Thinking about booking a cruise but can’t decide between Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises? Both are premium cruise lines with high-end experiences, but they cater to different styles of travelers.
Princess Cruises blends classic cruising with modern comforts, making it a solid choice for traditionalists who appreciate familiar elegance, MedallionClass technology, and family-friendly activities.
Celebrity Cruises, on the other hand, delivers a more upscale, resort-style experience. Think chic modern design, elevated dining, and exclusive suite perks like The Retreat.
Not sure which fits your travel style? I’ve analyzed hundreds of cruiser reviews and firsthand experiences to break down what sets these two lines apart. This guide lays out the key differences so you can book with confidence.
Why Choose Between Princess and Celebrity Cruise Lines?
Deciding between Princess and Celebrity is like choosing between a luxury resort and a country club getaway—both offer incredible experiences, but with different vibes.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, traditional cruise with familiar comforts, Princess delivers destination-focused itineraries, MedallionClass convenience, and elegant dining.
If you prefer a modern, high-end feel, Celebrity stands out with sophisticated décor, gourmet dining, and premium wellness experiences.
Picking the right cruise line makes all the difference in how you experience your trip. This breakdown helps you compare ship style, pricing, destinations, entertainment, and more—so you can choose the one that’s perfect for you.
The Vibe & Atmosphere: Classic Elegance or Chic Modernity?
Princess cruise ships have a more familiar, old-school charm that many seasoned cruisers love. You’ll find the atmosphere easygoing yet refined, but the ships still do a good job of providing a polished onboard experience. Some travelers appreciate the relaxed, traditional feel, while others prefer the wow factor of newer, more design-focused cruise lines.
Onboard, you’ll find a mix of couples and multigenerational travelers, and it seems that the demographics on Princess ships tend to be older.
Celebrity cruise ships are more like sleek, trendy, high-end city hotels with decor in vibrant colors. Walking around the decks, you’ll see contemporary artistic touches, stylish lounges, and airy open spaces, giving them a more upscale, resort-like feel. Many cruisers love the modern aesthetic, though some miss the cozy, traditional warmth found on other lines.
If you love a traditional cruise with a touch of sophistication, Princess is a great fit. If you prefer a more contemporary, design-forward experience, Celebrity will feel just right.
Fleet & Ships: Innovation vs. Familiar Comfort
Princess and Celebrity cruise lines take different approaches to ship design.
Princess ships stick to a tried-and-true design, making them easy to navigate. One cruiser noted that whichever Princess ship he’s on, the layout is familiar. The Royal-Class ships bring modern upgrades, with stylish décor and a few high-tech touches, while older Grand-Class ships maintain a more traditional feel.
My first impression when stepping on board a Celebrity ship—it’s sleek and architecturally striking. Cruisers love the open spaces, innovative designs, and contemporary luxury. For example, Edge-class ships have innovative features like the Magic Carpet alfresco restaurant and Infinite Verandas. In contrast, Solstice-class vessels offer a more refined elegance.
Many seasoned cruisers prefer the familiarity that Princess cruise ships offer, whereas others enjoy the innovative ship designs and layouts found on the newest Celebrity ships.
Pricing, Packages & Perks: Which Offers More Value?
When comparing pricing structures on both cruise lines, it seems that Princess and Celebrity are trying to reach a middle ground to appeal to a broader range of cruise passengers.
Traditionally, Princess Cruises had the typical pricing structure—a lower base fare, and you could add on extras as necessary. With the introduction of Princess Plus and Princess Premier, they’ve introduced a more all-inclusive approach. These include WiFi, drinks, discounts, specialty dining, room services, and gratuities. Most cruisers appreciate the varied pricing options on Princess.
Typically, Celebrity Cruises offered all-inclusive cruise fares that included the typical add-ons and made budgeting easier. Now, the cruise line offers “cruise-only rates” that include dining, most amenities, and entertainment but excludes drinks and WiFi. So you can take your pick as “All Included” fares are still available.
There is little to choose from when comparing Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises regarding pricing and deals. At first glance, Celebrity is more expensive, but you’re paying for a more luxurious cruise experience.
Itineraries & Destinations: Where Do They Take You?
Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises offer a variety of itineraries in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska, and South America. But which one stands out in terms of the best destinations?
Princess Cruises itineraries have a strong emphasis on “destination immersion.” Apart from the Caribbean, you’ll find cruises along the California Pacific coast, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific. They even sail to Antarctica sometimes.
Princess is the clear winner in the cruise industry when it comes to Alaska sailings. They have exclusive access to Glacier Bay National Park and offer immersive shore excursions. You’ll enjoy private lodge experiences, rail journeys, and onshore adventures that other cruise lines cannot provide.
