Not all Princess cruise ship classes are created equal. Some offer cutting-edge entertainment, modern staterooms, and top-tier dining. Others feel outdated, crowded, or are missing key features.
Princess Cruises features five distinct ship classes—Sphere, Royal, Grand, Coral, and Sun—each offering its own unique cruising experience. Some ships feature high-tech innovations and spacious luxury, while others come with design flaws or fewer amenities that can frustrate passengers.
To bring you the ultimate best-to-worst ranking, I analyzed thousands of real passenger reviews from Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, Facebook groups, and cruise forums. Whether you’re booking your first cruise or you’re a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you make the best choice.
While this ranking showcases the best and worst Princess ship classes, the “best” choice ultimately depends on what matters most to you. Some ships focus on modern luxury and high-energy entertainment, while others offer a more traditional, intimate cruise experience.
This ranking is based on real passenger reviews and onboard experiences to help you see how each class stacks up—so you can find the perfect fit for your next cruise!
1. Sphere Class (Newest, Best Entertainment)
Ships: Star Princess (Sept 2025), Sun Princess (2024)
Passenger Capacity: 4,300
Key Features: Princess Arena theater, expanded specialty dining options, modernized staterooms. Soleil & Eclipse multi-level dining rooms
Why It’s Ranked #1:
- Introduces the most advanced entertainment venues in the Princess fleet.
- Staterooms feature modern layouts, enhanced storage, and larger bathrooms.
- Dining experiences are elevated with new specialty venues and multi-level dining rooms. Though the buffet often struggles with long lines and limited seating.
The newest addition to the Princess Cruises lineup, the Sphere Class, features advanced design, modern technology, and reimagined onboard experiences. The class launched with the Sun Princess in 2024 and expands with the Star Princess, joining the fleet in late 2025.
This class is the first to introduce LNG-powered ships. Additionally, the two ships in the class, the Sun Princess and the upcoming Star Princess, are the largest ships ever built for Princess.
Dining
The Sphere class features exciting new specialty restaurants like Catch by Rudi and Makoto Ocean. Traditional dining has been updated with the multi-level Soleil & Eclipse dining rooms, offering an elevated experience.
Guests on the Sun Princess can enjoy a wide range of dining options, from Americana Diner to specialty restaurants like Umai Teppanyaki and Butcher’s Block by Dario. The Soleil and Eclipse dining rooms offer ocean views with both traditional and flexible dining.
However, service reviews are mixed—while food quality is generally well-received, the buffet (The Eatery) often has long lines and limited seating. Unfortunately, some guests feel Princess is leaning too heavily into extra-charge dining.
Entertainment & Public Spaces
The Princess Arena—found on the Sun Princess and also coming to the Star Princess—is the fleet’s most advanced theater, offering immersive performances. Seating 990 guests, it is the largest entertainment venue on the ship, hosting two productions per night.
Sun Princess also features The Dome, a glass-enclosed venue that transforms from a tranquil daytime retreat into a high-energy entertainment hub at night, hosting aerial acrobatics, light shows, and live music performances with stunning panoramic sea views. However, some passengers feel that entertainment spaces across the ship, including The Dome, are too small, leading to overcrowding.
Star Princess, set to debut in late 2025, will inherit these entertainment innovations, including the Princess Arena, The Dome, and an enhanced Piazza experience. Additionally, the two-story Lotus Spa is being expanded aboard Star Princess to offer a more immersive wellness experience, alongside a significantly larger casino for those who enjoy gambling.
Staterooms & Accommodations
Many reviewers highlight the staterooms on the Sun Princess for their modern layouts, improved storage, and spacious bathrooms. Sanctuary mini-suites and new suite categories are well received, though there are some accessibility complaints, with some reviewers mentioning that wheelchair-friendly cabins are located far from key areas. Also, some guests report nighttime maintenance noise disrupting sleep.
Overall Passenger Experience
The Sphere Class represents a bold step forward for Princess Cruises, offering modern design, cutting-edge technology, and expanded dining and entertainment options.
Sun Princess, the first in the class, has been praised for its sleek accommodations, immersive entertainment venues, and a fresh take on onboard experiences. Guests have enjoyed the variety of specialty dining options, the elevated suite experience, and new entertainment hubs like The Dome and Princess Arena.
