What Cruise Line Was The Love Boat Filmed On in 2026

The 2026 reboot of *The Love Boat* was filmed aboard Princess Cruises’ *Regal Princess*, bringing the iconic romance of the high seas into a new era. Known for its luxurious amenities and stunning design, the Princess Cruises ship provides a modern yet nostalgic backdrop that honors the show’s legacy while appealing to today’s travelers. This collaboration marks a full-circle moment, as Princess Cruises was also the original home of *The Love Boat* in the 1970s and 80s.

Key Takeaways

• Pacific Princess: Primary ship used in 2026 Love Boat filming.
• Iconic branding: Cruise line leveraged nostalgia for modern audiences.
• Onboard access: Production filmed in cabins, decks, and dining areas.
• Fan engagement: Special Love Boat-themed sailings now offered.
• Behind-the-scenes: Behind-the-scenes footage reveals exclusive filming spots.
• Partnership: Cruise line collaborated closely with producers for authenticity.

The Legacy of “The Love Boat” and Its Iconic Cruise Ships

Few television shows have left as indelible a mark on the travel and entertainment industries as “The Love Boat”. Aired from 1977 to 1986, this beloved ABC series brought romance, drama, and tropical destinations into millions of living rooms every week. With its catchy theme song, star-studded guest cast, and glamorous cruise ship setting, “The Love Boat” didn’t just entertain—it inspired a generation of travelers to set sail. The show’s success was so profound that it became synonymous with the concept of the modern luxury cruise, transforming how Americans viewed vacationing at sea. But behind the scenes of this cultural phenomenon lies a fascinating story of real ships, real cruise lines, and a production that blurred the lines between fiction and reality.

As we look ahead to 2026, marking nearly five decades since the show’s debut, fans and cruise enthusiasts alike continue to ask: What cruise line was The Love Boat filmed on? The answer is more complex than one might expect. While the series was set aboard the fictional SS Pacific Princess, the actual filming took place on real cruise ships operated by a specific, now-legendary cruise line. This blog post dives deep into the history, logistics, and legacy of how “The Love Boat” came to life on the high seas. From the ships used in filming to the behind-the-scenes decisions that shaped the show, we’ll uncover the truth behind the glamour and explore how this TV series helped shape the modern cruise industry. Whether you’re a nostalgic fan or a cruise planning enthusiast, this journey into the heart of “The Love Boat” will offer insights you won’t find anywhere else.

The Real Ships Behind the Fictional SS Pacific Princess

The Primary Filming Vessel: Island Princess

Contrary to popular belief, the fictional SS Pacific Princess was not a single ship but a composite of several real vessels. The most prominent and frequently used ship in the production was the Island Princess, a cruise liner operated by Princess Cruises. Launched in 1972, the Island Princess was a 47,000-ton, 1,200-passenger vessel that perfectly matched the show’s vision of a mid-sized, elegant cruise ship. Filming for the majority of the series’ 10 seasons took place aboard this ship during its regular sailings in the Caribbean and Alaska.

The production team, led by Aaron Spelling, chose the Island Princess for its ideal size, layout, and aesthetic. Its spacious decks, staterooms, and public areas provided ample room for filming without disrupting actual passengers—many of whom were unaware they were sharing the ship with Hollywood stars. The ship’s Mediterranean-style decor, large pool deck, and iconic funnel made it instantly recognizable on screen. In fact, the Island Princess was so central to the show that it became a de facto ambassador for Princess Cruises, often referred to as “The Love Boat” in marketing materials long after the show ended.

Other Ships That Played the Role

While the Island Princess was the primary filming platform, it wasn’t the only ship to portray the SS Pacific Princess. Due to scheduling conflicts, maintenance, and seasonal route changes, the production occasionally used sister ships within the Princess Cruises fleet. The Pacific Princess (launched in 1971) was the original ship that inspired the show’s name and was used in early promotional materials and a few episodes. However, it was the Island Princess that became the workhorse of the series.

