princess cruise ship falmouth

Dramatic pictures as huge cruise ship anchors off tiny beach

The 952ft cruise ship capable of carrying 3,142 passengers was custom-built to sail to tropical destinations, such as Falmouth

• 16:07, 16 MAY 2024

Visitors to a tiny beach in Cornwall were greeted with the surreal sight of a giant 113,000 tonnes cruise ship today (Thursday, May 16). Too big to dock in the harbour, the 952ft Caribbean Princess dropped its anchor off a small cove on the Roseland peninsula, using St Anthony Head to shelter from strong south-easterly winds whilst it tendered its passengers to Falmouth .

Custom-built to sail to tropical destinations, the massive vessel, which is the largest cruise ship to visit Falmouth so far this year, is marking a milestone anniversary, completing 20 years of service since its maiden voyage in April 2004. Capable of carrying 3,142 passengers and 1,200 crew, Caribbean Princess is in Falmouth for the first of five visits to the port this year.

Part of Princess Cruises’ Grand Class series, the 17-deck cruise ship was built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy. As the name suggests, Caribbean Princess was built for cruises to the Caribbean and similar exotic destinations.

To take advantage of all that sunshine, the ship was designed with extra deck space, an alfresco restaurant and five outdoor swimming pools. There is also an onboard wedding chapel for anyone planning on tying the knot at a gentle 22 knots.

Read more: £68 million superyacht named after a dog arrives in Cornwall

Although Falmouth may not be as tropical as The Bahamas, passengers on board the cruise ship were greeted with glorious weather for their day in Cornwall. Caribbean Princess is due to depart Falmouth at 6pm today and will return again on Sunday, July 14.

There are 19 pictures in this photo story - click on the 'Next' button at the bottom of the page to see them all.

The huge cruise ship Caribbean Princess could be seen on the horizon steaming towards Pendennis Point just after 8am.

Quite the party boat, this cruise ship has all sorts of on board entertainment and facilities.

Caribbean Princess had been due to arrive earlier, but had a delayed visit to Ireland on the previous day.

Large cruise ships like this one would normally anchor off Pendennis Point.

However, this morning, Caribbean Princess continued on past the usual spot.

People watched as the huge cruise ship headed for St Anthony Lighthouse on the Roseland Peninsula.

With the headland offering some shelter from the south-easterly winds, the cruise ship was guided into position and dropped anchor.

Only in Falmouth for one day, the cruise ship's tenders were quick to start ferrying the passengers in to the harbour.

Meanwhile, at St Anthony Head, walkers were stopped in their tracks by the surreal sight of the giant ship.

In the calm waters of a small cove, the cruise ship could safely ferry its passengers into shore.

From the quiet Great Molunan beach, the cruise ship felt very close.

A surreal sight from the beach, with the cruise ship so close to shore.

Caribbean Princess was custom-built for sailing to tropical destinations.

The Roseland Peninsula was looking quite tropical today.

Too big to dock in the harbour, the 952ft Caribbean Princess dropped its anchor off a small cove on the Roseland Peninsula, using St Anthony Head to shelter from strong south-easterly winds whilst it tendered its passengers to Falmouth.

Sheltered from the wind, the cruise ship sits in the cove by St Anthony Head.

Looking down from the headland, the cruise ship felt very close.

Capable of carrying 3,142 passengers and 1,200 crew, Caribbean Princess is in Falmouth for the first of five visits to the port this year.

Caribbean Princess is due to depart Falmouth at 6pm today, Thursday, May 16, and will return again on Sunday, July 14.

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Falmouth (Jamaica) Cruise Port Guide and Review (2023)

Basic guide to Falmouth cruise port in Jamaica: must-know, where is the port, what's at the cruise terminal, how to get around, and what's within walking distance. Local flavors, quick bites, and dining.

By: Editor-in-Chief Updated: May 30, 2023

Unlike what you may read in many blogs and reviews, the cruise port in Falmouth is the safest and more hospitable to explore on your own in all of Jamaica. And with the best location to explore the island.

Cruise passengers that have never been to a far from an affluent Caribbean island may feel intimidated and not comfortable walking around by themselves. But, as you can see in the photo below, no one will bother you.

Regardles of what scaremongers say, walking around Falmouth Old Town is very pleasant

Photo © IQCruising.com

Falmouth Cruise Port Must-Know

For decades, Jamaica - and its cruise ports in particular - has been having a very bad reputation for aggressive, pushing and even harassing local population trying to sell any and everything - tours, taxi rides to the beach, guide walking along you, take you to taste jerk chicken or red strip beer and, of course, offering all types of drugs (specially ganja as marijuana is called in Jamaica).

Walking in Falmouth Old Town

Old Town, Falmouth Port

It is true that a handful of Jamaicans hanging around the port areas in Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, display this type of aggressive, pushy attitude and that, sometimes, individual characters can become a difficult plaster to get rid of. It is known that such attitude has spoiled many cruisers' unique day in Jamaica and deterred many from exploring the port on their own. However , and surprisingly for many, this is NOT a reality when docking at Falmouth Cruise Port.

Many savvy cruisers that have been in other Jamaican ports always find it surprising how 'normal' the local population is in Falmouth and believe that the population has been 'instructed' to leave cruise travelers alone. The Editor - who lived in Jamaica in the 1990's - still finds surprising how civil and hospitable the local population is in Falmouth by comparison with the other Jamaican ports. And how enjoyable it is to be able to walk around the historical town.

Street, Falmouth Old Town

This said, cruise travelers should understand, when visiting Falmouth, that Jamaica is not Grand Cayman or St. Martin, where you have great public transportation, it is easy to explore on your own and go pretty much anywhere hassle-free with friends or family. To explore Jamaica beyond the Falmouth Terminal and the Historical Town is not as easy. Unless you have been in Jamaica before and are familiar with local culture, it is advisable to explore the main attractions either on a tour (booked onboard or online) or with a certified taxi driver that you can get at the terminal.

The port and what's at the cruise terminal

When docking in Falmouth, the port area/terminal is one of the main attractions for the day and many a cruiser doesn't venture much farther or exit the port gates to explore the Old Town, which is easy to do on your own and, above all, safer than other Jamaican ports.

Harbor View, Falmouth

Photo by Derek Hatfield CC-BY-SA

After a major redevelopment in 2011, the old docking area was officially renamed Historic Falmouth Cruise Port and is now a large retail shopping complex. The port has a triangular shape with two piers at an angle, the exit for both at one end and the exit to the town at the southern side. The area between the piers has a very nice ambiance with large squares, shaded arcades, shops (and more shops), a few places to enjoy a quick bite and Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville with its typical bar, restaurant, pool, and shop. All these are housed in brick buildings designed in the style of British Georgian architecture that recreate the Colonial ambiance found in the Town just outside the gates.

Shop, Cruise Terminal

A large part of this area of the Terminal is occupied by the shops that can be found in most Caribbean ports - the typical international brands , fine jewelry, designer boutiques, duty free shops, and gift shops like Diamonds International and Tanzanite, Breitling, Colombian Emeralds, Cariloha, Pirana Joe or Del Sol. The cruise traveler will also find a few local shops , kiosks and stalls with exclusively Jamaican souvenirs. You may find a few crafts in these shops but if you like genuine, handcrafted works, the best will be found at the Crafts Market (close by Margaritaville) or in Town.

