complaints about princess cruises

Suggested companies

P&o cruises, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean cruises.

Princess Cruises   Reviews

In the Travel & Vacation category

Visit this website

Company activity See all

Write a review

Reviews 1.7.

Most relevant

Let down by very poor Customer Service

We have a Norway and Iceland Cruise booked for July. We have sailed with Princess before and had a lovely time but I doubt we would book again. The app, that they make such a fuss over, will not let us book any dining. An error message just keeps coming up, that no-one seems to know what it is. We have tried online chat numerous times, phoned customer services in the Philippines 3 times and emailed but have had no response or success it getting it rectified. Although this is only a dining problem it just wouldn't give me the confidence, that if any thing significant did go wrong, that there would be anyone to speak to, who could be bothered to help and sort it out. So I think this will be our last cruise with Princess

Date of experience : May 17, 2024

NOT ACCEPTABLE

Princess Cruise have cancelled our dining reservations ten days before sailing. We made these reservations ten weeks ago. Our chosen dining times are no longer available. Quite appalling level of service. I note 75% of reviewers have given Princess 1 star, that says it all.

Date of experience : May 07, 2024

Very poor customer service post cruise

Very poor customer service post cruise. I have had money debited from my bank card which does not match with my final medallion bill. They have taken 2 lots of money, one that matches the final bill and a second of £157 which I have no idea about. I rang customer services and they provided a telephone number that deals post cruise. Needless to say the number is not recognised. I have messaged on instagram but still waiting on a response 3 days later. Absolute jokers 🤬

Date of experience : May 05, 2024

Had to queue for 4 HOURS to board in…

Had to queue for 4 HOURS to board in Vancouver without chairs, food or water. I was crying with exhaustion. Ship left 2 hours late so huge queues for dinner. Light in our cabin would not turn off at night, served raw meatballs and am generally having a very miserable time.

Date of experience : April 29, 2024

PRINCESS Shameful change of Ports on expensive Mediterranern Cruise…

Received email from Princess that they are changing our itenerary on the Sun Princess on May 25 Cruise. Instead of going to Kotor Montenegro the ship will go to the SLEEPY Sea Side town of Bar Montenegro, At this time, Princess does not show any excursions for this port. Nor could we find any excursions on Viator, Trip Advisor, etc. All the You Tube Videos of Bar have no talking walking tour. Because there is nothing to see. Yet, we are in port for 11 hours! Princess lamed excuse is technical restrictions affecting water shuttle operations. Is there a problem with the water shuttles themselves. Princess could have chosen a more interesting port to replace Kotor. Simply put Bar is BORING.

Date of experience : April 24, 2024

Probably the worst in the industry to answer questions on anything

Probably the worst in the industry to get an answer or help from customer service. You are kept waiting for a very long time, put on hold in the blink of an eye and NEVER get answers from anyone. I had an issue and was told I would get a email response from them within 3-5 days. It has been two weeks. Don’t sail with them. If you have issues, forget it. You will never hear from them.

Date of experience : April 23, 2024

DON'T BOOK ON PRINCESS CRUISES

DON'T BOOK ON PRINCESS CRUISES Absolutely NO customer service before embarkation. AI.. generally stupidly useless.. OR a Phillipines "agent". You can hear household cacophony in background. I could not understand most of what was said. And when I could, the answer was scripted.. which is no answer at all. No help for the customer who needs to resolve any conflicts. You must wait until you embark on your cruise!!!! Loonngg lines to speak to Guest Services. And still they cannot provide answers. They only can say "that's what the computer report shows ". Terrible, callous disregard for the customer who has spent thousands of dollars on dream vacation.

Date of experience : April 05, 2024

£500 of Unauthorised Payments Taken

Since Returning from my Cruise, I have had nearly £500 debited from my bank account that I have no account of what this is for and is totally unauthorised. I have contacted Princess Cruises several tmes by phone, email and web contact form. No one is coming back to me, its a clear case of now we have your money, its your problem. Shocking Customer Service. Do Not give this Company Access to your debit / credit card !!

Date of experience : April 15, 2024

Formal dress code with ball caps and shorts?

We are currently on board of Sky Princess and extremely disappointed with the way administrators of the restaurant interpreting the Dress Code that clear defined in the pre-cruise recommendations. For Smart Casual: Guest attire should be in keeping with what they would wear to a nice restaurant at home. Skirts/dresses, slacks, blouses, and sweaters for women. Pants and collared or dress shirts for men. Pool or beach attire, shorts, ball caps or jeans with fraying and/or holes are not welcomed in the dining room. Shoes must be worn. For the Formal Nights: Evening gown, cocktail dress or elegant pant suit for women. Tuxedo, dark suit or dinner jacket and slacks for men. Unfortunately the administration allow people to come in ball caps and shorts even in Formal Nights. On our complaints they said that the company management do not allow them to stop people to come even if they are in breach of the dress code. One of the Administrators on my complaint said that he only can ask them to take off the caps. I said - Ok. He goes to their table but even without asking turned around and goes back... Another time I said to the Administrator that I actually want to stand up and go out rather than sit near person in shorts... I have spoken to many people on board and all of them filling uncomfortable with this interpretation of the dress code. It is not comfortable to sit in your tuxedo when near people sitting in shorts or ball caps. Company management should decide - either they enforce the rules or they should discard them completely. Next time we will think twice before make a booking for Princess cruise. I believe other people feel the same.

Date of experience : May 03, 2024

Excursions DON'T use their iwn

Excursions, do not use them for your trips. They do not plan ahead for public holidays, they cancel trips without telling you leaving you late to rearrange, they are often three fold more expensive, groups are too large thus hurried and they are not overly concerned with negative feedback. We use Viator or GetYourGuide for well priced smaller groups. Even better deals with same local Operators direct. eg MantaSOS on Ecuador. Some investigation required yet you'll get a more fulfilling experience.

Date of experience : March 28, 2024

We enjoyed the cruise for its…fun and satisfying experience.

We enjoyed the cruise for its organization, port punctuality, and the stellar service. The food options were fine for a medium tier cruise. We bought the Princess Plus package for all the bennies and top shelf alcohol. Well worth it! Entertainment didn’t disappoint. Don’t miss the production shows and comedy act's. Our cruise was Panama Canal. Feb 8 from fll. We only went on one excursion in Panama. The city walking tour. Good background history. Shout out for our cabin attendant Dennis. Outstanding with his attention to our cabin and personal needs. Osnaider from the casino was so cool. Thanks buddy. Mark and Glenn deserve 5 stars for their great service at Crown Grill! We’re definitely going back.

Date of experience : February 07, 2024

Do not let this company book your…

Do not let this company book your flights. They leave booking far too late, resulting in higher flight costs. Book the flights on your own. I have incurred over £1000 of additional flight costs due to this. I had even chased them and given instructions to book them as soon as they were available. I think the other reviews sum up this company’s thoughts about their customers. This is a £20000 cruise for us and the whole holiday is now tarnished. Thanks Princess!

Date of experience : March 01, 2024

Appalling lack of Customer Service

Booked a 2 week back to back Western & Eastern Caribbean cruise on Enchanted Princess starting 4th May 2025 plus various excursion at each port and had the excursion itinerary confirmed by Orincess early January. On checking the the itinerary 3 weeks before the cruise departure I noticed that 1 of the excursions had disappeared and that there had been no notification from Princess about it. I queried this through a web chat with a Princess employee who could not provide an answer but that it might be a 3rd party supplier who had cancelled the excursion. My response was that it was still Princess's responsibility and obligation to notify me as the contract was between myself and Princess. The employee said she would pass the query onto the relevant department but I stated that I wanted this registered and responded to as an official complaint. I was asked to put this in an email to her and she would forward it on which I did on 16th April. In my email I requested that Princess respond within 7 days to just advise me of the timescale to review and respond to the complaint. Any good company should have standard process times which they measure against for quality improvement. It is now 11 days on and I have received no communication from Princess. This leads to be believe that: a) They have read the email and ignored it - Appalling Customer Service. b) They have not bothered to read it and just deleted it - Appalling Customer Service c) They have so many complaints that it is stuck in a queue and they have not got around to reading it yet - Appalling Customer Service

Date of experience : April 16, 2024

I am stunned by the negative reports on here. We have been on 3 cruises and have 2 booked for this year with Princess. We have found them nothing but brilliant. The food, the berverage package, entertainment, the decor and the staff we would rate highly. Perhaps our expectations are not as high as others.

Date of experience : August 12, 2023

Food is really bad

Food is really bad, same food everyday. Very little vegetarian options. Worst bit is they closed dinning one day. So that they have more business on speciality restaurant. The food thirr restaurant suks. Carnival,Royal Caribbean have alot better food, entertainment and rooms. Rooms have lots of safety hazards.

