Princess Cruises has a diverse fleet, from intimate mid-sized ships to massive mega-ships carrying over 4,000 passengers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or a full-scale resort experience, understanding the differences in ship size can help you choose the best fit for your cruise.
Does ship size really matter? Absolutely. Larger ships offer more dining venues, bigger theaters, and a wider range of activities, while smaller ships can feel less crowded and easier to navigate. Size also affects where a ship can sail, with some of the smaller Princess ships able to visit ports that larger ones can’t.
To help you decide, I’ve analyzed real passenger reviews from Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, and Facebook cruise groups. This ranking goes beyond marketing hype, breaking down what actual cruisers love (and don’t love) about each ship.
Want to know which Princess ships rank highest and lowest based on real passenger experiences? Check out my full breakdown: Best & Worst Princess Cruise Ships – Ranked by Real Cruisers.
Now, let’s break down every Princess ship by size—starting with the biggest.
Ship Size Explained: What Gross Tonnage (GT) Means
GT (Gross Tonnage) isn’t about weight—it’s about space.
It measures the ship’s total enclosed volume, including:
- Cabins & staterooms
- Dining & entertainment venues
- Crew areas & public spaces
More GT = More space & amenities, but also more passengers.
Now, let’s break down every Princess ship from biggest to smallest—and what real passengers think.
Sun Princess: The Biggest Princess Cruise Ship Ever Built (175,500 GT)
Size: 175,500 GT
Length: 1,133 ft. (345 m)
Beam (Width): 155 ft. (47 m)
Capacity: 4,300 passengers, 1,600 crew
Ship Class: Sphere-Class
Launch Date: 2024
Sun Princess is the largest ship ever built for Princess Cruises and the first in the new Sphere class, bringing a fresh approach to the fleet’s design. One of the ship’s most distinctive elements is The Dome, a striking glass-enclosed space inspired by the Greek islands, which transitions from a tranquil pool area by day to a vibrant entertainment venue at night.
Dining has also been reimagined, with new options like the Americana Diner, alongside returning favorites such as Sabatini’s, Crown Grill, and Alfredo’s Pizzeria. The ship also debuts Spellbound by Magic Castle, an immersive entertainment experience, and an enhanced suite enclave offering luxurious accommodations with exclusive amenities.
What Passengers Think
Passengers appreciate the ship’s modern design, spacious cabins, and standout features like The Dome and the expanded dining options. Despite this, some have found the ship’s layout difficult to navigate, with long lines at dining venues and entertainment spaces.
Star Princess: What to Expect from Princess Cruises’ Newest Mega-Ship (2025)
Size: 175,500 GT
Length: 1,133 ft. (345 m)
Beam (Width): 155 ft. (47 m)
Capacity: 4,300 passengers, 1,200 crew
Ship Class: Sphere-Class
Launch Date: September 2025
When it launches, Star Princess will be among the biggest ships in Princess’s fleet. It shares the same impressive size as Sun Princess, surpassing previous Princess ships by 20%. This ship introduces fresh design elements, cutting-edge entertainment, and improved accommodations while staying true to the cruise line’s signature experience.
One of its standout features is The Dome, a Santorini-inspired glass-enclosed space that transforms from a relaxing indoor-outdoor pool area by day to an immersive entertainment venue at night. Dining options haven’t been fully revealed yet, but passengers can expect fan-favorites like Alfredo’s Pizzeria, Sabatini’s, Crown Grill, and Crooners Bar, alongside new restaurants.
Enchanted Princess (145,281 GT)
Size: 145,281 GT
Length: 1,083 ft. (330 m)
Beam (Width): 125 ft. (38 m)
Capacity: 3,660 passengers, 1,346 crew
Ship Class: Royal-Class
Launch Date: 2021
Enchanted Princess, one of the biggest ships in Princess Cruises’ Royal Class, spans 145,281 GT, offering an upscale experience for nearly 3,700 guests. It features an elegant design with a vibrant central Piazza, multiple pools, and a wealth of dining choices.
