What Cruise Line Is the Royal Princess in 2026 Top Picks Revealed

The Royal Princess is part of the Princess Cruises fleet, a premium line renowned for its exceptional service and innovative ships. In 2026, it remains a top pick for travelers seeking luxury, diverse itineraries, and standout onboard experiences like the adults-only Sanctuary and Discovery at SEA programs. Princess Cruises continues to dominate the high seas with Royal Princess as a flagship favorite.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Princess sails under Princess Cruises, a top premium cruise line in 2026.
• Choose Princess for exceptional service, diverse itineraries, and modern onboard amenities.
• Book early for best 2026 sailings, especially Alaska and European routes.
• Enjoy adults-only retreats and family zones for all traveler types.
• Maximize value with inclusive packages like Princess Plus or Premier.
• Look for 2026 themed cruises, including culinary and wellness-focused voyages.

What Cruise Line Is the Royal Princess in 2026? Top Picks Revealed

When it comes to luxury cruising, few names spark as much curiosity and excitement as the Royal Princess. With its elegant design, state-of-the-art amenities, and a reputation for world-class service, the Royal Princess has become a favorite among seasoned cruisers and first-time travelers alike. But one question often arises: What cruise line is the Royal Princess? The answer is not just a matter of corporate ownership—it’s about understanding the brand, the experience, and what sets this vessel apart in the competitive world of ocean travel. In 2026, as Princess Cruises continues to innovate and expand its global footprint, the Royal Princess remains a crown jewel in its fleet, offering a blend of sophistication, comfort, and unforgettable destinations.

Whether you’re dreaming of Mediterranean sunsets, Alaskan glaciers, or Caribbean island-hopping, the Royal Princess delivers a premium cruise experience tailored to modern travelers. From its debut in 2013 as the first of the Royal-class ships, this 3,600-passenger vessel has undergone significant upgrades, including the 2023 MedallionClass transformation, which revolutionized onboard service with wearable technology. As we look ahead to 2026, the Royal Princess is poised to remain one of the most sought-after ships in the industry—backed by a cruise line known for its innovation, customer-centric approach, and global itineraries. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the cruise line behind the Royal Princess, its unique features, top itineraries, onboard experiences, and why it stands out among competitors. Buckle up for a deep dive into one of the most luxurious ships at sea.

The Cruise Line Behind the Royal Princess: Princess Cruises

A Legacy of Excellence in Ocean Travel

The Royal Princess sails under the banner of Princess Cruises, a premium cruise line founded in 1965 and now a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation & plc, the world’s largest leisure travel company. Known for its “Come Back New” slogan, Princess Cruises has built a reputation for offering transformative travel experiences that blend relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. With a fleet of over 15 ships, Princess Cruises caters to a diverse clientele—from couples seeking romance to families looking for multigenerational vacations and solo travelers in search of connection.

Princess Cruises is particularly celebrated for its destination-focused itineraries, offering longer port stays and overnight calls that allow guests to truly experience a destination. This philosophy is evident on the Royal Princess, which often docks in cities like Venice, Barcelona, and Juneau for extended periods, giving passengers time to explore local markets, attend evening events, and dine at authentic restaurants. Unlike some cruise lines that treat ports as quick photo ops, Princess Cruises encourages deeper engagement with local cultures—a hallmark of its brand identity.

Royal-Class: The Flagship Series

The Royal Princess is the first ship in Princess Cruises’ Royal-class, a series of four vessels (including Regal Princess, Majestic Princess, and Sky Princess) designed to elevate the cruise experience with modern amenities and enhanced public spaces. These ships were developed with input from architects, interior designers, and even guest feedback, resulting in a more intuitive, guest-friendly layout.

• Size & Capacity: At 141,000 gross tons and 1,083 feet long, the Royal Princess can accommodate up to 3,660 passengers (double occupancy) and 1,346 crew members.
• Design Philosophy: The ship features open-concept public areas, expansive outdoor promenades, and panoramic views—especially in the atrium and the SeaWalk, a glass-floored walkway extending 28 feet beyond the ship’s edge.
• Innovation: The Royal Princess was the first to debut the Princess Theater, a 1,000-seat venue with Broadway-caliber productions, and the SeaWalk, which remains one of its most iconic features.

