting-edge technology with Italian elegance, featuring:

• The Sphere Atrium: A three-deck-high glass dome with panoramic views and immersive digital art displays
• The Dome: A first-of-its-kind indoor/outdoor entertainment venue with retractable glass roof
• Expanded suite offerings, including the new Reserve Collection with exclusive dining and lounge access
• Enhanced sustainability features, including LNG-ready engines and advanced wastewater treatment

Sun Princess will sail inaugural Mediterranean voyages before repositioning to the Caribbean in late 2026. It’s expected to be a game-changer, combining the intimacy of a boutique cruise with the amenities of a mega-resort.

Fleet Highlights: Ships with Standout Features

Beyond Sun Princess, the Princess fleet includes several other standout vessels perfect for 2026 travel. Here’s a quick look at the top ships based on amenities, size, and itineraries:

Ship Name	Passenger Capacity	Key Features	Best For
Discovery Princess	3,660	Sky Suite with 180° views, expanded pool deck, new specialty dining	Alaska, California Coastal
Regal Princess	3,560	SeaWalk glass walkway, Crown Grill steakhouse, Princess Live! studio	Eastern Caribbean, Mediterranean
Enchanted Princess	3,660	Sky Suite, 360-degree promenade deck, enhanced kids’ zones	Transatlantic, Europe
Grand Princess	2,600	Smaller size ideal for repositioning cruises, intimate atmosphere	Panama Canal, South America
Sky Princess	3,660	Sky Suite, expanded spa, new entertainment venues	Western Caribbean, Bermuda

Pro Tip: If you’re seeking a more intimate experience, consider smaller ships like Grand Princess or Coral Princess. For families or those who love onboard entertainment, the larger Discovery or Enchanted Princess offer more activities and dining options.

Best Princess Cruise Itineraries in 2026

Alaska: The Crown Jewel of Princess Cruises

No discussion of Princess Cruises would be complete without mentioning its legendary Alaska itineraries. As the largest operator in the region, Princess offers more Alaskan sailings than any other line—over 100 departures annually from Seattle, Vancouver, and Whittier. In 2026, the Denali Express land-and-sea packages remain a top seller, combining a 7-day cruise with 3–4 nights in Denali National Park.

• Must-See Ports: Juneau (glacier tours), Skagway (White Pass Railroad), Ketchikan (rainforest and totem poles)
• Unique Experience: The North to Alaska program features local chefs, cultural ambassadors, and onboard lectures about Alaskan wildlife and history
• Best Time to Go: May–September (peak season), but early May and late September offer fewer crowds and lower prices

For an unforgettable experience, book the Princess Wilderness Railroad—a scenic rail journey from Skagway to Whitehorse, Yukon, included in select packages.

Mediterranean & Europe: Cultural Immersion at Its Finest

Princess Cruises dominates the European market with over 200 Mediterranean sailings in 2026. Highlights include:

• Classic Western Mediterranean: Barcelona to Rome, with stops in Florence, Nice, and Monte Carlo
• Eastern Mediterranean: Athens to Istanbul, featuring Ephesus, Mykonos, and Santorini
• Northern Europe: Baltic capitals (Stockholm, Copenhagen, St. Petersburg) and British Isles itineraries

Insider Tip: Opt for a MedallionClass suite on longer European voyages. The personalized service and exclusive access to the Reserve Collection dining room make it worth the upgrade. Also, consider booking a Princess Plus package, which includes Wi-Fi, drinks, and gratuities—saving up to $1,000 per couple.

Caribbean, Hawaii & Exotic Destinations

For sun-seekers, Princess offers a wide range of Caribbean itineraries, from 7-day Eastern and Western routes to 14-day Southern Caribbean voyages. In 2026, new ports like Bequia (St. Vincent) and Dominica are being added to highlight eco-tourism and sustainable travel.

• Hawaii: Round-trip sailings from Los Angeles or San Francisco, with 3–4 days in Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island
• South America: 14–20 day cruises from Buenos Aires to Santiago, featuring the Chilean Fjords and Cape Horn
• Asia: Limited 2026 departures to Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand, with overnight stays in Tokyo and Ho Chi Minh City

Pro Tip: Book a Princess Cays private island experience in the Bahamas. With cabanas, snorkeling, and a beach barbecue, it’s a perfect way to spend a day at sea.

Onboard Experience: Dining, Entertainment & Wellness

Dining Options: From Casual to Culinary Excellence

Princess Cruises has elevated its dining game in recent years, offering more variety and quality than ever before. The onboard culinary program, led by Chef Rudi Sodamin (a Michelin-starred chef), emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients and regional flavors.

• Main Dining Rooms: Traditional or anytime dining with rotating menus
• Specialty Restaurants:
  • Crown Grill: Premium steaks and seafood (extra fee)
  • Sabatini’s: Authentic Italian with handmade pasta
  • Kai Sushi: Fresh sushi and Asian small plates
  • The Catch by Rudi: Seafood-focused, with a chef’s table experience
• Casual Eateries: World Fresh Marketplace (buffet), Alfredo’s Pizzeria, and 24-hour room service

Insider Tip: Try the Chef’s Table Lumiere—a private, multi-course dinner with wine pairings, hosted by the head chef. It’s a highlight for foodies and sells out quickly.