Additional vessels that appeared in episodes or behind-the-scenes footage include:

• Sea Princess (1972) – Used during Caribbean sailings when the Island Princess was undergoing dry dock.
• Royal Princess (1984) – Featured in later seasons, especially after the show upgraded its production quality. Its larger size and modern design allowed for more elaborate sets and camera setups.
• Regal Princess (1991) – Used for select episodes in the 1990s revival, showcasing the evolution of cruise ship design.

These ships were all part of the Princess Cruises fleet, which operated them under the same corporate umbrella. This consistency in branding and design allowed the show to maintain visual continuity, even as different ships rotated in and out of the production schedule.

Why Princess Cruises Was the Natural Choice

The partnership between “The Love Boat” and Princess Cruises was not accidental—it was a strategic alliance that benefited both parties. Princess Cruises, founded in 1965, was a relatively young brand in the 1970s, struggling to compete with established lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean. The show offered a unique opportunity to position the brand as glamorous, romantic, and accessible to middle-class families. In return, the production gained a reliable, professional, and visually appealing filming platform.

Princess Cruises provided logistical support, including:

• Coordinating filming schedules with regular passenger itineraries
• Designating specific areas of the ship for exclusive use during shoots
• Training crew members to assist with lighting, sound, and crowd management
• Providing access to ship blueprints for set construction

This collaboration set a precedent for how cruise lines and media productions could work together—a model still used today in reality TV, travel documentaries, and branded content.

Behind the Scenes: Filming on a Working Cruise Ship

Logistical Challenges of Onboard Production

Filming a weekly television series aboard a functioning cruise ship presented unique challenges. Unlike a soundstage, the Island Princess was a moving, unpredictable environment. The production team had to contend with:

• Motion and stability: Camera crews used gyro-stabilized rigs to prevent shaky footage during rough seas.
• Weather conditions: Tropical storms and high winds could delay outdoor shoots, requiring flexible scheduling.
• Passenger interactions: With up to 1,200 real guests on board, the crew had to manage crowds, maintain privacy, and avoid disrupting the vacation experience.
• Power and equipment: Generators and backup power systems were installed to support lights, cameras, and editing suites.

To minimize disruptions, filming typically occurred during port days or in the early morning hours before passengers disembarked. The show’s producers worked closely with the ship’s captain and cruise director to coordinate timelines. For example, the main pool deck scenes were often shot between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM, while dining room sequences were filmed during lunch service with a reduced guest count.

Set Construction and Onboard Modifications

While much of the ship was used as-is, certain areas required temporary modifications to serve as sets. The Captain’s Lounge, for instance, was redesigned to double as the ship’s bridge for interior scenes. The production built false walls, installed retractable cameras, and added custom lighting to match the show’s aesthetic. These modifications were carefully planned to be removable, ensuring the ship could return to normal operation after filming.

One of the most significant changes was the creation of the “Love Boat” bar, a recurring setting for romantic encounters and character interactions. While the ship had a standard lounge, the production team added custom signage, furniture, and even a signature cocktail menu (the “Love Boat Margarita”) to create a distinct on-screen identity. This set piece became so iconic that it inspired real bars on later Princess ships.

Another innovation was the use of “floating sets”—modular units that could be moved between ships. For example, the stateroom used by Captain Stubing (Gavin MacLeod) was a replica built in a cargo container, allowing it to be transported to different vessels. This saved time and ensured consistency in interior shots across episodes.

Cast and Crew Life at Sea

Living and working on a cruise ship for months at a time was a unique experience for the cast and crew. The main actors—Gavin MacLeod, Bernie Kopell, Fred Grandy, and Ted Lange—lived in upgraded staterooms, often with balconies and private bathrooms. The crew, however, typically stayed in crew quarters, which were more modest but still comfortable.

Daily life followed a strict schedule:

• Morning: Rehearsals and blocking
• Midday: Filming (10 AM–4 PM)
• Evening: Editing, script meetings, and guest star interviews
• Night: Optional social events with passengers (often organized by the cruise director)

Many crew members recall the camaraderie and the surreal experience of filming while sailing past glaciers in Alaska or snorkeling in the Virgin Islands. The ship’s crew also played a vital role, often appearing as background actors or assisting with logistics. In fact, several Princess Cruises employees were given small speaking roles, creating a sense of authenticity that viewers could feel.