As of 2026, the Royal-class ships continue to be among the most technologically advanced in the Princess fleet, with ongoing investments in sustainability, digital services, and guest comfort. The Royal Princess, in particular, has received multiple awards, including “Best Cruise Ship for Entertainment” by Cruise Critic and “Top Large Cruise Ship” by Travel Weekly.

Onboard Features & Amenities: What Makes the Royal Princess Special

MedallionClass: The Future of Personalized Cruising

One of the most transformative upgrades to the Royal Princess in recent years is the MedallionClass experience, introduced in 2023. At the heart of this system is the OceanMedallion—a quarter-sized wearable device that acts as your room key, payment method, itinerary planner, and concierge. Using a network of sensors and AI, the Medallion enables:

• Contactless check-in and boarding—no more waiting in long lines.
• Keyless stateroom entry—your door unlocks as you approach.
• Personalized service—waitstaff remember your drink order; crew can deliver food to your location on deck.
• Family and friends locator—track loved ones in real-time using the OceanNow app.
• Interactive wayfinding—digital signage guides you to your destination with step-by-step directions.

For example, if you’re enjoying a cocktail at the SkyLight Bar and want to order another, simply tap your Medallion on the table’s sensor, and a server will arrive with your favorite drink—no app needed. This level of personalization has been hailed as a game-changer in the cruise industry, and the Royal Princess is one of the first ships to fully implement it.

Dining: A Culinary Journey Across 10 Venues

Food is a cornerstone of the Princess Cruises experience, and the Royal Princess delivers with a diverse array of dining options—from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants. Here are the standout venues:

• The Salty Dog Gastropub: A British-style pub with craft beers, gourmet burgers, and live music. Try the “Pig Out Burger” with bacon jam and blue cheese.
• Harmony: A Chinese restaurant by celebrity chef Richard Chen, offering authentic dishes like Peking duck and dim sum.
• OceanNow Delivery: Order room service or poolside snacks via the Medallion app—delivered directly to your location.
• World Fresh Marketplace: The main buffet with rotating global themes (Mediterranean, Asian, Latin American).
• Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria: Upscale Italian cuisine with handmade pasta and truffle-infused dishes.
• Chef’s Table Lumiere: A private, immersive dining experience with a multi-course menu and wine pairing (reservations required).

Pro Tip: Book specialty dining early—venues like Harmony and Chef’s Table fill up quickly, especially on longer voyages.

Entertainment & Nightlife: From Broadway to the Pool

The Royal Princess doesn’t just cruise—it entertains. The Princess Theater hosts nightly productions, including original shows like “Born to Dance” and “The Secret Silk”, featuring professional dancers, singers, and aerialists. The theater’s advanced lighting and sound systems rival those of Broadway.

For a more relaxed vibe, check out:

• The Piazza: A three-deck atrium with live music, coffee bars, and a gelato shop.
• SkyLight Bar & Nightclub: A top-deck venue with DJs, themed parties, and panoramic ocean views.
• Movies Under the Stars: A 300-square-foot outdoor screen showing first-run films, classic movies, and live sports.
• Casino Royale: Slot machines, blackjack, and poker tournaments (open to guests 18+).

Families will love the Camp Discovery youth program, with age-specific activities from arts and crafts to science experiments. Teens have their own hangout, The Reef, with video games, karaoke, and social events.

Top Itineraries & Destinations for 2026: Where the Royal Princess Sails

Alaska: Glaciers, Whales & Wilderness

One of the Royal Princess’s most popular routes is the 7-day Alaska Inside Passage, sailing round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver. This itinerary includes:

• Juneau: Visit the Mendenhall Glacier, take a whale-watching tour, or ride the Mount Roberts Tramway.
• Skagway: Explore Gold Rush history and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.
• Ketchikan: Learn about Native Alaskan culture at Totem Bight State Park.
• Glacier Bay National Park: A UNESCO site with massive tidewater glaciers and wildlife sightings.