The ship is home to popular specialty restaurants like Crown Grill, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, and Bistro Sur La Mer, along with casual options such as Gigi’s Pizzeria and the World Fresh Marketplace buffet.
Entertainment offerings include Broadway-style productions at the Princess Theater, live jazz at Take Five, and the open-air Movies Under the Stars. The MedallionClass technology enhances the onboard experience, allowing for easy service, personalized interactions, and high-speed internet.
What Passengers Think
Passengers appreciate the ship’s stylish design, excellent specialty dining, and friendly crew. The main drawbacks mentioned are occasional crowding in buffets and pool areas, as well as slow service in the main dining rooms.
Sky Princess (145,281 GT)
Size: 145,281 GT
Length: 1,083 ft. (330 m)
Beam (Width): 125 ft. (38 m)
Capacity: 3,660 passengers, 1,346 crew
Ship Class: Royal-Class
Launch Date: 2019
Sky Princess is one of Princess Cruises’ newest Royal-Class ships, offering stylish accommodations and top-tier amenities. At 145,281 GT, it offers plenty of space for guests to spread out, with multiple sun decks, four pools, and two adults-only retreats.
The heart of the ship is the vibrant Piazza, a three-story hub for entertainment, dining, and shopping. Guests can enjoy a variety of included and specialty dining venues, from the elegant Cielo Main Dining Room to Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and the Crown Grill Steakhouse. Evening entertainment shines with Broadway-caliber production shows, live jazz at Take Five, and Movies Under the Stars.
What Passengers Think
Guests love Sky Princess for its spacious, well-designed staterooms, high-quality specialty dining, and lively entertainment. Though some have noted slow service in the main dining rooms and occasional crowding at the buffet/pools.
Discovery Princess (145,000 GT)
Size: 145,000 GT
Length: 1,083 ft. (330 m)
Beam (Width): 125 ft. (38 m)
Capacity: 3,660 passengers, 1,346 crew
Ship Class: Royal-Class
Launch Date: 2022
As the newest and final ship in the Royal-Class lineup, Discovery Princess delivers a refined and familiar cruise experience with some modern touches. At 145,000 GT, it offers the same sleek, spacious design as its sister ships but adds small updates to décor and layout. The Piazza Atrium remains the heart of the ship, offering live music, bars like Crooner’s and Good Spirits, and plenty of dining spots.
Passengers can enjoy Broadway-style productions at the Princess Theater, unwind in the Lotus Spa and The Enclave, or take in an alfresco movie at Movies Under the Stars. The ship also features The Sanctuary, an exclusive adult-only retreat, and a well-equipped Fitness Center.
With a strong mix of dining options—including The Catch by Rudi and the ever-popular Crown Grill steakhouse—Discovery Princess offers a well-rounded mix of comfort, luxury, and entertainment.
What Passengers Think
Passengers praise Discovery Princess for its elegant design, friendly crew, and standout specialty dining, particularly The Catch by Rudi. Some guests found service slow in the main dining rooms and noted long waits at bars and buffets.
Regal Princess (142,229 GT)
Size: 142,229 GT
Length: 1,083 ft. (330 m)
Beam (Width): 125 ft. (38 m)
Capacity: 3,560 passengers, 1,346 crew
Ship Class: Royal-Class
Launch Date: 2014
A sleek and sophisticated addition to the Princess fleet, Regal Princess strikes a balance between elegance and entertainment. Built as a near twin to Royal Princess, this 142,229-ton ship features standout attractions like the SeaWalk, a thrilling glass-floored walkway that extends over the ocean, and a sprawling three-story Piazza Atrium.
Dining is a highlight, with Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and Crown Grill steakhouse receiving high marks, while the Horizon Court buffet offers a wide variety of global flavors. Movies Under the Stars, a spacious adults-only Retreat Pool, and the Lotus Spa & The Enclave provide relaxation, while evening entertainment ranges from Broadway-style productions in the Princess Theater to live music in intimate lounges.
What Passengers Think
Passengers love Regal Princess’s elegant design, smooth embarkation process, and well-maintained public areas, but some note that food quality in the main dining rooms can be inconsistent and entertainment options could use more variety.
