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Princess cruise lines.

From its stronghold on the Pacific, Princess Cruise Lines is the world's third largest cruise line behind Carnival Corp. and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. At more than 30 years old, Princess is one of the U.S. market's oldest continuously operating passenger ship lines. Its roster of 65 cruises, including a worldwide tour scheduled to set sail in March 1998, docks at more than 225 ports on six continents.

Popularized by the television series "The Love Boat," Princess Cruise Lines is so closely identified with the late 1970s, early 1980s show that it continued to use the tagline "It's more than a cruise, it's the Love Boat" through the late 1990s. Over the course of its more than three decades in business, the Princess fleet has expanded dramatically. In 1965, it operated one converted ferryboat with a 318-passenger capacity, plying the West Coast of Mexico. In 1997 it owned a coterie of eight "floating resorts" that shuttled nearly 500,000 passengers to 230 ports around the globe each year. With the addition of three more "Grand Class" ships, the line expected to have annual capacity for 750,000 passengers by the turn of the 20th century.

Founded in 1965

The Princess line was founded in the fall of 1965 by Stanley MacDonald, a Seattle entrepreneur. It was named for its first ship, the 6,000-ton Princess Patricia, a ferryboat chartered from the Canadian National Railways' fleet. Princess Pat had a 318-passenger capacity. Princess was among the first lines to popularize cruises to the west coast of Mexico--dubbed the "Mexican Riviera." Come summer 1966, the ship returned to its tasks for the railroad in Alaska and Canada. Following a second successful season shepherding snowbirds seaward, MacDonald chartered an Italian-made ship and dubbed it, quite logically, the Princess Italia. Continued high demand for berths led to the charter of the Princess Carla for the 1968 season. In 1971 MacDonald leased the Norwegian vessel Island Venture and renamed it the Island Princess.

But MacDonald did not stay in the cruise business for long. In 1974 he sold Princess to Great Britain's Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O), one of the world's oldest and largest diversified shipping firms. With the financial backing of this industry giant, the California-based cruise line purchased the Island Princess as well as its sister ship, the Sea Venture. A retrofit transformed the Sea Venture into the Pacific Princess, a 20,000-ton vessel with room for 640 passengers. P&O also transferred its Spirit of London to Princess, which renamed it the Sun Princess. The line canceled its leases on the Italia and Carla. Within a year of its adoption into the P&O family, Princess had become one of the world's largest passenger cruise lines.

The Love Boat Years

Still, a fiscally fit parent company, nicely appointed ships, and top-notch service might never have brought Princess the fame and growth it earned by becoming affiliated with a television series. Airing for nearly a decade from 1977 to 1986, "The Love Boat" was produced by Aaron Spelling and became one of his longest running projects. Set on the Island Princess and the Pacific Princess, the show featured a core cast consisting of the ship's crew and a revolving cast of well-known celebrities embroiled in a variety of lighthearted plots. The sitcom placed a strong emphasis on romance and exotic destinations.

In addition to putting Princess's "seawitch" logo in front of millions of viewers worldwide each week, the prime time show has been credited with introducing cruising to a younger clientele, thereby broadening the industry's appeal from a core group of wealthy retirees to middle-income people in their 30s and 40s. No longer merely a means of transportation, cruising became a vacation end unto itself. Christopher Boyd of Florida Trend asserted, "'The Love Boat' television series, featuring a Princess ship, helped change the image of cruising. Suddenly, cruising meant romance, intrigue and beautiful people." From 1979 through 1993, the industry grew at a compound annual rate of 9.4 percent. Princess cultivated the "Love Boat" image long after the show was canceled, even using the "Captain Stubing" character, played by actor Gavin MacLeod, in promotions and television ads.

1980s Expansion Culminates in Merger

Princess was one of three cruise lines operating in the United States to seize the growth initiative in the mid-1980s. Princess took delivery of its first custom-built passenger ship, the Royal Princess, in 1984. This vessel, which could transport nearly three times as many guests as the line's first ferryboat, moved all guest cabins to the outside of the ship, thereby giving all its passengers the luxury of an ocean view. The line's fleet grew to five ships with the 1986 adoption of P&O's Sea Princess. It was not long before the tide of cruisegoers rose to meet this capacity; from 1983 to 1994, the passenger count exploded from about a half million to 4.5 million.

Adding vessels to the fleet enabled Princess to expand its roster of destinations, giving its passengers a wider choice of vacation spots. Princess was one of the first to popularize cruises to Alaska, a destination that became an industry hot spot in the late 1980s and early 1990s. And though it concentrated for many years on European, Alaskan, and Mediterranean routes, the line was by the mid-1990s offering cruises to Asia, India, the Holy Land, South America, Hawaii, and the all-important Caribbean.

Princess emerged as one of America's largest passenger fleets in 1988, when P&O acquired Sitmar Cruises, a line headquartered about 300 yards from Princess, for about $210 million and merged it with the existing U.S. operation. James Nolan of the Journal of Commerce and Commercial characterized Sitmar as the "Cadillac of the industry." Travel Weekly's Jerry Brown called the marriage "one of the biggest events in the cruise industry in many years." The union added the Star, Sky, Dawn, and Fair Princesses to the fleet, which by this time totaled nine ships. It also expanded Princess's cruise routes to include New England and South America. At about the same time, P&O consolidated its U.S. cruise, hotel, motorcoach, and rail operations under the Princess name and logo. These included the Denali Princess Lodge, Kenai Princess Lodge, and the Fairbanks Princess Hotel, all in Alaska.

Nonstop Growth in the 1990s

Anticipating the continued expansion of the cruise industry at a rate of ten percent annually through the 1990s, the "Big Three"--Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Princess--became embroiled in a race to build ever-larger ships with greater capacity for people and amenities. Aside from the obvious ability to carry more passengers, there were several advantages to building larger ships. They generated more than three times the cash flow of their 1,000-passenger predecessors and provided economies of scale in overhead and purchasing by spreading out the cost of running a single vessel among this larger client base. Victoria Hallstrom of Lehman Brothers told Travel Weekly's Ernest Blum that the new "superships" and "megaships" had the potential to "pay for themselves in five years."

Their massive size also made room for an array of activities and amenities that put these ships on a par with vacation destinations like Las Vegas and Walt Disney World. Families were a particular target of these behemoths; on-board distractions included play areas for kids, media rooms and dance floors geared toward teens, and more traditional casinos, bars, health clubs, and Broadway-style shows for adults.

Decommissionings in 1990 and 1991 made room for Princess's $1.5 billion-plus investment in gargantuan new "superships" dubbed the "Grand Class." These massive cruise ships had passenger capacities of more than 1,500 each, yet offered roomier staterooms and more private balconies than their predecessors as well as spacious public areas. The Crown Princess, launched in 1990, and the Regal Princess, introduced in 1991, weighed in at 70,000 tons and had room for 1,590 vacationers. The 1995 launch of the 77,000-ton Sun Princess added room for nearly 2,000 passengers. Its sister ship, the Dawn Princess, was launched in 1997 and dispatched to the waters of Alaska and the Caribbean. In addition to two more 77,000-ton vessels, Princess planned to christen the "grandest of the grand" (to date), the 109,000-ton Grand Princess, by the end of the decade. With a capacity for 2,600 passengers, the ship was too wide to navigate the Panama Canal.

Though the cruise line retired three other ships during this period, it kept the two original "Love Boats," the Island Princess and the Pacific Princess, in operation. The Island Princess, in fact, was scheduled to offer Princess's first-ever world cruise, a 64-day trip from Rome to San Francisco beginning in March 1998.

Princess was not the only leading line building mammoth cruisers in the 1990s. Industry leaders Carnival and Royal Caribbean were also busy ordering 100,000-ton-plus vessels, continually upping the stakes in the battle to build the biggest boats. These across-the-board capacity increases kept the Big Three's market shares fairly constant throughout the 1990s, maintaining a high level of competition among the top rivals. In fact, while Princess doubled its berths in the last decade of the 20th century, Carnival Corp. increased its capacity by more than 450 percent and Royal Caribbean boosted its volume by nearly 370 percent.

Princess distinguished itself among its competitors with technological and marketing innovations during this period. The company developed sophisticated in-house booking, reservation, and management information systems and cooperated in the creation of tourist agency networks like Apollo, Sabre, and Worldspan. In 1997 Princess won praise for its introduction of a unique financing package dubbed the "Love Boat Loan." Though it charged anywhere from 14.9 percent to 26.9 percent interest, the program allowed vacationers to finance the cost of a cruise for up to 48 months.