How to get around in Falmouth

One of the best characteristics of the Historic Falmouth Cruise Port is the convenience and offer of a good number of services to help the traveler to explore the Town and all top attractions close by and as far as Ocho Rios or Negril.

Information Desk, Cruise Terminal

Just before you exit the main terminal building for both piers, there is an Information Desk with an official representative to provide all info you may need and also with maps and brochures - this is the place to get the self-guided Walking Tour Map , clearly highlighting the path and major landmarks. Naturally, there is a large lot for tour buses and vans next to a meeting point for all booked on shore excursions . This meeting point is on the left side, opposite Margaritaville, and is where tours are dispatched by onboard staff and tour operators.

For those that prefer to explore on your own, there are some good alternatives. Close to the Shorex Meeting point, you will find a Taxi Stand , with Fixed Rates, and also a Bus Service to Montego Bay with stops next to the Craft Market, the Beach, the Hip Strip and Rose Hall (shops). The bus fare is per person - $ 20 Round Trip . The Taxi Fares are per car (1 to 4 pax) with an extra for each additional passenger. Don't think about haggling prices with these authorized/certified taxi drivers as the Fares are Fixed and clearly displayed.

Trolley Tour, Cruise Terminal

It is also in this area that you can buy your ticket and get on the Trolley Tour of Falmouth - a great way to discover the Old Town's Landmarks. This 1-hour guided tour ($25 per person) allows the visitor to literally see and learn about Falmouth's rich historical heritage with a stop to visit the St. Peter’s Anglican Church .

If you prefer a less modern transportation, there is also a Horse Drawn Buggy Tour . Two other interesting guided tours are likewise available: the Falmouth Food Tour and a visit to the Jewish Cemetery.

Horse Drawn Tour, Cruise Terminal

Local flavors and dining

Although most cruise travelers prefer to have food and drinks onboard - after all it is paid for - Jamaica's cuisine is well known for its unique flavors and at the Terminal there are a few places where you can taste some exclusive specialties of the Island.

Appleton Rum Bar, Cruise Terminal

Island Brew Cafe, Cruise Terminal

If you never tasted a genuine Jamaica Pattie this is an opportunity not to be missed - these are available at a couple of kiosks and also at Nathan's Famous and Tastee Patties. Naturally, Margaritaville also serves Jamaican food and so do a few other nice spots like Quiznos. A real Jamaican flavor tasting has to include the Editor's top choices - rum and coffee . Both have wonderful spots to be enjoyed on your return to the ships or if you prefer to stay inside the gated area. The Appleton Rum Estate has a very nice seating area where patrons can enjoy a handful of different flavors of Rum from the most famous Jamaican distillery.

Jablue Cafe, Cruise Terminal

Not far from this, Blue Mountain coffee is served in a shaded area under the arcades - Jablue is one of the best brands of this unique coffee and, besides enjoying a cup, you can buy in the shop Blue Mountain coffee considered by many as the Beluga of all coffees. If you just want to quick taste of Blue Mountain Coffee, the Island Brew Cafe is a good place to go. There are a few other places close by where genuine Jamaican food can be savored - like Nazz Club and Restaurant in Town or, just a few miles away, the Restaurant at Glistening Waters - but for Rum and Coffee the Terminal has great offers.

Walking to Falmouth Town from the Terminal

Policemen, Old Town

If planning to explore Falmouth on your own, do not miss on the way to the exiting gates the panels with some interesting historical facts - it was here that the Editor discovered that Usain Bolt was born in Falmouth or that the infamous Welsh pirate Henry Morgan become a gentrified Governor of Jamaica. Once outside the port gates, with security reminding that you need to have your ship card to re-enter, the cruise traveler will be on Seaboard Street and it will not be usual to see local police in their dapper uniforms. Right away, you will also come across vendors offering souvenirs, crafts and colorful clothing for adults and children. The street right in front of the exit gate (Falmouth St.) will take you straight to the heart of the Historical Town - in less than a 5-minute walk you will be on Water Square .

Water Square, Old Town

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The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, excursion or tour of Falmouth (Jamaica). If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

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With alongside berths for vessels up to 240m and 8m draft and anchorages capable of accommodating the largest cruise ships in the world.

Falmouth Harbour is a world class cruise destination.

Visit Falmouth

Renowned as one of the UK’s premier holiday destinations, the bustling town of Falmouth boasts world class beaches, a diverse high street and a thriving cafe/restaurant culture.

The Port offers easy access to the wide selection of Cornwall’s attractions including: the Eden Project, St Michaels Mount, the Lost Gardens of Heligan and many more.

The position of A&P’s cruise berth is within short walking distance of both the high street and the towns beaches, adds to the Harbours unique appeal.

The berths are suitable for vessels up to 240m LOA and 8m draft.

First and Last Major Port

As the UK’s first and last major port, the area is well placed to support a wide variety of cruises – whether this is shorter round Britain and Ireland cruising or as part of a much larger trans-Atlantic cruise.

Combining the full range of marine services available with the areas unique tourism offer, means that Falmouth Harbour is a key destination for cruise lines and passengers alike.

Deepwater Anchorage

Falmouth’s deep water Cruise Ship Anchorage can accommodate vessels that are too large to berth alongside or wish to add flexibility to their schedule around tide times.

Positioned approximately 1 – 1.5nm from the Inner Harbour and Town, the anchorage sits in view of Pendennis and St Mawes castles and St Anthony’s Lighthouse.

This unique location, combined with the pristine waters of the Carrick Roads, means that guests can enjoy a scenic and atmospheric tender ride to shore.

The anchorage can comfortably accommodate the largest cruise ships in the world.

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Falmouth Harbour are members of Cruise Britain, a network of ports, destinations and service providers that work with cruise operators to bring ships to Britain.

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Only the smallest of cruise ships up to 240m can be berthed at Falmouth. Most have to be tendered from a mooring in the bay. The tender takes half an hour each way across what can be rough tidal waters.

Small cruise ships dock at the County Wharf, located a 10 to 15-minute walk from the town center. Taxis are generally available at the pier.

Passengers can choose to take the free shuttle bus or walk in to town where there are a wide variety of shops including art galleries and antique shops.

You will be greeted upon disembarking, by the award-winning Falmouth Ambassadors. They will answer any questions or queries you may have and hand you a cruise visitor map & guide.

Port Authority

Printable map to take along on your cruise.

Cruise calendar

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Monthly Climate Averages for Falmouth United Kingdom

Hotels near the Cruise Terminal

Sightseeing:

Falmouth harbor is reputed to be the third largest natural harbor in the world. Originally known as Smithwick, Falmouth consisted of an alehouse and a Blacksmith's shop until Sir Walter Raleigh had the idea to convert this sleepy port into one of the principal seaports of the world. The town's fortification, Pendennis Castle , now stands as the first line of welcome, well worth a visit.