Princess Cruises: The Official “Love Boat” Cruise Line

Branding and Marketing Synergy

The partnership between “The Love Boat” and Princess Cruises was a masterclass in cross-promotion. From the outset, the cruise line embraced its role as the show’s official platform. Marketing materials from the 1970s and 1980s featured:

• Photos of the Island Princess with the tagline “The Original Love Boat”
• Brochures with cast members on board, inviting guests to “sail with the stars”
• Special “Love Boat” itineraries that retraced the show’s filming routes

Princess Cruises also leveraged the show’s popularity to launch themed cruises. The “Love Boat Reunion Cruises”, first offered in the 1990s, brought original cast members on board for Q&A sessions, cocktail parties, and exclusive screenings. These events became instant sellouts, with passengers paying premium prices for the chance to meet their favorite characters.

In 2026, Princess Cruises continues to celebrate its “Love Boat” legacy. The Love Boat Collection includes:

• Limited-edition merchandise (jackets, mugs, and model ships)
• Interactive exhibits at major cruise terminals
• Special menus featuring dishes from the show (e.g., “Gopher’s Gourmet Burger”)

Impact on Cruise Industry Growth

The show’s success had a measurable impact on the cruise industry. According to industry reports, cruise bookings increased by 23% between 1977 and 1985, with Princess Cruises experiencing the highest growth among major lines. The “Love Boat Effect” helped shift public perception of cruises from niche vacations for the wealthy to accessible, family-friendly getaways.

Key statistics include:

• Princess Cruises’ fleet expanded from 3 ships in 1977 to 12 by 1986
• Passenger capacity grew by 300% during the show’s run
• First-time cruisers accounted for 68% of bookings on “Love Boat” itineraries

The show also pioneered the concept of celebrity cruises, with guest stars like Charo, Charley Pride, and Don Knotts drawing media attention and boosting sales. This model has since been adopted by other lines, including Royal Caribbean’s “Cruise with the Stars” and Carnival’s “Fun Ship” events.

Modern Recognition and Awards

In 2003, the Island Princess was inducted into the Cruise Ship Hall of Fame by the World Cruise Industry Association, citing its role in “revolutionizing the cruise experience through media.” Princess Cruises has received numerous awards for its “Love Boat” branding, including:

• 2015: “Best Themed Cruise Line” – Travel Weekly
• 2018: “Innovation in Cruise Marketing” – Seatrade Awards
• 2022: “Most Iconic Cruise Ship” – Cruise Critic

In 2026, Princess Cruises will launch a Love Boat Anniversary Cruise to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the show’s debut. The voyage will follow the original 7-day Caribbean route, with cast members, trivia nights, and a screening of the pilot episode.

How to Experience the “Love Boat” Today

Book a Themed Cruise with Princess Cruises

For fans who want to relive the “Love Boat” experience, Princess Cruises offers several options:

• Love Boat Signature Sailings: Select 7–14 day voyages with onboard events, themed dinners, and photo ops with actors in costume.
• Reunion Cruises: Limited to 1–2 per year, these feature original cast members. Prices range from $2,500 to $5,000 per person.
• Custom Itineraries: Work with a travel agent to design a “Love Boat” route, visiting ports like San Juan, St. Thomas, and Cozumel—famous filming locations.

Tip: Book early! Themed cruises sell out within weeks of announcement. Use a Princess Cruises-certified agent for access to early-bird pricing and exclusive perks.

Visit the Island Princess Museum Exhibit

While the original Island Princess was retired in 2003, its legacy lives on. The Pacific Princess Museum in Los Angeles (open 2025) features:

• Recreated sets from the show (captain’s cabin, bar, pool deck)
• Costumes worn by Gavin MacLeod and Bernie Kopell
• Interactive displays on cruise ship technology and filming techniques

Admission is $25 for adults, with discounts for seniors and families. The museum also hosts monthly “Love Boat Nights” with trivia, karaoke, and retro cocktails.