Date of experience : January 30, 2024

Disappointing Experience with Princess Cruise Line

I recently embarked on a voyage with Princess Cruise Line on the Discovery Princess. While the ship itself was beautiful, my overall experience was disappointing and didn’t meet my expectations. The ship lacked a variety of activities for children. They had a multi-purpose court and two ping pong tables, but the equipment was worn down and in need of repair. They didn’t organize many outdoor activities, which was a letdown. The cabin was clean, and the stateroom staff was very friendly. They certainly contributed to making the stay more comfortable. The food, unfortunately, was only mediocre, even with the upgrade to selective restaurants. Dining always seemed to take a long time, regardless of the hour or how busy they were. The service was inconsistent, with some staff not being as friendly as expected. However, one restaurant stood out with stellar customer service, making us feel like valued customers. My biggest disappointment was with the communication from the cruise line and the value I was getting for my money. There were services included in our packages that we were unaware of, and it seemed we paid twice for some of the services. Even when we asked for clarification, the explanations were vague and not all benefits were thoroughly provided. There was also some incorrect information given by staff about available services. In the end, I was not happy with my overall experience. I would definitely try a different cruise line next time. I also wish I had done more research as I have since found many others complaining about the same issues with Princess Cruise Lines.

Date of experience : March 31, 2024

First and last cruise with Princess

Lovely ship. Plus & Premium package mis sold changes made after we had paid in full. Rude guest services staff. Lack of information about flight itinerary booked via Princess prior to departure. Excursions expensive and not enough time at main attractions. Too much up selling. Medallion App only works if bar staff record drinks properly. Had to constantly go to guest services to have charges removed.

Date of experience : September 23, 2023

The customer service is the worst ever

The customer service is the worst ever. There are 8 of us traveling together and they have tied our reservations together 4 times so it looks like 28 of us traveling together. When trying to book reservations for Dinner it wont let me because I am booking a table for 28. I have at this point been on the phone with customer service 3 times 3 different agents. 5 hours and nothing has been corrected. Its a NIGHTMARE!!!!

Date of experience : March 06, 2024

A brilliant cruise!

Our 21 day mediterranean cruise on Enchanted Princess was brilliant! Great service, fantastic food, our balcony suite was excellent and the entertainment was mostly top class, especially the Philippe Lavoipierre trio and the dance band. Our only gripe is that post-cruise service has been terrible! We had two simple requests in June and we still have heard nothing back.

Date of experience : May 06, 2023

Horrible service.

Horrible service. I need to include the correspondence history and write it out as it is a lot over multiple days but it is truely damning both in terms of their incompetence and lack of accountability and service.

Date of experience : April 04, 2024

Is this your company?

Claim your profile to access Trustpilot’s free business tools and connect with customers.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises |

Find a Cruise on Princess Cruises

with a cruise advisor

Cruising with Princess

Princess Cruises' claim to fame may be its starring role in the 1977 hit TV series "The Love Boat," but since its Hollywood debut, the cruise line has continued making waves with enriching onboard activities and versatile itineraries. Princess' 15-ship fleet traverses the globe, with popular sailings covering  Alaska ,  Mexico ,  Europe , Hawaii and the  Caribbean , among other locations. Princess Cruises' fleet, which departs from several U.S. cities, including  Los Angeles  and Fort Lauderdale, Florida , features both midsize ships and larger ships, so you can select your ship according to your style and size preferences.

Whatever ship you choose, you can count on a refined atmosphere and personalized service, with approximately one crew member per every two or three passengers. Cruises last between two and 116 days and feature everything from specialist-guided stargazing to stage shows to "Movies Under the Stars" poolside screenings.

When the ship docks, you can choose from a variety of shore excursions, including guided sightseeing tours in  Barcelona, Spain , and rum tastings in Barbados . Prefer extra time for land exploration? Select sailings offer Cruisetours, vacation packages that allow you to spend a few extra nights in a destination before or after your cruise.

Book a Princess Cruises cruise deal with GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Pros & Cons

Flexible dining times and a variety of culinary options

Wheelchair-accessible cabins available, with special features like lowered closet railings and bath distress alarms

Groups can coordinate their travel plans with Celebration Group packages

Some onboard amenities not covered by cruise rates

High-capacity ships can usher in heavy crowds

Shore excursions can be pricey

• Expert Rating » 3.8
• Traveler Rating » 4.0
• Health Rating » 4.3

Princess Cruises has been ranked based on an expert evaluation of the line's level of luxury, as well as an assessment of user reviews and health ratings.

• # 3 in Best Cruise Lines for the Money
• # 7 in Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean
• # 11 in Best Cruise Lines for Couples

Explore Photos

Princess Cruises Ships

Sky Princess

Regal Princess

Enchanted Princess

Grand Princess

Royal Princess

Discovery Princess

Ruby Princess

Crown Princess

Majestic Princess

Caribbean Princess

Emerald Princess

Coral Princess

Diamond Princess

Island Princess

Sapphire Princess

Before You Book

• Princess Cruises requires a 20% deposit for all cruises. Final payment is due 75 to 90 days before your departure date, depending on your specific cruise.
• Cancellation fees vary by cruise duration and whether or not you purchase the cruise line's Vacation Protection or Platinum Vacation Protection package. For voyages lasting 6 to 24 days, you'll receive a full refund if you cancel and notify Princess at least 90 days prior to your scheduled departure date. For voyages lasting 25 days or longer, you must notify Princess at least 120 days in advance for a full refund. For more information regarding cancellation penalties, visit Princess'  Passage Contract  page.
• With Princess Cruises' EZair program, you can view competitive airfare prices. Princess guarantees that you'll reach your cruise's next port for no additional cost if you miss your original departure port due to a flight delay or disruption. Note: Fees may apply if you change your original flight reservation fewer than 45 days before your scheduled departure date.
• To coordinate medical and special needs services, contact the Health Services Team at [email protected] before your departure date. Requests for special medical equipment, such as wheelchairs and scooters, must be noted when booking your cruise. You can bring your own equipment or reserve it through Special Needs at Sea. Guests should also fill out Princess' mobility questionnaire at least 60 days before departure. This form indicates which device(s) they will need during their cruise.

Before You Board

• For cruises that begin and end in the United States, you must present a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative-compliant document at check-in. Acceptable documents include your passport, a government-issued photo ID and a U.S. passport card. Travelers may also bring an original birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID for these "closed-loop" voyages. Princess strongly recommends you bring your passport in case you decide to disembark the ship before reaching your final destination. You will need a valid passport for international cruises, as well as a visa for select international port destinations.
• Vaccination requirements vary by cruise destination. Check the  World Health Organization (WHO)  and  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  websites for the necessary vaccines and current travel health notices.
• Travelers can check in for their cruise up to 75 days prior to embarkation through the MedallionClass app on their mobile device. From the app, you'll be able to upload all necessary information to help streamline the embarkation process on the day you leave. Cruisers who do not complete check-in through the app will check in on embarkation day (which will be a slower, more manual process). Visit Princess' website for more details.
• No quantity or weight limits apply for baggage, however, if you are arriving to your departure destination by plane, be sure to consult airline luggage policies before your trip.
• Shore excursions may be reserved from the time you book your cruise to five days before departure.  
• Reservations for specialty restaurants are suggested and can be made in advance through the MedallionClass mobile app.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

You Might Also Like

Celebrity Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

May We Suggest?

Is this it, how about this, search results.

Our reviewers evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

Princess Cruises Review

Saturday, May 18th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Princess Cruises
• Best for retirees
• 16 ships in the fleet
• Sails to destinations worldwide
• Choose between Standard (cruise-only) and Princess Plus (includes drink package, Wi-Fi, and "Crew Appreciation" gratuities) fares

Princess Cruises is a premium cruise line founded in 1965 and headquartered in Santa Clarita, California. The company operates a fleet of 16 ships that sail to destinations all over the world, including the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia. The company's ships range in size from the intimate Pacific Princess, which can accommodate just 670 passengers, to the larger Royal Princess, which can accommodate up to 3,560 passengers. Princess Cruises is a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, the world's largest leisure travel company.

Spring break in the Caribbean? No problem

Princess had no problem coming up with an itinerary for our across-cruise-lines comparison sailing, going to the Caribbean in March and booking a little less than a year ahead of time. There were 13 options, starting at $418 for a week-long sailing out of Ft. Lauderdale (either Eastern or Western Caribbean itineraries) and going up to a 20-day Caribbean Explorer itinerary with 13 ports, priced at $2,148 per person.

Upgrade to Princess Plus to get more included in your fare

How about gratuities? On Princess, it's called "Crew Appreciation" , and while it's adjustable it'll still be added automatically to your onboard account: $16 per guest per day for interior, oceanview and balcony cabins, $17pp per day for mini-suite and Reserve Collection guests, and $18pp per day in Suites. But, if you choose a "Princess Plus" fare at the time of booking, your gratuities have already been taken care of, along with a beverage package and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Choose when and where you'd like to eat every night

Princess Cruises is known for its excellent food and beverage offerings, with a range of dining options to suit all tastes and preferences. The company partners with renowned chefs such as Curtis Stone and Ernesto Uchimura to create menus that feature both classic and contemporary cuisine. Passengers can choose from a variety of dining options, including the main dining room, specialty restaurants, and casual eateries. Princess Cruises also offers a unique dining experience called "Anytime Dining," which allows passengers to choose when and where they want to dine each night.

