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Breaking down the big changes — and what they really mean for your cruise budget
When Princess Cruises announced updates to their Premier and Plus packages for 2026, I did what most cruisers probably did… I checked the price increase first!
But after digging into the details, I have to admit — these updates make a lot more sense once you see what’s included.
Here’s my personal breakdown of what’s changing, what’s being added (and removed), and whether I think it’s worth it for your next Princess cruise.
Both Packages Got a Price Bump — But Also Bigger Perks
Let’s talk numbers first:
- Premier Package:
- Now $100/day per person ($105/day on Sphere-class ships like Sun Princess or Star Princess).
- Up from $90/day before.
- Plus Package:
- Now $65/day per person ($70/day on Sphere-class ships).
- Previously $60/day.
What’s New in the Premier Package — Shore Credits & More Perks
This is where I got interested… The Premier Package is adding a flexible shore excursion credit, which makes a lot of sense if you love exploring ports.
Here’s the breakdown of shore credits:
- $100 credit for cruises 6–9 days
- $200 credit for cruises 10–20 days
- $300 credit for cruises 21+ days
The Premier Package still includes all the good stuff cruisers love:
- Unlimited Premier Beverage Package
- Unlimited casual + specialty dining
- Wi-Fi for up to 4 devices
- OceanNow and room service fees waived
- Unlimited professional photos
- Reserved seating at live shows
Premier Package Features Recap
| Premier Package Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $100/day ($105 on Sphere-class) |
| Beverage | Unlimited Premier Package |
| Wi-Fi | 4 devices |
| Dining | Unlimited casual & specialty |
| Shore credits | $100–$300 based on cruise length |
| Photos | Unlimited digital photos |
| OceanNow® & Room Service | Fees waived |
| Show seating | Reserved |
The Plus Package: Now With More Casual Dining (And a Little Price Bump)
Here’s the deal with the Plus Package updates for 2026:
- New Price:
- $65/day per person ($70/day on Sphere-class ships).
- A $5 increase from before.
- New Perk Added:
- Two extra casual dining meals per cruise — you now get four casual dining meals total.
- This means more grab-and-go flexibility without extra charges.
Other included perks stay the same:
- Plus Beverage Package (15 drinks/day, up to $15 each)
- Wi-Fi for 1 device
- OceanNow delivery fees waived
- Room service delivery fees waived
- Daily crew appreciation/tips included
What’s Being Removed — And Honestly, I’m Fine With It
To make space for the new perks (and probably streamline operations), Princess is dropping some of the less popular benefits from both packages.
Here’s what’s going away:
- Premium desserts
- Juice bar access
- Medallion shipping
- Fitness classes
- Princess Prizes
Plus Package Features Recap
| Plus Package Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $65/day ($70 on Sphere-class) |
| Beverage | Plus Beverage Package (15 drinks/day) |
| Wi-Fi | 1 device |
| Casual dining | 4 meals per cruise |
| OceanNow® & Room Service | Fees waived |
| Crew tips | Included |
| Perks Removed From Both Packages |
|---|
| Premium desserts |
| Juice bar access |
| Medallion shipping |
| Fitness classes |
| Princess Prizes |
Are the New Packages Worth It?
Honestly, yes — if you like the convenience of all-inclusive perks and use even half of what’s offered.
👉 Premier Package: Great for frequent cruisers or those who love extras like unlimited specialty dining and photo packages.
👉 Plus Package: Perfect for cruisers who want Wi-Fi, drinks, a few dining perks, and don’t need the full VIP treatment.
Either way, Princess seems to be moving in the right direction — simplifying the perks and making sure they actually add value for guests.
