What Is the Largest Ship in the Princess Cruise Line Fleet

The largest ship in the Princess Cruise Line fleet is the *Discovery Princess*, weighing in at 145,000 gross tons with a capacity for 3,660 passengers. Launched in 2022, this state-of-the-art vessel leads the fleet with expansive amenities, including the largest balconies in the fleet and innovative dining and entertainment venues. It sets a new standard for luxury and scale in Princess Cruises’ modern era.

Key Takeaways

• Royal-class ships are Princess Cruises’ largest, led by Discovery Princess.
• 3,660 guests can sail on the biggest Princess ships, offering spacious luxury.
• Top-tier amenities include Sky Suites, expansive pools, and fine dining options.
• Newest vessels feature eco-friendly tech and advanced propulsion systems.
• Itineraries vary—larger ships sail global routes, including Alaska and the Caribbean.
• Book early for best cabins, as demand for these ships is high.

What Is the Largest Ship in the Princess Cruise Line Fleet

When it comes to modern cruising, few names resonate as strongly as Princess Cruises. Known for its elegant ships, immersive itineraries, and award-winning service, the cruise line has long been a favorite among vacationers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, the size and capabilities of a ship can significantly impact your experience. From the spaciousness of the staterooms to the variety of dining and entertainment options, the vessel’s dimensions play a pivotal role in shaping your journey. Among the many impressive ships in the Princess fleet, one stands out—not just for its size, but for its innovation, luxury, and capacity. So, what is the largest ship in the Princess Cruise Line fleet?

The answer lies in the Discovery Princess, the newest and largest vessel in the Princess Cruises lineup as of 2024. Launched in 2022, this majestic ship is the sixth and final vessel in the Royal-class series, marking the culmination of a decade-long evolution in cruise ship design and guest experience. With a gross tonnage of over 145,000, a length exceeding 1,083 feet, and the ability to carry more than 3,600 passengers at double occupancy, the Discovery Princess redefines what it means to sail in style. From its cutting-edge environmental technologies to its expansive onboard amenities, this ship is a testament to Princess Cruises’ commitment to luxury, sustainability, and unforgettable vacations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the Discovery Princess in detail—its dimensions, features, itineraries, and what sets it apart from the rest of the fleet.

Overview of the Discovery Princess: The Crown Jewel of the Fleet

The Discovery Princess is more than just the largest ship in the Princess Cruise Line fleet—it’s a symbol of the brand’s forward-thinking vision. As the sixth and final Royal-class ship, it builds upon the successes of its predecessors—Royal, Regal, Majestic, Sky, and Enchanted Princess—while introducing new innovations that elevate the guest experience. With a gross tonnage of 145,281 GT and a length of 1,083 feet (330 meters), it surpasses all other Princess ships in size and capacity. But size isn’t everything; the Discovery Princess also boasts a refined design, advanced engineering, and a host of amenities that make it a destination in itself.

Key Specifications and Dimensions

• Length: 1,083 feet (330 meters)
• Beam (Width): 126 feet (38.4 meters)
• Draft: 27 feet (8.3 meters)
• Gross Tonnage: 145,281 GT
• Decks: 19 (14 passenger-accessible)
• Passenger Capacity: 3,660 (double occupancy), up to 4,300 with third/fourth berths
• Crew Capacity: Approximately 1,346
• Builder: Fincantieri, Italy
• Registry: Bermuda

These specifications not only make the Discovery Princess the largest in the fleet but also place it among the top-tier cruise ships globally in terms of size and comfort. Its design prioritizes spaciousness, with wide corridors, expansive public areas, and a thoughtful layout that minimizes crowding even at full capacity. The ship’s 19 decks offer a vertical journey through luxury, with everything from fine dining to high-tech entertainment spread across its towering structure.

