If you’ve been browsing cruises and narrowed it down to Princess Cruises vs. Celebrity Cruises, you’re in for a treat — and a tough decision.
Both offer a premium cruise experience, elevated above budget-friendly lines like Carnival or MSC, but without quite dipping into the ultra-luxury price range.
So which one fits your style of travel better?
This in-depth comparison covers everything: ships, destinations, staterooms, food, activities, and more — all with a traveler’s perspective. Let’s break it down.
1. SHIPS: Fleet Size, Classes & Innovation
If you’re someone who appreciates modern architecture, cutting-edge ship features, and immersive onboard environments, then Celebrity Cruises has the clear edge here.
Their Edge Class ships are visually stunning, with outward-facing designs that bring the sea closer to you.
The Magic Carpet and Eden venues feel more like upscale resort installations than traditional cruise features.
While Princess has stylish ships, Celebrity just feels more futuristic and boutique-hotel inspired.
Princess Cruises Fleet
As I stood on the pier during golden hour, the view of Sky Princess from the back was absolutely breathtaking.
Her name and home port, “Hamilton,” shimmered in the soft light as the ship sat quietly docked — almost like she was catching her breath before the next big adventure.
There’s something magical about seeing a ship from this angle… you really feel the scale, the elegance, and the excitement of what’s to come. It was one of those moments where you pause and think, yep, this is going to be a special cruise.
Princess currently sails with 15 ships across four main classes:
| Class | Year Range | Guest Capacity | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sphere Class | 2023+ (Sun, Star) | ~4,300 guests | Largest, most modern |
| Royal Class | 2013–2022 | 3,560–3,660 guests | Stylish, family-friendly |
| Grand Class | 1998–2008 | 2,600–3,140 guests | Mid-sized comfort |
| Coral Class | ~2000 | ~2,000 guests | Smallest, most intimate |
- Oldest ship: Grand Princess (1998)
- Newest ship: Discovery Princess (2022)
- Two new Sphere Class ships are coming soon.
Celebrity Cruises Fleet
I still remember the evening I first saw Celebrity Apex docked at the quayside just as dusk settled in — and wow, it was a sight to soak in.
The ship’s sleek, modern design looked even more striking as the lights from her staterooms began to glow softly against the fading sky.
The calm water mirrored her curves perfectly, doubling the drama of that golden-hour moment. It didn’t feel like just another cruise ship — it felt like a floating boutique hotel ready to whisk you off in style.
Celebrity also has 15 ships, but includes a dedicated Expedition fleet:
| Class | Year Range | Guest Capacity | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edge Class | 2018–2025 | ~2,900–3,260 guests | Cutting-edge design, tech |
| Solstice Class | 2008–2012 | ~2,850–3,000 guests | Spacious, refined |
| Millennium Class | 2000–2002 | ~2,200 guests | Smaller, cozier |
| Expedition Ships | Varies | 16–100 guests | Galápagos & Antarctica adventures |
- Oldest ship: Celebrity Millennium (2000)
- Newest ship: Celebrity Ascent (2023), with Celebrity Xcel coming in 2025
Verdict:
- Want small-ship adventure? → Celebrity wins with its expedition fleet
- Prefer larger, newer ships with family features? → Princess Sphere Class delivers
- For modern flair and innovation? → Go with Celebrity Edge Class
2. DESTINATIONS: Where Can You Sail?
Celebrity Cruises is one of the few premium lines that offers full-scale expedition-style voyages.
Thanks to their three smaller Galápagos-based ships, you can experience wildlife-packed adventures in destinations that large ships simply can’t access.
Princess has no ships in this category, making Celebrity the hands-down winner for travelers seeking intimate, adventurous, bucket-list cruises.
Princess Cruises Destinations
What I love about Princess is how diverse their itineraries are. They’ve really carved out a strong presence in Australia and New Zealand, with several ships spending entire seasons exploring that part of the world — giving you more options and depth when it comes to experiencing places like Sydney, Auckland, or even the rugged outback.
With around 30 embarkation ports, it’s easy to find a sailing that fits. Whether you’re starting your journey from Fort Lauderdale, Sydney, or Southampton, Princess gives you plenty of flexibility.
And if Alaska is on your radar, don’t miss their cruisetour packages — they combine a traditional cruise with a stay at one of their exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges and a scenic rail journey that’s as breathtaking as the ship views. It’s a fantastic way to explore deeper and go beyond the typical port stops.