Most guests are 50+

One of the biggest things to be aware of with Princess is the demographic. The average age of a Princess Cruises guest varies depending on the itinerary and time of year. In general, Princess cruises attract a diverse mix of passengers, ranging from families with children to retirees and solo travelers. However, on average, the majority of guests are over the age of 50. Many of the onboard activities, such as bridge and ballroom dancing, may be more popular with older passengers. Princess also attracts a significant number of repeat guests, many of whom are retirees. These guests often appreciate the line's longer itineraries and world cruises, which provide the opportunity to travel extensively while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a cruise ship.

Kids and young adults are welcome too

That doesn't mean that kids aren't welcome - or kept busy - when sailing on Princess. Families with children can take advantage of the line's Camp Discovery program, which provides age-appropriate activities and entertainment for kids and teens. The line also offers family-friendly shore excursions, such as snorkeling and beach trips.

Trying to appeal to wider range

In recent years, Princess Cruises has made efforts to appeal to a wider range of passengers, including families and younger adults. The line has introduced new dining options, such as the Salty Dog Gastropub and SHARE by Curtis Stone, which offer more casual and contemporary cuisine. Princess Cruises has also partnered with Discovery Communications to offer onboard programming, such as Shark Week at Sea and Discovery at Sea, which provide educational and immersive experiences for all ages.

Trustworthy cruise line

We have no concerns about recommending Princess as a trustworthy cruise line with an attractive variety of destinations and onboard experiences, from small-ship sailing to large-ship amenities. This is especially true if you're retired, because much of what the company offers is geared towards you and your peers. It'll be a little less appealing if you're traveling with children, but it's still worth a look as long as you know what you're getting (and what you're not).

More Cruise Line Reviews

• Royal Caribbean

• Disney Cruise Line

• Celebrity Cruises

• Virgin Voyages

• Viking Cruises

• Regent Seven Seas

• Norwegian Cruise Line

• Holland America

• MSC Cruises

• Carnival Cruises

The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

Compare Cruise Lines

Select any 2 Cruise Lines to compare them head to head

Trending Cruise Line News

TheStreet.com on MSN

Carnival Cruise Line answers bed bug 'infestation' accusation

Bed bugs on a cruise ship would be a significant problem because cabins are very tightly spaced and people are generally in close quarters. Just like the very rare cases where norovirus has spread on ...

  Thu, 16 May 2024

Cruise Hive

Carnival Cruise Line Celebrates 10 Millionth Guest From Galveston

Carnival Cruise Line marks a significant milestone as the first cruise line to hit 10 million passengers from Galveston, Texas.

Cruise lines, Las Vegas Strip, gamblers get good IRS news

A key rule that gamblers hate may finally change and that's good for Las Vegas, cruise lines, and regional casinos.

Carnival Cruise Line Cancels Sailings on Four Ships for Dry Dock

Carnival Cruise Line is cancelling multiple sailings in 2026 for new dry dock plans on four different ships from US homeports.

Cruise Fever

Cleanest Ships in 2024: Ranking Cruise Lines by Health Inspection ...

How have cruise ships scored with their health inspections in 2024 so far?  We examined every CDC inspection report to get an average score for each cruise line, in addition to revealing how each ship ...

Cruise Industry News

Carnival Cruise Line: 10 Million Guests From Galveston

Carnival Cruise Line announced it has further solidified its position as the market leader in Galveston, Tex., becoming the first cruise operator to embark 10 m ...

Related Cruise Line Reviews

Since you're interested in Cruise Lines, here are some other reviews you might find interesting.

Cruise Vacation Sites

What's the best place to book a cruise vacation? You've finally got some time off, and you've decided you want the full-experience: sailing, relaxing, and new and exciting ...

Luggage Stores

Which luggage store is the best? Luggage is something that everyone will need at some point in their life, whether it be a backpack for an overnight trip or school, or a full set of luggage ...

Passport Services

Where can you get a passport fast? Maybe you've found a last-minute travel deal to that far-flung destination you've always dreamed of visiting.

Photo Book Companies

Where is the best place to get photo books out there today? Photo books are a fantastic way to keep our special memories in a tangible, beautiful format instead of just storing pictures on ...

Travel Visa Services

What's the easiest way to get a travel visa? Online travel visa providers have revolutionized the way individuals apply for visas when planning their international trips.

Vacation Rental Sites

What's the best website to use for booking a vacation rental? Are you tired of the same old hotel experience when you go on vacation?

Newest Reviews

BBQ Sauce Clubs

Where Can You Find the Best BBQ Sauce Clubs? Barbecue sauce and rubs have earned a revered status in culinary culture, captivating taste buds with their rich, complex flavors and enhancing the succulence of ...

Japanese Lessons

Where Can You Find the Best Japanese Lessons? Learning a new language opens up a world of opportunities, and Japanese is one of the most intriguing languages you can choose.

Payroll Software

Where Can You Find the Best Payroll Software? Payroll software can be a game-changer for business owners, simplifying the often complex task of managing employee wages and benefits.

Robot Vacuums

Which Robot Vacuum is the Best? Robot vacuums have soared in popularity over the past few years.

Sign Language Lessons

Where can you find the best sign language lessons online? Maybe you've decided to learn sign language because you have a deaf child, or perhaps there's a new student at your school who is hard of ...

Wedding Dress Stores

Where is the best place to buy a wedding dress online? One of the most important purchases you will make for your wedding day is the dress.

Customer Support and Information

Live support & info, support request.

We respond to all correspondence from our guests as quickly as possible.

For immediate assistance, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions or chat with our Live Support Team .

For immediate assistance, please call 132488 from Australia or 0800 780 717 from New Zealand.

Guest Information

Login here to update your account information and/or contact preferences.

If you have not created an account with is or can’t remember your login info, please fill out the form below for assistance.

Reasonable expenses that are a direct result of a change in your voyage or itinerary made by Princess Cruises may be submitted for consideration for reimbursement.

For pre-cruise support, please use our Live Chat or call us at 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) . You can also visit our Frequently Asked Questions .

If you are inquiring about your Future Cruise Credits provided to you onboard, please fill out the form below.

For pre-cruise support, please use our Live Chat.

Princess® is pleased to offer a special Carnival Corporation shareholder onboard spending money program. This program is available to shareholders holding a minimum of 100 shares of Carnival Corporation or Carnival plc. This benefit is applicable on all published sailings. Restrictions may apply.

Login (optional) to your My Princess account to review your active Future Cruise Deposits.

The form below only covers Future Cruise Deposits. Please complete the form to request your FCD extension.

All Future Cruise Deposits expiring in the next 120 days will be extended for 1 year unless a 2 year extension is noted below.

Future Cruise Deposits (FCDs) are created per person. Therefore, you must create a separate request for each FCD holder. Please be advised that a single request for multiple people cannot be processed.

Your booking has been located

To continue with your refund request, please provide expense details related to your vacation. Please refer to any communications you have received for more details on what expenses may be eligible for reimbursement.

Shareholder Benefits Form

Please note that requests will be processed within 10 business days and only cover Future Cruise Deposits purchased onboard a previous sailing.

By clicking the Submit button, (on behalf of all passengers listed above) you certify the information provided is true and correct. Refund requests are processed in the order received. Your request will be reviewed, and any reimbursement will be sent to you in the form of a check mailed to the address indicated on the booking. Please note: we are unable to reimburse costs incurred for alternative holiday plans or wages.

Standard processing time is approximately four weeks from date of receipt. Please note that requests received without appropriate receipts and documentation may result in processing delays. If we have any questions regarding your claim, we will contact you using the information provided in this request.

Thank you for contacting Princess Cruises

Your message has been received. We appreciate your patience in affording us the time to respond to your request. Due to the large volume of messages we are receiving, it may take us longer than usual to respond. We are working hard to make sure every request is handled accurately and efficiently.

If you require immediate assistance, please call us at: 1-800-774-6237 .

If you require immediate assistance, please call us at: 132488 or 1300 551 853 .

If you require immediate assistance, please call us at: 0344 338 8663 .

I cruised on the Discovery Princess, here’s my review of the voyage

W hen some think of cruises, a picture of cheesy, matching family T-shirts comes to mind. Perhaps you think of long lines at the buffet and loop-de-loop water slides that never seem to end on the lido deck. For some, this image isn’t relaxing, but not all ships are created equal.

The lovely Discovery Princess, the second newest cruise ship among Princess Cruises’ fleet, is one of the most elegant I’ve voyaged on — and I’ve been on 10+ cruises (read: best cruises I reviewed). So, you can say I’ve become quite the cruise critic over the years.

While each cruise ship has something unique to offer, I can honestly say my experience setting sail on the Discovery Princess was my favorite cruise yet.

RELATED : Princess unveils its new Sun Princess ship

As part of the itinerary’s Pacific Wine Country Tour for an April 2024 sailing, I embarked from the Los Angeles port in San Pedro, CA and then traveled to San Diego; San Francisco; Astoria, OR; and Victoria and Vancouver, Canada. The best part was experiencing Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley on one of Princess Cruises’ excursions, but more on that later.

