The debut of the second Sphere class ship, Star Princess, is still nearly six months away, but you don’t have to wait that long for a look!
Princess Cruises has released exclusive behind-the-scenes views of the ship now under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, including up close looks that cruise guests never get to see.
The 178,000-gross ton ship floated out on September 26, 2024, and in the more than six months since that milestone, a great deal of work has been done.
“Star Princess is taking shape beautifully,” the cruise line commented. “As her fall debut approaches, progress continues to unfold in Monfalcone, Italy, bringing us closer to unveiling a new level of elegance and adventure at sea.”
From the classic “sea witch” hull art on her bow to scaffolding covering her stern, every inch of the LNG-powered Star Princess is undergoing further refinement and detail work every day.
The best view is the stunning look at the sphere-shaped flank that encompasses multiple decks with panoramic views from the Piazza and other spaces at the heart of the ship. Still covered for protection, the shape is nevertheless distinctive and instantly recognizable.
Furthermore, the even more iconic geodesic dome near the ship’s bow appears complete and will soon be home to spacious and transformative entertainment shows.
While the latest look at the ship’s construction update doesn’t provide too many peeks inside the ship, what do we already know about her interior?
Inside Star Princess – What Guests Can Expect
As the second ship in the innovative and elegant Sphere class, Star Princess will be a star of the fleet indeed.
“After the overwhelming response to Sun Princess, we are excited to debut her sister ship, Star Princess, with added enhancements to elevate the guest experience,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president.
Due to the popularity of delicious dining options, two onboard specialty restaurants – O’Malley’s Irish Pub and Love by Britto – will feature expanded seating. This will give even more guests the chance to enjoy these spectacular venues.
Read Also: Princess Cruises Appoints Two Captains for Second Sphere Class Ship
Fitness buffs onboard will enjoy the new pickleball and basketball courts, along with the jogging track and other fitness features.
Guests who want to work out with numbers instead will appreciate the extra smoke-free space in the onboard casino, with 68 top-of-the-line slot machines.
There will be unmatched luxury aboard the ship in the exclusive Sanctuary Collection, premium staterooms with high-end amenities and private spaces for guests to enjoy.
The Sanctuary Club retreat offers a spa-like vibe on the top deck, ensuring the most restful and refreshing time onboard with private cabanas and dedicated service. The space will also be home to sail-away receptions as well as sunrise yoga sessions and other exclusive events.
Guests eager to experience all that Star Princess will offer should book as early as possible, as reservations will fill up quickly for the new ship.
Following two cruises from Barcelona as she figuratively gets her feet wet, Star Princess will set sail for her Sunshine State homeport on October 22, 2025 with a 14-night one-way transatlantic cruise.
Stopping in Palma de Mallorca, Gibraltar, and Ponta Delgada, the ship will then turn her bow to the open ocean for more than a week, arriving in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on November 5.
From Port Everglades, Star Princess will be offering Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean itineraries, visiting top destinations like Cozumel, Belize, Grand Turk, and Princess Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas, Princess Cays.
Of special interest to eager cruisers is the ship’s April 13, 2026 departure – a 20-night repositioning sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Seattle, including the new ship’s first passage through the famed Panama Canal.
Once in Seattle, Star Princess will offer 7-night Inside Passage Alaska sailings through September 2026 before she makes her way back to Fort Lauderdale for another Caribbean winter season.