Pro Tip: Book a balcony stateroom for unobstructed views of the glaciers and wildlife. The Royal Princess often slows down or stops in Glacier Bay for optimal viewing.

Mediterranean: Coastal Charm & Cultural Riches

From April to October 2026, the Royal Princess sails the 11-day Mediterranean route, calling at:

• Barcelona, Spain: Gaudí’s Sagrada Família, La Rambla, and tapas tours.
• Nice, France: Promenade des Anglais, Old Town, and nearby Monaco.
• Florence/Pisa, Italy: The Leaning Tower, Uffizi Gallery, and Tuscan wine tasting.
• Athens, Greece: The Acropolis, Plaka district, and island-hopping opportunities.
• Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey: Ancient ruins of the Temple of Artemis and Library of Celsus.

Princess Cruises offers Discovery Tours in each port, led by local experts. For example, in Florence, you can join a guided art tour with a Renaissance historian or a cooking class with a Tuscan chef.

Caribbean: Sun, Sand & Serenity

For winter 2026, the Royal Princess offers 7-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale). Highlights include:

• St. Thomas, USVI: Magens Bay Beach, Coral World, and duty-free shopping.
• San Juan, Puerto Rico: Old San Juan’s colorful streets, El Morro fortress, and rum tastings.
• Grand Cayman: Stingray City, Seven Mile Beach, and snorkeling at the Kittiwake wreck.
• Princess Cays: Princess Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas with water sports, beach cabanas, and a BBQ lunch.

Pro Tip: Book a shore excursion through Princess Cruises for priority access and guaranteed return to the ship—no risk of missing departure!

Transatlantic & Repositioning Cruises

The Royal Princess also sails 14-day transatlantic voyages between the Caribbean and Europe in spring and fall. These “repositioning” cruises are perfect for relaxation, with multiple sea days, themed parties, and enrichment programs (cooking demos, wine tastings, guest speakers).

Comparing the Royal Princess to Other Cruise Lines in 2026

Princess Cruises vs. Competitors: Key Differences

While many cruise lines offer luxury experiences, the Royal Princess stands out for its balance of innovation, comfort, and value. Here’s how it compares to similar ships in 2026:

Feature	Royal Princess (Princess Cruises)	Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)	Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)	Norwegian Encore (Norwegian Cruise Line)
Size (Gross Tons)	141,000	226,963	226,963	169,116
Passenger Capacity	3,660	5,606	5,479	3,998
MedallionClass Tech	✅ Yes (OceanMedallion)	❌ No (uses WOWband)	❌ No	❌ No
Unique Feature	SeaWalk, Piazza Atrium	Central Park, AquaTheater	Ultimate Abyss Slide	Go-Kart Track, VR Games
Entertainment Focus	Broadway-style shows, live music	Acrobatics, water shows	High-energy parties	Interactive games, comedy
Best For	Romantic getaways, cultural immersion	Family adventures, thrill-seekers	Multi-generational groups	Young adults, solo travelers

The Royal Princess excels in intimacy and service. While Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships are larger and more action-packed, they can feel crowded. The Royal Princess offers a more refined, adult-oriented ambiance, with quieter pools, elegant lounges, and personalized attention. Norwegian’s Encore is great for nightlife and activities, but lacks the Princess Cruises’ destination depth and MedallionClass convenience.

Value for Money: What You Get

The Royal Princess strikes a balance between premium pricing and exceptional value. In 2026, a 7-day Alaska cruise starts at $1,299 per person (interior cabin), while a 11-day Mediterranean voyage starts at $1,899. This includes:

• All meals (except specialty restaurants)
• Entertainment and enrichment programs
• Access to pools, fitness centers, and kids’ clubs
• MedallionClass technology and app

While not the cheapest option, the Royal Princess offers higher service-to-guest ratios (1 crew member per 2.7 guests) and more inclusive amenities than budget lines like Carnival or MSC. For example, Princess Cruises’ Princess Plus package ($40/day) bundles Wi-Fi, gratuities, and a premium drink package—saving up to 40% compared to purchasing separately.