Celebrity Cruises Destinations
When it comes to destinations, Celebrity Cruises really knows how to impress. While Princess is strong in Australia and New Zealand, Celebrity truly shines in Alaska, with a wide range of itineraries that let you soak up glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic coastal landscapes in style.
One thing I noticed when planning was the flexibility — 33 embarkation ports give you tons of choice, whether you want to sail out of a Caribbean hotspot or a classic European hub like Southampton.
And for those looking for something extra special, Celebrity’s Expedition ships unlock more remote, bucket-list regions like South America and the Galápagos Islands — ports that larger ships simply can’t reach.
It’s ideal for travelers who crave something off the beaten path but still want to cruise in comfort.
Itinerary Comparison (2025 sample)
| Region | Princess Cruises | Celebrity Cruises |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | 23 itineraries | 63 itineraries |
| Australia & NZ | 96 itineraries | 28 itineraries |
| Europe | 147 itineraries | 136 itineraries |
| Caribbean/Bahamas | 54 itineraries | 31 itineraries |
| Galápagos | 0 | 42 itineraries |
| South Pacific | 37 itineraries | 3 itineraries |
| World Cruises | 46 world cruises | 0 |
| Bermuda | 0 | 4 itineraries |
| Canada & New England | 19 itineraries | 4 itineraries |
| Hawaii | 8 itineraries | 9 itineraries |
| East Asia | 20 itineraries | 35 itineraries |
| Mexico & Latin America | 7 itineraries | 0 |
| Middle East & South Asia | 0 | 2 itineraries |
| Pacific Northwest | 0 | 3 itineraries |
| Panama Canal | 22 itineraries | 8 itineraries |
| South America | 19 itineraries | 9 itineraries |
| Repositioning | 0 | 4 itineraries |
| South Pacific | 37 | 3 |
| Transatlantic | 37 itineraries | 20 itineraries |
| Transpacific | 0 | 10 itineraries |
Unique Highlights:
- Princess: Australia, World Cruises, Pacific Islands
- Celebrity: Galápagos, Antarctica, small exotic ports
Verdict:
- For world cruises, Australia, and Pacific Islands → Princess
- For Galápagos, Alaska, and unique expedition routes → Celebrity
- Overall? Both are global powerhouses with strong offerings.
3. STATEROOMS & SUITES: Comfort, Luxury & Special Perks
The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises is one of the most polished suite experiences at sea.
You’re not just getting a larger room — you get an entire VIP section of the ship with private lounges, exclusive restaurants, and elevated sun decks.
While Princess offers luxurious options like the Signature Collection, Celebrity’s suite guests are treated to a more cohesive, all-inclusive experience that feels like a ship within a ship.
Princess Cruises Stateroom Highlights
| Stateroom Type | Notable Options |
|---|---|
| Interior / Oceanview | Clean and modern, but limited solo availability |
| Balcony | Spacious balconies, with some obstructed view options for budget-conscious cruisers |
| Mini-Suites | Reserve Collection offers better location + exclusive dining |
| Suites | Sky Suites with huge wraparound balconies, Signature Collection with private areas |
Cool Perks:
- Reserve Collection (Sphere Class): Access to a private restaurant, elevated bedding & amenities
- Signature Collection: Top-tier suites with private restaurant, lounge, and sun deck
Solo Travelers Note: Only the newest ship, Sun Princess, includes proper solo staterooms — and they’re limited.
Celebrity Cruises Stateroom Highlights
| Stateroom Type | Notable Options |
|---|---|
| Interior / Oceanview / Veranda | Modern furnishings, Verandas feel extra spacious |
| Infinite Verandas | Edge-class only: window opens down like a balcony (divides opinion) |
| Concierge Class | Premium perks like priority boarding, Concierge services, better location |
| AquaClass | Spa-themed rooms with wellness perks + access to Blu restaurant |
| The Retreat | Suite-only area with private lounge, sun deck, and dining |
Solo Travelers Note: Celebrity shines here — many ships offer solo cabins, including balcony options.
Verdict:
- Want access to spa perks and wellness-themed rooms? → Celebrity AquaClass
- Prefer classic balconies and larger outdoor spaces? → Princess Sky Suites
- Solo cruisers? → Celebrity wins, no question
- Both offer elegant, upgraded suites — just choose which perks matter more to you
4. FOOD & DINING: Where Both Cruise Lines Excel
Celebrity Cruises has truly elevated cruise ship dining to a new level. Their multi-themed Main Dining Rooms, globally inspired cuisine, and Michelin-influenced specialty restaurants create memorable meals every night.
