Princess Cruises' Sky Princess sails for the first time in 17 months - what's onboard?
Princess Cruises cruise ship Sky Princess departed Southampton today marking the first time the vessel has sailed since the Covid pandemic began.
Sky Princess is carrying out a series of summer seacations around the UK from August 30 alongside sister ship Regal Princess which set sail on July 31.
Itineraries include such ports of-call as Portland, Liverpool, Belfast and Greenock.
The 3,660-guest MedallionClass Sky Princess launched in late 2019 and is one of the newest vessels in the Princess Cruises fleet.
READ MORE: What you need to know about Princess' summer seacations -
“It is fantastic to be welcoming guests back onboard another Princess ship, this time the beautiful Sky Princess, our second ship to join us here in the UK.” Tony Roberts, vice president of Princess Cruises UK and Europe said.
“Princess is one of only two cruise lines to have two ships operating out of the UK this summer, which bears testament to our commitment and devotion to UK guests.”
He continued: “Yesterday was a significant day for Sky Princess as it also marked her first sailing from Southampton - her homeport for three consecutive years - with guests onboard. We are delighted to have one of our newest ships dedicated to the UK market and we are certain guests will love everything Sky Princess has to offer.”
So, what can guests onboard Sky Princess expect when it comes to cabins, dining and entertainment?
Sky Princess cabins
The Princess Cruises ship offers a range of cabins to suit every budget, including wheelchair-accessible staterooms.
Interior rooms are the most affordable option and feature two twin beds or a queen-size bed alongside a fridge, hairdryer, TV, closet and bathroom with shower.
Premium Oceanview cabins offer a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows bringing loads of natural light to the space. The stateroom includes all the amenities of an interior room.
Balcony rooms provide the added indulgence of a balcony (with a table and two chairs) and give more space than a standard stateroom.
Mini Suites are larger than a Balcony stateroom and come with a complimentary welcome glass of bubbly. Expect a separate sitting area with a sofa bed and two flat-panel televisions.
Club Class can be found in Princess' best located Mini-Suite staterooms. Get the great amenities found in all Mini-Suites — plus premier dining benefits and luxurious perks. Other amenities include priority embarkation and disembarkation, a free one-time wine set-up and more.
- READ MORE: The benefits of booking a Princess Cruises suite -
Suites with balconies include all the amenities of a Club Class Mini-Suite, plus further premiums. There's more living space, a sofa bed and separate seating areas, and added perks such as priority embarkation and disembarkation and complimentary mini-bar setup in suite to name a few.
The best rooms of all onboard are the Sky Suites. Each Sky Suite hosts up to five guests and comes with a 270-degree panoramic view. The 1,000-square-foot continuous balcony is the largest in Princess' fleet!
Sky Princess dining
Dining options are plentiful onboard this ship. Alfredo's Pizzeria was named "Best Pizza at Sea" by USA TODAY and World Fresh Marketplace offers up a huge range of well-balanced, breakfast, lunch and dinner options.
International Cafe is open 24/7 and serves up ever-changing selection of small bite meals, treats and drinks; The Salty Dog Grill rustles up 100 percent handmade gourmet burgers; and Ocean Terrace Sushi Bar boasts premium seafood rolls and sashimi to name a selection of onboard restaurants.
There are also a number of speciality dining options. Bistro Sur La Mer serves French bistro-style dining with a modern twist; Sabatini's Italian Trattoria offers handmade pasta, prepared fresh daily; and steakhouse Crown Grill was named among the “Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses” by USA TODAY.
Sky Princess entertainment
There's plenty to keep guests busy on this ship. At open-air poolside amphitheatre Movies Under The Stars, you can settle in with feature films, thrilling concerts and exciting sporting events.
Amazing theatrical productions bring Broadway classics, popular hits and original numbers to sea while Champagne Art Auctions give you the chance to view and bid on a wide range of fine art. Plus, there is all manner of opportunities to enjoy live music and get up and dance!
There's a sports court for those who want to get active, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a spa - perfect for unwinding.
Princess Cruises ‘Summer Seacations’ can be booked through a professional travel agent, by calling 0344 338 8663 or by visiting princess.com. Available to UK and Common Travel Area resident COVID-19 vaccinated guests only.