Sustainability & Future Outlook: The Royal Princess in 2026

Green Initiatives: Sailing Responsibly

As environmental concerns grow, Princess Cruises is committed to sustainable cruising. The Royal Princess features:

• Advanced Wastewater Treatment Systems—meeting or exceeding EPA standards.
• Shore Power Connectivity—reducing emissions while docked in ports like Juneau and Barcelona.
• LNG-Ready Design—prepared for future conversion to cleaner liquefied natural gas.
• Single-Use Plastic Reduction—replacing plastic straws, bottles, and packaging with biodegradable alternatives.

In 2026, Princess Cruises will also launch “Ocean Conservation Voyages” on select Royal Princess itineraries, where guests can participate in beach cleanups, coral restoration, and wildlife surveys.

Upcoming Upgrades & Fleet Expansion

Looking ahead, the Royal Princess will receive annual dry-dock refurbishments to maintain its luxury standards. Planned 2026 upgrades include:

• Enhanced Wi-Fi and 5G connectivity
• New spa treatments at the Lotus Spa
• Expanded family staterooms with bunk beds
• AI-powered concierge services via the Medallion app

Princess Cruises is also investing in smaller, expedition-style ships (like the Discovery Princess), but the Royal Princess will remain a flagship for large-ship luxury. With its proven track record and loyal fanbase, it’s poised to lead the fleet well into the next decade.

Final Thoughts: Why the Royal Princess Stands Out in 2026

So, what cruise line is the Royal Princess? It’s Princess Cruises—a brand synonymous with elegance, innovation, and unforgettable journeys. From its groundbreaking MedallionClass technology to its immersive itineraries and world-class entertainment, the Royal Princess offers a cruise experience that’s both luxurious and accessible. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on the SeaWalk, exploring ancient ruins in Ephesus, or watching a Broadway show under the stars, every moment aboard feels special.

In 2026, as the cruise industry evolves with new tech, sustainability goals, and shifting traveler preferences, the Royal Princess is ready to lead the way. It’s not just a ship—it’s a destination in itself. For travelers seeking a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment, the Royal Princess isn’t just a top pick—it’s a must-experience voyage. Book your journey today and discover why this Royal-class gem continues to reign supreme on the high seas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise line is the Royal Princess in 2026?

The Royal Princess sails under the Princess Cruises fleet, a premium cruise line renowned for its luxurious amenities and global itineraries. In 2026, it will continue to operate as one of the line’s flagship vessels.

Which cruise line owns the Royal Princess ship?

The Royal Princess is owned and operated by Princess Cruises, a Carnival Corporation subsidiary. The line is celebrated for its innovative ships and award-winning onboard experiences.

Is Royal Princess part of the Royal Class ships?

Yes, the Royal Princess is the lead ship of Princess Cruises’ Royal Class, featuring sister ships like Regal Princess and Sky Princess. These vessels are known for their spacious designs and signature SeaWalk glass decks.

What cruise line is the Royal Princess compared to other top brands?

Princess Cruises, the operator of Royal Princess, competes with lines like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line but emphasizes a more refined, destination-focused experience. Its MedallionClass tech also sets it apart with personalized service.

Does the Royal Princess cruise line offer unique itineraries in 2026?

Yes, Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess will feature exclusive 2026 sailings, including Alaska, Mediterranean, and Caribbean routes, often with overnight stays in ports. Look for new themed cruises like culinary and wellness journeys.

Why choose Princess Cruises for a Royal Princess vacation?

Princess Cruises combines luxury with accessibility, offering Royal Princess guests access to the OceanMedallion wearable tech, diverse dining, and immersive entertainment. Its focus on destination-rich itineraries makes it a top pick for explorers.