ROYAL PRINCESS
The prototype that redefined the fleet. Featuring the SeaWalk, a massive gold-and-marble Piazza, and the best pizza at sea.
- Guests
- 3,560
- Tonnage
- 142,229
- Launch
- 2013
- Crew
- 1,346
The Prodigy Verdict
The Class Leader.
The Royal Princess marked a major turning point for the brand. It introduced a much larger, more opulent central Piazza that serves as the social heart of the vessel. It feels significantly more upscale than the older Grand Class ships, relying on marble, glass, and gold rather than neon. The layout is excellent for relaxation, but note that the standard balcony cabins are smaller and have narrower balconies than many competitors. It is a ship designed for "chilling," not for adrenaline.
- Couples seeking a quiet, romantic getaway.
- Foodies who appreciate high-quality complimentary dining (Int'l Cafe).
- Travelers who want destinations to be the focus, not the ship.
- Layout: There is no central staircase above Deck 7, forcing guests to use elevators mid-ship.
- Balconies: Standard balcony depth is quite shallow (approx 3-4 feet).
- Nightlife: The ship gets quiet after 11 PM compared to Carnival or NCL.
The Zones
The ship is designed around the central Piazza, with entertainment venues radiating outwards.
The SeaWalk
A glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship, hovering 128 feet above the ocean. Great for photos.
The Piazza
The three-story atrium. It is constantly active with string quartets, acrobats, and parties. The best place to people-watch with a coffee.
The Sanctuary
An exclusive adults-only retreat on the forward top deck. Features plush loungers, "Serenity Stewards," and spa food. Costs extra (half or full day).
M.U.T.S.
"Movies Under the Stars." The giant poolside LED screen. At night, loungers are padded with fleece blankets and free popcorn is served.
The Enclave
The thermal suite within the Lotus Spa. Features a large hydrotherapy pool, hammam, caldarium, and sensory showers. Pass required.
Princess Live!
A working TV studio venue. Hosts game shows, trivia, and culinary demos that are broadcast to stateroom TVs.
Good Spirits
A cocktail bar at Sea. Based on the TV show, bartenders tell the story of the ingredients as they make them on camera.
Vista Lounge
The secondary performance venue located aft. Hosts live bands, comedians, and late-night DJs.
Dining & Provisions
Princess is known for exceptional complimentary dining, anchored by the International Café and solid Main Dining Rooms.
International Café
24-Hour Bistro
The absolute best complimentary snack spot at sea. Located in the Piazza, serving almond croissants, panini, and salads 24/7.
Crown Grill
Steakhouse
A classic wood-paneled steakhouse. Famous for its open kitchen, premium beef chops, and black salt.
Main Dining
3 Venues
Allegro, Symphony, and Concerto. Traditional dining with good service. Club Class (Reserve) guests get a dedicated section.
Sabatini's
Italian Trattoria
Northern Italian cuisine. The burrata and handmade pastas are excellent.
Prego Pizzeria
Poolside
Serve-by-the-slice pizza on the Lido deck. Crusts are thin and crispy. A quick, reliable lunch option.
Alfredo's Pizzeria
Sit-Down
Gourmet individual pies. *Typically incurs a cover charge or is included with Princess Plus/Premier packages.
Horizon Court
Buffet
A massive buffet with distinct stations. The pastry shop section is particularly dangerous for diets.
Crab Shack
Pop-Up
A casual pop-up dining event usually held in a section of the buffet. Features buckets of crab legs, shrimp, and hushpuppies.
Where It Sails
Royal Princess is a fleet workhorse, often found in Alaska during summer and the South Pacific or Australia in winter.
- 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers (Alaska)
- Australia & New Zealand (Sydney/Auckland)
- Hawaii & Tahiti Transpacifics
For Alaska, the ship's enclosed pools and the SeaWalk make it an excellent choice for viewing scenery in variable weather.
Check Availability
See current pricing for Royal Princess sailings.
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Cost Reality
Princess fares are often reasonable, but the "Princess Plus" package is highly recommended to bundle drinks and Wi-Fi.
- Main Dining Rooms
- International Café (Food)
- Horizon Court Buffet
- Movies Under the Stars
- Specialty Dining (Crown Grill)
- The Sanctuary (Half/Full Day)
- The Enclave Thermal Suite
- Alcohol & Sodas (without package)
The International Café is the unsung hero. Grab a free breakfast sandwich and coffee there to avoid the buffet lines in the morning.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is refined, calm, and focuses on food and destination.
Traditional cruising at its best. No go-karts or water slides. Instead, you'll find string quartets, wine tastings, and ballroom dancing.
Primarily couples 40+. While there are kids clubs (Camp Discovery), the ship isn't inherently designed around children's activities.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
Cabins are comfortable but generally smaller than industry average for this ship class.
Standard Balcony
Be aware that the balcony depth is quite shallow on Royal Princess (often barely enough room for knees when sitting). Upgrading to Deluxe is recommended.
Deluxe Balcony
The "sweet spot" category. It provides slightly more interior space, including a small loveseat, making the room feel much less cramped.
Mini-Suite
A significant upgrade. Features a distinct sitting area with a sofa bed and a bathroom with a tub—a rarity on modern ships.