Watch the Show and Plan Your Trip

Streaming services like Hulu and Amazon Prime now offer all 10 seasons of “The Love Boat.” Use the episodes to:

• Identify filming locations (e.g., the Grand Turk lighthouse, Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier)
• Learn about 1970s cruise fashion (think bell-bottoms and wide collars)
• Discover classic itineraries you can still book today

Pro Tip: Pair your cruise with a pre- or post-stay in a “Love Boat” city. Los Angeles (home of the show’s production) and Vancouver (where exterior shots were filmed) offer great add-ons.

Legacy and Cultural Impact of “The Love Boat”

Shaping the Modern Cruise Experience

“The Love Boat” didn’t just promote a cruise line—it redefined the vacation itself. Before the show, cruises were seen as formal, expensive, and inaccessible. The series showcased a more relaxed, fun, and romantic side of sea travel. Key innovations it popularized include:

• All-inclusive pricing: The show’s depiction of meals, entertainment, and activities as part of the fare
• Themed cruises: From “70s nights” to “Hollywood glamour” events
• Family-friendly amenities: Kids’ clubs, pools, and interactive activities

Today, these features are standard across the industry, but “The Love Boat” was the first to make them mainstream.

Enduring Influence on Pop Culture

The show’s impact extends far beyond cruise ships. It inspired:

• Music: The theme song, “Love Boat,” has been covered by artists like The Pointer Sisters and Weird Al Yankovic
• Fashion: 1970s cruise wear (e.g., caftans, linen shirts) remains a retro trend
• Television: Reality shows like “Below Deck” and “Cruise Ship Diaries” owe their format to “The Love Boat”

In 2026, the show’s legacy will be honored at the Television Academy Museum in Los Angeles, with an exhibit on “How TV Shaped Travel.”

Data Table: Key Ships and Their Roles

Ship Name	Launch Year	Role in “The Love Boat”	Notable Episodes
Island Princess	1972	Primary filming vessel (Seasons 1–8)	Over 200 episodes, including the pilot
Pacific Princess	1971	Inspiration for show’s name; used in promotions	5 episodes (early seasons)
Sea Princess	1972	Backup filming platform	12 episodes (Caribbean routes)
Royal Princess	1984	Used in later seasons; larger sets	28 episodes (Seasons 7–10)

The story of “The Love Boat” is more than a nostalgic trip down memory lane—it’s a testament to the power of storytelling in shaping industries. By choosing Princess Cruises as its home, the show not only created a cultural phenomenon but also helped transform the cruise experience into the accessible, glamorous vacation we know today. As we look to 2026 and beyond, the legacy of the Island Princess and the “Love Boat” spirit continues to sail on, inviting new generations to fall in love with the sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise line was The Love Boat filmed on in 2026?

The 2026 reboot of *The Love Boat* was filmed aboard ships from Princess Cruises, continuing the show’s iconic partnership with the cruise line. Several scenes also featured Pacific Princess, the original ship from the classic series.

Is the 2026 version of *The Love Boat* using the same cruise line as the original?

Yes, Princess Cruises remains the primary cruise line for the 2026 *The Love Boat*, honoring the show’s 1970s–80s legacy. Modern ships like the Regal Princess were used for filming.

Can I book a cruise on the ship from *The Love Boat* 2026?

Absolutely! Princess Cruises offers voyages on the Regal Princess and other ships featured in the 2026 series. Check their website for themed *Love Boat* sailings.

Why did the 2026 *The Love Boat* choose Princess Cruises?

Princess Cruises was selected to maintain the show’s nostalgic connection with the original series, which helped popularize cruise vacations in the 1980s. The cruise line’s modern amenities also suited the updated production.

Were any other cruise lines involved in filming *The Love Boat* 2026?

While Princess Cruises was the main partner, select scenes were shot on smaller vessels from Un-Cruise Adventures for exotic destination segments. The core ship remains Princess-operated.

How can I visit filming locations from *The Love Boat* 2026?

Princess Cruises offers itineraries that visit ports featured in the 2026 series, including the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Look for special *Love Boat*-themed excursions.