Princess defined its brand with The Love Boat, the TV series that introduced Average Joes and Janes everywhere to the vacation cruise. While couples are a mainstay, over the years the company has broadened its image to highlight family-friendly elements on their newer ships.
If ever there was a line designed to be everything to everyone, it’s Princess. They offer a strong presence in Alaska every summer, with an array of cruises to Mexico and Hawaii through the winter. Most of the fleet is comprised of big ships carrying 2,000+ passengers, while the Regal Princess arriving in June 2013 will be 20 percent larger than any other Princess ship, carrying 3600 passengers.
Princess has a handful of smaller vessels, led by 680-passenger Ocean Princess and Pacific Princess, intimate ships that circumnavigate the globe, visiting more remote ports. We’ve found that dining can be hit or miss, though buffet spreads usually offer fair options. Pool areas are a strong point for Princess, with a variety of options on each ship, and we love their Movies Under the Stars.
The Ruby Princess was designed to be an escape for couples – even if their kids are voyaging with them. While there are definitely amenities for all kids to enjoy, including age-appropriate centers, events, and activities, the majority of the on-board attractions are designed for adults. Read full 10-part review
While our cruise on Sapphire Princess was agreeable, it didn’t stand out in any particular way. The experience seemed geared to appeal to the broadest audience possible. Read full 10-part review
Princess Cruises aims for a consistent if conventional cruise experience. On our voyage aboard Star Princess the cabin was small and the dining unexceptional, but pool areas were expansive and service we received was polished and engaging. Read full 10-part review