To assemble an in-depth review of my experience, I divided this piece into a few sections: who it’s good for, activities and entertainment, food and drink options, excursions and special features. Consider this your all-in-one guide. After all, I did plenty of research myself — a discovery , if you will — via YouTube videos, Discovery Princess Facebook groups and by way of the easy-to-use Princess app. Not to mention, since I’ve cruised on other lines, including Carnival, Celebrity, NCL and Royal Caribbean, you’ll find some comparison notes as well.

Even better, this cruise vacation was with my high school best friend, Veronica, who has never been aboard a cruise ship. It was such a unique experience seeing all that Discovery Princess had to offer with her first-time perspective, which is infused within this review as well.

Most cruise lines are designed for whatever you’d like your vacation to be, whether it’s solo travel, couples traveling, a best friend cruise (I’m representing this demographic here) and family trips. Aboard Discovery Princess, I even saw a 20+ family reunion. The possibilities are endless, and some sailings may yield older or younger demographics depending on the itinerary, length of the cruise and other factors.

Veronica and I are both in our early 20s, and we found the Discovery Princess to cater to an older crowd, as we saw many middle- and senior-aged couples. However, we scouted a handful of young adult couples, just not nearly as many as you’d find on more “ family-friendly ” cruise lines, like Carnival and Royal Caribbean.

However, this isn’t a dealbreaker in the slightest. A cruise is what you make of it, and we enjoyed trying top-of-the-line specialty restaurants, heading to Broadway-production-style shows, booking excursions for each port we docked at and relaxing in the Lotus Spa , the latter being a true R&R highlight. Pro tip: pick up a Miami Vice or your favorite cocktail at one of Discovery’s bars before heading to The Enclave, the spa’s modern, state-of-the-art relaxation centers with a jet pool, two different sauna rooms and heated lounge chairs. You definitely won’t be sorry.

Because Discovery Princess was my first trip with Princess Cruises, I can’t speak if the slightly older clientele is characteristic of the cruise line at large or this specific itinerary. Granted, it was a wine-centric itinerary at the end of April, so I wasn’t expecting to see many passengers younger than 21-years-old on each deck. Additionally, we didn’t sail in peak summertime months when school’s out and more family vacations may take place.

While I certainly remember way more families aboard other cruise lines, that’s not to say Princess isn’t family-friendly. There’s a variety of entertainment options, which you’ll find on the stateroom patter (otherwise known as a printed itinerary) each evening, placed at the foot of your bed by a stateroom attendant. Or, you can follow along on the Princess app.

One of the highlights from the Discovery Princess ship is, without question, the activities and entertainment that I’d say is world-class. I grew up going to theaters, Broadway shows and local productions and it was clear as day that the variety of shows featured well-versed actors, performers, dancers, singers and a legitimate crew to put together the lighting, choreography and the entire setup from start to finish.

If heading to shows isn’t entirely your thing, that’s OK, too; Discovery Princess had a multitude of game shows, comedians, dance and deck parties (sometimes, dance parties on the deck), trivia and more. Below, I ran through some of the activities and entertainment options Veronica and I experienced during our April 2024 sailing:

One of the most memorable experiences aboard Discovery Princess was heading to the Production Shows during the eight-day cruise. Show times and type may vary depending on the sailing, though you can expect two Production-level shows. These mimic the vibe exuded on Broadway.

Aboard Discovery, I went to the “Spotlight Bar” show, where the full cast sang radio, sing-along hits in front of a bar scene. The group dances and individual ballads were nothing short of phenomenal. As much as I loved watching the first Production-level show, I adored the “Rock Opera” show, a fusion of 80s rock with opera-style performances. Think: “The Greatest Showman” meets Cyndi Lauper. The costumes, set and overall segue from song to song was unparalleled; I didn’t want it to end.

Additionally, Princess Cruises has two show times for its Production-level shows: one at 7:30 p.m. and another at 9:30 p.m. This works out well, that way you have options to work around your dinner reservations or late-night activities, like the after-hours comedian or DJ.

Aside from Production Shows at Princess Theater, there were two to three other shows performed by soloists Willis White and Nick Petris who paid homage to music icons Lionel Richie and Michael Bublé, respectively. Both were excellent and entertaining. Princess Theater also hosted a magician one night, though we didn’t attend.

Another sit-back-and-relax moment aboard Discovery was the schedule of game shows from the first to last evening on the cruise. Sometimes, game shows can be corny, but the Princess crew truly knew how to entertain.

Veronica and I attended a few, including “Top, Middle or Bottom” where passengers took turns selecting Jeopardy-style tiles and either passing through to the next column (a checkmark), receiving one of three X-es (a firecracker symbol) or a trivia question (a question mark). It was a pretty suspenseful guessing game and one that kept us pretty entertained.

Another game show we attended one evening was called “Majority Rules,” where we’d answer somewhat controversial questions like, “Who’s the best female singer?” or “What’s the greatest film of all time?” As the name suggests, the majority rules, and each “team” tallies up their points to crown the ultimate victor.

The vibe of the game shows was the perfect after-dinner activity. Many cruisers sat in armchairs with a drink in hand, just relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere. The best part? Most game shows were hosted by the cruise director. Kristoff, if you’re reading this, we love you .

For fans of stand-up comedy, Discovery hosted quite a few comedy shows, divided among three comedians on my particular sailing. These shows were hosted at Vista Lounge, a sophisticated and snazzy venue space, though the backdrop transforms into a brick-style background with a neon “Laugh Lounge” sign in cursive, apropos of the crew’s production team.

Some comedians starred on Comedy Central and popular Late Night shows and had us laughing to no end. Whether it’s your first cruise or you’re a four-times-a-year cruiser, the banter and jokes made about cruising pet peeves is witty, relatable and entertaining.

Most of all, I loved the variety of comedians aboard Discovery. On a previous Carnival cruise, there was only one comedian who, although was great at improv comedy and picking on audience members, didn’t inspire me to see all seven of his shows. The comedians aboard Discovery were proof that live entertainment on this ship is purely unforgettable.

Slightly hidden on the itinerary, the Princess Dance Competition allows passengers and crew members to be selected at random in the cruise’s version of “Dancing with the Stars.” Spoiler alert: this was one of my favorite moments from the cruise. I ended up participating, dancing with a crew member from the buffet team and ended up *winning* the whole competition. And yes, I ended up doing a split. There’s something I didn’t think I’d do on a cruise ship…

From regular perusing of the daily itinerary, there are additional activities to enjoy. Discovery ensured that there were enough options to choose from on both sea days and days at port. On some other cruise lines, there was next to nothing to do in the afternoons, so this was a nice touch.

Below, find a sampling of events and activities you may expect to experience aboard Discovery Princess:

• “Deal or No Deal” show: Similar to Bingo, which was also offered aboard Discovery, game cards for Deal or No Deal were being sold. As an audience member, you have quite a few chances to win the ultimate prize, following along as the show goes on.
• Casino : Many cruisers enjoy spending time at the casino, whether it be individual slot machines or Blackjack and Roulette tables. I enjoyed spending some time at the Casino, but keep in mind this is only open during times at sea due to port laws and regulations.
• Fitness classes : Discovery offers a gym-grade fitness center with professional equipment and even pilates, barre, yoga and HIIT classes you can sign up for.
• Line dancing : On Discovery, there’s a ton of line dancing happening in The Piazza, the main epicenter of the ship. This exists on other cruises I’ve sailed on as well, but this sailing took it to the next level.
• Afternoon tea : During sea days, Discovery hosted an afternoon tea at 3:00 p.m. in one of the three main dining rooms. Complete with finger sandwiches, teas and handhelds, passengers loved the experience. We skipped it on our cruise only because one of our excursions in Victoria, Canada was having high tea at a mansion.
• Cocktail experiences : Around 4:45 p.m. or so, Discovery hosted cocktail experiences every few days. This sip-and-learn activity is hosted at one of the main bars and a bartender will walk you through crafting tips, different flavor pairings and, of course, mixing drinks right in front of you.

An incredible, standout feature aboard Discovery Princess was its wealth of well-varied food and beverage options. If you’ve been on a cruise before, you know you’ll never go hungry, but this ship’s prized dining room service, quality and flair was a step above other cruises I’ve been on.

Discovery Princess has three main dining rooms: Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, all named after locations in Alaska, one of the ship’s most-traveled-to destinations. Each passenger or passenger group will be assigned one of the three main dining rooms to eat at each evening with different times as well. Wonderfully, there was much flexibility at each dining room if you preferred to dine a bit earlier or later than your scheduled time.

Compared to other ships, the food in the main dining rooms was much better and closely on par with the multitude of specialty dining options you’ll find on board. You’ll find at least one formal night (aka, lobster night for seafood fans) where nearly everyone is decked out in cocktail attire to take professional photos and enjoy a delicious menu. Production-level shows are usually this night as well.

Breakfast in the main dining room was also an enjoyable experience, where you can enjoy fresh juices, pastries, fruits and main courses. The menu was smaller than other cruises I’ve been on, but this wasn’t a dealbreaker.

