Upcoming Princess Cruises: 2024 Prices, Itineraries + Activities on Cruise Critic (2024)

Princess Cruises Tips, Activities, and Overview

Who goes on Princess cruise ships?

Princess Cruises attracts a wide passenger base, but the majority are North Americans. There are real differences depending on ships and itineraries, but the bulk of Princess' passengers are 40-plus, although with new family offerings, the line is catering to a more diverse age range, particularly on Princess cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean. If you sail on the larger Princess ships, you'll meet a range of passengers from solo travelers to big multigenerational family groups. The smaller Princess ships cater to more mature travelers who want longer, more exotic itineraries and need fewer family-friendly elements.

Find more info on the history of Princess Cruises from our industry experts.

Do I have to dress up on a Princess cruise?

Princess is fairly traditional with their dress code. Depending on the length of the cruise, there are a varying number of formal nights, where women wear evening gowns and cocktail dresses and men wear tuxedos, dinner jackets or dark suits with a tie to dinner.

On Smart Casual evenings, the line advises passengers to dress similarly to what they would wear to a nice restaurant at home. Pool or beach attire, shorts, baseball caps and casual jeans are out for the dining rooms, and diners must wear shoes even in the buffet.

Is everything free on Princess cruises?

No. Fares for a Princess cruise include complimentary dining in a handful of venues, as well as room service and water, tea and coffee, and select juices. A variety of theater productions, Movies Under the Stars and deck parties are also complimentary, and there is no fee for onboard activities with partners like Discovery at Sea, or for youth and teen activities, except late-night group babysitting. Enrichment lectures, classes and presentations are also free with a few exceptions.

Specialty restaurants, gratuities, spa and salon services, internet access (MedallionNet), laundry, alcoholic drinks and soda, and shore excursions all cost extra.

What are Princess’s most popular activities?

What types of activities are available vary from ship to ship, but generally speaking, cruisers typically gather around the pools by day and hang out day and night in the Piazza to enjoy spontaneous performances, live music and dancing. The line's signature Movies Under the Stars is also popular. On select ships theatrical productions by the creator of "Wicked," Steven Schwartz, draw a crowd in the evening.

Most of the ship also turns out for deck parties, and partnerships with Discovery and Animal Planet bring families together on special shore excursions and activities like stargazing at sea.

Why go with Princess?

  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                                  • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                                  • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                                • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                              • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                            • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                          • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                        • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                      • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                    • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                  • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
                • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
              • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
            • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
          • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
        • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
      • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Innovative features: Anytime Dining, Movies Under the Stars.
    • Globetrotting line that visits hundreds of ports.
    • Great option for multigeneration groups.
  • Best for: Couples and multigenerational families more interested in destination-intensive itineraries than activity-packed ships

    Not for: Energetic families, couples and groups who want a spirited vacation, or those looking for active shipboard pursuits

    Upcoming Princess Cruises: 2024 Prices, Itineraries + Activities on Cruise Critic (2024)

    FAQs

    How to save money and get a better deal when booking planning a cruise? ›

    13 expert-approved tips for saving money when booking a cruise
    1. Be flexible with when and where you cruise. ...
    2. Shop around and compare. ...
    3. Book a cruise with free extras. ...
    4. Look for “kids cruise free” deals. ...
    5. Look into cruise loyalty programs. ...
    6. Pay for your cruise with credit card rewards.
    Jul 7, 2023

    How much does Princess Cruises charge per day for gratuities? ›

    Crew Appreciation and Service Charge Policy
    Stateroom CategoryDaily amount per guest
    Interior, Oceanview and BalconyUS $16
    Mini-Suite and Reserve CollectionUS $17
    SuitesUS $18

    How far out should you book a cruise for the best deal? ›

    “It's best to book a cruise six to 12 months out to ensure you get an optimum selection of cabin types, preferred itineraries, and special promotional rates,” says Jennifer DeLaCruz, a vice president at Carnival Cruise Lines.

    How many cruises does it take to become elite on Princess? ›

    Elite Membership Benefits

    The best of the best in benefits — meet Elite status, reserved for our most loyal guests and adventure enthusiasts. Reach our top-tier membership after completing 15 Princess cruises or sailing 150 days.