Royal Princess (142,229 GT)
Size: 142,229 GT
Length: 1,083 ft. (330 m)
Beam (Width): 125 ft. (38 m)
Capacity: 3,560 passengers, 1,346 crew
Ship Class: Royal-Class
Launch Date: 2013
As the first Royal-Class ship, Royal Princess set the stage for a new era in the Princess fleet with its sleek, modern design and innovative features. One of the most unique additions is the SeaWalk, a glass-floored walkway extending over the ship’s edge, offering a breathtaking view down to the ocean.
The sprawling Piazza Atrium serves as the ship’s social hub, hosting live entertainment, cultural activities, and elegant lounges. Dining options are extensive, from the casual favorites like Alfredo’s Pizzeria and Horizon Court buffet to the specialty venues like Crown Grill and Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria.
What Passengers Think
Cruisers appreciate Royal Princess’s beautiful and well-maintained design, friendly staff, and comfortable cabins. However, some note long lines at dining venues and inconsistent buffet quality, while others feel that entertainment options could be more diverse.
Majestic Princess (142,216 GT)
Size: 142,216 GT
Length: 1,083 ft. (330 m)
Beam (Width): 125 ft. (38 m)
Capacity: 3,560 passengers, 1,346 crew
Ship Class: Royal-Class
Launch Date: 2017
Originally built for the Chinese market, Majestic Princess is a unique Royal-Class ship that now sails Alaska, the California Coast, and the Mexican Riviera. While it shares many features with its sister ships, it has several exclusive offerings, including Harmony, a high-end Chinese restaurant, and the Hollywood Pool Club, a glass-enclosed adults-only retreat that’s perfect for cooler climates.
Majestic Princess provides a refined yet lively experience, with Broadway-style productions, live jazz in the Piazza, and a variety of specialty dining venues like Crown Grill and Alfredo’s Pizzeria. The ship also has plenty of open deck space and hidden gems like the Wake View Bar on Deck 16, a quiet spot often missed by passengers.
What Passengers Think
Cruisers love the ship’s beautiful and modern design, high-quality specialty dining, and enthusiastic entertainment team. However, some passengers report crowded dining areas, inconsistent service in bars and restaurants, and limited outdoor walking space.
Diamond Princess (115,875 GT)
Size: 115,875 GT
Length: 952 ft. (290 m)
Beam (Width): 121 ft. (37 m)
Capacity: 2,670 passengers, 1,100 crew
Ship Class: Grand-Class
Launch Date: 2004
At 115,875 GT, Diamond Princess is the largest Grand-Class ship. Built in Japan and homeported in Yokohama, it stands out for its deep cultural immersion into Japanese traditions. While it still offers the classic Princess experience, it also features authentic Japanese elements not found on other Princess ships.
Some unique onboard experiences include Kai Sushi, a traditional Japanese bathhouse (Izumi), and ramen and cold noodle bars in the buffet. Passengers can also take part in origami workshops, Japanese festival dance classes, and language lessons, making the experience more than just a typical cruise.
What Passengers Think
Cruisers love the authentic Japanese cultural experiences, spacious cabins, and scenic itineraries. However, some find that the ship is starting to show its age in places, buffet food can be inconsistent, and entertainment options are limited.
Sapphire Princess (115,875 GT)
Size: 115,875 GT
Length: 952 ft. (290 m)
Beam (Width): 125 ft. (38 m)
Capacity: 2,670 passengers, 1,100 crew
Ship Class: Grand Class
Launch Date: 2004
Sapphire Princess is one of only two Japan-built ships in the Princess fleet, sharing its size and classic design with its sister, Diamond Princess. The ship has carved out a niche for itself with scenic itineraries to destinations like Alaska, South America, and even Antarctica. While it doesn’t have flashy attractions like water slides or go-kart tracks, it makes up for it with a strong lineup of entertainment, multiple pools, and a relaxing ambiance.
