Princess Cruises has always focused on a slightly different cruise experience compared to some other lines — less about flashy thrills and more about comfort, elegance, and destination-focused travel.
But in recent years, even Princess has stepped up its game with larger ships, advanced technology, and more immersive onboard spaces.
In this guide, I’ve listed Princess ships starting from the newest.
As you go through, you’ll see how the fleet has evolved from classic mid-size ships to modern giants packed with new features.
Star Princess (2025)
Class: Sphere | Built Year: 2025 | Guest Capacity: 4,310
Star Princess is set to be one of the most impressive ships in the Princess fleet, matching its sister Sun Princess in both size and overall design.
As part of the new Sphere Class, this ship represents a clear shift toward more modern, experience-driven cruising.
One of its biggest highlights is The Dome, a stunning glass-enclosed space that transforms throughout the day — something completely new for Princess.
Along with that, the ship introduces more dining options, larger social spaces, and upgraded suite experiences.
Why it stands out:
- Features: The Dome (first geodesic dome at sea).
- Expanded dining, including a larger Irish pub.
- Over 2,100 staterooms with upgraded layouts.
Best for:
- Luxury-focused cruisers.
- Couples and premium travelers.
- Guests looking for newer ships without mega-ship chaos.
Sun Princess (2024)
Class: Sphere | Built Year: 2024 | Guest Capacity: 4,310
Sun Princess marked the beginning of the Sphere Class and introduced a completely fresh look for the cruise line.
It feels more open, more modern, and much more focused on premium experiences compared to older Princess ships.
The ship brought a number of firsts, including a highly advanced theater and an expanded selection of dining venues — over 30 in total — making it one of the most diverse ships in the fleet.
Key highlights:
- First Sphere-class ship
- Over 30 restaurants and bars
- Multiple pools and expanded shopping areas
Best for:
- Food lovers
- First-time Princess cruisers
- Travelers wanting modern features
Discovery Princess (2022)
Class: Royal | Built Year: 2022 | Guest Capacity: 3,660
Discovery Princess was the final ship in the Royal Class and, at the time of its launch, became the largest in the fleet.
It combines size with a refined onboard experience, offering plenty of dining, entertainment, and relaxation options.
With 19 decks and a wide range of venues, it delivers a well-balanced cruise experience without feeling overwhelming.
What makes it appealing:
- Over 20 dining and bar venues.
- Four pools and multiple hot tubs.
- Classic Princess layout with modern touches.
Best for:
- First-time cruisers
- Families and couples
- Travelers wanting a balanced experience
Enchanted Princess (2020)
Class: Royal | Built Year: 2020 | Guest Capacity: 3,660
Enchanted Princess closely follows Discovery Princess in terms of layout and design, but introduced something that changed the onboard experience — MedallionClass technology.
This wearable tech allows guests to unlock cabins, order food, and access services seamlessly, making the cruise feel much more personalized and convenient.
Standout features:
- MedallionClass smart technology.
- 19 decks with modern design.
- Similar layout to Discovery Princess.
Best for:
- Tech-savvy travelers
- Couples
- Guests who enjoy convenience and personalization
Sky Princess (2019)
Class: Royal | Built Year: 2019 | Guest Capacity: 3,660
Sky Princess offers a very similar experience to Enchanted Princess but with a few differences in onboard offerings.
While it may have slightly fewer dining venues and hot tubs, it still delivers a premium cruise experience.
One of its biggest highlights is its suite experience, including some of the largest balconies at sea, which is a big plus for travelers who value private outdoor space.
Why cruisers like it:
- Large suite balconies
- Outdoor spa treatments
- Michelin-inspired dining options
Best for:
- Couples and honeymooners
- Balcony lovers
- Relaxation-focused cruises
Majestic Princess (2017)
Class: Royal | Built Year: 2017 | Guest Capacity: 3,560
Majestic Princess was originally designed for the Chinese market, and that influence is still visible throughout the ship.
From dining options to entertainment, it offers a slightly different vibe compared to other Royal-class ships.
Despite that, it has sailed globally and appeals to a wide range of travelers.