The World Fresh Marketplace, otherwise known as the buffet, didn’t have a miles-long line like some other cruises I’ve sailed on. The options were diverse, delicious and perfect for a quick bite. Veronica and I loved the taco bar and pasta station, as well as the fresh fruit counter. Not to mention, the service is one of the best; waitstaff circles around tables to offer you fresh water, juice or soda on trays, making it extra convenient for your overall dining experience.

Located on Deck 5 next to The Piazza, International Café is a complimentary, luxury-leaning, grab-and-go counter where you’ll find fresh pastries (note: the almond croissants, heated up, are to die for), desserts and handcrafted sandwiches. This is also where you can grab lattes, cappuccinos and other beverages.

Veronica and I dined here nearly every morning before an early excursion because it’s delicious, in a great location and, overall, a quick venue. The service was top-notch and well-loved by passengers; plenty of people aboard grabbed a coffee and sat at one of the tables along The Piazza to enjoy live pianists, vocalists and other entertainment throughout the day and into the evening.

What’s more, the International Café is complimentary. On other cruise lines, each specialty coffee and pastry was an extra charge. This is a testament to Princess Cruises’ affinity for quality-first dining experiences.

The love I have for Ocean Terrace Sushi Bar is tenfold. Before dinner on some evenings, Veronica and I would head to this modern counter — located right above and overlooking The Piazza — to enjoy fresh crab, shrimp and spicy tuna rolls that are handmade right in front of our eyes. The quality was some of the best I’ve had. It’s a casual yet spectacular setting. Additional charges may apply depending on what you order.

Also one deck above The Piazza, Gigi’s Pizzeria by Alfredo is another sit-down locale where you can enjoy live music surrounding you. This was the first food venue Veronica and I dined at for lunch on embarkation day and we loved the fresh Margherita and veggie pizzas, as well as the salads.

Uniquely, the pizza options are certified authentic Neapolitan pizza, much like its gelato on board (which is located on the same deck as The Piazza, and one of the only cruise ships to boast gelato that’s certified by the Italian government). Pretty iconic, to say the least.

If you ask me about the most memorable experience aboard Discovery Princess of them all, it was what’s called 360. This isn’t just any specialty dining venue. For an additional charge per person (about $150 or so), the dining staff will take you through “a journey through tastes, sights, sounds, textures and scents,” per the cruise line.

This seven-course journey is both filling and fantastically put together. Without giving too much away, the meals are inspired by the Mediterranean and, according to the hostess Magdalena, “you won’t find this food anywhere else on board — even at the specialty dining venues.”

This 360 Experience is reserved for 13-year-olds and older, though my group had nobody younger than 21-years-old. For some, the idea of not knowing what you’ll be eating can be somewhat terrifying but rest assured, the team takes any dietary restrictions into account. For instance, Veronica has a shellfish allergy an they made an equally delicious substitute. If you take anything away from this review, book 360 .

Veronica and I enjoyed The Catch by Rudi , Discovery’s seafood specialty restaurant. Everything from the service to the presentation was extravagant and this was my favorite specialty restaurant on the ship. It’s a pure celebration of all things ocean.

Typical of other specialty restaurants you’ll find, you’ll choose one appetizer, one main course and one dessert. The cocktails at The Catch by Rudi were some of our favorites. My dish, called the Triple S Platter because it contained salmon, scallops and shrimp, was mouthwatering. There was even a hanging prawn on my plate when our waitress brought it out!

You can take the girl out of New Jersey, but you can’t take New Jersey out of the girl. From someone who comes from a family making their own sauce each Sunday, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria was a much-needed dining option in my books. Here, you’ll actually find a five-course meal: an appetizer, a soup or salad, a pasta, an entree and a dessert. In short, come hungry.

The food and cocktails here were incredible and we loved the on-the-house rice balls the waitstaff presented to each table. It was so delicious that we ordered room service from Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria one evening as we watched Discovery sail away from one of our ports. It was heaven .

Sometimes, you just want a comfort meal, like lasagna or lemon chicken. Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria 100% satisfied that craving for both of us, and we enjoyed every minute of our time here.

Ah, we’ve landed at Discovery’s steakhouse. Ranked one of the best cruise ship steakhouses, per Princess Cruises website, Crown Grill features premium aged beef and fresh seafood items. Its open kitchen design and elegant setting make it a lovely choice. Not to mention, you can have a tasting of all of the sides.

Above all else, you’ll want to experience Crown Grill’s ribeye steak and filet mignon if you’re a lover of chops. The glazes, sauces, whipped butter and specialty salts (yes, you read that correctly) made the experience very upscale.

Whether you take excursions is entirely based on personal preference. On the Pacific Wine Country Tour aboard Discovery Princess , Veronica and I embarked on the following crew-organized options:

• San Diego, CA : City Drive & La Jolla Highlights
• San Francisco, CA : Sonoma Wine Country
• Astoria, Oregon : Willamette Valley Wine Country
• Victoria, Canada : High Tea at Pendray Mansion & City Highlights

From experiencing some of the best wine in the Pacific to learning the ins and outs of popular locations like San Francisco and Vancouver Island, we felt each tour was well-organized and worth the added cost. Among all the excursions on this particular voyage, we enjoyed Sonoma Wine Country the most because, after all, who doesn’t want to travel to Napa?

Booking excursions is simple to do so on the Princess app. Or, you can opt to check in regularly with the Shore Excursions desk on Deck 5 near The Piazza to ask any questions you may have. Veronica and I decided to swap our previously booked biking excursion in Oregon to experience more of wine country and the crew staff was able to reprint new tickets as the tour wasn’t fully booked.

If you aren’t able to book your first-choice excursion, I wouldn’t worried. While there aren’t guarantees, Princess will hold you on an organized waitlist. In fact, Veronica and I were on a waitlist for Sonoma Wine Country and luckily joined the tour.

Additionally, every excursion through Princess guarantees your arrival back on the ship as it departs. You’ve likely heard of “cruise horror stories” where certain cruise lines will leave you if you’re not back by the arranged on-board time. Even if an excursion is running a bit late (like mine in Oregon), rest assured the ship will not depart without you. If you opt to journey at a port on your own and you’re late, that may be a different story.

Without a doubt, Discovery Princess had a catalog of special features that I remember even after my cruise. Below, find them listed:

• MedallionClass : Instead of a stateroom card that serves as your ID and cabin entry, Discovery operates via a Medallion that’s a bit larger than a quarter and inscribed with your name. Whether you use the included lanyard or opt to buy a Medallion accessory, like a clip, this makes it so much easier to charge extras to your ship account (called your Folio). The Medallion serves as a tracker as well, so the service tends to operate quicker than other ships because of facial recognition, made possible by the photo you took on embarkation day or that you’ve uploaded to your Princess app profile. You can even enter your stateroom hands-free!
• The Enclave at Lotus Spa : For about $165 per person, you can enjoy unlimited access to The Enclave, the private resort-style room at the Lotus Spa where you’ll find a jet pool, saunas and heated beds. You’ll also have access to the Relaxation Room, a wonderful sanctuary for reading, meditating and enjoying ice water with cucumber or lemon. This made the trip feel a bit more higher-end than what may be offered on some older ships.
• Larger than usual staterooms : Veronica and I were at a balcony cabin which tends to be larger than interior staterooms. However, when I first entered our balcony cabin, I was blown away by how much space we had. Other cruise lines had extremely small bathrooms, showers and walking space near the beds. The ship’s design — featuring smaller staircase landings and hallways — allows the individual rooms to be a hair larger than most other ships.
• Smooth embarkation and disembarkation process : Largely in part by the MedallionClass experience, Veronica and I were able to disembark within 30 minutes. I’ve experienced hours upon hours of wait times at other cruise ports and was impressed by the swiftness to enter and leave the ship. Plus, Princess accommodates your preferred time on most occasions, especially if you have a flight booked.
• Ship size : You won’t feel like you’re at a shopping mall on Discovery. The ship occupies 3,660 guests instead of 8,000 or so I’ve experienced on other ships. This is the ideal size in my opinion and, considering a quite manageable passenger count, there was *so* much to do. You’re receiving the complete cruise experience sans the chaos, which we both appreciated.

Everything from the dining experiences to activities and overall service on the Discovery Princess made our voyage extremely memorable. Each step of the way, I felt as if I was on a luxury vacation, even though some experiences — like specialty dining and the Lotus Spa — were additional costs. The Production Shows, endless entertainment and accommodations deserve awards of their own, and I would surely set sail on another Princess Cruise again. Veronica, first-time cruiser, would, too!

For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance . We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products , and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted .

New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links.

Sun Princess Cruise Ship Review: What We Love—and What Needs Work

May 8, 2024

Sun Princess , the latest addition to the Princess Cruises fleet, is the line’s largest ship to date, weighing in at 177,882 gross tons and able to accommodate 4,300 passengers. By comparison, the company’s Discovery Princess , which made its maiden voyage in 2022, is a mere 145,000 gross tons and can sleep almost 1,000 fewer cruisers. 

Sun Princess , the first in the line’s Sphere class of ships, is a 21-deck, next-level Love Boat with an innovative design aimed at bringing the outdoors inside and connecting passengers to the sea—and giving them some spectacular views. 