The Piazza serves as the central hub of activity, while the ship’s five smaller dining rooms create a more intimate dining experience compared to a traditional main dining room. Sapphire Princess also features standout venues like the conservatory-style Calypso Pool, the spacious promenade deck with wraparound ocean views, and a well-designed kids’ club.
What Passengers Think
Passengers appreciate the ship’s well-maintained condition and its relaxing atmosphere, with many praising the friendly and welcoming crew. That said, some feel that parts of the ship show their age, and food quality can be inconsistent, particularly at specialty dining venues like the Churrascaria Grille.
Ruby Princess (113,561 GT)
Size: 113,561 GT
Length: 951 ft. (290 m)
Beam (Width): 118 ft. (36 m)
Capacity: 3,080 passengers, 1,200 crew
Ship Class: Grand Class
Launch Date: 2008
Ruby Princess is a mid-sized ship in the Princess fleet, offering a classic cruise experience with a mix of lively entertainment and relaxed ambiance. Despite carrying over 3,000 passengers, the ship is designed to feel spacious, with a well-laid-out deck plan and many lounge areas.
Families appreciate the well-attended kids’ club and multiple pools, while adults can unwind at the Sanctuary, an adults-only retreat. Dining options range from traditional main dining rooms to specialty venues like Sabatini’s and Crown Grill, plus casual bites at the Salty Dog Grill and Slice Pizza.
What Passengers Think
Passengers frequently praise the friendly, attentive crew and the well-maintained public areas, though some mention that parts of the ship show their age. While dining is generally well-received, the buffet’s food quality gets mixed reviews.
Emerald Princess (113,561 GT)
Size: 113,561 GT
Length: 951 ft. (290 m)
Beam (Width): 118 ft. (36 m)
Capacity: 3,080 passengers, 1,200 crew
Ship Class: Grand Class
Launch Date: 2007
Emerald Princess delivers an easygoing cruise experience, with inviting public spaces, excellent dining, and a layout designed for comfort. While it may not have the latest high-tech attractions of newer Royal-class ships, it’s known for its well-designed layout, lively central Piazza, and a great mix of entertainment and dining.
Passengers can enjoy casual bites at the International Café, indulge in specialty dining at Crown Grill and Sabatini’s, or take in a movie at Movies Under the Stars by the pool. For those looking to unwind, the adults-only Sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat. The ship’s extensive 2019 refurbishment gave it a fresh feel, and its itineraries include everything from the scenic Panama Canal to European voyages.
What Passengers Think
Passengers appreciate the friendly and attentive crew, as well as the ship’s classic cruising ambiance. However, some note that the décor is showing its age, and the buffet dining experience can be hit or miss.
Crown Princess (113,561 GT)
Size: 113,561 GT
Length: 951 ft. (290 m)
Beam (Width): 118 ft. (36 m)
Capacity: 3,080 passengers, 1,200 crew
Ship Class: Crown Class
Launch Date: 2006
Crown Princess has been sailing since 2006 and remains a popular choice for those who enjoy a classic cruise experience with plenty of space to relax. With four pools, including two for adults, the ship offers both entertainment and relaxation. The central Piazza is always buzzing with live music and performances, while Movies Under the Stars continues to be a crowd-pleaser.
Specialty dining options like Crown Grill and Sabatini’s cater to food lovers, while casual spots like the International Café provide quick bites throughout the day. The 2018 refurbishment introduced the ultra-comfy Princess Luxury Beds and refreshed dining venues, keeping the ship feeling modern despite its age.
What Passengers Think
Passengers love the friendly crew, smooth embarkation, and well-designed cabins with plenty of storage. However, some guests note signs of wear and tear, occasional slow service in the dining rooms, and inconsistent food quality in the buffet.
Caribbean Princess (112,894 GT)
Size: 112,894 GT
Length: 951 ft. (290 m)
Beam (Width): 118 ft. (36 m)
Capacity: 3,140 passengers, 1,200 crew
Ship Class: Grand Class
Launch Date: 2004
Although Caribbean Princess isn’t one of the largest ships in the Princess fleet, its well-designed layout ensures plenty of space for relaxation and entertainment. Unlike the massive newer ships, this one retains a more intimate yet lively atmosphere, perfect for cruisers who enjoy a mix of relaxation and engaging activities.
Guests can soak up the sun at one of its four pools, including the adults-only Sanctuary and the family-friendly Reef Splash Zone. The ship doesn’t have water slides or high-thrill attractions, but it leans into classic cruise fun with trivia contests, Broadway-style productions, and a vibrant social scene at Crooners Bar and the Princess Theater.
What Passengers Think
Passengers love the ship’s spacious outdoor areas and multiple pools, as well as the smooth embarkation and well-organized dining. However, some note that certain areas show signs of aging, and late-night entertainment options are limited compared to newer ships.
Grand Princess (107,517 GT)
Size: 107,517 GT
Length: 951 ft. (290 m)
Beam (Width): 118 ft. (36 m)
Capacity: 2,594 passengers, 1,100 crew
Ship Class: Grand Class
Launch Date: 1998
The largest passenger ship in history when it debuted in 1998, Grand Princess has since been surpassed in size but remains a well-loved ship. Over the years, Princess has invested in refurbishments to keep the ship modern, adding a revamped Piazza Atrium, Alfredo’s Pizzeria, and the Crown Grill steakhouse, as well as upgrading the Sanctuary, an adults-only retreat.
While the ship doesn’t have the high-tech features or sprawling entertainment complexes of newer ships, it offers a relaxed and traditional cruising experience with elegant lounges, trivia games, and live music. Dining is a highlight, with consistently high-quality service and well-reviewed food, particularly at Alfredo’s and the main dining rooms.
What Passengers Think
Guests appreciate the friendly and attentive staff, as well as smooth embarkation and disembarkation. However, some feel the ship is visibly outdated, with small cabins and maintenance issues like inconsistent air conditioning.
Island Princess (91,627 GT)
Size: 91,627 GT
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Beam (Width): 105 ft. (32 m)
Capacity: 2,214 passengers, 900 crew
Ship Class: Coral Class
Launch Date: 2003
One of the smallest ships in the Princess fleet, Island Princess was custom-built for sailing through the Panama Canal. This makes it a unique choice for travelers looking for immersive canal crossings.
Despite its smaller size, the ship packs in a variety of dining and entertainment options, including the Crown Grill steakhouse, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, and the Horizon Court buffet. Island Princess’s four-story atrium remains a visual highlight, featuring a grand piano, a waterfall, and elegant seating areas.
What Passengers Think
Cruisers love the attentive crew, smooth embarkation process, and scenic itineraries, with many appreciating the ship’s cozy, easy-to-navigate layout. However, some mention that the ship feels dated in certain areas, with maintenance issues like plumbing and air conditioning inconsistencies.
Coral Princess: Smallest in the Fleet (91,627 GT)
Size: 91,627 GT
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Beam (Width): 105 ft. (32 m)
Capacity: 1,970 passengers, 900 crew
Ship Class: Coral Class
Launch Date: 2003
As one of Princess Cruises’ smallest ships, Coral Princess was built to sail through the Panama Canal. It offers a more intimate and classic cruising experience compared to the larger, resort-style ships in the fleet. Despite its size, it’s popular for its relaxed elegance and modern amenities, featuring a four-story atrium, two main dining rooms, a premium steakhouse (Crown Grill), and the Italian favorite, Sabatini’s.
A 2009 refurbishment introduced Movies Under the Stars, upgraded staterooms, and the serene adults-only Sanctuary, enhancing the ship’s appeal to travelers looking for a traditional cruising atmosphere. Though it lacks flashy, high-energy attractions like water slides, Coral Princess excels in offering well-organized shore excursions, scenic itineraries, and excellent service.
What Passengers Think
Passengers appreciate the friendly crew, well-organized excursions, and unique itineraries, with many noting that the ship’s smaller size allows access to ports that larger ships can’t visit. However, some mention visible signs of aging, occasional maintenance issues, and inconsistent food quality.