Add in Blu for spa guests and Luminae for suite passengers, and you get a rich culinary experience. Princess does food well — especially its pizzerias and Crown Grill — but Celebrity’s focus on gourmet innovation gives it the win here.
Princess Cruises Dining
One of my favorite memories from Royal Princess was grabbing a seat at Alfredo’s Pizzeria — the smell of fresh dough, bubbling cheese, and that little clink of wine glasses in the background set the perfect mood.
The waiter arrived with a piping hot pizza, and the atmosphere felt effortlessly relaxed yet refined. It’s not just hype — the pizza really is some of the best at sea.
What makes Princess Cruises stand out is how they tie their dining to the destinations.
Onboard restaurants often feature ingredients and recipes inspired by the regions you’re sailing through, which adds a nice local flair to your meals.
There’s also a great mix of dining styles — from laid-back bites to full-on gourmet dinners.
While a few venues now carry a modest cover charge (depending on your fare), there are still plenty of complimentary choices that keep things fresh every night.
You’re not going to find yourself stuck with the same options over and over — unless you keep going back to Alfredo’s, which, honestly, I wouldn’t blame you for.
Included Dining:
- Main Dining Room with rotating regional menus
- Casual options: buffets, poolside burgers, Alfredo’s Pizzeria (often voted best at sea)
- “Dine My Way” program for flexible dining reservations
Specialty Dining ($):
- Crown Grill (steakhouse)
- Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria
- Chef’s Table Lumière (private experience)
New Feature: Sphere-class ships include Reserve Dining Rooms for certain suite guests.
Celebrity Cruises Dining
Dining on a Celebrity cruise truly feels like an experience in itself — not just a meal. I still remember watching a family across from me light up as their server presented beautifully plated dishes on a vibrant, interactive table.
The little one looked absolutely thrilled with his meal, and honestly, the energy in the room was contagious. The space felt sleek and modern, but the warmth of the service made it feel personal.
Celebrity Cruises takes food seriously — every dish feels like it’s been crafted with intention, and the service matches that level of care.
Whether it’s breakfast with ocean views or a candlelit dinner, mealtimes are events, not just scheduled stops in your day.
Their specialty dining is where things really stand out. Think globally inspired menus and presentations that wouldn’t be out of place at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
And on newer ships, you’re not limited to one Main Dining Room — there are four uniquely themed restaurants, all included in your fare, each offering a different vibe and menu. It’s like fine-dining-hopping across the world, without ever leaving the ship.
Included Dining:
- 1–4 Main Dining Rooms depending on ship class — each with its own theme and vibe
- Oceanview Café (buffet), Mast Grill, Spa Café
- “Anytime” dining flexibility
Specialty Dining ($):
- Fine Cut Steakhouse
- Le Petit Chef (animated dining experience)
- Eden Restaurant (on Edge-class ships, theatrical + upscale)
- Luminae (Retreat-only dining room)
Blu (AquaClass only): Light, spa-inspired fare with serene ambiance.
Verdict:
- Love classic Italian, American, or casual food? → Princess delivers comfort and regional flavors
- Want a more upscale, modern gourmet experience? → Celebrity steps ahead in specialty dining creativity
- Wellness-focused eaters will love Blu on Celebrity
- Both shine in quality — it just depends on your vibe: wholesome and familiar (Princess) vs. refined and creative (Celebrity)
5. ONBOARD ACTIVITIES: Chill Vibes Over Theme-Park Chaos
Neither line offers high-thrill features like go-karts or zip lines. These ships are about relaxation, culture, and enrichment — not adrenaline.
Princess Cruises Activities
One of the coziest moments I’ve ever had at sea was during Movies Under the Stars on a Princess cruise.
Picture this: guests bundled up in soft plaid blankets, stretched out on loungers by the pool, the open deck glowing gently under string lights and the soft flicker of a giant movie screen.
There’s popcorn, warm sea air, and a laid-back vibe that turns a simple film night into a standout memory.
When it comes to onboard activities, Princess keeps things classic and fulfilling. You can spend your day learning a few dance steps, joining a culinary class, or picking up a new appreciation for art at an onboard auction.
There’s a casino for those who like to test their luck, and plenty of enrichment sessions that add a cultural spark to sea days.