However, some passengers have reported challenges with layout and flow, finding the decentralized design difficult to navigate. Elevator wait times and MedallionClass tech glitches have also been noted, leading to frustration in high-traffic areas. Crowd management, service consistency, and accessibility concerns remain areas for improvement, though Star Princess may address these issues when it debuts in 2025.
2. Royal Class (Large, Modern, Well-Balanced)
Ships: Discovery Princess (2022), Enchanted Princess (2021), Sky Princess (2019), Majestic Princess (2017), Regal Princess (2014), Royal Princess (2013)
Size: 143,000 to 145,000 GT
Passenger Capacity: ~3,600 passengers
Key Features: Multi-deck Piazza Atrium, glass-bottomed SeaWalk, Alfredo’s Pizzeria, MedallionClass technology, Movies Under the Stars, Broadway-style productions
Why It’s Ranked #2:
- Offers modern amenities, stylish design, and entertainment, though some passengers find the ship layout inefficient in high-traffic areas.
- Dining is a major highlight, with standout venues like Alfredo’s Pizzeria and Crown Grill, yet the buffet and main dining rooms can become overcrowded during peak hours.
- MedallionClass technology enhances the cruising experience with digital conveniences. Although inconsistent performance and slow service response times have frustrated some guests.
The Royal Class of Princess Cruises is known for its modern design, innovative features, and high-end passenger experiences. Launched with the Royal Princess in 2013, this class includes signature features such as a multi-deck Piazza Atrium, the glass-bottomed Seawalk, and a focus on open pool deck areas.
Dining & Specialty Restaurants
Dining on Royal Class ships is a standout experience, with a mix of complementary and specialty venues. Popular options include the highly rated Alfredo’s Pizzeria, known for its handcrafted Neapolitan-style pizza, as well as Crown Grill Steakhouse and International Café for casual bites and coffee.
Specialty dining venues such as Sabatini’s and Crown Grill receive high praise for their quality and service, offering premium Italian and steakhouse experiences. Majestic Princess, originally designed for the Chinese market, features Harmony, a fine-dining Chinese restaurant, offering authentic regional dishes not typically found on other Princess ships.
Entertainment & Onboard Experiences
One of the most common praises for Royal Class ships is their stylish design and impressive entertainment offerings. Passengers frequently highlight the Piazza Atrium as a lively hub filled with music, performances, and social spaces.
A few ships in the Royal Class stand out with exclusive features. Majestic Princess features the Hollywood Pool Club, an indoor pool area that replaces the adults-only retreat pool found on other ships. Enchanted Princess and Discovery Princess offer exclusive Sky Suites with massive wraparound balconies, providing a luxury experience not available on other ships in the class.
Technology & Ship Layout
The MedallionClass technology, introduced fleet-wide, has drawn mixed reactions. While some passengers appreciate the convenience of ordering drinks and unlocking staterooms easily, others report glitches, slow service response times, and unreliable Wi-Fi.
On ships like Royal Princess and Sky Princess, several reviews mention long wait times for bar service. Passenger flow in high-traffic areas like the buffet and main dining rooms is another recurring critique, with some guests feeling the layout leads to congestion, especially during peak meal times.
Additionally, some reviewers express frustration over the ship layout, particularly the lack of a full wraparound promenade deck. In some ships, the absence of an aft pool is another common complaint, though this has been addressed in newer Royal Class ships.
Overall Passenger Experience
The Royal Class impresses with modern innovations, diverse entertainment, and a sleek, upscale atmosphere. However, some passengers feel it lacks the space efficiency and traditional design of older Princess ships, noting the absence of a wraparound promenade deck and larger social spaces.
Some cruisers accustomed to Grand Class ships miss features like a full wraparound promenade deck and larger library and nightclub spaces, but the Royal Class offers a modern experience tailored to today’s travelers. Overall, it remains a top choice for those seeking a mid-sized and upscale cruise experience.