The cruise line suffered a black eye in 1991, when two passengers videotaped a Princess employee dumping bags of garbage into the ocean off the Florida Keys. Worse than the $500,000 fine was the public relations scandal that followed. Princess was able to redeem itself by inaugurating a comprehensive waste management program dubbed "Planet Princess." Within just a few years, the line had won praise from some of the cruise industry's biggest environmental critics, including the Center for Marine Conservation.

By the mid-1990s only seven percent of Americans had taken a cruise, leading many in the industry--including executives at Princess&mdashø conclude that there remained a large untapped market of potential cruisers. In March 1997 a spokesman for Princess told Travel Weekly, "We [in the cruise industry] are about to enter an era of dramatic prosperity--a great boom and upswing in the economy." Princess appeared amply prepared to accommodate that boom.

Source: International Directory of Company Histories , Vol. 22. St. James Press, 1998.

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Princess Cruises ®

There are many ways to travel, but no one helps you truly discover the world’s great destinations, its best-kept secrets, and the soul of its people, like Princess Cruises® – the Destination Leader.

Princess has been sailing around the globe since 1965, taking millions of guests on life-transforming journeys on board a fleet of 15 magnificent ships, to over 330 destinations. On board, you’ll be immersed in the culture, colors and flavors of the places you’ll visit, with authentic folkloric shows, regional cuisine and enlightening presentations by local experts. On shore, Princess introduces the bucket-list sights you want to see most – as well as hidden jewels not found in travel books – with our award-winning Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ Exclusive shore excursions.

And now, Princess has ushered in the next wave of vacation travel with MedallionClass Vacations™, which offer you a more effortless and personalized experience than you could ever imagine. MedallionClass® is enabled by the Medallion® device, a complimentary wearable device that unlocks countless enhancements to the cruise experience like hassle-free embarkation to get you from curbside to poolside in a breeze, beverage delivery on demand using your personal smart device, the Best Wi-Fi at sea, that lets you stream, text and share your memories, and so much more! Visit  Princess MedallionClass  to learn more.

Enjoy an array of signature features throughout each cruise, from world-class cuisine by award-winning chefs to live production shows created by Broadway legends, to a true Princess original experience – enjoying a Hollywood film while relaxing poolside, with Movies Under the Stars®. There are also a variety of ways to rejuvenate body and mind, from the Lotus Spa® to the Sanctuary – a tranquil retreat reserved just for adults, and when the night ends, luxuriate in the ultimate night of sleep with the Princess Luxury Bed, awarded Best Cruise Ship Bed by  Cruise Critic .

Discover why Princess has been awarded “Best Cruise Itineraries” 12 times by  Recommend Magazine  and see the world in a whole new way.

What Sets Princess Apart

• Immersive Exploration – Being chosen as the “Best Cruise Line Itineraries” by Cruise Critic and awarded “Best Cruise Ship Excursions” by Global Traveler Magazine is the result of Princess’ dedication to immersion and exploration. With our Local Connections program, Princess partners with local experts to create shore excursions that give the feel and flavor you’ll desire from a cruise. Princess teamed with Discovery™ to create the Discovery at SEA program, offering you an array of fascinating onboard programs for the whole family, based on hit programs like Deadliest Catch, Shark Week and Gold Rush. Princess also crafts our itineraries to offer more time in port with More Ashore late night (9 pm or later) and overnight stays in every region, allowing you to see the sights during the day and experience the nightlife.
• Freshly Prepared Cuisine – Food is interwoven with travel. From discovering the unique flavors of a new city to watching a dish come together, some of the best travel memories revolve around food. With fresh regional cuisine made from scratch and culinary tours in every region, we feed your body and your sense of wonder.
• Rejuvenation – A cruise isn’t just one adventure after another from dawn ’til dusk. With cruising, your resort travels with you and offers a blend of excitement and rejuvenation not found elsewhere. CNBC ranked Princess the “#1 Cruise Line for Relaxation” in 2018, and you will understand why, with amenities like the Sanctuary, a retreat for adults that offers al fresco massages, refreshing beverages and Serenity Stewards to attend to your needs. If deeper relaxation is needed, you can indulge in the award-winning Lotus Spa® with a hot stone massage, aromatherapy sauna or detoxifying facial. When the day is done, you retire to the Princess Luxury Bed for the ultimate night’s rest.
• Engaging Entertainment – First-time cruisers sometimes wonder what there will be to do on days at sea. We love the moment on board when you discover that each ship is filled with so much engaging, exciting and varied entertainment that it would take many cruises to experience it all. Performances beckon from every corner of a Princess ship, including live music and street performers in the Piazza, world-class magicians and illusionists, and top headliner comedians. Don’t miss our Broadway-Caliber production shows that you can only see in the state-of-the-art Princess theaters.

Princess at a Glance

• 15 ships across the fleet that carry millions of guests each year to 330 destinations around the globe.
• Over 170 unique itineraries ranging from three days to 111 days.
• More than 500 More Ashore late night calls across 98 ports and 70 overnight calls across 16 ports.
• Access to over 100 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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The Complete Guide to Princess Cruises

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

About Princess Cruises

What’s included in a princess cruise, princess cruises loyalty program: captain’s circle.

Princess Cruises is a U.S. cruise line owned by Carnival Corp., which also owns and operates other lines including Carnival, Holland America and Cunard.

First launched in 1965, Princess Cruises offers passengers the opportunity to sail all over the world, including to North America, South America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Australia and Antarctica.

Here’s a quick overview of some of Princess Cruises' key features.

Cabin types: Princess Cruises ships feature room types that are standard across most cruise lines. These include interior, ocean view, balcony, mini-suite and suite rooms. Princess Cruises’ inside rooms are contemporary and well-furnished, as are its higher-end offerings. 

Main U.S. routes: You’ll find Princess Cruise ships throughout the U.S., though routes are heavily season-dependent. Look for Caribbean cruises out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and for destinations along the West Coast, out of Los Angeles.  

Loyalty program: Captain’s Circle is the name of Princess Cruises’ loyalty program, which provides elite benefits based on how much you’ve cruised with the line. 

Princess Cruises destinations

Princess Cruise offers a large array of itineraries and destinations. Its sailings range in length from two-day getaways to a 116-day journey that travels around the globe, and it stops in seven continents and 330 ports of call.

» Learn more: Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

Princess Cruises prices

Princess ships tend to be a little more upscale than some other options, which means it can be more expensive to travel on one. However, that doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily be paying luxury prices.

Prices for rooms can vary dramatically based on when you travel. The cost is higher during the holidays. For example, a seven-day Western Caribbean cruise leaving from Fort Lauderdale can cost as little as $548 for an interior room. However, if you’re traveling during the winter holidays, the price skyrockets up to $1,178 for the same room.

What is the best Princess cruise ship?

There are a total of 15 vessels on this cruise line, with two more ships planned for sailings in 2024 or later.

Many of the line’s ships score well with reviewers, including the Discovery Princess ship, which is one of six Royal Class vessels. These vessels feature a larger atrium (the social hub of the ship), private poolside cabanas, a glass-bottomed over-water SeaWalk and more staterooms with balconies.

» Learn more: How to plan a cruise in 6 steps

What is the newest Princess Cruises ship?

The Discovery Princess is the newest ship. It debuted in 2022 and can carry up to 3,660 guests. However, according to Princess Cruises news, the Sun Princess will soon take the title of newest ship with its inaugural voyage in 2024.

While most cruises include many services and amenities with the base fare, not everything comes at that rate. There are some extras that you may need to pay more for.

Here’s what comes with each fare package on a Princess cruise:

The Princess Standard fare includes your cabin, use of facilities, all meals, snacks and entertainment. 

The Princess Plus fare includes all the amenities of the Princess Standard fare but also provides Wi-Fi service to one device, crew gratuities, premium beverages (including most alcoholic drinks), fitness classes, food delivery and two nights of dining at a casual sit-down restaurant.

The Princess Premier package includes all of the above, with Wi-Fi available on multiple devices, a superior drink package, two nights of specialty dining, unlimited casual dining, a photo package and reserved seating at shows. 

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

The Captain’s Circle is the loyalty program for Princess Cruises, and after you complete your first cruise, you’re automatically a member with Gold tier status.