Additionally, the ship’s grand total of 30 dining and drinking venues outnumber the food-and-beverage offerings on any other Princess vessel, while a number of upgrades to suites, staterooms, entertainment, and kid-friendly attractions seem geared toward attracting more families and expanding the line’s appeal to a younger, hipper demographic. 

To find out what works—and what needs work—on Sun Princess , I took a weeklong cruise (at the invitation of the cruise line) from Rome to Barcelona, where the ship had its naming ceremony in April 2024. 

Read on to find out where the Sun shines brightest—and where its light is dimmed.  

Sun Princess Quick Facts

Launched : February 2024 Passengers : 4,300 (double occupancy) Crew : 1,600 Size : 177,882 gross tons, 1,133 feet long, 139 feet wide Booking : Princess.com , 800/774-6237

1. The ship’s unique design—and dazzling views

The ship’s most striking design elements are its two “sun-inspired” concepts:

• a nine-deck-tall bubble in the middle of the vessel ( visible on the ship's exterior ) that has lots of windows to give wraparound ocean views and centers on the Piazza (pictured at the top of this story), an open and airy central atrium that spans three levels; 

• and the Dome  (pictured above), a glass-enclosed structure that sits at the top of the ship and is being dubbed the first-ever geodesic dome at sea.

Due to its placement and design, the multilevel glass dome (decks 17 and 18) shows off expansive ocean views from its indoor and outdoor areas, where you’ll find cushy lounge chairs, an indoor-outdoor pool, and the Sea View Bar . Outdoors, the spacious terrace also offers seating with a view, and because the terrace is partially covered, there’s shade that makes this a perfect spot for relaxing during days at sea.

You’ll find some of the best views from inside the ship around the Piazza, including at International Café (deck 9), Bellini’s Cocktail Bar (deck 7), Alfredo’s Pizzeria (deck 9), and Makoto Ocean (deck 8), a new collaboration with renowned Japanese chef Makoto Okuwa. 

Dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows at Horizons , the beautifully designed main dining room (decks 6, 7, and 8), supply a look at the ship’s wake from the back of the vessel. Step out onto the Wake View Terrace (deck 8) and you’ll feel like you’re in an exclusive area (though it’s not), with loungers, a bar, and an infinity pool suspended over the back of the ship. 

2. Elevated staterooms and suites

As visually appealing—and view-enhancing—as the spherical atrium and geodesic dome are, it’s worth noting that the ship’s interior décor has a more modern and upscale feel than other Princess ships, thanks in part to a subtle color scheme with natural wood tones in staterooms and suites . 

I stayed in a Cabana Mini-Suite (pictured above),   a new stateroom category for Princess that comes with a larger balcony than the next cabin category down (Deluxe Balcony) as well as more space (329 square feet compared to 235) and a few other perks, such as access to an exclusive outdoor lounge area on deck 9. At lower price points, there are Premium Oceanview and Interior staterooms, neither of which have balconies. (And at the other end of the price spectrum, Princess has launched with this ship a new set of luxury accommodations and amenities the line calls the Sanctuary Collection .)

Passengers on previous Princess ships will note that changes on the Sun involve   closets (no longer walk-in) with frosted glass doors, lots of storage, plenty of hanging space, and large drawers. You’ll also find a plush robe and slippers inside. 

In the bathroom, another welcome addition awaits: a glass door to the shower—goodbye, shower curtain! Bath and skin care products are by Beekman 1802. 

On the tech front, there are plenty of U.S. electrical and USB/USB-C outlets in the room. A thoughtful touch you’ll discover after dark: a motion-detecting nightlight. 

3. Tech that works

While we’re on the subject of staying connected, the Wi-Fi on Sun Princess was some of the fastest and best I’ve experienced at sea. Glitches were nil and I never had trouble doing anything online that I wanted to do—a first at sea for me. 

That said, connectivity comes at a price. The line’s MedallionNet Wi-Fi is available to purchase pre-cruise for $24.99 per device per day. For four devices, the cost (pre-cruise) is $44.99 per day. That's competitive with what you'll find on other cruise lines . 

[It might be more cost-effective to purchase a package such as the Princess Plus option, which goes for $60 a day per person and comes with Wi-Fi for one device, a beverage package, and other perks.]

In addition to being impressed with the quality of the Wi-Fi, I found that Princess’s Medallion technology worked flawlessly. I was “Ocean Ready” when I checked in, having completed my paperwork on the Princess app days before, so it took just minutes to receive my Medallion—a quarter-sized, wearable doodad (pictured above) to be used in many of the ways that key cards are employed on other ships.

The device makes ordering stuff like lattes or glasses of wine seamless (you don’t have to hand over a card every time), and you don’t have to fumble around in your pockets or handbag for a key to get into your stateroom, either; as long as you’ve got the Medallion on you, the door will unlock automatically as you’re coming down the hallway. 

4. New flexibility in complimentary dining

The ship’s complimentary dining venue—the three-level Horizons (pictured above)—features a unique and new-to-Princess flexible dining concept, offering guests a choice among traditional, reservable, or walk-in anytime dining.

Americana Diner on deck 8 is the anytime option, serving casual comfort food such as an all-day breakfast, old-fashioned chipped beef on toast, buffalo wings, chicken parmigiana, pub-style fish and chips, burgers, milkshakes, and apple pie. 

Alternatively, guests can have the classic cruise dining experience, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the same table with the same dining companions for every meal, on deck 6. For a quiet evening for two, make a reservation on deck 7 for a leisurely meal amid the space’s panoramic aft views from two-story windows. 

The three new complimentary dining options have been such a hit that Princess is rolling out this enhancement across the fleet. 

5. Exciting new specialty restaurants—and solid standbys

Sun Princess maintains an impressive roster of new dining venues for cruising foodies along with longtime Princess faves, such as the Crown Grill steakhouse (deck 7), where I had one of the best meals of my cruise, thanks to well-prepared staples such as surf and turf and baked Alaska with cherries jubilee.

A fun addition is the line’s first Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, Umai Teppanyaki (pictured above; deck 8), which shares space with Umai Hot Pot . Lively meals here are overseen by talented, spatula-wielding chefs whose bag of showy cooking tricks don’t overpower the fresh, flavorful results. 

Another favorite: The Catch by Rudi (deck 9),   a collaboration with award-winning master chef Rudi Sodamin, the line’s head of culinary arts. The menu features fresh seafood and showstopping desserts, such as a piled-high croquembouche.

On the other side of The Catch, The Butcher’s Block by Dario is a carnivore’s delight, with one meat course served after another—the Florentine steak is the mouth-watering highlight—engineered by Dario Cecchini, the “world’s most famous butcher.” 

Dining at any of the specialty restaurants comes at an additional cost unless you’ve sprung for the Princess Premier package, which includes a dinner at two specialty restaurants and a long list of other amenities, including Wi-Fi for up to four devices, a premium beverage package, reserved seating for theater shows, unlimited fitness classes, and more. The package costs a pricey $80 per day per person, so before you purchase make sure you’ll actually use the various components to make it worth your while. 

6. A magical evening at Spellbound

Sun Princess 's immersive dining-and-entertainment experience is an exclusive collaboration with L.A.’s Magic Castle, a club for expert magicians and their most devoted fans. On the ship, the evening begins with dinner in a private room at the back of the Horizons dining room. Afterward, guests are led by a caped and top hat–sporting gatekeeper through a nondescript door into a seabound version of the Magic Castle, a sexy and mysterious space where bartenders serve elaborate cocktails in cages and smoky boxes as a wandering magician performs close-up card tricks.

After drinks in the lounge, guests are ushered to a performance area for a display of more masterful magic from a headliner "handpicked from around the world," according to Princess (performers change about once a month). The top-notch skills of the magicians, the inventive drinks, and the overall floating-speakeasy vibe add up to an experience that's mesmerizing in every sense of the word. 

The price for the evening, including dinner, drinks, and entertainment, is $149 per person—not too bad, considering all that you get. There are three seatings each night and space is limited. I recommend booking one of the earlier seatings, at 5pm or 7pm, so you can linger at the bar after the show.

7. Expertly mixed cocktails at a huge variety of bars

The fact sheet for Sun Princess lists 12 different bars, but that doesn’t include one of my favorite spots, O’Malley’s Irish Pub (deck 7). It’s classified as a restaurant since it serves pub fare, including bangers and mash, a Guinness-braised beef stew, and drunken mussels. Situated just off the Piazza, the space is handsome and the food is hearty, but perhaps the best thing about O’Malley’s is that it's glass-enclosed, so you can enjoy your traditional Irish fare with a side of traditional Irish music without being disturbed by noise from the lively atrium.

I’m also a fan of the sophisticated air and ocean views of  Bellini’s Cocktail Bar (deck 7) for a glass of champagne or a well-made Aperol spritz. For more complicated cocktails, the expert mixologists at Good Spirits at Sea (pictured above; deck 7) prepare tasty drinks inspired by destinations around the world during the space’s Cocktail Experience. Check the ship’s daily schedule for times. 