And if you’re sailing on the new Sun Princess, don’t miss the Sea Breeze Rollglider — it’s not your usual cruise ride, but more of a serene flying experience with breathtaking views from high above the deck.
One underrated feature I really appreciated, especially on a longer cruise, was the availability of self-service laundry rooms.
It’s a practical bonus that Celebrity doesn’t offer — perfect if you want to pack light or just avoid that post-cruise laundry pile at home.
- Cooking demos, wine tastings, art auctions
- Dance classes, trivia, live music
- Movies Under the Stars – huge poolside screen (iconic!)
- Self-service laundry rooms (underrated on long cruises)
- Sea Breeze Rollglider (on Sun Princess) – scenic glider ride around the deck
Celebrity Cruises Activities
Stepping into the casino on a Celebrity cruise ship, the atmosphere immediately feels alive — rows of glowing slot machines, lively gaming tables, and rich red-and-cream decor that gives the space a sleek, upscale vibe.
It’s the kind of place that invites you to try your luck or just soak in the energy with a drink in hand.
In terms of daytime activities, Celebrity offers a familiar mix if you’ve cruised with Princess before.
You can join an art auction, get hands-on with cooking classes, or unwind with a movie under the stars out on deck.
The vibe is a little more contemporary and curated — perfect for travelers who want a mix of culture, relaxation, and low-key fun without the over-the-top thrills.
Whether you’re exploring something new or simply kicking back, Celebrity strikes a nice balance between elegant and entertaining.
- Art & design tours
- Wine blending workshops
- Poolside movies
- Pickleball, golf simulators
- Glass-blowing demos (select ships)
Celebrity’s ships, especially Edge Class, also lean heavily on immersive modern design — the ships themselves are part of the experience.
Verdict:
- For creative, design-forward ships → Celebrity wins
- For relaxed learning, movie nights, and some old-school charm → Princess delivers
- Bonus points to Celebrity for innovation (glass blowing, golf simulators)
- Bonus to Princess for practical touches (self-serve laundry + more traditional cruise classes)
6. ENTERTAINMENT: From Broadway to Bold Visuals
Both lines deliver high-quality entertainment, but with very different styles. Princess Cruises leans into classic Broadway-inspired productions, with recognizable storylines and traditional show formats.
Celebrity Cruises, on the other hand, pushes the boundaries with innovative tech, immersive light shows, and avant-garde performances — especially in venues like Eden.
You’ll be wowed by both; it really depends on whether you like theater-style storytelling or modern spectacle.
Princess Cruises Entertainment
- Classic theater shows with Broadway-style productions
- Live bands, pianists, and guest musicians
- Comedians, magicians, and cultural enrichment talks
- “Voice of the Ocean” – Princess’ own take on The Voice talent show
- Princess Theatre is comfortable, with tiered seating and large-scale shows
💡 Did you know? Many Princess shows are developed in partnership with big-name Broadway and West End creatives — so the quality is surprisingly high.
Celebrity Cruises Entertainment
- Visually stunning original productions, often pushing boundaries
- High-tech lighting, immersive stage design, and aerial performers
- Live musicians, DJs, and comedy
- Unique venues like Eden (Edge-class) — a sensory, performance-art-lounge hybrid
- The Club — think nightclub-meets-lounge with specialty acts
Celebrity goes for a modern, experimental vibe, where shows are designed to surprise and delight, not follow a traditional script.
Verdict:
- Prefer familiar show styles with big voices and storylines? → Go Princess
- Want edgy, modern visuals with immersive sound? → Go Celebrity
- Either way, you’re getting high-level entertainment — not cruise karaoke in a corner bar!
7. KIDS & FAMILY: Is Either Line Kid-Friendly?
While neither line is kid-centric, Princess Cruises does a better job catering to families.
Its Camp Discovery clubs are well-designed, with enriching activities and partnerships with Animal Planet and Discovery Channel.
Kids’ dining, educational games, and even teen lounges make it easier for parents to relax while kids are having fun.
Celebrity has respectable kids’ clubs too, but Princess simply goes a bit further in making multigenerational cruising smoother.
Princess Cruises for Kids
- Camp Discovery (3–17 yrs): Science, crafts, treasure hunts, and more
- Nighttime events so parents can enjoy dinner or shows
- Discovery & Animal Planet partnerships = educational fun
- “Movies Under the Stars” perfect for family film nights
- Dedicated teen lounges and enrichment programs
Princess is surprisingly well-rounded for multigenerational cruising. And with ships like Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess, the family experience is much more polished.