Captain’s Circle levels

The Captain’s Circle levels are Gold, Ruby, Platinum and Elite. Here’s how to reach each tier as well as the benefits you’ll receive.

How to earn: Complete one Princess cruise. 

Best benefits: Preferential pricing, members-only events. 

How to earn: Complete three cruises or 30 cruise days.

Best benefits: Vacation protection upgrade, shoreside access to priority phone line.

How to earn: Complete five cruises or 50 cruise days. 

Best benefits: 50% off Wi-Fi package, priority boarding, early access to dining reservations, exclusive member lounge, 10% discount on spa treatments. 

How to earn: Complete 15 cruises or 150 cruise days. 

Best benefits: Early access to new itineraries, 10% off-shore excursions, complimentary mini-bar setup, complimentary laundry services, priority embarkation and disembarkation.

(Top photo courtesy of Princess Cruises)

How to maximize your rewards

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Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

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Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Carnival vs Princess Cruise Lines Compared (Which is Best for You?)

If you’re looking to book a cruise, many options are available. Two of the most popular cruise lines are Princess and Carnival Cruise. Both have pros and cons, so it can be difficult to determine the best fit for you.

In this post, we compare carnival cruise vs princess cruise lines in a head-to-head and help you decide which one is right for you.

Princess vs Carnival Cruises Comparison

Regarding the onboard experience, both Princess and Carnival offer various activities and amenities. Both cruise lines have excellent dining options, pools, spas, gyms, and casinos.

Princess offers a more upscale experience with better quality food and more neutral decor.

Carnival is known for its bright decor and its all-around fun and lively atmosphere. Carnival is the way to go if you’re looking for a party at sea. 

When it comes to price, Carnival is the more affordable option. Carnival is a great choice if you’re working with a tight budget.

Princess cruise prices are typically higher priced, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re getting less bang for your buck, there are considered very good value for what you pay.

You’ll have to weigh up your priorities to decide which cruise line is the best value for you.

Below we compare the two cruise lines in more detail.

Who Owns Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Lines ?

The first thing to establish is who owns each of the cruise lines

Princess Cruises and Carnival cruise lines are owned by the same parent company, the British-American Carnival Corporation & plc, which owns 10 well-known cruise line brands, including Princess, Holland America, and P&O Cruises Australia, Costa Cruises, and AIDA Cruises.

However, each brand is designed to appeal to a different target audience. Princess is marketed as a more upscale and luxurious cruise line, while Carnival is considered more budget-friendly and focuses on fun.

Hence why Carnival cruise ships call themselves the “Fun Ships”!

So, which one should you choose? Let’s take a closer look at each cruise line and compare them.

Below is a table of bullet points to highlight which cruise line is generally more suited for the following categories.

Cruise Ships (Size and Ages of Fleet)

Ship sizes compared.

Carnival offers a wide range of large and mid-sized ships in their current fleet, with 23 in total compared to Princess cruise’s fleet of 18.

If you think larger, the better, Carnival comes out ahead with their newest vessels, Carnival Celebration (2022) and sister ship Carnival Mardi Gras (2020), Both of which come in at up 183,000 tonnes and can hold over 5000 passengers each.

The tonnage of the next largest Carnival ships (Panorama, Horizon, Vista, Breeze, Magic, and Dream)are similar to Princess Cruises’ largest vessels (SkyPrincess, Enchanted, Discovery, Majestic Princess, Royal, and Regal Princess). 

We do this to highlight another size tother factor: there are a lot more passengers on Carnival ships compared to similar size vessels in the Princess fleet. 

Princess has the highest passenger-to-space ratio of not just Carnival but also its other main competitor Royal Caribbean.

Therefore you can expect the Princess cruise experience, in general, to be a lot less crowded.  If you prefer a bit of downtime or quieter moments, you are likelier to find them on Princess.

Carnival cruises can feel cramped for some passengers, especially at busy times.

Carnival cruises’ fleet is, on average, around 14 years old. The newest Carnival ships are the Celebration (2022), Mardi Gras (2020), and Panorama (2019).

The oldest vessels in their fleet include the Carnival Sunshine (1996) (formerly Destiny), Carnival Elation (1998), and Carnival Paradise (1998), (Carnival Elation and Paradise are also the smallest carnival cruise ships ).

When booking an older vessel, it’s always worth checking to see if it has been upgraded in the last 5 years and checking reviews to see what other passengers have thought of their experience.

In contrast, the average age of a Princess cruise ship is 17 years old. The

In contrast, Princess Cruises’ fleet average is around 12 years old.

The newest ships in their fleet are the  Discovery Princess (2022),  Enchanted Princess (2021), and Sky Princess (2019).

Their oldest vessels include the Grand Princess (2019), Coral Princess (2002), and Island Princess (2003).

As of 2022, all Princess cruise ships older than 5 years had been refurbished within the last 5 years.

Regarding decor, the two cruise lines could not be more different. Princess offers a more upscale and luxurious experience with better quality furnishings and materials throughout the ship.

The Princess cruise’s color scheme is very neutral and calming in its tones.

Carnival’s decor is still good quality, but it’s more fun, flashy and much brighter.  It’s often compared to a Vegas-style.

If your onboard experience is affected by the decor, this is a factor worth considering.

If you are superstitious, you’ll be pleased to know that neither Carnival nor Princess cruises have a deck 13.

Here we have covered some of the deck names both Carnival and Princess cruises use.

When it comes to service, you can expect to be treated more like a responsible adult on a Princess Cruise, which offers a more all-around refined experience.

For example, on a Carnival cruise, if you borrow a towel, you are responsible for returning it, or you’ll face a small charge.  On Princess, they’ll just lend you a towel, so if you lose it or someone mistakenly takes it, there’s no problem. They’ll get it back eventually.

Demographics

Carnival cruises are best suited to families and young couples or singles in their 20s and 30s looking for a party atmosphere.

Although whatever your age, if you are older and like to party you’ll like Carnival.

As with any party and the fun, you can also expect to see passengers who have had too much to drink, possibly being sick or even passed out.

If you are a solo traveler, we have some extra information on the best Carnival singles cruises .

On the other hand, Princess cruises are a better choice for an older, more mature crowd between 30 and 70 and families with children of all ages.

Princess cruises are also popular with older solo cruise travelers, typically over 50, who like to socialize and make new like-minded friends on their cruise. Although Princess cruises doesn’t particular cater towards the singles market.

Seasonality Variance

Princess Cruises expects to have many more kids on board during summer vacation. Whereas in January you can expect a lot more older people.

Seasonality doesn’t play such an important aspect on Carnival Cruises, and you can expect to find the same sort of crowd throughout the year.

Passenger Nationalities

Carnival attracts American cruisers, while Princess tends to have a more international flavor with passengers from the US, Britain, and other countries.

Princess Cruises vs Carnival Food and Drinks

Regarding food, Princess offers a more upscale experience with a broader range of better-quality dining options with specialty restaurants from around the world.   So although it mostly caters to the US markets, there are plenty of options for European passengers.

It’s particularly popular for its pizza from Alfredo’s Pizzeria and voted by many for offering the “Best Pizza at Sea.”

Princess, Slice, and Prego Pizzerias are also well worth checking out.

Carnival is still good regarding food, but it is more casual and heavily focused on the US market, offering your typical burger, chicken, and steak-like menus.

Both cruise lines offer buffets.

Some Carnival ships will have extra dining options for the more selective passenger.

Another difference that may appeal to some passengers is how much wine you can bring on cruise ships. Carnival restricts each passenger to just one bottle of wine. In contrast, Princess allows passengers to bring as many bottles of wine and champagne as they want, subject to a $15 fee for each bottle after the first free bottle.

Another difference is the drinking age s for cruises outside the US. Carnival maintains a flat minimum 21 years of age for drinking no matter where you are sailing. However, Princess Cruises allow 18 years to drink alcohol on their rest of the world cruises.

Activities / Pools/ Entertainment

Carnival cruise ships are renowned for their wide range of entertainment facilities, pools, and outdoor activities.

Carnival also offers a variety of stage shows, musicals, comedians, and other live entertainment to keep you entertained during your cruise.

If you’re looking for a more low-key onboard experience, Princess Cruises offers enrichment programs, cooking classes, art auctions, and wine tastings.

