Cruise enthusiasts and fashion lovers prepare for an extraordinary adventure aboard the Sun Princess. I had the opportunity to set sail on the newest ship in the Princess Cruise fleet. It was the ship’s inaugural US cruise after its transatlantic voyage from the Mediterranean. While many have heard about the Princess Cruise lines from the Love Boat, the Sun Princess is an all-new vessel. The innovative design and luxurious amenities bring the fabled ship of yesterday into today’s modern times.
Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises
The Pacific Princess was the original Love Boat, spanning 554 feet long and carrying 646 passengers. Today’s Sun Princess is a much grander ship. This new boat boasts a guest capacity of 4,300 and spans 1,333 feet. It was designed exclusively for Princess Cruises and introduces the Sphere-Class, a new step up for luxury at sea. It is a floating city of comfort and style. And for awards, it has been crowned #1 Mega Cruise in the United States in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards!
Innovative and Spacious Design
Elements of the Sphere are located throughout the ship. The Dome, a geodesic glass structure inspired by Santorini, offers sweeping ocean views and serves as a multi-purpose venue for poolside relaxation by day and stunning performances by night. The Sphere, a suspended architectural wonder, reimagines the central Piazza, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience.
Photo Jame Morgan Getty Images for Princess Cruises
However, my first stop was to my suite. I stayed in a Sanctuary Collection mini-suite. This luxury cabin features a spacious room with a queen-sized bed, a separate seating area and a private balcony. Plus, let’s just say there was plenty of storage for someone who tends to overpack. And the full-size bathroom was large enough to accommodate my 6’2″ frame.
Unmatched Entertainment Options
There’s a variety of entertainment throughout the ship. The Princess Arena is where you’ll find performances that encourage audience participation. Just be careful; a few espresso martinis might see you singing karaoke onstage. While over at the Dome, there are three different Cirque Eloize shows created for the Sun Princess: Blue, Come Fly Away and Art Beat. I caught Art Beat and thought it was terrific.
But these aren’t the only shows to tickle your fancy; I thoroughly enjoyed Viva La Musica, a Latin Grammy-inspired concert. Plus, the Sun Princess introduces “Spellbound by Magic Castle,“ a fusion of magic and mixology. This unique venue transports guests into a world of wonder. It features talented magicians and theatrical cocktails. If you go, make sure to speak to the ghost Isabella; she may play a song for you.
Dining and Bar Options
Food lovers rejoice! The Sun Princess is a culinary paradise, offering 30 dining venues with collaborations from celebrity chefs. Each meal is a culinary masterpiece, from the artistic Love by Britto to the exquisite sushi at Makoto Ocean or the wow factor of Umai Teppanyaki. Meat lovers will love the Butcher’s Block by Dario, where the world’s most famous butcher brings his expertise to the sea. If you’re a carnivore, you will not go away hungry!
While the specialty dining is a treat, The Eatery, the main dining buffet offers plenty to whet your whistle. Although it is a buffet, the willing staff is on hand to serve you your selections. But one of my favorite spots was the Gelateria. Don’t tell anyone but I may have visited this station several times plus gone back for seconds!
For those who enjoy a good drink, the Sun Princess boasts a variety of bars and lounges. I thought the bartenders at Crooners could craft a great martini. And over at O’Malley’s Irish Pub, live music and an even livelier atmosphere combined with fantastic cocktails made evenings even more pleasurable. And maybe a little dangerous, hence the multi-karaoke attempts!
Relaxation and Wellness Redefined
Relaxation takes center stage with the Sun Princess’s wellness offerings. The Sanctuary Collection offers private dining and relaxation areas. The Sea View Terrace and Wake View Terrace are perfect for soaking up the sun, while the Lotus Spa offers various enhancing treatments to keep you feeling your best. Plus, for those who may have overindulged in food and drink, there’s a full-size gym complete with a variety of cardio equipment and group exercises along with free weights and machines to keep that ship shape physique.
Other available forms of relaxation could be savoring a traditional afternoon tea listening to stories from Chef to the Royals, Darren McGrady. If you prefer the water, there are 5 pools and 9 hot tubs to tickle your fancy. Or maybe, try your luck in the largest casino built by Princess Cruises. After your success, take your winnings and nab a luxury watch at The Breitling Boutique. That was my plan but alas I ended up watchless.
Photo James Morgan Getty Images for Princess Cruises
The Ultimate Fashion Experience
Fashion enthusiasts take note! The Sun Princess is a haven for stylish travelers. And as I sailed, I imagined how the fashions of that bygone era translated today. With a variety of cruise wear options, you can showcase your personal style while indulging in the ship’s luxurious amenities. By day, choose swimsuit sets to take you from the pool to happy hour. Or choose chic daytime outfits perfect for that afternoon tea or shore excursion. And while dressing for dinner is no longer formal like during the Love Boat heyday, elegant evening attire like sporty suit separates or dressier blazers and slack will only enhance your specialty dining experience. Although no tie is required.
Sun Princess Cruise Looks
Thoughts
My time aboard the Sun Princess was genuinely unforgettable. The combination of luxury, entertainment, and culinary delights made for an exceptional cruising experience. With its innovative design and top-notch service, this ship helps to define luxury travel. It really is life’s sweetest reward!
Photos of Barnette Holston by Tina Conesa