Outside, some of the best spots to toast the view are the Wake View Terrace Bar (deck 8), the Sea View Terrace (deck 17), and the Sun Bar (deck 18).

1. Noise levels in The Piazza 

With the focus on attracting a younger demographic and new-to-cruising guests, Princess has amplified the amount of games and entertainment in the Piazza, installing a three-story LED screen, pumping out lots of music, flashing a lot of lights, and scheduling activities around the clock. 

Throughout the day, this area hosts game shows, dance classes, Zumba classes, live music of all genres, parties, a silent disco, and much more. Seating along the glass periphery on all three levels of the Piazza makes it easy to watch, listen, and play along. 

But all this action makes a lot of noise—and the commotion can feel inescapable, especially when you’re trying to have lunch at Alfredo’s Pizzeria during a dance class (one, two, cha, cha, cha), or enjoy a quiet pre-dinner cocktail at Crooners (where the live music at the bar has to compete with the noise from the Piazza), or eat your sushi in peace at the specialty Makoto Ocean restaurant.

2. Not enough seating in the Princess Arena

The Princess Arena (deck 7) is the line’s most technologically advanced theatrical space, offering three different configurations for shows (the ship's April 2024 naming ceremony is pictured above). But since the venue can accommodate only 990 spectators, it fills up quickly when the ship is at its full capacity of 4,300 passengers—well over four times the number of people the theater can hold.  

The only production show that was ready for our sailing, Vallora, A Pirate Quest , was sold out when we arrived about 45 minutes before the performance, so we (and many other guests) were turned away. Two nights later, we took advantage of the reserved seating that comes with the Princess Premier package so we could catch the swashbuckling production. That worked, but even with the package, seating is on a first-come, first-served basis—and when seats are gone, they’re gone. 

That means that if you have your heart set on seeing a popular show during your cruise, you could be out of luck, especially when the full slate of productions isn’t available.

In addition to Vallora , future passengers can expect two new shows— Stage Struck and Viva La Música , neither of which was ready during my voyage—and Fiera! , a reimagined Princess staple. 

3. Not enough seating in The Dome and Princess Live!, either

The same seating issue applies to The Dome, where evening acrobatic performances are staged by Québec’s renowned Cirque Éloize. This space has seating capacity for just 250 people, leading to more potential for disappointment—and cramped quarters. On the night I attended, crew members brought in extra chairs to squeeze in more people, but that can make things feel crowded and create terrible sight lines. My view of the performers, for example, was almost completely blocked by the person seated in front of me. 

Similarly, the venue on deck 7 known as Princess Live! (pictured above) often has only standing room available for its lineup of live music, comedy, trivia, and lectures. Not to mention that the spot’s close proximity to the Piazza means that punchlines are often drowned out by noise from the ship’s central gathering area. 

4. Smoke from the casino

To an unusual degree, cigarette smoke wafting down the corridor from the casino (deck 8) toward the Piazza was an issue on my sailing. Many guests commented on the noxious smell—something I don’t recall encountering on other cruise ships. Maybe Princess needs to take a second look at the ship’s air filtration systems? 

5. The Eatery is congested.

With the ship at full capacity, I found The Eatery buffet (deck 9) to be congested, especially in the morning on port days when everyone was trying to grab breakfast before getting off the ship. Finding a place to sit can be challenging. Pro tip: Try looking near The Catch by Rudi and The Butcher’s Block by Dario (pictured above) at the back of the ship. Seating options should be better on warm days when more passengers opt to eat outside on the deck. 

To avoid the morning madness in The Eatery, consider room service, especially if you have an early excursion. If you have a leisurely morning planned, go for breakfast in Horizons. You can also grab a quick bite and a latte or cappuccino at International Café. 

Related : 10 Tips and Tricks for Dining on a Cruise

With Sun Princess , the cruise line is making a stronger push to appeal to families with kids. A central piece of the strategy is a top-deck activity zone called Park19 (decks 19 through 21). 

The area was not yet open during my sailing. When it’s complete and passes muster with the regulators at sea, Park19 will feature Sea Breeze, a ride that takes cruisers suspended in harnesses around an electric track at speeds up to 11 mph. Park19 also has a climbing wall that leads to an observation deck with 360-degree views. Additionally, you can try out a ropes course, set the kids loose in a splash zone, or hit a multifunction sports court for fitness classes, ping-pong, and other activities. 

Park19 joins other expanded family offerings onboard, including kids clubs for three different age groups (preschoolers to teens), more connecting staterooms and suites for families traveling together, and a bunch of dining options for younger palates at The Eatery (deck 9) and on the Lido Deck (deck 16). 

Still, Sun Princess doesn’t match the extensive kid-centered activities on other megaships, where you’ll find go-kart tracks, 10-story slides, futuristic arcades, and elaborate stage shows for youngsters. It will be interesting to see whether Princess’s expanded but still comparatively modest pitch for family travelers is enough to compete with rival lines that are better established in the kid-friendly game. 

Altogether, Sun Princess is a good-looking, cutting-edge vessel with many top-notch dining and beverage experiences. The outward-facing design and light-filled spaces feel modern and upscale, and have a way of showcasing the ocean views as more ships should do. 

An effort to liven up the Princess image, though, won't always impress loyal fans of the line. Too often, especially in the central Piazza area of the ship, a nonstop frenzy of activity generates more noise than anything else. And it’s not yet clear whether an expanded slate of kid-friendly activities will be enough to compete with rivals that go all out in that regard.

What’s more, as impressive as the ship’s design is, the crucial matter of providing enough seating in theaters and other performance spaces appears to have been overlooked. While I was on board the ship, Princess announced a delay in the delivery of its next vessel, Star Princess , by about two months. Here’s hoping the delay will be used to address some of the capacity issues in the Princess Arena and The Dome. 

Some relatively small fixes would go a long way toward pushing this next-level Love Boat to, well, the next level.

After sailing in the Mediterranean and Europe this summer, Sun Princess will debut in the U.S. in October 2024 with 7- and 14-day Caribbean itineraries sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida . Visit Princess.com for more information . 

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

• Princess Cruises

Moscow vs. Berlin on Princess

By oceanbabe , October 5, 2010 in Princess Cruises

Recommended Posts

Sorry if this is wrong place, but dont know where else to ask? Going on Emerald next June to Baltics/Scandanavia. Would really love to see Berlin and especially Moscow. Is it worth going from Warmunde (Sp?) to Berlin and from a day in St. Petersberg(we have 2 days) to Moscow? I know both incur long rides and expense. Love the oniontype church tops, nesting dolls, jewish sites, etc. If anyone can help me would appreciate. thank you, elaine

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

I love both Moscow and St. Petersburg. I have been to both 2x.

If this is your first time in St. Petersburg, spend the 2 days there. There is more then enough to see there to impress you.

Moscow also needs several days to see properly (same with St. Petersburg). Red Square is often closed for various reasons, often with out notice. I would hate for you to spend the money and go to Moscow and not be able to walk in Red Square (you can see it from outside the square when it is closed but it is not the same).

cruisingallover

you can get more info on the port of call forums

I agree with Coral. You can't do St. Petersburg in a day, or even two days. It's a marvelous city with a LOT to see. Likewise Moscow although Moscow isn't as visually exciting as St. Petersburg. If you haven't been to either before, spend your time in St. Petersburg. I've been to both cities several times, spending anywhere from a couple of days to a week each time.

FYI, we used a tour company, SPBTours to arrange tours in both St. Petersburg and Berlin. We only had to contact one person for both tours. The owner, Viktoria arranges everything and her husband, who is German, oversees the Berlin tours. Both were fabulous tours.

I would definitely spend both days in St. Petersberg. There are 75 Romanov palaces there. So you will not run out of things to see.

We did the Baltic in 2008...it was fantastic and the two days in St. Petersburg was great..tho exhausting...

we added 5 days to the end of the cruise to do Berlin, Munich, Vienna and Prague on our own...fantastic cities... wish we had added more time...

if you have the time, it is well worth the few extra $$$ to do it this way. It was great....

Princess does not offer a tour from St. Petersburg to Moscow and it would be quite difficult to do it on your own (starting with the need to secure your own visas which is a quite complicated process).

There will be no cabs at the pier to take you to either a train station or the airport.

I do not know if a private tour company could arrange this for you, but it would not be inexpensive if they can.

Princess does not offer a tour from St. Petersburg to Moscow and it would be quite difficult to do it on your own (starting with the need to secure your own visas which is a quite complicated process).  

They used to offer it for several years it and then they stopped but I read someone say that they are now offering it again this past year. It is not listed under the shore excursions if you select the port but it wouldn't surprise me if they brought it back. It would be a very long day and there is enough in St. Petersburg to keep one busy.

Both times I have gone to Russia, I had to get my own visas and it isn't that difficult. I sent the form to a visa service and 2 weeks later, I had the visa and my passport back.

Princess Patches

I agree with the prior posters. Stay in St. Petersburg!! I have been to both Moscow and St. Petersburg and the latter is more beautiful with more historic sites to see. Do not miss the Peterhof (unbelievable), Catherine's Palace (incredible) or the Hermitage (amazing). You can barely skim the surface in two days in St. Petersburg. I recommend Red October tours in St. Petersburg instead of the ship's tours. I felt we saw more for half the money.