Pools on Carnival ships are typically larger and more numerous than those found on Princess’s vessels. 

Carnival offers outdoor activities such as waterslides, minigolf, and sports courts.

If you’re a fan of gambling, then Carnival cruise ships are the way to go as they offer a wide variety of gaming options.

Carnival’s casinos are typically much larger than those on Princess cruise ships.

When it comes to nightlife, you can expect the parties to be in full swing. Expect late-night DJ parties, a range of other decks, and various themed parties to be happening every night.

There’s also:

• Caribbean-themed pubs
• Comedy acts
• Well-known celebrity acts (comedians etc.)

On Princess ships, the nightlife is more subdued, with lower-key bars and lounges that close earlier than those on Carnival.

There’s live entertainment every evening and a range of cafes and bars to choose from to enjoy a cocktail or bottle of champagne.

Destinations / Itinerary in Group

Both Carnival and Princess Cruises offer various destinations to choose from when planning your cruise vacation.

Choose the cruise line that offers ports of call that interest you most.

Both lines also have a wide variety of itineraries, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

Princess Cruises is considered particularly good for Alaska excursions.

Destinations offered by Carnival Cruises include:

• Australia and New Zealand
• Panama Canal
•  and the Carnival “Cruise to Nowhere”

Princess Cruises sail worldwide and offer cruises to:

• British Isles
• Mexican Riviera
• South Americ
• South Pacific

Private Islands

Carnival Corporation owns two private islands, Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay, which can be visited by certain cruise lines and ships in the fleets.

Princess Cays

Both Carnival and Princess cruises offer access to the privately owned island of Princess Cays.

However, only the Princess Cruise drinks package can be used on the island, whereas the Carnival cruise drinks package cannot be used.

Half Moon Cay

Of the two cruise lines, only Carnival ships offer visits to Half Moon Cayanother, privately owned island by  Carnival Corporation plc. This island is also used by Holland American cruise line.

Ports of Departures

The port’s location is an important factor to consider when choosing a cruise line.

Carnival departs from the following North American ports:

• Baltimore, MD
• Charleston, SC
• Galveston, TX
• Jacksonville, FL
• Long Beach, CA
• New Orleans, LA
• New York, NY
• Norfolk, VA
• Port Canaveral, FL
• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA

From the UK, Carnival departs from these ports:

• Southampton

From Australia, Carnival departs from:

Princess cruises depart from the following North American ports:

• Anchorage, AK
• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Los Angeles, CA
• San Diego, CA

From the UK, you can depart from:

(The same two UK ports as Carnival)

From Australia and New Zealand, you can depart from:

• Auckland (New Zealand) 

For Kids and Families

Both cruise lines have plenty on board to keep the kids entertained.

Both Carnival and Princess cruise ships have several supervised youth clubs and activity programs to keep them entertained. 

Carnival has Camp Ocean which splits into groups into ages:

• Penguins for ages 2 to 5
• Stingrays for ages 6 to 8
• Sharks for ages 9 to 11
• Circle “C” for ages 12 to 14
• Club O2 for ages 15 to 17

Carnival also offers babysitting services for an additional fee so that you can enjoy some time to yourselves.

Princess Cruises also have youth clubs and activity programs for kids. However, they are not as extensive as those offered by Carnival.

On Princess Cruises, kids are split into 3 activity age groups:

• The Treehouse for ages 3 to 7
• The Lodge for ages 8 to 12
• The Beach House for ages 13 to 17

Baby Sitting & Child Minding Services

Carnival cruise offers Camp Ocean for children between 2 to 5 years old.

The evening’s Carnival also offers the Night Owls babysitting service for children aged 6 months to 11 years old.   So parents can enjoy some time to themselves.

Princess Cruises offer group child minding services via Camp Discovery and, for older children, the Beach House Teen Lounge, which is open daily.

From 10 pm to 1 am, they offer group babysitting in the centers for kids between the ages of 3 and 11.

The dress code for a Carnival cruise is more casual than for a Princess cruise. You can expect to see people in shorts and t-shirts during the day, and jeans or nice slacks in the evening.  In short, the Carnival cruise dress code is about as casual as you can get.

On a Princess cruise, you’ll see people dressing up more for dinner, especially on formal nights when people might wear dinner jackets and tuxedos for men and elegant cocktail dresses, evening gowns, or pantsuits for women.

Carnival is the more affordable option. Carnival is a great choice if you’re working with a tight budget.

Princess cruise prices are typically higher, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re getting less bang for your buck. They are considered very good value for money.

You’ll have to weigh your other priorities to decide which cruise line is the best value for you based on the other criteria set out above and then work out which fits your budget.

Carnival or Princess First-Hand Video Comparision

Tony and his wife Jenny give an in-depth, honest, and thorough comparison breakdown across a wide range of categories with some great insights as to whether they think Carnival or Princess Cruises is the best cruise line of the two.

In Short : Carnival or Princess Cruise

In short, it quickly covers how a passenger might describe either a Carnival or Princess cruise in just one of two words to give you a quick impression of the comparable experiences to one another.

Carnival Cruise Pros :

• Fun, fun, fun

Princess Cruise Pros

• Comfortable
• Neutral colors

Is Princess Cruises owned by Carnival?

Princess Cruises is owned by the British-American Carnival Corporation & plc. This is the parent company that owns a total of 10 cruise lines, including both Carnival Cruise line and Princess Cruises.

Carnival Cruise line does not, therefore, own Princess Cruises, both are subsidiaries of Carnival Corporation, which does own Princess Cruises.

What is the difference between Princess and Carnival?

Princess is marketed as a more upscale and luxurious cruise line, while Carnival is considered more budget-friendly and focuses on fun.

Does Carnival own Princess Cruises?

Yes, Carnival owns Princess Cruises. They are both subsidiaries of the British-American Carnival Corporation & plc. 

Carnival or Princess Cruise for Alaska?

When it comes to a cruising to Alaska,  Princess comes out as a clear winner offering one of the best and largest cruise experiences in the region.  They offer more and wider itineraries;

Some Princess cruise ships have permission to sail in the Glacier Bay National Park.

While Carnival does offer cruises to Alaska, it’s not what they are best known for.

Carnival or Princess Cruises for Formal Nights

If you enjoy dressing smart for formal nights and like to see other guests dressing up too, then Princess would suit you better.  Carnival has a more relaxed dress code on formal nights, and some passengers may not dress up.

Is Princess Better Than Carnival for Families?

Both cruise lines are ideal for families. If you are a large family group who likes to enjoy yourself and not be conscious of whether you are making too much noise, then Carnival is the better option as the ships are generally a lot louder and crowded with other people also in fun mode.

Princess cruises are great for families, but they are generally calmer and quieter. 

Is Princess Cruise Better Than Carnival for Seniors?

In general, Princess cruises, passengers are typically a lot older than those sailing with Carnival, especially outside of the summer vacation months when there will be many more passengers in the 50 to 70 years of age range.

Carnival or Princess Cruises for the Caribbean?

The majority of the Carnival cruise itineraries are well known for Caribean cruises, especially with their affordable budget prices. 

Princess or Carnival – Which is Best for You?

Out of Carnival and Princess Cruises, there is no definite winner. It depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a cruise, including factors we have covered above, where you want to go, your budget, food tastes, and the level of partying you are looking for.

However, if I had to summarize a Carnival Princess Cruise line comparison:

Princess is probably a better fit if you want a more luxurious experience .

Carnival is the way to go if you’re looking to save money and party hard.

Either way, rest assured you are in good company with both cruise lines.

Have you traveled on Carnival and Princess cruises? 

If so, feel free to share your opinions and insights in the comments.

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Who Owns Your Favorite Cruise Line? Cruise Operators Guide

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered who owns your favorite cruise line.

It’s fascinating to peek behind the screen and learn who owns your favorite brands. It’s like discovering that Lamborghini is owned by Volkswagen or Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is owned by Unilever.

You might be surprised to find that the same holds true in the cruise industry.

There are three major cruise companies that dominate the industry.

The big three are:

• Carnival Corporation & plc

Royal Caribbean Group

• Norwegian Cruise Line

Combined, these three companies make up almost 75% of the cruise industry traffic.

But, there are several independent cruise lines, such as MSC Cruises and Virgin Voyages.

Read below to find out who owns your favorite cruise line.

Table of Contents

Carnival Corporation & PLC

Carnival Corporation is the largest cruise operator, employing over a hundred ships across nine cruise lines.