Launch and Maiden Voyage

The Discovery Princess was officially named in a ceremony in Portland, Oregon in April 2022, with Discovery Channel personalities serving as godparents—a nod to the ship’s name and Princess Cruises’ partnership with the network. Its maiden voyage set sail from Los Angeles to Mexico, marking the beginning of a new era for the Royal-class fleet. The ship was constructed at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, a leader in cruise ship innovation, ensuring that every detail—from hull design to interior finishes—was optimized for performance and passenger comfort.

What makes the Discovery Princess particularly special is its role as the “capstone” of the Royal-class series. While earlier Royal-class ships like the Sky Princess (2019) and Enchanted Princess (2020) introduced many of the class’s signature features, the Discovery Princess refined them, incorporating guest feedback and technological advancements to deliver a near-perfect cruise experience.

Onboard Amenities and Signature Features

One of the most compelling aspects of the Discovery Princess is its vast array of onboard amenities, designed to cater to every type of traveler—from families and couples to solo adventurers and luxury seekers. The ship is packed with features that go beyond the standard cruise fare, offering a blend of relaxation, entertainment, and culinary excellence.

The Piazza: The Heart of the Ship

At the center of the Discovery Princess lies The Piazza, a three-deck-high atrium that serves as the ship’s social hub. Inspired by Italian piazzas, this vibrant space features live music, a coffee bar, a wine shop, and a gelateria. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a cappuccino, catch an impromptu performance, or simply people-watch. The Piazza also hosts daily events, including art auctions, cooking demonstrations, and themed parties.

World-Class Dining Experiences

Food is a highlight on the Discovery Princess, with over 20 dining options ranging from casual to gourmet. Key venues include:

• Main Dining Rooms: Three elegant dining rooms—Al Fresco, Capri, and Verona—offer traditional and anytime dining with rotating menus.
• Specialty Restaurants:
  • Chef’s Table Lumière: An exclusive, multi-course dining experience with a glass-enclosed kitchen.
  • Harmony: A Chinese-inspired restaurant by Chef Richard Chen.
  • Ocean Terrace: A sushi and seafood bar with panoramic ocean views.
• 24-Hour International Café: Located in The Piazza, this spot offers snacks, pastries, and specialty coffees around the clock.

Entertainment and Nightlife

The Discovery Princess doesn’t skimp on entertainment. The Princess Theater hosts Broadway-style productions, while the Princess Live! studio offers game shows, cooking classes, and live broadcasts. For night owls, the ship features multiple bars and lounges, including:

• SkyLight Bar & Nightclub: A rooftop lounge with retractable glass roof, ideal for stargazing and dancing.
• Churchill’s Cigar Lounge: A sophisticated space for premium cigars and cognac.
• Speakeasy Comedy Club: An intimate venue for stand-up comedy and cabaret.

Wellness and Relaxation

For those seeking rejuvenation, the Lotus Spa offers a full menu of treatments, including massages, facials, and hydrotherapy. The adjacent fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment, yoga studios, and personal training. The ship also has multiple pools and hot tubs, including the Retreat Pool, an adults-only oasis with private cabanas and a tranquil atmosphere.

Family and Youth Activities

The Discovery Princess is family-friendly, with dedicated spaces for kids and teens. The Camp Discovery program includes age-specific activities, while the Teen Lounge offers video games, movies, and social events. The Splash Zone is a water play area for younger children, complete with slides and spray features.

Staterooms and Accommodations: Comfort Meets Innovation

The accommodations on the Discovery Princess are designed to maximize comfort, style, and functionality. With 1,830 staterooms across 12 categories, the ship offers options for every budget and preference—from cozy interior rooms to lavish suites with private balconies and butler service.

Stateroom Categories

• Interior: Cozy and well-appointed, with modern décor and ample storage.
• Oceanview: Features a large picture window with sea views.
• Balcony: The most popular category, with a private veranda for outdoor relaxation.
• Mini-Suite: Spacious rooms with separate living areas, upgraded amenities, and priority embarkation.
• Suite: Includes the Premium Suite, Sky Suite, and Owner’s Suite, each with exclusive perks like private dining, concierge service, and access to the Enclave at the Lotus Spa.