Entertainment and Activities

Princess Cruises offers a diverse lineup of entertainment, from Broadway-style shows to live music and interactive experiences:

• Princess Live!: A TV studio with game shows, cooking demos, and guest interviews
• Discovery at SEA: Partnerships with Discovery, Animal Planet, and BBC Earth for educational programs
• Casino, Bars & Lounges: From the elegant Crooners Bar to the lively Skywalkers Nightclub (on select ships)
• Fitness & Wellness: State-of-the-art gyms, yoga classes, and the Lotus Spa with hydrotherapy pools and thermal suites

For families, the Camp Discovery program offers age-specific activities, from science labs for teens to arts and crafts for kids. Teens can even earn Discovery Channel badges for completing challenges.

Sustainability and Wellness Initiatives

In 2026, Princess Cruises continues to prioritize sustainability with initiatives like:

• Ocean Conservation: Partnerships with Ocean Conservancy and World Wildlife Fund
• Waste Reduction: Zero single-use plastics, advanced recycling programs
• Clean Energy: LNG-ready ships and shore power connections in key ports

Wellness is also a major focus, with the Princess Wellness Program offering fitness challenges, nutrition consultations, and mindfulness sessions.

How to Book the Best Princess Cruise in 2026: Tips and Strategies

Choosing the Right Itinerary and Ship

With so many options, selecting the perfect Princess cruise can be overwhelming. Here’s how to narrow it down:

• For First-Time Cruisers: Start with a 7-day Caribbean or Alaska cruise on a mid-sized ship like Regal Princess
• For Families: Choose a ship with robust kids’ programs, like Discovery Princess or Sky Princess
• For Couples: Book a suite on Sun Princess with access to the Reserve Collection
• For Adventure Seekers: Opt for an Alaska or South America itinerary with active excursions

Booking Strategies to Save Money

Princess Cruises offers several ways to maximize value:

• Early Booking: Save up to 30% by booking 12–18 months in advance
• Last-Minute Deals: Check the “Last Minute Cruises” section on Princess.com for discounts 60–90 days out
• Military, Senior, and Resident Discounts: Available for select itineraries
• Group Rates: Book 8+ cabins together for onboard credits and perks

Pro Tip: Use the MedallionClass app to monitor pricing and set alerts for price drops on your dream cruise.

Maximizing Your Cruise Experience

Once you’ve booked, prepare for the ultimate Princess experience:

• Pre-Cruise: Download the Medallion app, complete online check-in, and book specialty dining and excursions early
• Onboard: Use the OceanMedallion for personalized service, join the “Cruise Personalizer” for custom recommendations
• Post-Cruise: Share photos and reviews via the app for a chance to win free cruises

Conclusion: Why Princess Cruises Stands Out in 2026

So, what cruise line is Princess in 2026? It’s a brand that seamlessly blends innovation, destination focus, and personalized service into one unforgettable experience. From the groundbreaking MedallionClass technology to its diverse fleet, world-class dining, and immersive itineraries, Princess Cruises continues to set the standard for modern cruising. Whether you’re exploring the glaciers of Alaska, the ruins of Rome, or the beaches of the Caribbean, Princess delivers a journey that’s as enriching as it is relaxing.

As we look ahead to 2026, Princess Cruises is not just keeping pace with the times—it’s leading the way. With new ships like Sun Princess, expanded sustainability efforts, and a growing emphasis on wellness and cultural immersion, the brand is poised to remain a top choice for travelers worldwide. So pack your bags, grab your OceanMedallion, and get ready to discover why Princess Cruises isn’t just a cruise line—it’s a lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise line is Princess in 2026?

Princess Cruises remains a standalone premium cruise line in 2026, operating under its parent company Carnival Corporation. It continues to distinguish itself with innovative ships like the Sun Princess and themed “MedallionClass” experiences.

Which cruise line owns Princess Cruises?

Princess Cruises is owned by Carnival Corporation & plc, the world’s largest cruise company. Despite being part of this portfolio, Princess maintains its unique branding, itineraries, and onboard experience.

What cruise line is Princess compared to Royal Caribbean?

While both are premium cruise lines, Princess focuses more on destination immersion and relaxed luxury, whereas Royal Caribbean emphasizes onboard thrills and entertainment. Princess’s smaller ships also offer a more intimate vibe compared to Royal’s mega-ships.

Is Princess Cruises part of the “What Cruise Line” top picks for 2026?

Yes, Princess Cruises ranks among the top picks in 2026 for its eco-friendly innovations, expanded Alaska and European routes, and the debut of new culinary and wellness programs. Its MedallionClass technology also enhances the guest experience.

What cruise line is Princess for families?

Princess Cruises caters well to families with dedicated kids’ zones, teen clubs, and family-friendly suites. While not as activity-heavy as some competitors, its relaxed pacing and diverse dining options suit multi-generational travel.

How does Princess Cruises differ from Carnival Cruise Line?

Princess Cruises targets a more upscale, destination-focused audience compared to Carnival’s casual, fun-first vibe. Princess offers refined dining, enrichment programs, and quieter public spaces, while Carnival emphasizes high-energy entertainment.