Around 50% of cruise passengers sail with a Carnival-owned each year. And the company’s namesake, Carnival Cruise Line, is the largest cruise line in the world by passenger volume.

The company owns mainstream cruise lines like Carnival, Princess, and Holland America. Along with the luxurious Cunard Line and ultra-luxury line Seabourn.

Additionally, Carnival owns brands that cater to specific markets. Costa Cruises caters to the Italian market, AIDA is for the German market, and there’s P&O UK and P&O Australia.

The following cruise lines are owned by Carnival Corporation & PLC:

• Carnival Cruise Line
• Costa Cruises
• Cunard Line
• Holland America Line
• P&O Cruises
• P&O Cruises Australia
• Princess Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean Group is the second-largest cruise corporation. Their portfolio of cruise lines serves around 25% of cruise passengers every year.

The parent company began with its namesake cruise line, Royal Caribbean International. ( Source )

Like Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean acquired several independent cruise lines beginning with Celebrity Cruises in 1997.

Celebrity Cruises provides what could best be described as big ship luxury. The line offers passengers an upscale yet traditional form of cruising.

In 2007, Royal Caribbean Group spun a new cruise line out of Celebrity Cruises named Azamara. The new line was comprised of smaller ships with a heavy emphasis on the destinations.

Royal Caribbean sold Azamara in 2021 to the private investment group Sycamore Partners.

In 2018, Royal Caribbean purchased a majority stake in ultra-luxury cruise line Silversea Cruises before completing the acquisition in July 2020.

The parent company also has a stake in TUI Cruises for the German market.

The following cruise lines are owned by Royal Caribbean Group:

• Celebrity Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International
• Silversea Cruises
• TUI Cruises (50% stake)

Norwegian Cruise Lines Holdings LTD.

Norwegian Cruise Line is the smallest of the “big three” cruise operators.

Despite its size, the brand operates three popular lines; Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas.

Norwegian Cruise Line is best known for their casual, “freestyle” approach to cruising.

They are popular for having no formal nights, no set dining times, and their popular “Free at Sea” promotions.

Their other two lines, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas offer ultra-luxury sailings. Both cruise lines feature smaller ships with upscale menus, inclusive pricing, opulent decor, and immersive experiences.

The following cruise lines are owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.:

• Oceania Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas

Independent Cruise Lines

A handful of cruise lines are independent – in the sense that they are not operated by a large cruise operator and are independent of other cruise lines.

For example, MSC Cruises is owned by MSC Group. MSC Group is a global shipping operator, but they don’t control more than one cruise line.

In the same sense, Disney Cruise Line is owned by Disney. But it’s independent of other cruise lines.

Virgin Voyages is a newcomer to the cruise industry. They are owned by a joint venture between Virgin Group and Bain Capital.

The following cruise lines are not associated with a major cruise line operator:

• Disney Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises
• Virgin Voyages

Who Owns What Cruise Line?

Who owns carnival cruise line.

Carnival Cruise Line is owned by Carnival Corporation & plc . Carnival Corporation is the largest cruise operator serving almost half of the yearly global cruise market.

Who Owns Royal Caribbean International?

Royal Caribbean International is owned by Royal Caribbean Group . Royal Caribbean Group is the world’s second-largest cruise operator after Carnival Corporation & plc.

Who Owns Princess Cruises?

Princess Cruises is owned by Carnival Corporation & plc . They merged with Carnival on April 17, 2003, in a deal worth US$5.4 billion.

Who Owns Celebrity Cruises?

Celebrity Cruises is owned by Royal Caribbean Group . The cruise line was acquired by Royal Caribbean Group in 1977. The parent company was formed as a holding company to keep both brands separate.

Who Owns Norwegian Cruise Line?

Norwegian Cruise Line is owned by Norwegian Cruise Lines Holdings LTD . The parent company is the world’s third-largest cruise operator after Carnival Corporation & plc and Royal Caribbean Group.

Who Owns MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises is owned by the Mediterranean Shipping Company, MSC . MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately owned cruise line, accounting for around 6.5% of global passenger volume. ( Source )

Who Owns Holland America Line?

Holland America Line is owned by Carnival Corporation & plc . The cruise line was purchased by Carnival Corp in 1989.

Who Owns Disney Cruise Line?

Disney Cruise Line is owned by The Walt Disney Company . The subsidiary was created in 1996 as  Magical Cruise Company Limited .

Who Owns Virgin Voyages?

Virgin Voyages is owned as a joint venture between Virgin Group and Bain Capital .

Who Owns Viking Cruises?

Viking, formerly Viking Cruises, is owned by Norwegian billionaire Torstein Hagen . The cruise line has three divisions, Viking River Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Viking Expeditions.

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All 16 Princess Cruises Ships, From Newest to Oldest

Here’s everything you need to know about the Princess Cruises fleet.

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Sailors of all ages love Princess Cruises for its quality, service, value, and serene style of cruising.  What’s more, the 2023 T+L World’s Best Award-winning mega-ship line   — which is also a WBA Hall of Fame Honoree — tends to steer clear of splashy entertainment (for example, you won’t find go-karts, water slides, or ziplines on board most ships) in favor of more refined activities. Discovery at SEA programming is a standout offering: In partnership with Discovery and Animal Planet, guests can partake in nature-centric onboard activities and shore excursions. Most Princess ships boast a majestic atrium modeled after an Italian piazza, and it’s here where you’ll find some of the best drinking, dining, and shopping venues on board. 

According to travel advisor and cruise specialist Jennaca Boose of Marvelous Mouse Travels , Princess’ fleet of 15 ships — 16 if you count the upcoming Sun Princess , which will make its long-anticipated debut this year — is family-friendly, and each vessel is “equipped to entertain all ages;” however, some cater towards specific age demographics better than others. For example, she says, travelers sailing with younger children will especially love Royal Princess and Regal Princess , which “have even more to offer” beyond the kids club, such as “outdoor play areas with jungle gyms and a separate teen space with a hot tub.” Meanwhile, says Boose, cruisers craving an intimate onboard experience may consider sailing aboard Coral Princess or Island Princess , which are two of the line’s smaller ships. 

Finally, it’s also worth noting that the line ​​offers dozens, if not hundreds, of itineraries across the globe, including Alaska, Mexico, Japan, the Mediterranean, and many more. “Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or an immersive cultural itinerary,” says Boose, “Princess has a ship for you.” Without further ado, keep scrolling for a breakdown of each ship in the Princess Cruises fleet to help you narrow down which vessels would be best for you. 

Related: 21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

Sun Princess

Inaugural Year: 2024

Ship Class: Sphere

Ship Capacity: 4,300 guests

The inaugural ship in Princess' new Sphere class, Sun Princess is the line's largest — and flashiest — vessel to date. Set to sail the Mediterranean and Caribbean, this 20-deck mega-ship is sure to make waves following its early 2024 debut. The Park19 family zone will offer nine fun-filled activities, including the Sea Breeze (the first Rollglider at sea), The Lookout (an open-air observation deck), and Coastal Climb (a climbing structure for adventure enthusiasts of all ages). There’s also a two-deck arena, the multi-level Dome entertainment space, and the brand-new Spellbound, a Victorian-themed bar where guests can watch magicians while sipping theatrical cocktails.

Discovery Princess

Inaugural Year: 2022

Ship Class: Royal

Ship Capacity: 3,660 guests

For an elegant onboard experience complete with world-class specialty dining that’ll entice any gourmand, spectacular live entertainment in the lavish Princess Theater, and the largest balconies at sea (spanning over 1,000 square feet) found in one of the ship’s splurge-worthy Sky Suites, look no further than Princess’ final Royal-class ship. Spend sea days soaking up the sun — and the ocean views — by the infinity Wake View Pool.

Enchanted Princess

Inaugural Year: 2021

The elegant Enchanted Princess is a haven for relaxation-seekers with four sparkling pools (including the infinity-edge Wake View Pool), 10 hot tubs, and a serene spa offering Asian-inspired treatments. For the ultimate splurge, reserve one of the sprawling Sky Suites, best known for their expansive balconies offering 270-degree sea views. Other honorable mentions include the Sanctuary, Discovery at SEA, movie screenings under the stars, and the SeaWalk, a 60-foot-long glass-enclosed hallway with floor-to-ceiling ocean vistas.