3. Grand Class (Comfortable, But Aging)
Ships: Ruby Princess (2008), Emerald Princess (2007), Crown Princess (2006), Diamond Princess (2004), Sapphire Princess (2004), Caribbean Princess (2004), Grand Princess (1998)
Size: 107,500 to 116,000 GT
Passenger Capacity: 2,600 to 3,150 passengers
Key Features: Wraparound Promenade Deck, Piazza-style atrium, adults-only Sanctuary retreat, intimate dining venues, traditional cruise ambiance, oriental-themed experiences on Diamond Princess
Why It’s Ranked #3:
- Ships maintain a traditional cruise ambiance with thoughtful layouts and quieter spaces, though some feel outdated.
- Their mid-sized design allows for better passenger flow and fewer crowds, but entertainment options may feel limited compared to the larger, more activity-packed Royal and Sphere Class ships.
- Dining is more intimate than on newer ships, with cozy venues and unique specialty options. Despite this, food quality and variety can be inconsistent depending on the ship.
The Grand Class offers a more traditional cruising experience, with a focus on comfort, familiar layouts, and a relaxed atmosphere. With a wraparound Promenade Deck, multiple pools, and intimate dining venues, these mid-sized ships offer a comfortable onboard experience.
Ship Layout & Interior
One of the Grand Class’s most defining features is its layout and passenger flow, which generally receive positive reviews. The wraparound Promenade Deck, rarely found in modern mega-ships, creates a nostalgic ocean liner feel, while multiple pools and sundecks help reduce congestion.
However, not all aspects of the design are flawless. Some ships, such as Grand Princess, have seen complaints about aging interiors, with passengers noting rusted balconies, outdated cabins, and limited modernization efforts.
The removal of Skywalkers Nightclub on Grand Princess was also a controversial decision, as it was a favorite for its panoramic views and lively atmosphere. Despite these setbacks, many passengers appreciate the traditional cruise ambiance that this class maintains, even as newer ships shift towards larger, more entertainment-driven models.
Dining & Specialty Restaurants
Dining experiences on Grand Class ships vary by ship, with some offering more intimate venues and unique specialty options. Unlike Royal Class ships, many Grand Class ships, like Sapphire Princess, feature smaller dining venues for a cozier atmosphere. Crown Grill, introduced on Crown Princess, is one of the top-rated specialty options, while Diamond Princess offers a unique sushi restaurant and Japanese bathhouse.
Food quality also varies, with some guests praising the selection and service, while others find the menus repetitive and buffet offerings underwhelming. MedallionClass technology, available on ships like Caribbean Princess, allows for convenient food and drink orders, though it hasn’t been rolled out fleetwide.
Entertainment Options
Entertainment and onboard activities are another strong suit of the Grand Class. Emerald Princess and Crown Princess offer Broadway-style productions and live music, including the interactive The Voice of the Ocean singing competition.
Some passengers, particularly older travelers, appreciate the relaxed pace of entertainment, but younger cruisers and families might find the offerings somewhat limited compared to the thrill-heavy attractions on Royal Class ships.
Grand Princess, in particular, has faced criticism for its lack of diverse entertainment options. On the other hand, Diamond Princess offers a unique cultural experience with Japanese-themed events, yukata dressing experiences, and origami classes, which have been well received by international passengers.
Comparison to Newer Classes
When comparing the Grand Class to newer Princess ships, the differences in amenities and technological advancements are obvious. Newer classes, like the Royal Class, offer expanded spa facilities, glass-floored SeaWalks, and enhanced specialty dining. Grand Class ships, however, preserve a more traditional and relaxed atmosphere.
This can be a selling point for passengers who prefer a traditional cruise feel without the overwhelming size and crowds of modern mega-ships. However, the age of some ships in the class—especially Grand Princess and Caribbean Princess—has become a recurring issue in reviews.
Is the Grand Class Right for You?
Overall, the Grand Class delivers a comfortable and well-rounded cruising experience, best suited for mature travelers, couples, and those who enjoy a more traditional cruise setting. While it lacks the flashy attractions of newer ships, it compensates with intimate dining, a refined atmosphere, and thoughtful amenities like the Sanctuary retreat.
Ships like Diamond Princess stand out for their regional adaptations, while Caribbean Princess leads the way in technological upgrades. If you’re looking for a relaxing, classic cruise without the overwhelming scale of newer ships, the Grand Class remains a solid choice within the Princess Cruises fleet.
4. Coral Class (Smaller Ships, More Classic)
Ships: Island Princess (2003), Coral Princess (2003)
Size: 91,600 GT
Passenger Capacity: 1,970 to 2,200 passengers
Key Features: Purpose-built for the Panama Canal, intimate dining venues with a quiet atmosphere, classic entertainment options, mid-sized ships designed for a traditional cruise experience, ideal for excursion-focused itineraries
Why It’s Ranked #4:
- Coral Class ships provide a quieter, intimate cruise experience with fewer crowds. But, they lack the latest onboard technology, including full OceanMedallion integration.
- Purpose-built for the Panama Canal, these ships feature a unique design tailored for scenic itineraries, yet some passengers feel their smaller size limits entertainment and activity options.
- Dining in the Main Dining Room is often well-received, with attentive service and classic menus, though specialty restaurants don’t always justify the additional cost.
The Coral Class in Princess Cruises consists of two mid-sized ships, Coral Princess and Island Princess. Specifically designed to navigate the Panama Canal, these ships focus on a more intimate voyage. Despite their smaller size, they still offer an impressive range of amenities.
Onboard Features
The Coral Class offers expansive top deck amenities, including shuffleboard, chess boards, and a basketball court. However, these ships lack full OceanMedallion integration, as seen on newer Princess ships, and instead offer a more traditional cruise experience.
Passenger flow is a major point of distinction between the two ships. Coral Princess is generally known for its better layout and spaciousness, as it retained more of its original public areas. In contrast, the Island Princess underwent modifications in 2015 that added 121 extra cabins, leading to tighter public spaces and a more crowded feel.
Island Princess’ fitness center was relocated to Deck 6, making it more accessible. However, unlike Coral Princess, it lost part of its two-deck Sanctuary retreat, disappointing those looking for a quiet, adults-only space.
Maintenance & Service Issues
Despite their charm, both ships have drawn negative feedback regarding maintenance. Passengers report ongoing maintenance issues, worn-out theater seating, and ventilation concerns. On some cruises, travelers noticed strong sewage odors in cabins and hallways, which significantly impacted their experience.
Service inconsistencies have also been noted, particularly in bar service and crew organization. Additionally, disembarkation and excursion-related complaints have surfaced. Some passengers have reported being charged twice for prepaid excursions and encountering crew disorganization during emergency drills.
Dining Options & Entertainment
Dining experiences on the Coral Class receive mixed feedback. While many passengers find the Main Dining Room excellent, specialty dining options, such as Crown Grill, are sometimes considered lackluster despite the added cost.
Island Princess features an Italian pastry shop within its Horizon Court Buffet, a unique addition not available on Coral Princess. While many enjoy the ship’s dining options, some passengers feel the buffet could offer more variety, especially on extended voyages.
Entertainment offerings also receive mixed reviews. While stage shows on both ships are praised, some travelers find the lounge acts lackluster. The overall entertainment style appeals more to mature cruisers rather than those seeking the thrill-heavy attractions found on newer Princess ships.
What Passengers Think
Despite the criticisms, loyal Princess cruisers still appreciate the Coral Class for its classic cruise atmosphere, unique Panama Canal itineraries, and mid-sized ship feel. Those who favor smaller crowds and a more traditional cruise experience without heavy reliance on digital technology may find these ships appealing.
Coral Princess is often considered the better option for those who prefer a more open and less crowded ship layout. However, passengers seeking more nightlife, modern amenities, and larger public venues may find newer Princess ships or larger classes like the Royal Class to be a better fit.
Which Princess Cruise Ship Class Should You Choose?
Choosing the right Princess Cruises ship class largely depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you prefer the latest in entertainment, dining, and technology, the Sphere Class—with ships like Sun Princess and the upcoming Star Princess—offers the most cutting-edge features in the fleet.
For those who want a well-balanced mix of modern amenities and classic cruising traditions, the Royal Class is a popular choice, featuring stylish design, enhanced specialty dining, and the innovative MedallionClass system.
If you favor a more traditional cruising experience, the Grand Class provides a classic atmosphere with wraparound promenade decks, smaller intimate dining venues, and a more relaxed pace of entertainment.
Meanwhile, the Coral Class delivers a mid-sized ship experience, ideal for those who prioritize destination-focused itineraries, such as Panama Canal transits, and enjoy a quieter, more intimate setting.
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