Celebrity Cruises for Kids
- Camp at Sea (3–17 yrs): STEM programs, arts, Xbox tournaments, cooking classes
- Flexible programming that shifts with age group interests
- Slumber parties & scavenger hunts
- Teens get their own casual lounge-style hangout space
While Celebrity isn’t packed with slides and arcade madness, it does offer solid, stylish fun that appeals to both kids and parents looking for calm over chaos.
Verdict:
- Families with curious, mellow kids → Celebrity works well
- Families who want more structure, themes, and variety → Princess wins slightly
- Neither will match Disney or Royal Caribbean, but both make family cruising smooth and easy
8. CRUISER DEMOGRAPHICS: Who Will You Be Cruising With?
For cruisers who love the timeless cruise experience — elegant dining, relaxing sea days, and classical entertainment — Princess Cruises keeps the spirit alive.
There’s something comforting about the line’s more traditional layout, quieter public spaces, and familiar service style.
From formal nights to enrichment talks and cooking classes, it’s ideal for guests who appreciate old-school cruising with a refined touch.
Princess Cruises Crowd
- Generally ages 50–70+, with a more traditional, refined traveler base
- Strong loyalty program, so lots of repeat cruisers
- Many retired couples, multigenerational groups, and mature solo travelers
- Occasional families on school breaks
Princess appeals to those who love classic cruising with just a touch of modern. Quiet lounges, wine tastings, scenic sailing vibes.
Celebrity Cruises Crowd
- Typically ages 35–60, with many couples and young empty-nesters
- More urban, trendier crowd, often sailing for the food, spa, and style
- LGBTQ+ inclusive — Celebrity is a favorite in the community
- Still family-friendly, but skewed more toward adult travelers
Celebrity feels more like a boutique hotel on the sea, while Princess feels like a grand resort that’s been upgraded for comfort.
Verdict:
- Looking for a more energetic, stylish vibe with a slightly younger crowd? → Celebrity.
- Prefer a relaxed, traditional cruise with loyal guests and peaceful sea days? → Princess.
9. PRICE & VALUE: Is One More Affordable?
If your goal is to enjoy a premium vacation without stretching the budget, Princess Cruises offers better base pricing and more customizable packages.
Their Princess Plus and Princess Premier programs let you add drinks, Wi-Fi, and dining at a discounted rate — so you only pay for what you’ll actually use.
Celebrity Cruises tends to be pricier, even on cruise-only fares, which can push it beyond reach for some travelers unless you’re after an ultra-premium experience.
Princess Cruises Pricing
- Cruise-only fares start from ~$90/£70 per night on many ships
- Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages offer:
- Drinks
- WiFi
- Gratuities
- Specialty dining (in Premier)
✅ Tip: Upgrade packages often save money, especially for longer cruises
Celebrity Cruises Pricing
- Base fares are typically higher than Princess (~$130–$190 per night)
- All Included fares include:
- Classic drinks
- Basic WiFi
- Gratuities
You can also upgrade to Premium Drink Packages or Retreat Suites, which come with more perks — but they add up quickly.
Verdict:
- Budget-minded travelers → Princess is the better value
- Premium lovers who want all the extras bundled? → Celebrity’s “All Included” fare is a solid deal
FINAL VERDICT: Which Cruise Line Is Best?
| Category | Best Pick |
|---|---|
| New Ships & Design | Celebrity Cruises |
| Expedition Adventures | Celebrity Cruises |
| Traditional Cruising | Princess Cruises |
| Food & Specialty Dining | Celebrity Cruises |
| Suite Experience | Celebrity (The Retreat) |
| Solo Travelers | Celebrity |
| Entertainment Variety | Tie |
| Family Cruising | Princess Cruises |
| Best Value for Money | Princess Cruises |
🎯 Choose Celebrity Cruises if:
- You want sleek, modern design and top-tier food
- You’re a couple, solo traveler, or adult group
- You’re okay with spending a bit more for refined perks
- You’re dreaming of the Galápagos, Antarctica, or Alaska
🎯 Choose Princess Cruises if:
- You love classic cruise charm and relaxing sea days
- You’re traveling with family or multi-gen groups
- You prefer regional menus, big balconies, and affordable pricing
- You’re looking for more embarkation options (especially in Australia)