Sky Princess

Inaugural Year: 2019

The snazzy Sky Princess made its grand debut in 2019; fast-forward five years later, and the ship has retained its allure. The three-story atrium is the beating heart of the ship, dotted with shops, bars, and restaurants galore. Check out Chef’s Table Lumiere, or try your luck at the casino for the ultimate splurge. Finally, for the best ocean views, book one of the Sky Suites.

Majestic Princess

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Inaugural Year: 2017

Ship Capacity: 3,560 guests

This Royal-class ship was initially designed for cruises from Shanghai, which means passengers can expect Chinese-inspired decor along with the fantastic specialty restaurant, Harmony, which features mouthwatering Asian menu items like wok-fried lobster, spring rolls, and more. Also unique to Majestic Princess is the adults-only Hollywood Pool Club, a perfect spot for grown-ups looking to soak in style. Meanwhile, don’t miss the dazzling casino and incredible SeaWalk, where panoramic ocean views await.

Regal Princess

Inaugural Year: 2014

This 2014 mega-ship definitely delivers in terms of onboard attractions. A few fan favorites include movies under the stars (best enjoyed with popcorn and candy in hand, of course), original productions, an outdoor musical fountain show, and Princess Live!, where passengers will find interactive culinary shows along with late-night comedy and game shows that can be viewed in-person or from the comfort of one’s stateroom. Last but not least, don’t forget to snap a selfie on the SeaWalk.

Royal Princess

Inaugural Year: 2013

Prepare to receive the royal treatment (pun intended) aboard the 3,560-passenger Royal Princess . The ship’s dazzling common spaces, including the grand atrium and the SeaWalk, are sure to impress design lovers, while the drinking and dining options, including the extravagant Chef’s Table Lumiere — available only on Royal-class ships — will delight culinary connoisseurs of all ages. 

Ruby Princess

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Class: Crown

Ship Capacity: 3,080 guests

Entertainment options abound on the 19-deck Ruby Princess , from movies under the stars and basketball to golfing and (hopefully) winning big at the casino. While party-going cruisers can dance ‘til the wee hours of the night at Skywalkers, serenity-seeking travelers may choose to hit the sack early before waking up to enjoy the spa or The Sanctuary.

Emerald Princess

Inaugural Year: 2007

Last refurbished in 2019, Emerald Princess features something for families of all ages, including  reimagined Camp Discovery youth and teen centers and the serene Sanctuary, a kid-free slice of paradise in the middle of the sea. Passengers can also perfect their swing at the putting course, enjoy poolside movie screenings, unwind at one of several swanky bars and lounges, including the Speakeasy Cigar Lounge, hit the spa, or dance the night away at the onboard club. In summary, it’s pretty much impossible to be bored on this ship.

Crown Princess

Inaugural Year: 2006

Despite its 3,000-plus passenger capacity , Crown Princess never feels super crowded thanks to abundant onboard amenities and activities. Highlights include three main dining rooms, a three-story atrium, and, of course, ample activities and programming, which run the gamut from basketball courts and pajama movie nights for kids to karaoke and an onboard nightclub.

Diamond Princess

Inaugural Year: 2004

Ship Class: Grand

Ship Capacity: 2,670 guests 

Best known for its Asia itineraries, Diamond Princess is sure to wow cruisers of all ages with its unique onboard features. Wellness-seekers need not miss the Izumi Japanese Bath, where guests can enjoy a traditional Japanese bathing experience coupled with breathtaking ocean views. There’s also the adults-only Sanctuary sun deck, Broadway-caliber entertainment, ample restaurants (including five main dining rooms), a nightclub, and so much more.

Caribbean Princess

Ship Capacity: 3,140 guests

This massive 18-deck ship was last refurbished in 2019 to bring it up to par with the line’s latest vessels. The European-inspired piazza , boasting street performers, eclectic boutiques, restaurants and bars, and a striking spiral staircase, is the beating heart of the ship. Plus, as part of the line’s partnership with Discovery, guests can enjoy nature-filled activities and lectures.

Sapphire Princess

Ship Capacity: 2,670 guests

Those craving a traditional cruising experience need not look further than the 20-year-old Sapphire Princess . With an onboard nightclub, five main dining rooms (plus many other bars and lounges, including a cigar lounge), this 2,670-passenger ship is among the line’s buzziest. After dancing the night away, adults can spend the day relaxing at The Sanctuary, while families will surely appreciate the dedicated spaces for kids, tweens, and teens.

Island Princess

Inaugural Year: 2003

Ship Class: Coral

Ship Capacity: 2,200 guests

Island Princess was purposefully built to sail through the Panama Canal. This 2,200-guest, 20-plus-year-old ship offers a more refined onboard experience compared to the line’s newer, flashier vessels. Sea days are well spent at the spa, in swimming pools, or sipping cocktails in the massive atriums; come nighttime, watch movies under the stars (a Princess staple) or catch live musical performances before hitting the sack — and getting ready to do it all again the following day.

Coral Princess

Ship Capacity: 2,000 guests 

Coral Princess is Princess’ smallest ship; however, there is still plenty to see, do, and experience on board. Guests can make themselves right at home in the piazza-style grand atrium, where prime people-watching awaits. For some R&R, grown-ups can head to the tranquil, adults-only Sanctuary while the kids are at play at the children’s centers.

Grand Princess

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Capacity: 2,600 guests

Princess’ oldest ship underwent a major renovation back in 2019, adding fan-favorite restaurants like Alfredo's Pizzeria, Salty Dog Grill, and Coffee & Cones. Catch a Broadway-style show, relax at The Sanctuary, or partake in nature-centric activities as part of the line’s Discovery at SEA programming.

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5 Companies Owned by Carnival Corp. (CCL)

Cruise brands for passenger segments such as ultra-luxury, luxury, and premium

Carnival Corp. ( CCL ) is a global cruise line. It operates as a dual-listed company with Carnival Plc (CCL.L), but the two separate legal entities function as a single economic entity through contractual agreements. Shares of CCL are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) while shares of CCL.L are traded on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) . The company offers cruise vacations through a range of brands that operate in various geographic locations throughout North America, Europe, and Australia. Its brands cater to different price points, lifestyles and cultures as well as entertainment and vacation preferences. Carnival posted a net gain of $1.96 billion on revenue of $21.59 billion in fiscal year (FY) 2023, which ended Nov. 30, 2023. The  market cap  of CCL was $19.49 billion and that of CCL.L was $13.57 billion, as of May 15, 2024.

Carnival's leading brand is Carnival Cruise Line, which was founded in 1972 by entrepreneur Ted Arison. Carnival Cruise Line was initially formed as part of a subsidiary of American International Travel Service (AITS). The company started out with a single used trans-Atlantic ocean liner that it converted into a cruise liner and renamed the Mardi Gras.

In 1974, Arison purchased Carnival Cruise Line for $1 and the assumption of AITS' debt of $5 million. At that point, the cruise line was still a small-time operator struggling to survive. But it managed to steadily grow in size and popularity, and went public in 1987 through an initial public offering (IPO) . The cash raised in the IPO provided the company with the capital needed to continue expanding through acquisitions. The company, which was renamed Carnival Corp. in the early 1990s, has since built a portfolio of globally-recognized cruise brands. Below, we look in more detail at five of those brands.

Holland America Line N.V.

• Type of Business: Cruise Line
• Acquisition Price: $625 million
• Acquisition Date: November 1988 (announced)

Holland America Line traces its origins to the founding of a shipping and passenger line called Netherlands-American Steamship Co. in 1873. In the first 25 years since its founding, the company owned a fleet of six cargo and passenger ships that it operated between Holland and the Dutch East Indies. The company would become known over time as the Holland America Line due to its being headquartered in the Dutch city of Rotterdam. In 1989, Carnival Cruise Line formally acquired the company, reinforcing its position as the largest cruise line in terms of the number of passengers. The Holland America Line now operates a fleet of 11 ships cruising to over 425 ports in more than 100 countries.

Seabourn Cruise Line Ltd.

