GRAND PRINCESS
The namesake of a legendary class. An industry icon that pioneered the "Big Ship, Small Feel" philosophy, now fully modernized with MedallionClass technology.
- Guests
- 2,600
- Tonnage
- 107,517
- Launch
- 1998
- Crew
- 1,150
The Prodigy Verdict
The Cozy Classic.
When the Grand Princess launched, it was the largest and most expensive ship ever built. Today, it fits into the "mid-size" category, offering a perfect balance of amenities and manageability. While it lacks the glitz of the new Sphere Class, it possesses a warmth and intimacy that the mega-ships cannot replicate. The famous "shopping cart handle" spoiler was removed in 2011 to improve fuel efficiency, drastically changing her profile, but the onboard experience remains quintessentially Princess: great food, Movies Under the Stars, and a focus on relaxation over adrenaline.
- Destination Focus: Excellent observation decks for Alaska and Australia sailings.
- Value Hunters: Often priced lower than newer hardware while offering the same food quality.
- Traditionalists: Cruisers who prefer a promenade deck and connection to the ocean.
- Hardware Age: Some cabins have older styling and fewer power outlets than modern ships.
- Pool Size: The main pools are smaller than those found on Royal or Carnival ships.
- Nightlife: The vibe is decidedly more "lounge and listen" than "club and dance."
The Layout
The layout is traditional and easy to navigate. The Piazza is the hub, with entertainment venues radiating outward.
The Piazza
The three-story gold and marble atrium. It feels like a European town square with street performers, glass elevators, and the International Café.
M.U.T.S.
"Movies Under The Stars." The massive poolside LED screen. Princess provides fleece blankets and fresh popcorn for movies at night.
The Sanctuary
An adults-only retreat located forward on the top deck. It features plush loungers, "Serenity Stewards," and al fresco massages. Costs extra.
The One5
Located aft on Deck 15 (replacing the old Skywalkers access). A stylish lounge and nightclub with terrace access overlooking the wake.
Lotus Spa
Located forward. Features a thermal suite with heated stone beds and a dedicated lap pool (with current machine) in the center.
Grand Casino
A classic cruise casino located off the Piazza. Linked to the Medallion app for "Ocean Casino" play anywhere on the ship.
Princess Theater
The main show lounge. No pillars block the view. Hosts production shows, guest entertainers, and enrichment lectures.
Terrace Pool
The aft pool. Often quieter than the main lido deck. It offers great views of the ship's wake and is close to the buffet.
Dining & Provisions
Princess is known for having some of the best complimentary dining in the mainstream market, particularly the pizza and pasta.
Main Dining
3 Venues
Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Da Vinci. Menus are identical. Club Class (Reserve Collection) guests get expedited seating in Da Vinci.
Alfredo's Pizzeria
Sit-Down Pizza
A dedicated restaurant on the Piazza level. Hand-tossed, thin-crust Neapolitan pies. Usually included, but check your specific package.
International Café
24-Hour Bistro
The heart of the ship. Offers almond croissants in the morning and chicken salad sandwiches at 2 AM. The coffee costs extra (or package).
Crown Grill
Steakhouse
Dark wood, open kitchen, and premium chops. The ribeye and the onion soup are the standout items here.
Sabatini's
Italian Trattoria
An institution on Princess. Features unique pasta dishes like the signature veal chop and burrata.
Salty Dog Grill
Pool Deck
Offers handmade burgers, street tacos, and loaded fries. A significant upgrade from the standard poolside hot dog stand.
Coffee & Cones
Dessert
Complimentary soft-serve ice cream. They also offer premium ice cream sandwiches and specialty coffee for a fee.
Crab Shack
Pop-Up Dining
A pop-up venue (usually in the buffet area at night) offering buckets of crab legs, shrimp, and mussels. Bibs required.
Where It Sails
Grand Princess is a workhorse for the line, often deployed on longer, scenic routes where her viewing decks shine.
- 7-Day Alaska (Vancouver/Whittier)
- Australia & New Zealand
- Hawaii Roundtrip (from LA)
This ship is ideal for Alaska's "Voyage of the Glaciers." The promenade deck allows you to walk the entire perimeter of the ship to view wildlife.
Check Availability
See current pricing for Grand Princess sailings.
Check DatesAffiliate disclosure: outbound booking links may earn CruiseProdigy a commission.
Cost Reality
Princess offers competitive base fares, but the "Princess Plus" and "Premier" packages are where the real value often lies.
- Main Dining & Buffet
- International Café (Food)
- Alfredo's Pizzeria (Check Pkg)
- MedallionNet App
- Specialty Dining (Crown/Sabatini's)
- Alcohol & Sodas
- Sanctuary Access ($)
- Wi-Fi (without package)
The Sanctuary on this class is smaller than on newer ships and books up instantly. If you want a day pass, board as early as possible and go straight there to reserve it.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is quiet, comfortable, and unpretentious.
Classic elegance. You'll find brass, glass, and marble rather than neon and digital screens. It feels like a ship, not a hotel.
Generally older (50+), especially on longer itineraries. However, summer Alaska cruises attract many multi-generational families.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
Grand Princess has a unique tiered superstructure aft, meaning many balconies are visible from the decks above.
Tiered Balconies
Caribe Deck balconies are half-covered/half-open and larger than standard. Dolphin Deck balconies are completely open. Choose based on your sun preference.
Mini-Suite
Located on Dolphin Deck. These offer significantly more space (323 sq ft) including a sitting area and a bathtub, often for a small upgrade fee over a standard balcony.
Grand Suite
The ultimate splurge. Features a large aft-facing balcony with incredible wake views, a wet bar, and a spacious living room.