Unique features:
- Chinese-inspired dining and decor
- Private karaoke rooms
- VIP casino areas
Best for:
- International travelers
- Guests looking for a unique onboard atmosphere
- Food-focused cruisers
Regal Princess (2014)
Class: Royal | Built Year: 2014 | Guest Capacity: 3,560
Regal Princess may be over a decade old now, but it still delivers a very polished cruise experience.
As the second ship in the Royal Class, it closely follows its sister ship, Royal Princess, offering many of the same features with a few thoughtful upgrades.
One standout addition is the aft pool and promenade area, which gives guests more outdoor space to relax while enjoying ocean views.
The famous SeaWalk glass walkway is also a highlight, offering a unique over-the-water experience.
Why it stands out:
- SeaWalk glass-bottom walkway
- Added aft pool and promenade deck
- Classic Royal-class layout
Best for:
- Couples
- First-time Princess cruisers
- Guests who enjoy scenic outdoor spaces
Royal Princess (2013)
Class: Royal | Built Year: 2013 | Guest Capacity: 3,560
Royal Princess kicked off the Royal Class and introduced a completely new design for the cruise line.
It brought in features that are now standard across newer ships, including improved dining layouts and more open public spaces.
It also added some unique touches, like a television studio producing live content for guests — something you don’t see on most cruise ships.
Key highlights:
- First Royal-class ship
- SeaWalk glass walkway
- Chef’s Table Lumiere dining experience
Best for:
- Cruise enthusiasts
- Food lovers
- Travelers who enjoy modern but not oversized ships
Ruby Princess (2008)
Class: Crown | Built Year: 2008 | Guest Capacity: 3,080
Ruby Princess is the newest ship in the Crown Class and offers a slightly smaller and more manageable cruise experience compared to Royal-class vessels.
While it doesn’t have as many modern features, it still delivers strong value.
With over 1,500 staterooms and a solid mix of dining and entertainment venues, it remains a popular choice.
What to expect:
- Smaller, easy-to-navigate layout.
- Good variety of restaurants and lounges.
- Classic Princess cruise experience.
Best for:
- Budget-conscious cruisers
- First-time travelers
- Guests who prefer mid-size ships
Emerald Princess (2007)
Class: Crown | Built Year: 2007 | Guest Capacity: 3,090
Emerald Princess has been around for nearly two decades, but regular refurbishments have helped keep it in good shape.
While it may lack the high-tech features of newer ships, it still delivers a high-quality cruise experience.
The ship continues to stand out for its service, entertainment, and overall atmosphere.
Why cruisers choose it:
- Multiple refurbishments over the years.
- Strong entertainment and service.
- Reliable and consistent experience.
Best for:
- Repeat cruisers
- Value seekers
- Traditional cruise lovers
Crown Princess (2006)
Class: Crown | Built Year: 2006 | Guest Capacity: 3,090
Crown Princess is the ship that started this class and introduced features that are still popular today.
The Piazza-style central area gives the ship a lively, social atmosphere, making it a great place to relax or people-watch.
It also features popular venues like the Crown Grill and the adults-only Sanctuary, which continue to attract guests.
Standout features:
- Piazza-style central hub
- Crown Grill steakhouse
- Adults-only Sanctuary area
Best for:
- Couples
- Relaxation-focused cruises
- Guests who enjoy social spaces
Caribbean Princess (2004)
Class: Grand | Built Year: 2004 | Guest Capacity: 3,140
Caribbean Princess was once the largest ship in the Princess fleet when it debuted, and it held that title for quite some time.
Even today, it remains the biggest ship in the Grand Class thanks to its additional deck.
Designed primarily for warm-weather itineraries, the ship notably lacks a pool roof — something that works great in the Caribbean but can feel limiting in cooler destinations.
Why it stands out:
- Largest ship in the Grand Class.
- Extra deck compared to sister ships.
- Designed for Caribbean cruising.
Best for:
- Caribbean itineraries
- Warm-weather cruises
- Travelers who enjoy classic mid-size ships
Sapphire Princess (2004)
Class: Grand | Built Year: 2004 | Guest Capacity: 2,680
Sapphire Princess may be larger in size than Caribbean Princess, but it carries fewer passengers, giving it a slightly more spacious feel onboard.
That difference is something experienced cruisers often appreciate.
The ship has been refurbished multiple times, helping it maintain a fresh look despite its age.