    What is the least expensive month to cruise? ›

    What is the cheapest time to book a cruise? Prospective cruisers can usually find "a lot of good deals at the beginning of the year" during wave season, Goldberg-Glazer said. That period typically lasts from January until March.

    What's the cheapest way to go on a cruise? ›

    Book early or last minute

    Or they offer discounts to fill unsold cabins as the departure date approaches. Either way, booking early or last minute is the answer to how to get the best deal on a cruise — making the idea that trips at sea are too expensive just a cruise myth.

    How much are the gratuities on Princess Cruises 2024? ›

    Your folio will reflect the pre-payment, by Princess Cruises, on your behalf for the suggested crew appreciation in the U.S. dollar amounts of $16 per person per day for interior, oceanview, and balcony staterooms, $17 per person per day for mini-suite, cabanas, and Reserve Collection staterooms and $18 per person per ...

    Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package on board? ›

    Some rumors have circulated that onboard-purchased drinks packages will save you money, but that is almost always not the case. According to Cruise Critic member pete14, "The only price reductions for a drinks package that I have seen are a special offer for buying the package in advance.

    Can you opt out of paying gratuities on Princess Cruises? ›

    Are gratuities on Princess Cruises compulsory? This question has been answered before. ALL gratuities are optional. Cruise lines don't go out of their way to tell you this, but you are free to ask for gratuities to be removed from your account by visiting the customer service desk at any time during your cruise.

    When should you book a cruise in 2024? ›

    Best Time of the Year To Book a Cruise

    Generally speaking, there are three ideal times to book a cruise during the calendar year: January through March, during “wave season” Black Friday. Cyber Monday.

    How do you not spend a lot of money on a cruise? ›

    10 Tips for Stretching Your Cruise Dollars Onboard
    1. Book restaurant packages. ...
    2. Look for specialty restaurant specials. ...
    3. Book spa treatments on port days. ...
    4. Don't over-tip. ...
    5. Go on your own on shore. ...
    6. Disconnect at sea. ...
    7. Save on your bar bill with discounted packages. ...
    8. Look for drink specials.
    Jan 7, 2020

    Can you negotiate cruise price? ›

    Passengers can always negotiate with a booking site or cruise line, but they aren't obligated to refund the difference. Instead, they may offer you onboard credit, complimentary excursions or credit toward another cruise booking.

    What is the average age of Princess cruise passengers? ›

    Princess appeals to an older demographic than lines such as Carnival and Norwegian. The average age of passengers is around 54, and you'll usually see a lot of couples on board in their 50s, 60s and 70s. As noted above, these aren't people necessarily craving go-kart tracks and ropes courses at sea.

    Is Princess an upscale cruise line? ›

    The Complete Guide to Princess Cruises. Princess Cruises is a premium cruise line with elegant ships, plentiful amenities and worldwide destinations.

    What does gold mean on Princess Cruises? ›

    This program is intended to reward passengers for repeated sailings on Princess ships. At the Gold level, you will be invited to the Captain's Circle cocktail party. In reality, at this level there are no real benefits. The next level is Platinum. To reach this you must complete 5 cruises or 50 days on Princess ships.

    Do cruises get cheaper the closer you book? ›

    In general, the price when the cruise itineraries are first released is the cheapest that they'll be. There are exceptions with last-minute deals but for the most part, cruises are cheaper when the itineraries have just been released.

    How can I get a better cruise rate? ›

    Here are seven things to consider before booking your next cruise:
    1. Book early if you have special needs or a large party. ...
    2. Your travel agent might be able to track price changes. ...
    3. Wait to book for last-minute deals. ...
    4. Don't assume an interior stateroom is the best deal. ...
    5. Book shore excursions from outside vendors.
    Jan 2, 2024

    Is it better to book a cruise through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line? ›

    Travel agents often have significant buying power, which can result in better prices, especially when booking multiple cabins for a cruise. Travel agents also enjoy early access to special offers and may secure deals like low deposits. You can expect complimentary perks and freebies when booking through them.

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