Golden Princess
Editor's note: This ship is no longer sailing as part of the Princess fleet.
Built in 2001, the 2,636-guest Golden Princess is the second of Princess Cruisesʼ Grand Princess-class family of nine. Many of its innovative features, including multiple pool areas and a large percentage of staterooms with balconies, are popular Princess hallmarks to this day. The ship is also well-liked for its varied entertainment options and consistently good cuisine.
What We Love
Easy to Get Around: Golden Princess is, despite its megaship size, devoid of the congestion that plagues other large cruise ships.
Gorgeous Observation Terraces: There are spectacular vantages, including an open terrace above the bridge wings and a platform overlooking the pool area, which make scenic cruising and port arrivals all the more rewarding.
Plenty of Space in the Water: There are four large pools aboard Golden Princess, including a spa-adjacent, swim-against-the-current adult pool, an open-air family pool, and one that can be sheltered from weather, terraced within the stern.
Best Known For
Skywalkers: By day, this unique space atop the stern of the ship is a quiet observation lounge with stunning views from a 17-story lookout, and by night, a hopping nightclub with a futuristic vibe.
Sabatiniʼs: This Italian eatery, now a favorite, made its debut with the Grand Princess-class ships.
Who It's Good For
Big-Ship Cruisers Who Appreciate Quality and Value: Golden Princess is great for those who like big ships and all the varied entertainment and dining options that come with them.
Don't Say We Didn't Warn You
This Is Not a New Ship: Some parts of the ship are beginning to look dated and worn.
She's No Longer Local: Golden Princess departed American waters to begin regular cruise service in Australia in October 2015.