Celebrity Cruises leans into boutique-style itineraries, with standout options in Europe, the Galápagos, and South America. Their ships spend more time in ports, with some itineraries featuring more extended stays or late-night departures. Many cruisers love the unique destinations and say it’s the best line for summer sailings in the Mediterranean.
The consensus is that you cannot go wrong when booking an Alaskan cruise with Princess. However, if it’s Caribbean, Galápagos, or Mediterranean cruises you’re looking for, Celebrity has more extensive options.
Princess Cruises Private Island: Princess Cays
Princess Cays, owned by Princess Cruises, is a peaceful private beach retreat in the Bahamas. Cruisers talk about the beautiful white-sand beaches, clear waters, and plenty of loungers. The focus is on relaxation, snorkeling, kayaking, and a barbecue lunch. Emphasis is on a laid-back island escape for unwinding under the sun.
Cruisers love the quiet, uncrowded feel of natural beauty and the lack of pushy vendors on the beaches. However, some would prefer more fun, active activities and lower rental fees for amenities like cabanas and water sports.
Royal Caribbean’s Private Island: Perfect Day at CocoCay
Royal Caribbean owns both Celebrity and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. Many short cruises on Celebrity ships include the private island on sailings from the homeport in Fort Lauderdale.
The island is packed with thrilling attractions, from the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean to an overwater helium balloon ride and various exciting water sports. It offers multiple pools, private cabanas, and an exclusive adults-only beach club for a mix of adventure and luxury.
Many cruisers regard CocoCay as one of the best private island experiences they’ve had. However, some say that the cost of Thrill Water Park, Jet Ski hire, and zip lines feels overpriced.
Cabins & Accommodations: Classic Comfort vs. Modern Innovation
Princess Cruises offers a traditional yet comfortable cabin experience, with layouts that feel familiar and easy to navigate. Mini-Suites provide extra space without a massive price jump, and most ships feature a good mix of interior, oceanview, and balcony options. Suites come with added perks, but standard cabins focus more on function than flash.
Cruisers love the cozy, practical design and appreciate the affordability of Princess suites. Some feel the décor could use a refresh, especially on older ships. Cruisers who have sailed both lines say Princess cabins feel roomier, though Celebrity offers more luxurious touches. The Medallion wearable device is a big hit with passengers and replaces the traditional cruise card.
Celebrity cruise ships have stylish, high-tech cabins and suites designed for a sleek, hotel-like feel. The Infinite Veranda cabins on Edge-class ships extend living space with floor-to-ceiling windows. All suites have access to The Retreat—an exclusive with private dining, a lounge, and a sundeck.
Cruisers generally love the luxurious standard in Celebrity staterooms. However, cruiser reviews on Infinite Verandas are mixed—some love the open design, while others miss a traditional balcony. Some feel the extra cost of Concierge Class doesn’t add much value.
Further reading: The Best and Worst Celebrity Cruises Cabins (Based on Reviews).
Dining Experience: Classic vs. Culinary Adventure
Princess Cruises offers three dining categories: complimentary dining, casual dining (for a small fee), and specialty restaurants (surcharge). From the specialty restaurants, Sabatini’s and Crown Grill are a hit with passengers. Most cruisers praise the consistency and quality of the main dining restaurant. However, they’d prefer more variety in the specialty dining options.
Celebrity Cruises focuses on a more upscale, elegant dining experience, even in its complimentary venues. Some cruise passengers praise the ambiance of the main dining room, saying it has the feel of dining in a specialty restaurant. Overall, all dining venues offer gourmet experiences—hard to find such excellent comments in the mainstream cruise industry.
Comparing dining options, Celebrity has the slight edge, but it’s difficult to find fault in the quality of Princess Cruises offerings.
Entertainment & Enrichment: Broadway Shows or Immersive Experiences?
Entertainment options on Princess cruise ships are classic cruise entertainment. The Princess Theater hosts musicals, one-of-a-kind productions (Rock Opera), and performances using cutting-edge technology. You’ll also find a mix of comedy, game shows, magic acts, and an outdoor movie theater.
Cruise passengers on Princess rave about the well-executed production shows, but some would like to see more Broadway-style performances that are becoming more popular on other cruise ships.
Celebrity Cruises’ entertainment options range from high-tech theater productions and live music lounges to unique immersive experiences and enrichment programs. Shows like Elements use acrobatics and visual effects, while productions like Rockumentary bring classic hits to life. The Club transforms throughout the day, offering interactive game shows, silent discos, and late-night parties for a dynamic onboard experience.