I stayed in Warnemunde and did not go to Berlin. Warnemunde was a delightful sea resort town and easy to walk around. I had a great time just strolling around. Of course, I had been to Berlin on a prior trip so I am sure that colored my decision. You are in for a fantastic vacation!

If you want a good dose of history, culture, and architecture, don't miss Berlin. I lived there for 3 years and think it's just a fabulous city. And, of course, since you expressed an interest in Jewish sites, there are many of them in Berlin.

Thank you all for your answers to my question about seeing Berlin/Moscow vs taking away some time from St. Petersberg. Elaine

Princess did offer a trip to Moscow last year. ( Overland By Train To Moscow)

The tour leaves from Helsinki and goes by train to Moscow. I believe all the June cruises except June 6th stop in Helsinki before St. Petersburg. I called Princess and they didn't know if it is going to be offered in 2011.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 4 hours ago

LauraS · Started 5 hours ago

LauraS · Started Thursday at 03:31 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 02:21 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 10:25 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

We will keep fighting for all libraries - stand with us!

Internet Archive Audio

• This Just In
• Grateful Dead
• Old Time Radio
• 78 RPMs and Cylinder Recordings
• Audio Books & Poetry
• Computers, Technology and Science
• Music, Arts & Culture
• News & Public Affairs
• Spirituality & Religion
• Radio News Archive

• Flickr Commons
• Occupy Wall Street Flickr
• NASA Images
• Solar System Collection
• Ames Research Center

• All Software
• Old School Emulation
• MS-DOS Games
• Historical Software
• Classic PC Games
• Software Library
• Kodi Archive and Support File
• Vintage Software
• CD-ROM Software
• CD-ROM Software Library
• Software Sites
• Tucows Software Library
• Shareware CD-ROMs
• Software Capsules Compilation
• CD-ROM Images
• ZX Spectrum
• DOOM Level CD

• Smithsonian Libraries
• FEDLINK (US)
• Lincoln Collection
• American Libraries
• Canadian Libraries
• Universal Library
• Project Gutenberg
• Children's Library
• Biodiversity Heritage Library
• Books by Language
• Additional Collections

• Prelinger Archives
• Democracy Now!
• Occupy Wall Street
• TV NSA Clip Library
• Animation & Cartoons
• Arts & Music
• Computers & Technology
• Cultural & Academic Films
• Ephemeral Films
• Sports Videos
• Videogame Videos
• Youth Media

Search the history of over 866 billion web pages on the Internet.

Mobile Apps

• Wayback Machine (iOS)
• Wayback Machine (Android)

Browser Extensions

Archive-it subscription.

• Explore the Collections
• Build Collections

Save Page Now

Capture a web page as it appears now for use as a trusted citation in the future.

Please enter a valid web address

• Donate Donate icon An illustration of a heart shape

2024 Moscow Concert Attack + Catherine, Princess Of Wales Cancer Diagnosis News Coverage ( March 23, 2024, 10.59 PHT)

Video item preview, share or embed this item, flag this item for.

• Graphic Violence
• Explicit Sexual Content
• Hate Speech
• Misinformation/Disinformation
• Marketing/Phishing/Advertising
• Misleading/Inaccurate/Missing Metadata

plus-circle Add Review comment Reviews

Download options, in collections.

Uploaded by JKLimas on March 23, 2024

SIMILAR ITEMS (based on metadata)

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

What are tactical nuclear weapons and why did Russia order drills?

FILE - In this photo taken from a video distributed by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service, on Dec. 9, 2020, a Russian Tu-160 strategic bomber fires a cruise missile at test targets, during a military drills, Russia. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

FILE Russian President Vladimir Putin, center, walks to attend a welcome ceremony with Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov prior to their talks in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023. Putin has repeatedly reminded the West about Moscow’s nuclear might in a bid to discourage it from increasing military support to Kyiv. (Pavel Bednyakov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File)

FILE - In this photo taken from video released by the Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, a Su-25 warplane is seen from the cockpit of another such aircraft as they fire rockets on a mission over Ukraine. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

FILE - This photo taken from video provided by the Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Feb. 19, 2022, shows a Yars intercontinental ballistic missile being launched from an air field during military drills in Russia. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

FILE - In this photo taken from video provided by the Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2022, The Russian army’s Iskander missile launchers take positions during drills in Russia. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

FILE In this photo released by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, Russian troops load an Iskander missile onto a mobile launcher during drills at an undisclosed location in Russia. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

FILE Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko watch military drills via videoconference in Moscow, Russia, Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022. The Russian military on Friday announced massive drills of its strategic nuclear forces. Last year, Russia moved some of its tactical nuclear weapons into the territory of its ally Belarus that neighbors Ukraine and NATO members Poland, Latvia and Lithuania. (Alexei Nikolsky, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File)

FILE Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko shake hands during a meeting of the Union State Supreme Council in St. Petersburg, Russia, Monday, Jan. 29, 2024. Last year, Russia moved some of its tactical nuclear weapons into the territory of its ally Belarus that neighbors Ukraine and NATO members Poland, Latvia and Lithuania. (Dmitry Astakhov, Sputnik, Government Pool Photo via AP, File)

FILE - This photo taken from video provided by the Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022, shows a Russian Iskander-K missile launched during a military exercise at a training ground in Russia. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

FILE - In this photo taken from video provided by the Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022, Su-30 fighters of the Russian and Belarusian air forces fly in a joint mission during the Union Courage-2022 Russia-Belarus military drills in Belarus. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

FILE - In this photo released by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on April 20, 2022, a Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile is launched from Plesetsk in northwestern Russia. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

FILE - In this photo taken from video released by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on April 14, 2023, a Belarusian air force pilot speaks at an unidentified location. The video said that Belarusian air crews have completed a training course in Russia on using nuclear weapons. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

FILE - In this photo taken from video released by the Russian Defense Ministry Press Service, a long-range Tu-160 bomber takes off from a base in Russia to patrol Belarus’ airspace on Nov. 11, 2021. The Russian Defense Ministry said that the military will hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons – the first time such exercise was publicly announced by Moscow. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File)

• Copy Link copied

Russia’s Defense Ministry said Monday that the military would hold drills involving tactical nuclear weapons — the first time such an exercise has been publicly announced by Moscow .

A look at tactical nuclear weapons and the part they play in the Kremlin’s political messaging.

WHAT ARE TACTICAL NUCLEAR WEAPONS?

Unlike nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missiles that can destroy entire cities, tactical nuclear weapons for use against troops on the battlefield are less powerful and can have a yield as small as about 1 kiloton. The U.S. bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War II was 15 kilotons.

Such battlefield nuclear weapons — aerial bombs, warheads for short-range missiles or artillery munitions — can be very compact. Their small size allows them to be discreetly carried on a truck or plane.

Unlike strategic weapons, which have been subject to arms control agreements between Moscow and Washington, tactical weapons never have been limited by any such pacts, and Russia hasn’t released their numbers or any other specifics related to them.

WHAT HAS PUTIN SAID ABOUT NUCLEAR WEAPONS?

Since launching the full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly reminded Western nations about Moscow’s nuclear might in a bid to discourage them from increasing military support to Kyiv.

Early on in the war, Putin frequently referenced Moscow’s nuclear arsenal by vowing repeatedly to use “all means” necessary to protect Russia. But he later toned down his statements as Ukraine’s offensive last summer failed to reach its goals and Russia scored more gains on the battlefield.

Moscow’s defense doctrine envisages a nuclear response to an atomic strike or even an attack with conventional weapons that “threaten the very existence of the Russian state.” That vague wording has led some pro-Kremlin Russian experts to urge Putin to sharpen it to force the West to take the warnings more seriously.

Putin said last fall that he sees no reason for such a change.

“There is no situation in which anything would threaten Russian statehood and the existence of the Russian state,” he said. “I think that no person of sober mind and clear memory could have an idea to use nuclear weapons against Russia.”

WHY DID RUSSIA SEND NUCLEAR WEAPONS TO BELARUS?

Last year, Russia moved some of its tactical nuclear weapons into the territory of Belarus , an ally that neighbors Ukraine and NATO members Poland, Latvia and Lithuania.

Belarus’ authoritarian president, Alexander Lukashenko , had long urged Moscow to station nuclear weapons in his country, which has close military ties with Russia and served as a staging ground for the war in Ukraine.

Both Putin and Lukashenko said that nuclear weapons deployment to Belarus was intended to counter perceived Western threats. Last year, Putin specifically linked the move to the U.K. government’s decision to provide Ukraine with armor-piercing shells containing depleted uranium.

Neither leader said how many were moved — only that Soviet-era facilities in the country were readied to accommodate them, and that Belarusian pilots and missile crews were trained to use them. The weapons have remained under Russian military control.

The deployment of tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus, which has a 1,084-kilometer (673-mile) border with Ukraine, would allow Russian aircraft and missiles to reach potential targets there more easily and quickly, if Moscow decides to use them. It has also extended Russia’s capability to target several NATO allies in Eastern and Central Europe.

Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine