Choosing the perfect cruise ship for your next vacation can be overwhelming, especially with a fleet as large and varied as Princess Cruises. Each ship has something different to offer, from the latest high-tech vessels with flashy amenities to classic, smaller ships that prioritize charm and comfort.
But how do you know which ship is the best fit for you? Rather than relying solely on promotional brochures, I’ve gathered insights straight from the most reliable source — real cruisers who’ve been there, done that, and shared their praises and frustrations.
In this guide, I’ll rank Princess ships based on feedback from real world cruisers across various platforms. You’ll find out which ships consistently wow travelers with elegant design, attentive service, and standout dining options — and which ships have left cruisers disappointed due to overcrowding, outdated layouts, or limited entertainment.
How We Ranked the Ships
To compile this ranking, we took a deep dive into cruise review websites, social media groups, travel forums, and expert reviews. This helps us reflect real experiences from those who’ve sailed on Princess ships.
Coral Princess
Class: Coral
Launched: 2002
Capacity: 2,000 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)
The Coral Princess is a mid-sized ship that offers a more traditional cruising experience compared to the flashier, newer ships in the Princess fleet. Known for its cozy, welcoming atmosphere, the Coral Princess is perfect if you’re looking for a slower-paced, classic cruise.
The ship is popular with those seeking scenic routes through the Panama Canal, Alaska, and Australia. Its smaller size allows access to ports that larger ships can’t reach. Despite its 2019 refurbishment, guests still describe it as having a nostalgic, old-school charm.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Friendly and caring crew
- Well-organized excursions
- Smaller size allows access to more unique ports
- Traditional cruise experience that caters to a wide variety of travelers
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Some guests feel the ship’s age shows through maintenance issues. One passenger commented, “Ship just returned from dry dock with a few minor things that were still being worked on… accumulated dust bunnies under the bed.”
- Reports of maintenance issues (e.g., broken fixtures, odors)
- Food quality and variety can be inconsistent
- Limited entertainment options compared to newer ships
Regal Princess
Class: Royal
Launched: 2014
Capacity: 3,560 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)
The Regal Princess is a large, elegant ship known for its grand atrium and wide range of dining options. The ship’s standout feature is the SeaWalk—a glass walkway that extends over the ocean.
For those seeking a mix of relaxation and lively activities, Regal Princess delivers on both fronts. You’ll find plenty of spaces to unwind, from the adults-only Sanctuary to lively evening shows. The ship frequently sails itineraries to the Caribbean and Europe, making it a great choice for both warm-weather and cultural cruises.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Spacious and well-maintained public areas
- Smooth embarkation and disembarkation process
- Includes Princess’s MedallionClass technology
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Food quality in main dining rooms is inconsistent
- Entertainment options could be more varied
- Ship shows signs of wear in some areas
Sapphire Princess
Class: Grand
Launched: 2004
Capacity: 2,670 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
The Sapphire Princess is proof that older ships can still deliver an unforgettable experience. The crew’s friendly service and the hassle-free embarkation are standout features that guests often mention.
Despite being an older ship, the Sapphire Princess continues to attract cruisers looking for scenic itineraries to destinations like Alaska, Asia, and the South Pacific. The wrap-around promenade deck is a standout feature, offering stunning views and a nostalgic cruise feel.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Passengers often highlight the relaxing atmosphere and the ship’s well-maintained condition despite its age. One cruiser noted, “The ship is in remarkable condition for being one of the older Princess ships. Well maintained, clean and functional.”
- Friendly and welcoming crew
- Efficient embarkation and disembarkation process
- Spacious promenade deck with great views
- Scenic itineraries to Alaska and beyond
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Ship feels dated in some areas
- Food quality is a recurring complaint, with some guests describing it as repetitive and mediocre. One passenger shared, “The food was nothing special… the Churrascaria Grille was a HUGE disappointment.”
- Limited late-night entertainment options
- Occasional maintenance issues in cabins
Diamond Princess
Class: Grand
Launched: 2004
Capacity: 2,670 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
The Diamond Princess is a stylish cruise ship designed for scenic routes through Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. This mid-sized ship has Japanese-inspired decor, creating a unique onboard experience.
The ship’s dining options, including sushi and green tea ice cream, reflect its Japanese influence. With its modern design and attentive staff, this ship is perfect for those looking for a well-rounded cruising experience.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Unique Japanese cultural experiences onboard, as one cruiser shared, “Diamond Princess is the way to go. The ship is based in Japan and really immerses itself… from bilingual English-Japanese announcements to special Japanese cultural activities.”
- Spacious cabins with good storage
- Scenic itineraries in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Ship shows signs of age in some areas
- Food quality can be inconsistent, especially at buffets
- Limited entertainment options
- English speakers can be a minority
Island Princess
Class: Coral
Launched: 2002
Capacity: 2,200 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
The Island Princess is a mid-sized cruise ship known for its intimate atmosphere and elegant, old-school charm. Built with the Panama Canal in mind, it offers a classic cruising experience with wide promenade decks and plenty of cozy spaces to relax.
It caters mostly to seasoned travelers looking to explore scenic itineraries, particularly through Europe and Canada. The ship has undergone some refurbishments, but some areas are starting to show their age.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Friendly and attentive crew
- Scenic itineraries through Europe, Alaska, and Canada
- Easy embarkation and disembarkation process
- The intimate size and quiet atmosphere of Coral Princess make it appealing to travelers seeking a more relaxed vibe. One review said, “The Island is a great ship. The size makes her easy to navigate… she makes up for it with the incredible service.”
- Spacious cabins with good storage
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Ship is showing signs of age
- Limited onboard activities, especially for younger guests
- Some maintenance issues (plumbing, air conditioning)
- Dining options can be repetitive
- Entertainment could be more varied and updated
Caribbean Princess
Class: Grand
Launched: 2004
Capacity: 3,140 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
The Caribbean Princess is a popular ship for those seeking sun-soaked getaways to the Caribbean and beyond. It’s popular for its large outdoor spaces, including multiple pools and an adults-only Sanctuary. The ship offers an enjoyable cruise experience with plenty of spots to relax, dine, and enjoy entertainment.
The ship underwent some renovations to modernize its interior, including upgraded staterooms and dining venues, but it still retains a traditional cruise ship charm that appeals to loyal Princess fans.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Smooth embarkation and disembarkation process
- Well-organized dining with good food variety
- Spacious outdoor areas and multiple pools
- Peaceful, relaxing atmosphere
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Some areas of the ship show signs of aging
- Limited late-night entertainment options
- Cabins and bathrooms are smaller compared to newer ships
- Inconsistent service in dining rooms and bars
- Occasional maintenance issues (e.g., plumbing, elevators)
Grand Princess
Class: Grand Class
Launched: 1998
Capacity: 2,600 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.8/5)
Grand Princess isn’t the flashiest ship, but it remains a top choice for cruisers seeking a traditional, laid-back journey. With longer itineraries to places like Alaska and Hawaii, it’s ideal for those who enjoy a slower pace at sea.
Recently refurbished, the ship offers various dining options, theaters, and adults-only areas to unwind in during long voyages. While it’s not flashy or filled with the latest high-tech features, it has a loyal following who come back for the friendly service and calm atmosphere.
That said, there’s no denying that the ship shows its age. Some areas, particularly the cabins and balconies, have visible signs of wear, like rust and outdated fixtures.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Guests frequently commend the friendly and attentive staff. One guest shared, “Room stewards, dining staff, pool deck outlet staff all excellent.”
- Peaceful and relaxed atmosphere
- Excellent service in dining areas
- Great itineraries, especially for Alaska and Hawaii
- Smooth embarkation and disembarkation
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- The ship feels outdated and shows visible wear
- Cabins and bathrooms are small and need updating
- Limited entertainment and activities
- Maintenance issues, such as plumbing and air conditioning, are common complaints. A passenger noted, “Our cabin on arrival was very cold and noisy from the air conditioner, which had no option to turn off.”
Ruby Princess
Class: Crown Class
Launched: 2008
Capacity: 3,080 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.6/5)
The Ruby Princess is a popular mid-sized ship in the Princess fleet. Known for its inviting Piazza-style atrium and wide range of dining options, it caters to a variety of passengers, from families to retirees.
The ship is best suited for those seeking a laid-back cruising experience with plenty of opportunities to relax. However, keep in mind that the ship is starting to show its age, with some cabins and public areas needing updates.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Friendly and attentive staff
- Clean ship with well-maintained cabins
- Great itineraries (Hawaii, Alaska, Panama Canal)
- Smooth embarkation and disembarkation processes
- Relaxed, quiet atmosphere
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Outdated décor and worn furniture
- Food quality in the buffet can be hit or miss
- Limited variety of entertainment
- Maintenance issues such as plumbing and air conditioning concerns
Royal Princess
Class: Royal Class
Launched: 2013
Capacity: 3,560 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
The Royal Princess is a grand and modern ship known for its elegant design and spacious layout. Featuring a stunning glass-bottom SeaWalk and a beautiful multi-level Piazza, the ship aims to impress passengers with its upscale decor.
The Royal Princess offers a wide variety of dining options, entertainment venues, and relaxing spots to soak in the ocean views. It’s ideal for travelers looking for both adventure and laid-back luxury, with routes that often include Alaska, New Zealand, and Australia.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Beautiful and modern ship design: One passenger commented on the ship’s well-kept design, sharing, “The ship is in fine condition, very well maintained!”
- Friendly and attentive staff
- Comfortable cabins with good amenities
- Smooth embarkation process for most cruises
- Great itineraries (Alaska, Australia, New Zealand)
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Long queues for dining and drinks
- Food quality is inconsistent, especially in the buffet
- Entertainment options could be more varied: As one cruiser noted, “Most of the entertainment has been soloists—a pianist, a harmonica player—and this is in the main theater!”
- Ship can feel overcrowded during peak times
Emerald Princess
Class: Grand Class
Launched: 2007
Capacity: 3,080 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
The Emerald Princess is a mid-sized ship widely known for its classic charm and relaxed atmosphere. The ship features a beautiful central Piazza, a variety of dining options, and several entertainment venues, including the signature Movies Under the Stars.
The Emerald Princess sails popular itineraries through destinations like the Panama Canal, New England, and Canada, making it a top choice among cruisers looking for scenic journeys and peaceful days at sea.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Friendly and attentive crew
- Comfortable cabins with good storage space
- Scenic itineraries, especially through the Panama Canal
- Well-organized embarkation and disembarkation
- Classic cruising atmosphere with good entertainment
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Food quality is inconsistent, especially in the buffet
- Outdated décor and need for cabin renovations
- Crowded dining areas during peak times
- Limited variety in onboard activities
Crown Princess
Class: Grand Class
Launched: 2006
Capacity: 3,080 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.4/5)
The Crown Princess is one of Princess Cruises’ older but beloved ships, sailing scenic itineraries through Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, and Australia. The ship is beloved for its traditional décor and relaxed atmosphere. It offers plenty of dining options, entertainment, and even outdoor movies at “Movies Under the Stars.”
What Cruisers Liked:
- Friendly and attentive crew
- Smooth embarkation and disembarkation process
- Scenic itineraries, especially Alaska and Hawaii
- Comfortable cabins with good storage: A passenger commented, “The cabin had plenty of room and storage. We start off sanitizing all the touch spots. Wash hands on every entry!”
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Aging ship with visible wear and tear
- Inconsistent food quality, especially in the buffet
- Crowded public areas during peak times
- Slow service in dining rooms
- Entertainment offerings are hit or miss
Majestic Princess
Class: Royal Class
Launched: 2017
Capacity: 3,560 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.4/5)
The Majestic Princess is one of Princess Cruises’ largest and newest ships, initially designed for the Chinese market but now sailing itineraries in Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, and the Mexican Riviera. Known for its elegant décor and luxurious features like the glass-bottomed SeaWalk and the Hollywood Pool Club, the ship promises a grand experience.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Beautiful, modern ship with elegant design. One guest shared, “The Majestic Princess ship is really big and beautiful. Staff is friendly, but they need more to help in the buffet areas.”
- Enthusiastic entertainment crew and quality shows
- Great specialty dining options, particularly Crown Grill
- Comfortable cabins with good amenities
- Seamless embarkation and disembarkation
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Crowded buffet and dining areas
- Inconsistent service in bars and restaurants
- Limited promenade deck for walking
- Shore excursions and disembarkation issues. One cruiser shared, “Shuttles take hours to disembark at Cabo. It’s frustrating when you only have a few hours at port.”