Both cruise lines excel in well-executed performances, and I must say that one isn’t better or worse than the other. Many say that entertainment on Celebrity is more modern and high-energy, whereas Princess sticks to traditional cruise ship entertainment.
It’s good to note that, with both cruise lines, the best and most spectacular shows are only on the newer ships.
Kids & Family Activities: Which Line is Better for Families?
Princess Cruises offers onboard activities for kids, teens, and multigenerational groups. The Discovery at SEA program brings interactive learning through partnerships with Discovery Channel and Animal Planet, while youth clubs provide age-appropriate entertainment. While solo travelers are welcome, Princess still maintains a more relaxed, adult-friendly atmosphere.
Many cruisers comment that Celebrity Cruises caters more to couples and adult travelers but still provides solid options for kids and teens. The Camp at Sea program offers flexible activities for kids, and ships feature game rooms, pools, and sports courts. Also, younger kids love the unique camping experience on real grass.
Both Celebrity and Princess have activities for kids, with Princess Cruises having the edge in terms of kid-friendly activities. Celebrity may be a better fit for teenagers.
Pool Decks & Adult-Only Areas: Relaxation vs. Social Scene
Both cruise lines have several pools on every ship, but don’t expect the huge water parks and slides common on Royal Caribbean or Carnival cruise ships. What can you expect from each line?
Princess Cruises has at least three pools on every ship, with multiple hot tubs and plenty of loungers. The main pool areas are family-friendly, some ships have an aft pool deck, and others have a retractable roof. Many cruisers love the outdoor movie theater for the Movies Under the Stars experience.
Princess Cruises has The Sanctuary—a serene, adults-only, stress-free retreat with cushioned loungers, attentive service, and a quiet ambiance.
The pool decks on Celebrity cruise ships provide a more upscale, resort-like experience. In my experience, the vibe at the main pool deck is relaxed, with most cruisers using the space for lounging rather than lively pool parties. There are also pools with splash zones for kids.
The adults-only Solarium on Celebrity ships offers a glass-enclosed oasis with a pool, hot tubs, and plush loungers. Snacks, light bites, and refreshments are also served from the Spa Cafe and Juice Bar.
In a cruise line comparison, both Princess and Celebrity offer excellent poolside experiences, with high-quality amenities on both lines. The adults-only retreats provide a luxurious ambiance for relaxing.
Onboard Technology & Innovation: Smart Perks or Traditional Simplicity?
When it comes to innovative tech onboard, each cruise line has its plus points. Like all major cruise lines, you can book onboard activities and specialty restaurants via the cruise line app. So, what are the differences?
Princess Cruises stands out with its MedallionClass technology. The wearable Medallion replaces key cards, allowing for touchless payments, room access, and drink delivery anywhere on the ship. It also unlocks your stateroom door automatically as you approach it.
Celebrity’s Edge-class ships stand out for their cutting-edge technology, seamlessly integrated into the cruise line app. You can do just about everything with it—check in online, use onboard navigation, make reservations, unlock your room, and control the stateroom’s TV, Infinite Veranda, and temperature.
Wellness & Spa Offerings: Relaxation or Luxury Pampering?
Princess Cruises offers the Lotus Spa—a calming retreat focused on traditional relaxation and wellness. Guests can enjoy a range of treatments, from massages and facials to acupuncture and aromatherapy. On selected ships, The Enclave features heated stone beds, hydrotherapy pools, and steam rooms.
Many appreciate the affordability and variety of treatments, though some find the spa areas smaller on older ships.
The AquaSpa and SEA Thermal Suite are spa services on Celebrity Cruises that take a more luxurious approach. If you think that spa treatments are a vital part of the cruise experience, many cruisers recommend booking an AquaClass stateroom. This also provides access to the exclusive Blu Restaurant, The Persian Garden, and aromatic steam rooms for deep relaxation.
Many love the modern, high-end feel, while some note that spa access costs significantly extra unless staying in AquaClass cabins. However, it seems from most cruiser reviews that Celebrity has the edge in terms of spa options and value for money.
Who Should Pick Which? A Quick Decision Guide
Princess Cruises is ideal if you’re looking for a classic, comfortable, no-fuss cruise with a focus on tradition and destination immersion. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, offering enrichment programs, familiar dining, and a strong presence in Alaska. It’s a great fit if you want a more traditional approach with optional add-ons.
Celebrity Cruises is perfect if you want modern luxury with a high-end, resort-like experience. The sleek ship design, gourmet dining, and all-inclusive pricing are ideal if you want a seamless, upscale cruise. The entertainment, spa, and dining options cater to contemporary cruisers looking for a stylish, sophisticated vacation at sea.
Whichever cruise line you choose, may your next voyage be filled with relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences at sea.
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