Princess Cruises' New Mega-ship Offers Diverse Amenities

The Star Princess features stately suites, impressive entertainment, and a renowned omakase restaurant.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The new 4,300-passenger Star Princess cruise ship from Princess Cruises offers something for everyone, from lively entertainment and activities to tranquil relaxation spaces. The ship boasts 21 decks to explore, including a glass-enclosed Piazza, an adults-only Sanctuary Club pool area, and a variety of dining options ranging from free buffets to an upscale omakase restaurant. With its contemporary design, diverse amenities, and itineraries sailing to the Caribbean and Alaska, the Star Princess aims to appeal to a wide range of cruisers.

Why it matters

The Star Princess represents Princess Cruises' efforts to cater to a broad demographic, from Millennials and Gen X to Baby Boomers, with its mix of high-energy entertainment, luxury suites, and eco-friendly features. As a mega-ship, it highlights the cruise industry's push to offer increasingly expansive and amenity-rich experiences to compete for travelers' vacation dollars.

The details

The Star Princess features 2,157 staterooms, including 1,000 with balconies, 123 mini-suites, and the top-tier 1,262-square-foot Signature Sky Suites. Dining options range from free buffets and poolside fare to specialty restaurants like the omakase-style Makoto and the beef-focused Butcher's Block. The ship also boasts an impressive entertainment lineup, including Broadway-style shows, intimate magic performances, and live music throughout the vessel.

  • The Star Princess set sail on its maiden voyage in November 2026.
  • The ship will sail weeklong Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale in the fall and winter, and Alaska cruises from Seattle in the summer.

The players

Princess Cruises

An American cruise line and subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, known for its contemporary ships and diverse amenities.

Makoto Okuwa

A renowned Japanese chef who lends his expertise to the ship's omakase-style Makoto restaurant.

Dario Cecchini

An acclaimed Italian butcher whose beef-focused Butcher's Block restaurant is featured on the Star Princess.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Like the song says, 'this ain't no disco, it ain't no country club either.'”

— Fran Golden (Travel + Leisure)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

In fall 2027, the Star Princess will move its homeport to Port Canaveral, near Orlando, but continue to offer similar Caribbean itineraries.

The takeaway

The Star Princess represents Princess Cruises' efforts to appeal to a diverse range of cruisers, from families to luxury-seeking travelers, with its expansive amenities, entertainment options, and eco-friendly features. The ship's success will likely influence the future direction of the cruise industry as it competes for travelers' vacation dollars.