Sky Princess
Class: Royal Class
Launched: 2019
Capacity: 3,660 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.3/5)
The Sky Princess is one of the newer ships in the Princess Cruises fleet. It features modern amenities, sleek interiors, and luxurious staterooms. It also includes the popular Sky Suites with expansive balconies.
The ship also has MedallionClass technology, offering faster boarding, touchless room entry, and on-demand services through wearable medallions. With peaceful pools, a soothing spa, and a variety of dining spots, Sky Princess is ideal for a stylish, laid-back cruise.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Spacious, clean staterooms with comfortable beds
- Friendly and attentive crew
- Great specialty dining options
- Smooth embarkation and disembarkation process
- High-quality production shows. One reviewer noted, “The shows were as good as West End shows. I cannot fault anything.”
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Limited enclosed public spaces for relaxing
- Dining room service can be slow
- Crowded buffet and pool areas
- MedallionClass app glitches and slow drink service
- Not enough variety in entertainment options
Enchanted Princess
Class: Royal Class
Launched: 2020
Capacity: 3,660 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.3/5)
The Enchanted Princess offers a modern and stylish cruising experience, complete with spacious staterooms, elegant décor, and MedallionClass service for a more personalized trip. The ship features an impressive selection of dining options, including specialty restaurants like The Catch by Rudi and Crown Grill.
Entertainment ranges from lively theater shows to relaxing lounges, and there’s plenty to do on board, from trivia sessions to poolside relaxation. However, the large size of the ship means it can feel a bit crowded at peak times, especially around the pools and buffets.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Beautiful, clean, and well-maintained ship
- Spacious and comfortable staterooms
- Friendly and attentive crew
- High-quality specialty dining options
- Efficient embarkation and disembarkation process
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Crowded buffets and pool areas
- Slow service in main dining rooms
- Medallion app glitches
- Limited entertainment variety
- Self-service in the buffet feels less personal
Discovery Princess
Class: Royal Class
Launched: 2022
Capacity: 3,660 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.2/5)
The Discovery Princess is one of the newest ships in Princess Cruises’ fleet, featuring modern amenities and stylish interiors designed to impress. Onboard, you’ll find plenty of dining options, multiple pools, and large theaters hosting impressive live shows.
The ship provides a great cruise experience for families, couples, and experienced travelers, with a nice mix of lively and quiet spaces to enjoy.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Beautiful, modern ship with elegant interiors
- Friendly and attentive crew
- High-quality specialty restaurants like The Catch by Rudi
- Comfortable cabins, especially mini-suites and balconies
- MedallionClass technology for convenience
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Slow service in main dining rooms
- Long lines at bars and buffets
- Medallion app glitches
- Limited variety in activities and entertainment
- Issues with dining reservations and wait times
Sun Princess
Class: Sphere Class
Launched: 2024
Capacity: 4,300 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
The Sun Princess is the latest addition to Princess Cruises’ fleet, offering a fresh take on cruising with its Sphere Class design. Launched in 2024, the ship has a modern interior including a stunning glass-enclosed Dome that transforms from a relaxing space by day into an entertainment venue by night.
With fresh dining experiences, advanced MedallionClass tech, and exclusive spaces like the Reserve Collection, the Sun Princess offers a refined, modern cruise experience.
What Cruisers Liked:
- Beautiful, modern ship design with standout features like The Dome
- Friendly and hardworking crew
- Spacious and comfortable staterooms
- Smooth embarkation process
- Reserve Collection dining option is a hit
What Cruisers Didn’t Like:
- Confusing ship layout and poor crowd management
- Long lines for dining, entertainment, and elevators. A cruiser complained, “The eatery/buffet area is overcrowded, which did not allow for clear access to food stations. Seating is limited due to slow clearing of tables.”
- Slow service in main dining rooms and limited food variety
- Smaller entertainment venues for a large-capacity ship
- Medallion app glitches causing frustration
Which Princess Cruise Ship Should You Choose?
With so many ships in the Princess Cruises fleet, deciding which one to book can be hard. Generally speaking, most ships receive solid ratings from cruisers, with ships such as the Coral, Regal, Sapphire, and Diamond Princess being particularly highly rated.
However, some of the newer ships have received mixed reviews. The Sun Princess, Discovery Princess, and Enchanted Princess have faced more criticism. Reviewers often mention the issues regarding crowd management, slow dining service, and confusing ship layout. Make sure to weigh these facts before booking.
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