You can take a pleasure boat excursion up the Falestuary, as well as around the harbor, and experience the beauty of the town from the water.

No English countryside is complete without an English garden, and one of the best in Cornwall is right here in Falmouth: the Glendurgan Garden , created in 1826, and maintained lovingly to this day.

The maritime museum is wonderful but takes a little walking to get there.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

Falmouth is extremely hilly in places, and some roads (Killigrew Street, Trelawney Road) will have you cursing town surveyors. Fortunately, most of the attractions are between The Moor and Falmouth Docks, which is relatively flat.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here

Nearby Places:

Boat trips - Regular services take you across the river Fal to surrounding villages and also in the direction of the city of Truro and west towards Helford.

You can grab a water taxi from downtown and go over to St Mawes . 

Shopping and Food

The currency throughout the UK is the pound (£). You may also hear the slang term quid for pounds. Scottish bank notes are frowned upon in other parts of the UK, so change the notes before leaving Scotland.

Cash machines (ATM) or less formally 'holes in the wall' are very widely available and usually dispense £10 and £20 notes.

Visa, Mastercard and Maestro, are accepted by most shops and restaurants.

Currency Converter

Communication:

English is spoken throughout the country, but sometimes with heavy accents!

Most cafe's and restaurants offer free WiFi.

The local emergency telephone number is 999, however the EU-wide 112 can also be used.

Opening Hours and Holidays:

Shopping hours are in general:

Small stores 6 or 7 days a week (10am - 6pm) Larger stores in general stay open til' 9PM Hypermarts often 24/7

Holidays in the United Kingdom

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• Henry VIII's Pendennis Castle is more than a fortress built against marauders, thanks to its gorgeous coastal views. After you check out the various displays and cannon room inside the castle and take a stroll around the grounds, there's a cafe to have a bite and something to drink.  
• To experience a sub-tropical wonderland in England, visit Trebah Garden. With miles of footpaths punctuated by colorful rhododendrons, magnolias, and camellia, Trebah is rated among the 80 finest gardens in the world.  
• The award-winning Falmouth Art Gallery includes one the leading collections of art in southwest England, which includes a wide variety of works by French Impressionists, major Victorian artists, and popular surrealists; you'll also find children's book illustrators, contemporary painters, and printmakers.  
• SWhen it's time for a break from all of the walking and exploring, Swanpool Beach is an area favorite. If you want to mix relaxation with activity, there are plenty of water sports here, such as kayaking and windsurfing, or check out the nature reserve. Visitors have waxed enthusiastic about the café – especially its "Quirky Ice Creams," created from local ice cream covered in Cornish clotted cream and topped with the extras of your choice.

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20 Best Things to Do in Falmouth, Jamaica on a Cruise [Port Guide]

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If you’re visiting Falmouth on a cruise, you’re likely wondering what to do for the day. Located on the north coast of Jamaica, this Western Caribbean cruise port is a popular destination with a beautiful landscape and vibrant local culture.

Falmouth, Jamaica is located about mid-way between the more well known cruise ports in Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.

The Falmouth cruise port is still developing and does get some mixed reviews from cruise passengers. However, there’s no need to stay on the cruise ship!

In this Falmouth cruise port guide, I share the best things to do in Falmouth while visit on a cruise – from cruise line excursions to inexpensive or free activities. You’ll also learn everything you need to know about visiting the Falmouth cruise port for the day and get answers to commonly asked questions.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Falmouth, Jamaica Cruise Port 

The port in Falmouth is unique in that it was designed as a joint venture between the Port Authority of Jamaica and the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. This design makes the port an entertaining destination in and of itself. 

The Historic Falmouth Cruise Port area is gated, and houses many stores, restaurants and bars that are popular with cruise passengers! Outside of the gates, you’ll find Old Town, where you can walk and visit some of the local landmarks.

With only two berths, this port is less busy than the nearby Montego Bay and Ocho Rios ports of call. 

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About the Falmouth Cruise Port

The country of Jamaica has its own currency, the Jamaican Dollar (abbreviated J$). However, like most Caribbean islands, in the Falmouth port, vendors will accept U.S. dollars as well. 

The official language spoken in Jamaica is English, a result of the country’s many years under British rule. However, while English is the official language, don’t be surprised if you hear Jamaican Patois, a local creole language, spoken in informal settings.

The time zone on the island of Jamaica (and in the city of Falmouth) is the Eastern Time Zone. (EST)

The island of Jamaica has a hot and humid tropical climate. The average high temperatures range from 80-86 degrees F with lows between 75-80 degrees F. 

Humidity in Falmouth is constantly on the high side, ranging between 75 to 78%.

Related: Pre-Excursion Checklist: 16 Things to Do Before a Cruise Port Day

Getting Around Falmouth, Jamaica

As cruise ship passengers exit the cruise ship into the Falmouth cruise port you’ll enter a gated retail complex. Passengers concerned about safety can feel comfortable within this gated area. 

Just outside the gates is the historical town of Falmouth. It’s easy to walk around “Old Town” Falmouth. However, cruise passengers will want to use the usual caution when walking down the streets or alleyways.

To visit beyond the port of Falmouth, it’s best to book shore excursions through your cruise line or a reputable third party tour provider.  

The gated retail complex in Falmouth is easy to get around on foot and is also wheelchair accessible. 

Public Transit

Just before you exit the main terminal for both piers, you’ll find an information booth and a large lot where you can meet tour buses and vans for shore excursions. 

Nearby you will find a fixed-rate taxi stand, with non-haggling rates posted to nearby sites. 

You can also catch a bus from Falmouth to Montego Bay on the Montego Bay Metro. The trip will take about an hour, but public transportation should be used cautiously since there are not many buses and departure times available. 

The 10 Best Falmouth Shore Excursions 

You can experience Jamaica’s unique culture through music, food, and activities in Falmouth. Here are some of the best Falmouth Shore Excursions.

1. Hike the Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios

The incredible terraced waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and makes for epic photos. The falls at this natural phenomenon are 180 feet high and 600 feet long and takes about an hour and a half to climb to the top. 

Tour guides are available to help you climb and document your adventure with photos and videos available for purchase. Be sure to wear a swimsuit and leave your phone/camera in the provided lockers because you are certain to get wet.

Transportation to Dunns River from Falmouth port will take about an hour in each direction, which will be included in your excursion.

2. Bamboo Rafting on Martha Brae River

Although the legend of the Martha Brae River includes treasure hunters and a witch, this excursion is more about relaxation than adventure. 

A guide with a long pole will direct your bamboo raft in the calm waters of Martha Brae River as you relax on a comfortable seat. Not only will you get to see the lush Jamaican countryside, but you’ll also get to hear entertaining stories, historical information, and possibly a song or two from your guide. 

The Martha Brae River is only 6 miles south of Falmouth and is a great place to spend time in Jamaica. 

3. Swing into the Blue Hole

This natural wonder is the best place for an adventurous excursion. You’ll hike up to a waterfall that ends in a gorgeous blue pool or “hole.” There are rope swings and cliff diving spots available. 

The rocks can be slippery so good closed-toed shoes are a must. The waters are rough so only strong swimmers should attempt to jump in. 

Blue Hole is about an hour and a half drive from the Falmouth port. 

4. Snorkel at Doctors Cave Beach

Doctor’s Cave Beach is the most popular beach day excursion for cruise travelers! This beautiful beach is about a 45-minute drive from the Falmouth port. If you’re going on a family cruise, this is a great excursion option.

You’ll find calm areas as well as optional beach activities, like water trampolines and kayaks. If you go with an organized day tour, the entry cost is typically included.

However, if you go on your own or with a guide, the entry to Doctors Cave Beach costs $7. There are loungers and umbrellas available to rent as well as snorkeling equipment. 

Food service is offered on the beach, however, be advised that it is often slow. It’s a good idea to order before you are hungry. 

Related: 25 Gorgeous Swimsuit Cover Ups for a Beach or Cruise

5. Relax at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort

You can spend your Jamaican port day relaxing at one of the island’s top all inclusive resorts at Hilton Rose Hall. This excursion includes round-trip transfers from the cruise port of Falmouth, and full access to Hilton’s private beach, pools, and waterpark. 

You can relax beach or poolside with unlimited lunch, snacks, and beverages. Depending on your ship’s timeline, you might only be able to spend between 3-5 hours at the resort. 

6. Explore the Green Grotto Caves

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Green Grotto caves, an excursion about 35 minutes from the Falmouth port. 

Visitors to the Green Grotto might see 9 of the 21 species of Jamaican bats that live here. The walking tour cost includes hard hats and knowledgable guides that teach about the storied history of the caves. 

At various times these caves have been known as the Runaway Bay Caves, Rum Caves, and Dairy Caves. They are currently named for the green algae that grow on their walls. 

7. Grab a Jamaican Patty at Juici Patties

This local favorite is a must-visit for Jamaican cuisine while you are docked in Falmouth. Ground beef, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables are mixed with spices and cooked inside a flaky pastry shell (like a hand pie). 

There are tasty Jamaican patties available within the gated port area, but if you want to go to #1-rated Juici Patties, it is about a five-minute walk from the port. 

We can attest to trying these out, and they are good!

8. Try Traditional Jamaican Food at Pepper’s Jerk Center

Kill two Jamaican flavors with one stone at Pepper’s Jerk Center, a short 8-minute walk or 3-minute taxi ride from the Falmouth Port. 

The customer service at this restaurant is great and the jerk chicken and rum punch will make you wish you had a longer port stay. 

9. Good Hope Plantation/Eco Adventure Outpost

Situated on a 2000-acre former sugar plantation, the Chukka Eco Adventure Outpost at Good Hope will give you a glimpse into Falmouth’s 18th century history and the opportunity to have some adventures. 

You can explore the immaculate grounds, tour the Good Hope Great House or participate in zip lining, bamboo rafting, river tubing, waterslides, and rum tasting. 

Good Hope is a 25-minute drive from the Falmouth port and is a wonderful place to see the natural beauty of Jamaica.  

10. Shop and Sample at the Historic Falmouth Cruise Port 

This port was designed to be a destination itself, with a wide open area between brick buildings in the British Georgian architecture style commonly found in Jamaica. 

Within the gated area you’ll find live music, food stands, restaurants, bars, arts and crafts vendors, and plenty of souvenirs. Try some famous Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee and Jamaican rum. There are enough stores to keep you busy for several hours in this clean and well-maintained port. 

One important thing to note, Margaritaville used to be a popular port attraction in Falmouth. Unfortunately, this location closed permanently in January 2023.

Related: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

Free Things to Do in Falmouth Jamaica, Cruise Port

If you’re looking for budget friendly or free things to do close to the Falmouth cruise port, you’re in luck. There are some historic buildings and attractions and sights to see within walking distance of the cruise ships.

11. Historic Falmouth Walk

Explore the historic town of Falmouth on foot. Enjoy the colonial architecture and learn about the town’s history. Create your own self-guided walking tour and check out the historical landmarks.

Some notable landmarks and buildings you might consider including in your itinerary:

• Falmouth Court House – an impressive Georgian structure that has stood since 1817
• Water Square – a bustling gathering place surrounded by historic buildings
• St. Peter’s Anglican Church – With it’s Georgian architecture, built in 1796, St. Peter’s Anglican Church is one of the oldest churches in Jamaica
• Falmouth Methodist Church – dating back to 1799, the Falmouth Methodist Church is another historic religious site worth visiting
• Albert George Market – The vibrant market offers a glimpse into the daily life of local people in Falmouth
• William Knibb Memorial Church – Constructed in the 19th century, this church is dedicated to William Knibb, a prominent figure in Jamaican history who advocated for the abolition of slavery
• Fort Balcarres – Explore the ruins of Fort Balcarres, an 18th-century fort that was built to defend the town against potential invasions
• Trelawny Parish Church – located just outside of the city center, this church is one of the oldest churches in Jamaica, with roots dating back to the late 18th century.

12. Jamaican Craft Market

Within the port area, you’ll find a craft market where local artisans showcase their handmade goods. This includes colorful paintings, wood carvings and handwoven items While purchasing items is optional, browsing the stalls and interacting with vendors can be interesting.

13. Street Entertainment

Enjoy some free entertainment within the port, as there are often local musicians and dancers performing. Take in the sounds of reggae music or show off your dance moves.

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14. Window Shopping

If you’re still looking for free activities in the Falmouth cruise port, window shopping for jewelry, clothing and souvenirs doesn’t cost a thing. Of course, if you want to bring home some memories and souvenirs, you can definitely enjoy in a little retail therapy.

15. Photo Tour

Create your own photo tour as you walk around the Historic Falmouth Cruise Port and Old Town. From the iconic Falmouth Court House with it’s grand Georgian architecture, to Rodney Street, with it’s vibrant colonial-style buildings – you’ll get some amazing photos!

Related: 12 Tourist Scams that Cruisers Need to Watch Out For

Food and Drinks in Falmouth

16. jamaican local cuisine.

While food is included on cruise ships, many cruisers enjoy trying out some of the local cuisine in cruise ports of call.

Here are a few local foods to try when visiting the Falmouth cruise port:

• Jamaican Patty
• Jerk Chicken
• Rice and Peas
• Ackee and Saltfish
• Coconut Drops

17. Have a Drink

If you like having a local beer when in port, try out Red Stripe, Jamaica’s most popular beer. You may also want to try ginger beer, Blue Mountain coffee or Appleton Estate Rum.

18. Souvenir Shopping

Here’s a list of 10 souvenirs to buy in Falmouth cruise port:

• Jamaican Rum
• Jamaican Coffee
• Jamaican Spices and Jerk Seasoning
• Crafts and Artwork
• Handwoven Items
• Local Hot Sauces
• Blue Mountain Pottery
• Bob Marley Memorabilia
• Rasta-themed Products

19. Chat with the Locals

The people of Falmouth are mostly relaxed and friendly. It’s a nice idea chat with the local residents, shopkeepers and artisans.

20. Learn Jamaican Patois

If you are going to Jamaica, you can expect to here the locals speak Jamaican Patois, a local creole language, between each other.

Here are a few common words and phrases you will likely hear and recognize:

• Irie – Feeling good
• Ya man – Yes or okay
• No problem – Everything is fine

Of course, there are many other key phrases that you can learn while in Falmouth.

Falmouth Cruise Port Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit falmouth .

The best time of year to visit Jamaica is during the spring months of April and May, when precipitation is low and both air and sea temperatures stay in the balmy range of 77-83 degrees Fahrenheit.  

That said, Caribbean cruises sail year round and there’s never a bad time for this port of call.

How far is downtown Falmouth from the cruise port? 

“Old Town” Falmouth lies just outside of the gated port area. If you choose to go out of the port shopping complex, you can walk into town within 3-5 minutes of disembarking from your ship. 

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Final Thoughts On Things to do in Falmouth Cruise Port

Whether you choose to stay in the well-organized port complex for food, shopping, and entertainment or decide on to explore waterfalls, beautiful beaches, or a historic sugar plantation, the excursions in Falmouth will give you a taste of the friendly Jamaican culture and intriguing history. 

Have you been to Falmouth yet? What was your favorite part of this Jamaican city? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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Falmouth (Cornwall), England

Falmouth sits on a natural harbor and has many sandy beaches and hidden caves. Visit the Pendennis Castle, Cornwall's largest fort. The town center is full of craft shops, fish merchants, restaurants and pubs.

Falmouth UK cruise port

Ireland - uk - british isles.

• Coordinates 50.157, -5.067
• Local Time 2024-09-04 00:29

Falmouth UK cruise ship schedule

• Temperature

The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships and itineraries

Call it the cruise line for people who want a big, amenity-filled ship that isn't a floating amusement park.

Princess Cruises operates relatively large, reasonably priced vessels. But unlike many of its competitors in that space — most notably Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises — it doesn't load them up with sprawling water parks, go-kart tracks, laser tag courses and other flashy, family-focused diversions.

Compared to most of its big ship-operating rivals, Princess is known for a more serene, almost old-school style of cruising that isn't about a lot of gee-whiz attractions.

As Princess executives like to say, the line is all about warm and gracious service in an atmosphere of comfortable elegance designed to spark connections among passengers.

Instead of bustling attractions, the top decks on the typical Princess ships offer lots of quiet and relaxing pool and lounge areas where you can enjoy the experience of being at sea without a lot of hustle and bustle. Inside, the experience revolves around dining, classic showroom entertainment and a classy bar and music scene — just as it has on Princess ships for years.

This is, notably, just the way Princess customers like it. Popular with middle-aged couples, retirees and multigenerational families, the "Love Boat" line caters to people who like a more traditional type of cruising than you'll find on the vessels of most other big-ship lines.

Related: Which cruise brand is right for you? A guide to the most popular lines

3 things TPG loves about Princess Cruises

• The abundance of outdoor pool and lounge areas on its ships
• Its expansive spas
• Its far-flung itineraries

What we could do without

• The lack of big suites on most of its vessels

The Princess Cruises fleet

Princess has downsized its fleet considerably in recent years with the removal of five vessels, but it's still the world's fifth-biggest cruise line by passenger capacity, with 16 ships that together offer roughly 50,000 berths.

In general, Princess operates big ships, though they're not quite as big as the vessels operated by Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises — the two lines best known for giant ships. The biggest Princess vessel, the line's new Sun Princess , measures around 177,000 tons. That's about 29% smaller than the biggest ship operated by Royal Caribbean. The line's Royal Class vessels are more than 40% smaller than the biggest Royal Caribbean ships.

Sun Princess is, without a doubt, the belle of the ball in the Princess fleet. Newer, bigger and more venue-filled than the line's other ships, it debuted in early 2024 and carries 4,300 passengers at double occupancy.

Also relatively new and chock-full of lots of venues are the line's five Royal Class ships, which measure between 142,229 and 145,281 tons. These vessels began rolling out in 2013 and carry about 3,600 passengers apiece at double occupancy.

Still, the biggest cohort of ships in the Princess fleet is its seven Grand Class vessels. Unveiled between 1998 and 2008, the vessels in this class are smaller than Sun Princess and the Royal Class ships at around 107,000 to 116,000 tons in size. This smaller size allows them to operate a wider range of itineraries than the Royal Class ships, but they're still big enough to offer a lot of onboard venues. The Grand Class ships carry between 2,600 and 3,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Related: The 4 classes of Princess Cruises ships, explained

Rounding out the Princess fleet are its two Coral Class ships, which, at around 92,000 tons, are the smallest of the line's ships. They each carry around 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

The downsizing of the Princess fleet over the past few years had a lot to do with the COVID-19 pandemic. Three ships left the Princess fleet starting in 2020 as part of an effort to cut costs during the line's coronavirus-caused global shutdown. Another two vessels — Golden Princess and Star Princess — had been scheduled to leave the Princess fleet even before the pandemic began. They were transferred to one of the line's sister companies, P&O Cruises Australia.

The line currently has one more vessel on order that will be a sister to the recently unveiled Sun Princess. To be called Star Princess, it's due to debut in October 2025 .

Destinations and itineraries

Princess Cruises sails to more than 100 countries on seven continents, from North America and Europe to Asia and Australia, and it offers a wide range of itineraries — around 170 in a typical year. The line's ships visit more than 380 different ports and destinations and take passengers to more than 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Among the line's voyages, you'll find everything from three-day sampler cruises down the Pacific Coast to 116-day around-the-world voyages.

Princess is particularly known for cruises to Alaska , where it dominates the market for cruises along with sister line Holland America . In a typical year, Princess deploys seven or eight ships to Alaska in the summer — far more than most other lines. It also operates its own wilderness lodges in the state, as well as tourist trains and buses. It uses the lodges, trains and buses to offer a range of 10- to 17-night Alaska cruisetours that combine a cruise with land-based touring.

Princess also typically deploys five to seven ships to Europe in the summer, and it has a big presence in Australia, where it can deploy as many as six ships for parts of each year. In recent years, it has also become a major player in cruises around Japan that cater to both American and Japanese travelers, as well as Australians.

In North America, Princess ships sail out of Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Port Canaveral , Florida; Boston; New York City; Los Angeles; San Francisco; San Diego; Seattle; Galveston, Texas; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Whittier, Alaska. There are also some sailings that depart from New York City, Quebec City and Honolulu.

In Europe, Princess ships mostly sail out of Southampton, England; Copenhagen; Barcelona; Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens); and Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome).

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Who sails Princess Cruises?

Princess appeals to an older demographic than lines such as Carnival and Norwegian. The average age of passengers is around 54, and you'll usually see a lot of couples on board in their 50s, 60s and 70s.

As noted above, these aren't people necessarily craving go-kart tracks and ropes courses at sea. They're people looking to explore the world in a comfortable, classy sort of way that also is relatively affordable. That last part is key. Princess offers a lot of globe-circling itineraries of the sort often available from high-end luxury lines. However, it does so at a much lower price.

While not the biggest line for families with young children, Princess does draw a lot of multigenerational family groups. It's the line you take if you want an affordable ship that'll appeal to your 70-year-old parents as much as your 12-year-old kid.

Princess also draws a lot of passengers celebrating milestones. The line markets heavily to people marking birthdays and anniversaries with special packages and programs. It's also a huge player in the market for destination weddings at sea, with a division that will help you arrange a ceremony on board or at an exotic location on land during a port call.

Princess was, notably, the first cruise line to host modern-day weddings on ships, offering ceremonies officiated by the ships' captains hosted in onboard chapels.

It is, after all, the "Love Boat" line.

Cabins and suites

When it comes to rooms, Princess is sort of the Marriott of the big-ship cruise world. Its rooms are comfortable and functional but a bit bland. Avant-garde style is not a Princess thing.

The vast majority of the accommodations on Princess ships fall into one of three broad categories: windowless inside cabins, ocean-view cabins and balcony cabins. Balcony cabins, in particular, are widespread on Princess ships. Among mass-market lines, Princess was the pioneer in adding large numbers of balcony cabins to ships.

While balcony cabins are common on Princess ships, you'll find relatively few suites on them. Just 50 of the 2,162 cabins on the line's new Sun Princess are suites, for instance, and that's a lot more suites than you'll find on most other Princess ships.

What this means is there aren't a lot of ways to live large on a Princess ship or to pack a lot of people into a single accommodation. Until the debut of Sky Princess in 2019, the line didn't have a single cabin that could accommodate more than four people.

That said, the Grand Class vessels each offer two Family Suites that can be created by connecting a Mini-Suite with an adjacent inside cabin to form a six- to eight-person complex.

Unveiled five years ago, Sky Princess featured the line's first truly large stand-alone suites, dubbed Sky Suites. Such suites were later added to the line's Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess, too.

There are two of the suites on each of the ships, and they measure a generous 1,800 square feet (though more than half of that space is taken up by a huge wraparound balcony). With two bedrooms plus a living room with a pullout sofa bed, they're designed for up to five people.

The line's new Sun Princess also has several large suites that measure as much as 1,260 square feet.

Still, even the biggest suites on Sky Princess, Discovery Princess and Sun Princess aren't the truly epic suites with huge interior living spaces that you'll find on the latest Royal Caribbean or Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships. If that's what you're after, Princess isn't your line.

Related: Everything you want to know about Princess cabins and suites

Restaurants and dining

Every Princess vessel has three main dining rooms where meals are included in the fare, and these dining rooms are at the heart of the dining experience on Princess ships. Many passengers have all or most of their dinners in a main dining room.

As of this year, the three main dining rooms on each Princess ship operate under different formats. At one of the main rooms, you can make a reservation for any time, provided a table at the time you want is available. To ensure you get the time you want, it's best to reserve a table far in advance of your sailing, which you can do online once you've paid for the cruise in full. You also can make reservations on board ships during your cruise.

At another of the main dining rooms, you can just show up for dinner at any time without a reservation and be seated on a space-available basis.

The third main dining room on every Princess ship offers a fixed-time "traditional" seating option where you can request the same table at the same time with the same waiter every night of a cruise.

Every vessel also has a casual buffet eatery where meals are included in the fare. Near the main pool area on most ships, it's usually called Horizon Court but is also known as the World Fresh Market or Panorama Buffet on some vessels.

Other covered options on at least some Princess ships include poolside pizza outlets and poolside grills serving burgers. Also, on sea days, Princess transforms a bar or dining venue at lunchtime into an included-in-the-fare English-style pub. It serves traditional pub food such as fish-and-chips and cottage pie, along with Bass Ale or Guinness (for an extra charge).

Every Princess ship also has at least a couple of extra-charge eateries. On most ships, you'll find the line's signature Italian restaurant, Sabatini's. It serves homemade pasta, seafood and other Italian specialties in an elegant setting and comes with a flat fee of $45 per person.

Most Princess ships also have a signature steakhouse. On most vessels, it's called Crown Grill and offers premium beef and seafood cooked to order in an open, theater-style kitchen. On two ships — Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess — it's called Churrascaria Grill and is a Brazilian-style steakhouse with meat presented by waiters.

On two ships — Coral Princess and Island Princess — the steakhouse has a Cajun and Creole twist. In addition to steak dishes, the menu features New Orleans-style peel-and-eat shrimp, alligator ribs and gumbo. On those vessels, it's called the Bayou Cafe and Steakhouse.

Princess ships also offer a chef's table experience — a concept the line pioneered in the cruise world. Costing $95 to $115 per person, it includes predinner cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the ship's galley with the executive chef before a main dining experience at a private table in the dining room.

Another dining option that recently began popping up on Princess ships is a seafood eatery called The Catch by Rudi, designed by Princess' head of culinary arts, Rudi Sodamin. (Holland America fans will remember Sodamin as that line's longtime master chef.)

The Catch by Rudi is only on Sun Princess, Enchanted Princess, Sky Princess, Majestic Princess and Discovery Princess. Like the Princess steakhouses, it has a cover charge of $45 per person.

Related: Princess cruise food: The ultimate guide to restaurants and dining on board

Entertainment and activities

Princess ships are loaded with entertainment that ranges from Broadway-style theater shows to street entertainers who appear in each vessel's central piazza. That said, they're not floating amusement parks. Unlike some big-ship lines, Princess isn't topping its vessels with waterslides, go-kart tracks, ropes courses and other family-focused attractions.

Theaters and shows

There's no shortage of theater and lounge entertainment on Princess ships. On a typical night, you might find a flashy, fast-paced production show playing in the main theater, a comedian performing in a secondary lounge and live music on offer in several more venues.

In many cases, the main theaters on Princess ships are quite elaborate, with Broadway show-level lighting and special effects, and the productions housed within the theaters are elaborate, too.

Princess has upped its game with its theater productions in recent years through a partnership with Stephen Schwartz, the Tony Award-winning composer of "Wicked," "Godspell" and "Pippin."

Among new productions that Schwartz has worked on is "The Secret Silk," which features life-size puppetry from Jim Henson's Creature Shop, dancing and special effects. It was created and directed by John Tartaglia, a star of Broadway's "Avenue Q" and "Beauty and the Beast."

Princess is also known for its karaoke nights, and it holds a "The Voice of the Ocean" competition during cruises, which is a spinoff of the TV show. Passengers compete in a live performance after karaoke auditions and rehearsal sessions with the shipboard band and backup singers. A team of coaches sits in giant "I Want You" chairs, just like on the show, and passengers vote to choose the winner.

Other interior attractions and activities

In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of Princess ships are filled with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including a range of bars, lounges and nightspots.

On many ships, the hub of activity is the Piazza, a sprawling, multilevel space that serves as a central gathering place, like a square in Italy. The configuration of the Piazza varies by ship, but the area typically offers several shops, a coffee bar called International Cafe, a wine bar called Vines, and (on some vessels) additional bars and eateries. The Piazza is also home to roving street performers.

Every Princess ship also has a casino, often just off the Piazza, and spas are big on Princess ships. The Lotus Spa complexes on the line's Royal Class ships offer nearly two dozen treatment rooms, an extensive beauty salon, and a thermal suite with a hydrotherapy pool, heated stone beds, a Turkish-style steam bath and other steam chambers.