• Type of Business: Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line
• Acquisition Price: $15 million (initial 25% stake); $10 million (additional 25% stake); unknown amount (remaining 50% stake in 1998)
• Acquisition Date: 1992 (25% stake); 1995-1996 (25% stake); 1998-1999 (remaining 50% stake)

Seabourn Cruise Line was founded in 1988 with the launch of the 208-passenger Seabourn Pride. The idea for the cruise line originated two years earlier among a small group of luxury hospitality and cruising executives looking to reinvent luxury cruising. When the Seabourn Pride was first launched, it offered: spacious all-suite accommodations; public spaces designed for relaxed socializing; and a stern designed like a private beach resort. Just four years later in 1992, Carnival agreed to purchase a 50% stake in Seabourn via two separate ten-year loans of $15 million and $10 million. With the $15 million loan Carnival acquired an initial 25% stake in Seabourn. The second loan for $10 million secured an additional 25% stake in late 1995. In 1998, the company purchased the remaining 50% stake in Seabourn. At the same time, Carnival acquired Cunard Line Ltd. and combined it with Seabourn. Today, Seabourn operates a fleet of three 458-passenger and two 600-passenger ships offering an ultra-luxury cruising experience in over 400 destinations globally.

• Acquisition Price: approx. $141 million (for initial 50% stake), part of $270 million joint purchase price with Airtours Plc; approx. $515 million (remaining stake)
• Acquisition Date: 1997 (initial 50% stake); 2000 (remaining stake)

Costa made its first voyage from Genoa to Buenos Aires in 1948 with a trans-Atlantic liner named the "Anna C". By the 1960s, the Italy-based company was Europe's largest cruise line. Costa was jointly acquired in 1997 by Carnival and Airtours, each of the two companies purchasing a respective 50% stake. Three years later, Carnival purchased the remaining stake in Costa from Airtours for approximately $515 million. The acquisition of Costa bolstered Carnival's presence in the fast-growing European market. Carnival is now the parent company of both Costa Cruise Lines and AIDA Cruises. Today, Costa operates a fleet of 12 ships and visits over 260 ports around the world. AIDA leads the German-speaking cruise market and currently operates a fleet of 13 cruise ships.

Cunard Line Ltd.

• Type of Business: Luxury Cruise Line
• Acquisition Price: $500 million (initial 68% stake); $205 million (remaining stake)
• Acquisition Date: 1998 (initial 68% stake); 1999 (remaining 32% stake)

The Cunard Line was founded in 1840 by war veteran and timber merchant Samuel Cunard. It started out providing mail service in Canada's maritime region before eventually expanding its services across the Atlantic and establishing itself as an international shipping company. During the 1880s, Cunard transported more than one million of the 2.5 million people seeking to settle in the U.S. The company continued to grow and expand over the next century. Cunard was operating five luxury cruise ships by 1998, the year Carnival and a group of investors purchased its operating assets for $500 million. Carnival acquired a 68% interest in the cruise line and consolidated it with Seabourn, of which the company had simultaneously purchased the remaining stake. In 1999, Carnival purchased the remaining 32% stake in Cunard in a deal worth $205 million. The purchase of Cunard, the largest luxury cruise operator in the world at the time, made Carnival the largest cruise company in the world. Cunard currently operates four luxury cruise vessels.

P&O Cruises

• Acquisition Price: approx. $7.3-$7.8 billion
• Acquisition Date: April 2003

P&O Cruises was founded in 1837 as the Peninsular & Oriental Steam Navigation Co. While the company started out primarily transporting mail, it went on to offer its first leisure cruise from London to the Mediterranean in 1844. Cruising would gradually grow in popularity and become a more regular activity by the mid-1880s. In 2003, the company's cruise operations, known as P&O Princess Cruises Plc, were acquired by Carnival for between $7-$8 billion. The acquisition included Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, P&O Cruises Australia, and tour operator Princess Tours. The merger between the two companies led to the formation of the dual-listed company – Carnival Corp. and Carnival Plc – discussed in the introduction above. It made Carnival into the first global cruise company. Today, Carnival operates P&O as two separate brands: P&O Cruises (U.K.), which operates a fleet of six premium ships; and P&O Cruises (Australia), which operates a fleet of three ships.

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Los Angeles Times. " Carnival to Acquire P&O; Princess Cruises ."

P&O Cruises. " P&O History ."

Carnival Corp. " 2003 Annual Report ." Page 2.

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MSC Cruises to bring a 2nd ship to Port Canaveral

P ort Canaveral’s cruise ship plate is getting bigger with the announcement Thursday that MSC Cruises will bring in a second ship for the first time starting next year.

MSC Grandiosa will begin seven-night Caribbean itineraries in December 2025 for the winter sailing season while MSC Seashore remains, but sailing short three- and four-night Bahamas sailings to Nassau and the cruise line’s private island Ocean Cay.

It’s the largest MSC ship yet to sail from the port. The Meraviglia Plus-class vessel is among the top 20 largest cruise ships worldwide at 181,541 gross tons and a maximum passenger capacity of 6,334. It debuted in 2019 and features a water park, five pools, nine hot tubs, spa, the MSC Yacht Club exclusive area and a Lego partnership in its kids clubs.

One of the more dramatic features is the 323-foot-long Galleria Grandiosa promenade with an LED projection screen over the length of the walkway. The ship features 10 restaurants including the Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Kaito Sushi, Kaito Tepanyaki and L’Atelier Bistrot.

This is its first time taking on North American duties, and its arrival coincides with the debut out of PortMiami of the MSC World America, which will be even larger.

“The Winter 2025-2026 season will mark our largest presence in the U.S. to date, and our expansion at Port Canaveral is a big part of that,” said MSC Cruises USA President Rubén A. Rodríguez in a press release. “We know people sailing from Central Florida want options, and we’re delighted to offer them two of our most modern and glamorous ships with itineraries that will appeal to everyone from first-time to seasoned cruisers.”

MSC first began sailing from the port in 2021, joining mainstays Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian. It has shuffled several ships for short runs for what Rodríguez said was a taste of what MSC has to offer. That has included MSC Divina, MSC Meraviglia and MSC Seashore.

The family-owned cruise line has its roots in Europe, so the line plays up its “unique international flavor” compared with the other lines, while also touting its environmental efforts such as can be found on the private Bahamas island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. It is undergoing a major expansion effort to support excursions and on-island activities.

MSC Grandiosa will trade off alternating eastern and western Caribbean itineraries. Eastern trips will visit Nassau and Ocean Cay, Bahamas; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands. Western trips will visit Nassau; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; George Town, Cayman Islands; Montego Bay and Falmouth, Jamaica; and Belize City, Belize.

“We are honored that MSC Cruises chose Port Canaveral for the North American debut of their magnificent MSC Grandiosa,” said Port Canaveral CEO John Murray in the release. “Expanding their homeport fleet at Port Canaveral underscores their confidence in our partnership and shared commitment to success.”

The growing port for a time took on the title of world’s busiest cruise port after the pandemic, and while PortMiami has since retaken that title, Port Canaveral continues to expand its ship offerings.

The last sailing season saw 16 ships that either homeported year-round or sailed seasonally, and it expects that number to grow to 19 for the 2024-2025 sailing season, including the debuts of Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises this fall.

©2024 Orlando Sentinel. Visit orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Princess is launching an all-inclusive, 4-month, around-the-world cruise for $20,000— see what it'll be like

• Princess Cruises announced a 114-day  world cruise to 52 destinations in 2026, starting at $20,000 per person. 
• Guests who book early would get a free, all-inclusive package, a first for Princess' global itineraries.
• Extended and all-inclusive cruises have emerged as big trends in the vacation industry.

Princess Cruise's new around-the-world voyage will hit two vacation trends in one itinerary.

In January 2026, the company says its Coral Princess will embark on a 114-day cruise to 52 ports in 28 countries and six continents — more destinations than any of its previous global sailings .

It's the Carnival Corp brand's latest appeal to the extended cruising trend . But it's not the only fad this four-month vacation is targeting.

The sailing, which starts at $20,000 per person, also marks the first time Princess is offering a complimentary all-inclusive package as a way to entice early bookings.

Ultra-long and all-inclusive cruises have emerged as big trends in the industry.

Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, and Oceania's 2024 around-the-world cruises all sold out before departing in January. The former was fully booked within three hours, while every cabin on the latter was called for in 30 minutes.

Besides being high-end, these three companies share one commonality: some level of all-inclusiveness , as is common with premium cruise lines.

Mass-market cruise companies rarely go the all-inclusive route.

Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian are generally beloved for their affordability.