Sky Suite: The Pinnacle of Luxury

The Sky Suite is the most exclusive accommodation on the Discovery Princess. Located on Deck 19, this two-bedroom suite spans 1,292 square feet and features:

• A 792-square-foot private balcony with a hot tub and dining area.
• Floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic ocean views.
• Personalized butler service.
• Access to the Suite Lounge, a private retreat with complimentary drinks and snacks.
• Priority boarding, disembarkation, and tender service.

Smart Room Technology

All staterooms on the Discovery Princess are equipped with Princess MedallionClass technology. This wearable device (a small, coin-sized medallion) enables keyless room entry, contactless payment, and real-time location tracking for crew. Guests can use the medallion to order drinks, reserve dining, and even find family members onboard—making navigation seamless and stress-free.

Itineraries and Destinations: Where Does the Discovery Princess Sail?

The Discovery Princess operates a diverse range of itineraries, primarily focusing on Alaska, Mexico, and the California Coast. Its size and design make it ideal for navigating both open ocean and narrow fjords, offering passengers a front-row seat to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Alaska Cruises: A Crown Jewel Route

One of the most popular itineraries for the Discovery Princess is the 7-night Alaska cruise, which departs from Seattle or Vancouver and visits:

• Ketchikan: Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” with opportunities for wildlife viewing and cultural tours.
• Juneau: Alaska’s capital, accessible only by air or sea, featuring glaciers, hiking, and gold rush history.
• Skagway: A historic town from the Klondike Gold Rush, with train rides to the White Pass Summit.
• Glacier Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, where passengers can witness massive glaciers calving into the sea.
• Scenic cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord: A narrow, ice-filled channel surrounded by towering cliffs.

The ship’s advanced propulsion system allows it to navigate these delicate environments with minimal environmental impact, aligning with Princess Cruises’ sustainability goals.

Mexican Riviera and California Coastal Cruises

During the winter months, the Discovery Princess shifts to the Mexican Riviera, offering 7-night cruises from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta. These voyages feature warm beaches, vibrant culture, and excursions like snorkeling, zip-lining, and tequila tastings. The ship also sails shorter California Coastal cruises, visiting ports like San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and Ensenada, perfect for weekend getaways.

Tips for Choosing the Right Itinerary

• For nature lovers: Opt for an Alaska cruise to experience glaciers, wildlife, and rugged wilderness.
• For relaxation: Choose a Mexican Riviera itinerary with sunny beaches and resort-style ports.
• For families: Look for itineraries with shorter sea days and a mix of port activities.
• For luxury seekers: Book a suite and take advantage of the Sky Suite’s private balcony and butler service.

Environmental and Technological Innovations

The Discovery Princess is not just the largest ship in the fleet—it’s also one of the most advanced in terms of sustainability and technology. Princess Cruises has invested heavily in eco-friendly features to reduce the ship’s environmental footprint and ensure compliance with international regulations.

Advanced Wastewater Treatment Systems

The ship is equipped with an Advanced Wastewater Purification System (AWPS), which treats all black and gray water to near-potable quality before discharge. This system exceeds the requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and is particularly important in sensitive areas like Alaska’s Glacier Bay.

LNG-Ready Design

While not yet powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), the Discovery Princess was built to be LNG-ready, meaning it can be retrofitted in the future to run on cleaner fuel. This forward-thinking design positions the ship for future sustainability upgrades as LNG infrastructure becomes more widespread.

Energy Efficiency and Emissions Reduction

The ship features:

• High-efficiency LED lighting throughout.
• Advanced hull coatings to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
• Exhaust gas cleaning systems (scrubbers) to reduce sulfur emissions.
• Smart HVAC systems that adjust temperature based on occupancy.

