CARIBBEAN PRINCESS
The "Movies Under the Stars" pioneer. A Grand Class staple updated with The Reef family zone, balancing classic cruising with modern Medallion tech.
- Guests
- 3,140
- Tonnage
- 112,894
- Launch
- 2004
- Crew
- 1,200
The Prodigy Verdict
The Grand Evolution.
The Caribbean Princess is a bridge between the traditional and the modern. As a modified Grand Class ship, it features an extra deck of accommodations, making it slightly more dense than its sisters. However, it compensates with excellent crowd flow and a dedicated focus on families. It was the first ship to debut "Movies Under the Stars," now a fleet staple. With the recent addition of "The Reef" splash zone and "Planks BBQ," it offers a surprisingly robust resort experience without the sheer size of the Royal Class.
- Multi-Gen Families: "The Reef" offers water play for kids while adults relax in the nearby Sanctuary.
- Pool Lovers: Boasts four freshwater pools, a rarity on ships of this size.
- Traditionalists: Retains the classic tiered aft decks and the wrap-around Promenade deck.
- Cabin Aesthetics: While well-maintained, the decor in standard cabins can feel structurally older than new builds.
- Riviera Deck: The extra deck of cabins adds passenger capacity, making the buffet busier at peak times.
- Showers: Standard cabin showers are compact with shower curtains, not glass doors.
The Features
From the iconic "handle" nightclub in the sky to the revitalized family zones.
The Reef
A dedicated family splash zone located aft under the Skywalkers nightclub. It features a splash pad, shade canopy, and oversized games.
M.U.T.S.
Movies Under the Stars. The massive poolside LED screen plays concerts by day and first-run movies by night, complete with popcorn and blankets.
Skywalkers
The "Handle" at the rear of the ship. A nightclub suspended 15 decks above the water. It offers the best panoramic views on the ship by day.
The Sanctuary
The adults-only retreat forward. On this class, it overlooks the main pool rather than the ocean bow, but remains a quiet oasis with waiter service.
The Piazza
The three-story atrium hub. Modeled after European squares, it features street performers, the International Café, and Vines wine bar.
Promenade Deck
A nearly wrap-around teak deck (you must use stairs at the bow). Perfect for walking, it connects the theater to the aft dining rooms.
Dining & Provisions
Caribbean Princess features unique casual options like Planks and Steamers, which are not found on many other ships.
Main Dining
Palm, Coral, Island
Three distinct dining rooms. "Palm" is traditional fixed seating (aft), while Coral and Island offer flexible "Dine My Way" times.
World Fresh
Marketplace
The buffet. It can be crowded during peak sea days. Tip: Walk all the way to the aft "Café Caribe" section for shorter lines.
Planks BBQ
Casual Dining
A rustic BBQ joint serving ribs, chili, and slaw on literal wooden planks. *Included with Princess Plus/Premier.
Steamers
Seafood Bar
Family-style seafood pots with mussels, clams, and shrimp. A hidden gem often quieter than the main restaurants.
Crown Grill
Steakhouse
Rich wood paneling, open kitchen, and premium chops. It feels like a classic New York steakhouse.
Sabatini's
Italian Trattoria
The classic Italian venue. Features handmade pastas and courses that celebrate Tuscan flavors.
International Café
24-Hour Bistro
Located in the Piazza. The go-to spot for late-night snacks, morning pastries, and people watching.
Salty Dog Grill
Poolside
More than just hot dogs. Serves the "Ernesto" burger (rib eye and short rib patty) and tacos by the pool.
Where It Sails
True to its name, Caribbean Princess is a staple of the region, often sailing year-round from Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral.
- Eastern/Western Caribbean
- Canada & New England (Seasonal)
- Panama Canal (Partial Transit)
This ship is often used for slightly longer 10-14 day Caribbean loops, attracting a more seasoned crowd than the 7-day runs.
Check Availability
See current pricing for Caribbean Princess sailings.
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Cost Reality
Older ships often offer better base fares, but the "Princess Plus" package is high value here to cover casual dining.
- Main Dining & Buffet
- International Café (Food)
- Movies Under the Stars
- MedallionClass Tech
- Specialty Dining (Crown Grill)
- Casual Dining (Planks/Steamers)*
- The Sanctuary Pass
- Alcohol & Wi-Fi
*Upgrade to "Princess Plus" ($60/day). It covers Wi-Fi, Drinks, Gratuities, and two "Casual Dining" meals (Planks/Steamers), which pays for itself quickly.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is relaxed, nautical, and easy-going.
Classic cruise feel. There are no water slides (besides the splash pad) or go-karts. It focuses on pools, movies, and food.
A mix of loyal Princess cruisers and families seeking a quieter vacation. It is significantly less chaotic than newer mega-ships.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
Princess is known for massive walk-in closets in many categories, a huge perk for longer sailings.
Ocean View
Look for "Obstructed" Ocean Views on Emerald Deck. Many have windows that are fully clear or only partially blocked by lifeboats, sold at a discount.
Mini-Suite
The sweet spot. Features a sitting area, two TVs, and a bathtub. Be aware: on Dolphin Deck, people above can see down onto your balcony.
Grand Suite
Classic luxury. Features a large wet bar, spacious living room, and a massive aft-facing balcony with premium furniture.