Princess Cruises announced a delay in the delivery of their new ship, Star Princess, from ship builder Fincantieri. The decision comes after a comprehensive review of the remaining construction milestones. The original delivery date was set for July 29, 2025, but will now be September 26, 2025. This shift impacts the nine inaugural sailings that were previously scheduled.
New inaugural cruises will be offered on Star Princess, including an 11-day Mediterranean voyage departing Barcelona on October 4, 2025, followed by a 7-day Mediterranean voyage on October 15, 2025. The ship will then make a 14-day transatlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale on October 22, 2025 to kick off its Caribbean season. Bookings for these new cruises will open on April 30, 2024.
Passengers impacted by the original schedule will have three options: rebook any Princess cruise globally, including the Star Princess, its sister ship Sun Princess, or any other ship in the fleet. Those who choose to rebook will be offered future cruise credits and onboard credits depending on the selected voyage. Passengers can also opt for a full refund of their cruise fare. Princess Cruises will ensure travel agent commissions are protected for all fully paid bookings.
The Star Princess is the second ship in Princess Cruises’ new Sphere Class. Its sister ship, Sun Princess, launched in February and has been praised for its modern take on the classic Love Boat design. The Star Princess will feature similar elements alongside new architectural marvels like The Dome, the industry’s first geodesic top deck feature, and The Sphere, a suspended glass piazza at the ship’s center.