Here comes the sun. Credit: Princess Cruises

Top 10 reasons to sail onboard Sun Princess

Author: Daniel Edward

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Princess Cruises’ newest ship is a sensation at sea. Discover our favourite features onboard Sun Princess

Sun Princess is a landmark ship in Princess Cruises’ history, introducing many firsts for the cruise line that brought us the Love Boat.

Spearheading the line’s new-build rollout as the first Sphere-Class ship (Star Princess is on the way in October 2025), Sun Princess takes all the classic hallmarks of a Princess Cruises experience and adds a generous splash of next generation pizazz.

The 2024-launched ship was built in Italy and spaciously spreads over 21 decks, crewed by a top-notch team of 1,600, and comfortably accommodating 4,300 guests.

Here’s why you’ll love every moment of the experience..

Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham serves as godmother of Sun Princess. Credit: Princess Cruises

1. Marvel at The Piazza

Sun Princess introduces an innovative architectural element, inspired by the terraces of Santorini, right at the top of the ship. With expansive ocean views, this glass-enclosed structure seamlessly blends the inside and outside for a totally unique destination at sea.

Glistening above the central Piazza hub is a high-arching dome, offering breathtaking views and a serene spot for swimming by day. But at night, the whole venue transforms into the home of mind-blowing acrobatic shows, in collaboration with Cirque Éloize.

2. Princess Cruises’ largest ever casino

If you love a flutter at the tables, then you will be blown away by Sun Princess’ bigger-than-ever casino, which features the first ‘Buffalo Zone’ at sea. Capturing the full thrill and drama of Las Vegas, this is sure to be a favourite spot for your evenings at sea.

3. Mesmerising performances

Where else can you experience such high-calibre entertainment while also visiting so many incredible destinations in one go? Well, Sun Princess (and the soon-to-launch Star Princess) takes showtime to another level, with bespoke shows that you’ll not see anywhere else.

Vallora tells the story of an epic pirate quest, set to the greatest hits of the ‘80s, while Fiera! takes quaint ‘faire’ and brings it to life with a charming modern twist. But it’s not just traditional shows here, across five entertainment venues, you’ll enjoy all-sorts, from singing and dancing to circus acrobatics.

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4. Space to just be

Sun Princess has been exquisitely designed to maximise beautiful moments where it feels like it’s just you and the sea. Experience that miraculous inner bliss at the Sea View or Wake View Terraces, which present unparalleled vistas at the front and back of the ship respectively.

5. Unique dining

Sun Princess shines bright when it comes to spectacular dining experiences. And when we say ‘experiences’, we mean it. Take the line’s brand-new partnership with the world-famous Brazilian artist Romero Britto. Known the world over for his iconic paintings and colourful sculptures, Sun Princess delivers the essence of Britto’s art through the plate at Love by Britto.

Other enticing culinary partnerships include The Butcher’s Block by Dario (a collaboration with the renowned butcher Dario Cecchini), and Makoto Ocean, for sensational sushi from the master of Edoamae-style sushi, Makoto Okuwa.

6. The Sanctuary Collection

Aboard Sun Princess, the luxurious, spa-inspired, top-deck Sanctuary Club, is now reserved exclusively for Sanctuary Collection guests who access the private entry via their Princess Medallion. In the adults-only (16 and up) area, guests enjoy plush lounge furniture, private cabanas, pool and jacuzzi, attentive service, soothing music, refreshing beverages, and light fare. The Club also features exclusive programming, including sunrise yoga classes and sail-away receptions.

Other Sanctuary Collection amenities include priority specialty restaurant reservations, and premium stateroom amenities.

The new Sanctuary Collection aboard Sun Princess includes three levels of stateroom types – Signature Collection Suites (80), Mini Suites (123), and Premium Deluxe Balconies (12).

The Butcher's Block by Dario is located on deck nine. Credit: Princess Cruises

7. Three-tier Dining Room

Another first for Princess Cruises is the remarkable three-story Horizons Dining Room. Enjoy the line’s signature menu – different every day – on the lower two decks, while the upper level offers a casual vibe more akin to an American diner, with warm wood finishes and a hearty menu of comfort food.

Whether you’re looking for the traditional cruise dining room experience or something a little laid back, Sun Princess has a perfect table ready for you.

8. Every day is different at the Princess Arena

Seating almost 1,000 spectators, the Princess Arena is the most technologically advanced theatre in the Princess Cruises fleet. And wow, are you going to be blown away by what they can achieve in there. Every seat is the best seat in the house. Monumental screens and totally flexible staging mean that every time you step into the Arena it’s a totally different space, whether in the round for immersive shows, or as a traditional theatre.

9. A new ‘extraordinary experience’

On Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess, the line introduced a new immersive experience called 360. Well, if you enjoyed that then you will absolutely love Spellbound by Magic Castle onboard Sun Princess. Magic meets mixology in this totally immersive themed venue, brought to sea in partnership with the legendary Hollywood icon. Prepare for the unexpected, with magicians, surprises, and theatrical cocktails.

10. Oh, OK… more food

Can you believe it? Sun Princess boasts 30 incredible restaurants and bars. That’s more than our local high street. That’s probably more restaurants than days of the cruise too… so that means double dinner days to try it all!

And you’ll definitely want to try it all, from The Catch by Rudi to Umai Teppanyaki, and even the lively O’Malley’s Irish Pub. And if you have a Princess Plus or Premier all-inclusive package then some of the speciality dining options are included already.

Don't miss the chance to dine at Umai Teppanyaki. Credit: Princess Cruises
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