Several of the newer Princess ships, including Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess, have jazz clubs called Take 5.

In addition to such venues, Princess offers a lot of enrichment activities on its ships. The line has partnered with Discovery to offer a Discovery at Sea program on vessels that includes activities like stargazing from a top deck with a specialist. The program also brings destination specialists and naturalists on board in places such as Alaska to offer insights.

Inspired by Discovery's popular "Shark Week," Princess has also created Shark Week at Sea programming that runs on select sailings in the summer with activities and games designed to challenge both adults and kids on the myths and interesting facts about sharks.

Culinary demonstrations, wine tastings and dance classes also are popular on Princess ships.

Top-deck attractions

The top decks of most Princess ships are notable for what they don't have: There are no roller coasters or pedal-powered sky rides like you'll find on Carnival ships or the go-kart tracks that top some Norwegian vessels. There are no surfing simulators, sky diving simulators, rock climbing walls or zip lines of the sort found on Royal Caribbean vessels. For the most part, there aren't even waterslides or watery splash zones (two vessels, Caribbean Princess and Sun Princess, do have splash zones).

Princess executives long ago decided not to engage in what they call the "amusement park arms race" taking place among lines operating big resort-like ships.

Instead, the line has mostly stuck to the basics with its top decks. They are covered with relaxing pool and lounge zones — and lots of them.

On the last three Royal Class ships, for instance, there's a main pool area at the center of the top deck with two full pools and three hot tubs, plus a secondary pool area at the back of the ship with another pool. There's also an adults-only pool area toward the front of the vessel, along with an extra-charge, adults-only relaxation area called the Sanctuary.

Between all these pool and lounge areas running along the sides of the ship are additional sunning areas with lounge chairs and four more hot tubs.

In short, there is a ton of space for relaxing on the top deck of these newest Princess vessels — more than you'll find on any other ship of comparable size, save for their earlier sisters in the Royal Class.

The one big attraction that you will find on the top deck of Princess ships, always at the main pool area, is a giant Movies Under the Stars movie screen. A growing number of cruise ships now have movie screens on their pool decks, but Princess pioneered the concept.

The screens show movies, concerts and sporting events during the day, but at night, they really shine. In a longtime Princess tradition, the line turns the main pool areas of its ships into outdoor movie theaters at night by reconfiguring lounge chairs to face the screen and bringing out blankets to ward off the evening chill. It even serves popcorn.

Some ships also feature basketball courts, miniature golf putting courses, shuffleboard games and pingpong tables tucked into corners of their top decks.

Children's programs

While it doesn't draw as many families with young children as Carnival or Royal Caribbean, Princess offers an extensive children's program that gets high marks from parents.

The Princess Youth and Teen centers were recently rebranded "Camp Discovery" as part of the line's partnership with Discovery Communications and offer free, supervised activities daily for children ages 3 to 17.

The line splits children in the program into three age groups: the Treehouse (ages 3 to 7 years), the Lodge (ages 8 to 12 years) and the Beach House (ages 13 to 17 years). Each age group often has its own separate facilities on ships. On some ships, the age groups may be further divided based on available space.

Each group has its own age-appropriate activities, with newly revamped experiences designed to "help young Princess explorers learn, play and create fun memories."

While the free programming for children ages 3 to 12 ends at 10 p.m., you can pay extra to leave your kids at shipboard Youth and Teen centers from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. During those hours, they're supervised in what is essentially a group child-sitting service.

The Youth and Teen centers also welcome children under the age of 3 if they are accompanied by an adult.

Related: The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up

What to know before you go

Required documents.

A passport is required for all international itineraries, including world cruises and sailings to Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, India, Central and South America, the Panama Canal (partial and full transit), Caribbean voyages that visit Martinique or Guadeloupe, the South Pacific and Tahiti.

If you're a U.S. citizen, you don't need a passport for many domestic itineraries (including Alaska, Bermuda, Canada, Caribbean, Hawaii and Mexico sailings). You can instead travel with an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification. A few other forms of identification, such as a passport card, are also acceptable. That said, Princess strongly recommends that all travelers bring a passport.

Passports must be valid for at least six months. The name on your reservation must be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Related: Where can I cruise without a passport?

Princess adds an automatic service gratuity of $16 to $18 per person, per day to final bills, depending on your cabin category. If you are unhappy with the service you receive, you can adjust this amount at the Guest Services desk before disembarking. (You can also increase the tip amount if so desired.) Also, an 18% gratuity is added to bills at bars, dining room wine accounts and spas.

Related: Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities

Princess has rolled out faster Wi-Fi systems with landlike speeds across its fleet in recent years, such that you now can stream video on ships. That's the upside. The downside is that such service costs a lot more than Wi-Fi access did in the past. Pricing changes over time, but the line was recently charging $24.99 per day to hook up a single device. That's an enormous increase from as recently as early 2023, when Wi-Fi access was available for just $9.99.

The faster Princess Wi-Fi system is called MedallionNet Classic , and it's one of several technological upgrades that Princess has made to its ships in recent years under an umbrella called MedallionClass. MedallionClass also brings expedited embarkation, keyless cabin entry, on-demand food and beverage delivery, and the ability to locate friends and family on board — all via an app for mobile devices and a Princess-issued medallion that passengers carry while traveling.

Princess also recently began offering an even faster Wi-Fi service called MedallionNet Max that only is available to those paying for one of the line's add-on extras packages known as Princess Plus or Princess Premier.

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

Carry-on drinks policy

Princess allows you to bring one bottle of wine or Champagne per person onto ships at boarding at no charge (for consuming in your room; you'll be charged a $20 corkage fee if you want to bring it to an onboard restaurant or bar to drink). You can bring even more bottles of wine on board, but you will pay a $20 corkage fee per bottle.

Smoking policy

On all ships, smoking (including electronic cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas and in cigar lounges, designated sections within nightclubs and at designated slot machines within casinos (for those who are playing). It's forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies. Passengers caught smoking in their cabins will be charged a $250 fine per occurrence. One exception to the above rule is that e-cigarettes are allowed in cabins (but not on cabin balconies).

Princess ships have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. There's a charge of $3 per load to use a washer or dryer. The launderettes also have vending machines that dispense small boxes of detergent and water softener at $1.50 per box. Additionally, vessels offer extra-charge laundry and dry cleaning services.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

All vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms, and some also have European-style, 220-volt outlets and USB ports in cabins.

The currency used on most Princess itineraries is dollars. The exceptions are select sailings on ships based in Australia, where pricing is listed in Australian dollars. All vessels operate on a cashless system, with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a medallion that you can use to make charges. This same card or medallion also is what lets you into your cabin.

Drinking age

You must be 21 to consume alcohol on many Princess itineraries. The exceptions include sailings between ports in Europe, China, Australia and New Zealand, and Singapore, where the drinking age is 18. For cruises between Japanese ports, the drinking age is 20.

During the day, there is no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and you're bound for the top deck, that means looking like you're going to the beach — T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside) are just fine.