Key features:
- Five main dining rooms
- Refurbishments in 2012 and 2018
- More spacious feel compared to similar ships
Best for:
- Relaxation-focused travelers
- Couples
- Guests who prefer less crowding
Diamond Princess (2004)
Class: Grand | Built Year: 2004 | Guest Capacity: 2,710
Diamond Princess was specifically designed with the Japanese market in mind, and that influence is still very visible onboard.
From dining to entertainment, the ship offers a unique cultural experience compared to other Princess ships.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something a little different while still enjoying the Princess style of cruising.
Unique features:
- Japanese dining and cultural experiences
- Dedicated sushi restaurant
- Traditional bath facilities
Best for:
- Asia itineraries
- Cultural experiences
- Repeat cruisers looking for something different
Island Princess (2003)
Class: Coral | Built Year: 2003 | Guest Capacity: 2,210
Island Princess offers a much more intimate cruise experience compared to newer ships.
With fewer passengers and a smaller footprint, it feels calmer and less crowded.
It was specifically designed to sail through the Panama Canal, which explains its compact size.
Why cruisers love it:
- Smaller, quieter atmosphere
- Designed for Panama Canal itineraries
- High percentage of ocean-view cabins
Best for:
- Older travelers
- Destination-focused cruises
- Long itineraries
Coral Princess (2003)
Class: Coral | Built Year: 2003 | Guest Capacity: 2,000
Coral Princess is very similar to Island Princess but slightly smaller in capacity.
Interestingly, it offers more staterooms despite its size, which gives it a slightly different onboard feel.
It was one of the first ships introduced after Princess Cruises became part of Carnival Corporation.
Highlights:
- More staterooms than the sister ship.
- Compact and efficient design.
- Great for unique itineraries.
Best for:
- Panama Canal cruises
- Scenic destinations
- Travelers who prefer smaller ships
Grand Princess (1998)
Class: Grand | Built Year: 1998 | Guest Capacity: 2,610
Grand Princess is the oldest ship in the fleet, but it still holds an important place in Princess Cruises history.
When it first launched, it was considered one of the most impressive ships in the world — large, modern, and ahead of its time.
Over the years, multiple refurbishments have helped keep it relevant, adding updated dining venues, lounges, and public spaces.
Why it still matters:
- Oldest active ship in the fleet
- Regular upgrades and refurbishments
- Strong reputation for service
Best for:
- Budget-friendly cruises
- Classic cruise lovers
- Travelers who value service over features
List Of Princess Cruises Ships by Age
This table gives you a quick snapshot of Princess Cruises’ fleet, arranged from newest to oldest ships.
It makes it easy to compare ship classes and see how the fleet has evolved.
| Ship Name | Class | Year Built |
|---|---|---|
| Star Princess | Sphere | 2025 |
| Sun Princess | Sphere | 2024 |
| Discovery Princess | Royal | 2022 |
| Enchanted Princess | Royal | 2020 |
| Sky Princess | Royal | 2019 |
| Majestic Princess | Royal | 2017 |
| Regal Princess | Royal | 2014 |
| Royal Princess | Royal | 2013 |
| Ruby Princess | Crown | 2008 |
| Emerald Princess | Crown | 2007 |
| Crown Princess | Crown | 2006 |
| Caribbean Princess | Grand | 2004 |
| Sapphire Princess | Grand | 2004 |
| Diamond Princess | Grand | 2004 |
| Island Princess | Coral | 2003 |
| Coral Princess | Coral | 2003 |
| Grand Princess | Grand | 1998 |
A Fleet Built on Elegance & Evolution
Princess Cruises may not focus on extreme thrills like some other cruise lines, but that’s exactly what makes it stand out.
The fleet is designed around comfort, destinations, and refined experiences, rather than just attractions.
From the modern Sphere-class ships to the classic Grand-class vessels, there’s something for every type of traveler:
- Want the newest ships? → Sphere Class
- Prefer modern balance? → Royal Class
- Like mid-size ships? → Crown & Grand Class
- Want intimate cruising? → Coral Class
At the end of the day, Princess Cruises proves that you don’t always need the biggest ship — sometimes a well-designed, comfortable experience is all you need.