But if you want to experience all their ships have to offer, be prepared to face a list of up-charged amenities like pay-to-play rides and specialty restaurants . After all, there's a reason their base fares are much cheaper than their increasingly popular ultra-luxury, all-inclusive counterparts.

But Princess has been increasingly vying for a slice of the luxury cruiser pie.

The cruise line says guests who book its 2026 world cruise early (that is, by the end of October) will receive its most inclusive Princess Premier package for free. The perk — launched two years ago — covers amenities that typically have a fee, like WiFi, premium drinks, some specialty restaurants, and workout classes.

Travelers who reserve one of the ship's high-end cabins by the same deadline would also receive complimentary airport transfers and airfare, services normally exclusively offered by luxury cruise lines .

The itinerary would have two roundtrip embarkation options: Fort. Lauderdale, Florida, on January 5, 2026, or Los Angeles 16 days later.

From there, the 2,000-guest Coral Princess would sail more than 35,000 nautical miles to ports in North America, the Pacific Islands, New Zealand and Australia, Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, and Central and South America.

It wouldn't be Princess' longest voyage — that title goes to its 116-day world cruise in 2025 — but it would be one of its most destination-heavy.

While two days longer, next year's around-the-world cruise would hit six fewer ports and four fewer countries than its 2026 counterpart.

According to the itinerary, about half of the 2026 voyage consists of sea days.

That's a lot of time on the water with no land in sight. Luckily, travelers can keep themselves entertained by attending lectures and programs related to the destinations, leisuring around the adult-only lounge, or taking a dip in Coral Princess' four pools.

The 21-year-old ship also has 10 places to grab a bite, although the Italian and steakhouse restaurants are considered specialty. Premier is the cruise line's most inclusive package, but it only includes 16 free dinners at these upcharge restaurants, paced once a week.

Princess is still a mass-market cruise line, after all.

The company has been increasingly dangling its inclusive package as a big perk.

The company says its two-month-old Sun Princess will debut in the US in October with its first-ever Sanctuary Collection . Travelers who splurge on these expensive and luxurious accommodations would be rewarded with two major benefits: a private lounge and Princess Premier.

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Princess cruises to sail largest-ever europe cruise and cruisetour season in 2026.

New Sun Princess One of Five to Sail Region 

Season Also Features Total Solar Eclipse Cruise - Return to Copenhagen – Plus New Roundtrip Rome Itineraries

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. , May 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises is going big in Europe for 2026. The "Love Boat" line today announced that its 2026 European cruise and cruisetour season will be its biggest ever, with five Princess cruise ships sailing the region, including the sensational new Sun Princess. Set to sail on a record-breaking 222 cruises, guests will have unparalleled opportunities to explore the beauty and diversity of Europe .

Running March through November 2026 , the European season features 59 unique itineraries, visiting 101 destinations across 29 countries, ranging from five to 42 nights. Highlights of the upcoming season include an opportunity to experience the 2026 total solar eclipse; sail on the newest Princess ship – Sun Princess; the return of roundtrip cruises from Copenhagen and new itineraries from Rome . The robust season goes on sale May 23, 2024 .

"There's incredible demand for European vacations and we don't see that slowing down anytime soon," said Terry Thornton , chief commercial officer for Princess Cruises. "Guests should book early as our best pricing will be when these cruises first go on sale. Our 2026 season delivers the best of Europe with incredible voyages visiting a mix of marquee ports, as well as smaller, off-the-beaten-path spots offering guests their very own personalized journey."

2026 Europe Highlights Sun Princess , the next-level Love Boat from Princess, will sail 7-, 14- and 21-night Mediterranean voyages departing from Civitavecchia ( Rome ), Piraeus ( Athens ), and Barcelona . Guests on a 14- and 21-night voyage can enjoy an itinerary without calling to the same port twice for a Grand Mediterranean Adventure .

Itinerary Sample: A seven-night Mediterranean voyage sails roundtrip from Piraeus ( Athens ) to Barcelona , calling at Santorini, Kotor, Corfu, and Messina ( Sicily ).

The newest Princess ship is a true engineering marvel, offering an extraordinary cruise experience with not-to-be-missed culinary, entertainment and luxury accommodations. Sun Princess debuts new eye-catching experience venues including The Dome, a groundbreaking geodesic, glass-enclosed structure at the top of the ship inspired by the terraces of Santorini. The outward and suspended Sphere Atrium, the namesake of this new class of ship, takes the central Piazza hub of the ship into a new dimension. With 30 inviting restaurant and bar venues with an unprecedented collection of celebrity collaborators, high-end ingredients and culinary experiences, Sun Princess has something for every guest to love.

The 3,660-guest Sky Princess will return for its sixth year to home port in Southampton . Sky Princess takes guests on itineraries ranging from seven to 28 nights to destinations including Northern Europe , the Canary Islands, and the Mediterranean.

On August 12, 2026 , Sky Princess will sail directly into the "path of totality" on a special 14-night Total Solar Eclipse Cruise which also visits France , Spain and Portugal . The cruise departs Southampton August 8, 2026 .

NEW  for 2026 is a 28-night Northern Europe and Mediterranean itinerary sailing roundtrip Southampton and calling to Skagen, Copenhagen , Warnemunde (for Berlin ), Stockholm (overnight), Helsinki , Tallinn , Visby, Zeebrugge (for Brussels /Bruges), Southampton , Vigo, Cadiz (for Seville ), Malaga, Cartagena, Gibraltar , Lisbon , Bilbao , Le Verdon (for Bordeaux ). Departs September 12, 2026 .

NEW for 2026, the 3,660-guest Enchanted Princess offers Mediterranean itineraries roundtrip from Civitavecchia ( Rome ), ranging from five, seven, eight, and 14-nights.

Itinerary Sample: A seven-night Mediterranean & Adriatic sailing roundtrip Rome (Civitavecchia) to Dubrovnik, Kotor and Corfu.

For the first time-ever, the 3,560-guest Majestic Princess is sailing roundtrip from Southampton , offering British Isles and Northern Europe itineraries ranging from 11, 12 and 14 nights. British Isles voyages take guests to historic ports across England , Wales , Ireland , Northern Ireland and Scotland , while the Northern Europe itineraries include stops in Scandinavia, Iceland , the Netherlands , Germany , and Belgium .

Itinerary Sample: A 14-night Northern Europe cruise visits Haugesund ( Norway ), Skjolden/Sognefjord ( Norway ), Olden/Nordfjord ( Norway ), Aalesund ( Norway ), Reykjavik ( Iceland ), Isafjordur ( Iceland ), Akureyri ( Iceland ).

Princess Cruises returns to Copenhagen after six years with the 2,670-guest Sapphire Princess , providing 12-night Northern Europe itineraries.

Itinerary Sample: Visits to Skagen, Oslo , Gdynia, Klaipeda, Riga , Tallinn , Helsinki , Nynashamn (for Stockholm ), and Visby.

Prior to sailing from Copenhagen , Sapphire Princess sails in the Mediterranean for two months between March and April 2026 , from Barcelona , plus itineraries sailing roundtrip from Civitavecchia ( Rome ).

Cruisetours: Guests can combine a Europe cruise with multiple days on land to experience more of the region with five cruisetours to choose from. Guests can choose to sightsee in the cosmopolitan city of Madrid on the Highlights of Spain cruisetour, visit Florence and Rome on the Classic Italy cruisetour, explore Mediterranean treasures on the Best of Greece cruisetour or take in the spectacular landscapes of Ireland on the Ring of Kerry cruisetour.

Grand Adventures and Passages: All five ships sail ultimate transatlantic crossings, offering voyages ranging between 14- and 29-nights.

More Ashore: 19 ports include 'More Ashore' late-night stays on select itineraries, and three ports provide overnight stays – Alta, Hamburg and Stockholm .

With Princess Plus and Premier inclusive packages guests enjoy the ultimate in savings by adding popular amenities like WiFi, beverages, fitness classes, crew gratuities and more at an even greater savings of up 65% when amenities are purchased separately.

Princess Captain's Circle members can take advantage of an early booking window starting May 16, 2024 , and are eligible for a special discount if booking before August 31, 2024 .

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com .

About Princess Cruises Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world's most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean , Alaska , Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe , South America , Australia / New Zealand , the South Pacific, Hawaii , Asia , Canada /New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK).

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/princess-cruises-to-sail-largest-ever-europe-cruise-and-cruisetour-season-in-2026-302141810.html

SOURCE Princess Cruises