At night, there is an official dress code that is enforced when entering restaurants. Most nights are designated as "smart casual," which Princess takes to mean pants and an open-neck shirt for men and skirts and dresses or slacks for women.

Beach attire, shorts, baseball caps and casual jeans (think: the fraying kind or those with holes) are not allowed. One or more nights per cruise, depending on the cruise length, will be designated as a "formal" night when men are expected to turn out in dark suits with a tie or even a tuxedo. The suggested attire for women on such nights is evening gowns or cocktail dresses.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Princess Cruises' loyalty program

Princess has a four-tier frequent cruiser program, the Captain's Circle, that is worth joining for the perks — if you're willing to bear with its convoluted tier qualifying structure.

You reach the first tier, Gold, by taking a single cruise. However, from there, you move to each successive tier either by accruing a certain number of "cruise credits" (which aren't necessarily the same as the number of cruises you've taken) or by sailing a certain number of days.

Reaching the Ruby level, for instance, requires three cruise credits (more on those in a moment) or 30 days on Princess ships. Platinum status kicks in after five cruise credits or 50 days on ships.

Related: Princess Cruises' Captain's Circle loyalty program: Everything you need to know

In most cases, members earn one cruise credit for every cruise they take. However, members who book a suite or travel solo in a cabin meant for two will receive two cruise credits for the voyage. The number of cruise credits you have earned is thus often the same as the number of cruises you have taken, but not always.

As is typical with cruise line loyalty programs, lower tiers don't bring all that much in terms of truly valuable benefits. You'll receive things like an invite to a private party (at the Gold tier) and a free upgrade for your travel insurance package when buying it through the line (at the Ruby tier). However, higher levels of the program start to be enticing.

The second-to-highest tier, Platinum, brings such perks as priority check-in and boarding, and a free internet package.

The top Elite level (15 cruise credits or 150 cruise days) adds such things as an exclusive window to preview and book new itineraries, priority ship-to-shore water shuttle service, complimentary laundry, and a complimentary minibar setup.

Members at all tier levels get access to special pricing on certain cruises. They also receive a monthly newsletter and a membership pin.

Note that, in contrast to airline frequent flyer programs, cruise line loyalty programs do not require you to requalify for status every year. So, yes, the perks with lower tiers aren't great. However, it's not as difficult as it might at first seem to hit the more rewarding higher-level tiers in just a few years if you're cruising a lot.

A Princess passenger staying in suites will hit the Platinum level after just three cruises. The top Elite level is reachable within just eight cruises for someone staying in suites.

Related: A beginners guide to cruise line loyalty programs

How much does a Princess cruise cost?

Princess ships are very reasonably priced. They're not the least expensive vessels out there, but they're not pricey by any means. It's possible to find Princess voyages to the Caribbean, the Bahamas or Mexico starting under $100 per person, per night, including all taxes and fees — at least in the offseason.

For instance, as of the date of this story's posting, six-night sailings from Galveston, Texas, to the Western Caribbean in February 2025 started at just $418 per person, not including taxes and fees of $138. That works out to just $93 per night, per person, with taxes and fees for a package that includes your lodging, transportation and meals.

As you might expect, pricing for ships will generally be lower during offseason periods such as September, October, November (not including Thanksgiving week) and parts of December.

When you book can also matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels. Many cruisers will tell you that the best pricing for any given sailing is often available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). Booking far in advance also gives you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board a Princess ship, you'll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet service and a few other things — unless you've bought a package for some of these items in advance.

Specifically, the line now offers bundle pricing for several extra-charge add-on items including gratuities, a Wi-Fi package, a specialty dining package and a drink package — if passengers pay for them in advance.

The line's Princess Plus plan gives passengers included gratuities, a single-device Wi-Fi plan, a basic beverage package and a few other freebies for a bundled price of $60 per person, per day.

An enhanced version of the above plan called Princess Premier gives you gratuities, Wi-Fi access on more devices, an unlimited drink package and an unlimited dining package for $90 per person, per day.

Most onboard activities, such as theater shows, are included in the fare.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to princess.com to make a booking directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises.

A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. They can also help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure that Princess is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who understands all the little quirks that are unique to Princess cabin categories and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see the cabins firsthand.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your credit card points when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , which offers 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual up-to-$300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on dining.

Bottom line

Princess offers big, amenity-filled ships that are comfortable and classy at an affordable price.

If you're looking for a lot of top-deck fun zones — waterslides, go-kart tracks and the like — it's probably not the line for you. However, if you're on the hunt for not-too-expensive vessels that will take you to the farthest corners of the world in comfort, Princess ships should be on your shortlist.

It's also a great line if you're trying to put together a multigenerational trip, as its ships are designed to appeal to a wide range of age groups.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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Princess Cruises Appoints Captains for Star Princess

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Santa Clarita, Calif. (December 15, 2023) – Princess Cruises announced the two captains who will serve as masters of the line’s second, sensational Sphere Class cruise ship, Star Princess, during an official keel laying ceremony in Monfalcone, Italy.

Captain Gennaro Arma, who currently serves as the newbuild site lead for the construction of both Sun Princess and Star Princess, will be master of the 17th Princess ship when she debuts in summer 2025, bringing her into service from the shipyard. When Captain Arma is on leave, Commodore Nick Nash will take over the navigation and leadership of Star Princess.

“It is my privilege to introduce and congratulate the masters of the stunning new Star Princess,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “Captain Arma and Commodore Nash have remarkable histories with Princess, and will provide great experience and excellent leadership on our newest vessel.”

Commodore Nick Nash , a 33-year veteran of Princess Cruises, was promoted to the rank of commodore of the line’s global fleet in 2020. He currently serves as captain of Enchanted Princess, having navigated the ship out of the Fincantieri shipyard for the first time. Commodore Nash first joined the company in 1989 and was promoted to staff captain in 1997. In 2002, he became captain and has been at the helm of many Princess vessels. Commodore Nash also has served as President of the Nautical Institute and after two years now serves on the council. He was awarded the United Kingdom’s Merchant Navy Medal for meritorious service in 2018. He is a Chartered Master Mariner, a Fellow of The Nautical Institute, The Royal Institute of Navigation, The Royal Geographical Society and a Younger Brother of Trinity House.

Captain Gennaro Arma has always been passionate about the sea. He began his career with Princess Cruises in 1998 as a Cadet and moved up the ranks achieving his first command as Captain of Sea Princess in 2015, where he navigated the ship on two world cruises. He took the helm of Diamond Princess in 2018 and in 2020 and was honored with the recognition of Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, the highest of the orders of the Italian Republic, and selected among the 20 most influential Italian characters of the year by Vanity Fair in December 2020. Arma has also received the title of Magister of Amalfi Civilization for the Byzantine New Year, the Emanuela Loi award for courage, and the Assarmatori prize from the Italian maritime association awarded by the Minister of Transportation. He most recently served as captain of Discovery Princess. He was born in Sorrento, Italy, where he lives with his wife Mariana and his son Diego.

Star Princess makes her debut in August 2025, with cruises on sale now.

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

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Contact information for members of the media

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About Princess Cruises

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

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