Princess MedallionClass: The Future of Cruising

The MedallionClass experience is a game-changer. Beyond room access and payments, the medallion enables:

• MedallionNet: High-speed Wi-Fi available throughout the ship.
• MedallionPay: Contactless payment for onboard purchases.
• MedallionFind: Locate friends and family in real time.
• MedallionOrders: Order food and drinks to your location (pool, lounge, stateroom).

This technology not only enhances convenience but also reduces physical touchpoints—a major benefit in the post-pandemic era.

Comparison of Princess Cruise Ships: Size and Features at a Glance

To truly appreciate the scale and significance of the Discovery Princess, it’s helpful to compare it with other ships in the Princess fleet. Below is a data table highlighting key specifications:

Ship Name	Class	Length (ft)	Gross Tonnage	Passenger Capacity (DO)	Year Built	Notable Features
Discovery Princess	Royal	1,083	145,281	3,660	2022	Sky Suite, MedallionClass, AWPS, LNG-ready
Sky Princess	Royal	1,083	145,281	3,660	2019	First with Sky Suites, enhanced MedallionClass
Enchanted Princess	Royal	1,083	145,281	3,660	2020	Expanded dining options, larger spa
Regal Princess	Royal	1,083	143,700	3,560	2014	First with SeaWalk, Piazza atrium
Caribbean Princess	Grand	1,000	116,000	3,140	2004	Large spa, multiple pools, classic design
Ruby Princess	Grand	1,000	113,561	3,080	2008	Adults-only retreat, enhanced entertainment

As the table shows, the Discovery Princess matches the length and tonnage of other Royal-class ships but stands out for its refinements, technology, and sustainability features. It is, without a doubt, the pinnacle of the fleet.

The Discovery Princess is more than just the largest ship in the Princess Cruise Line fleet—it’s a symbol of innovation, luxury, and responsible cruising. From its expansive staterooms and world-class dining to its cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly systems, every aspect of the ship is designed to elevate the guest experience. Whether you’re sailing through the icy fjords of Alaska, lounging on the beaches of Mexico, or simply enjoying a sunset from your private balcony, the Discovery Princess offers a level of comfort and convenience that’s hard to match. For cruisers seeking the ultimate in size, sophistication, and service, the Discovery Princess is not just a ship—it’s a destination. So, the next time you ask, what is the largest ship in the Princess Cruise Line fleet? The answer is clear: it’s the Discovery Princess, and it’s waiting to take you on the voyage of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest ship in the Princess Cruise Line fleet?

The largest ship in the Princess Cruise Line fleet is the Discovery Princess, which debuted in 2022. At 145,000 gross tons and carrying 3,660 guests, it’s the line’s first newbuild in over five years and the largest in its fleet.

How big is the Discovery Princess compared to other Princess ships?

The Discovery Princess is the largest Princess Cruise Line ship by both size and passenger capacity. It outpaces the Sky Princess and Encore by 10,000 gross tons and features expanded venues like the three-story Piazza and more balcony staterooms.

Which Princess cruise ships are the same size as the largest?

The Discovery Princess is unique in size, but it shares design elements with the Sky Princess, Encore, and Beyond—all part of the Royal-class. However, none match its 145,000 gross tons or 3,660-guest capacity.

What amenities does the largest Princess cruise ship offer?

The Discovery Princess boasts top-tier amenities, including a 300-foot-long Skywalk glass walkway, the largest casino in the fleet, and the SeaWalk® with ocean views. It also features exclusive dining venues and the adults-only Sanctuary retreat.

When did the largest Princess ship first set sail?

The Discovery Princess, the largest ship in the Princess Cruise Line, began its maiden voyage in March 2022. It marked the line’s return to newbuild launches after a five-year gap since the Sky Princess in 2019.

Is the Discovery Princess the largest ship in the cruise industry?

While the Discovery Princess is the largest ship in the Princess Cruise Line, it’s not the largest in the industry. Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (250,000 gross tons) and Carnival’s Mardi Gras hold larger records, but Discovery Princess excels in intimate luxury.