When Princess Cruises launched this 3,560-guest ship in 2013, fans of the line's traditional style of cruising held their breath. They need not have worried. The updated ship adds just a touch of contemporary, but is still classically Princess and offers plenty of popular Balcony Staterooms. Royal Princess was followed by a succession of five Royal Class siblings, from 2014’s Regal Princess to 2022’s Discovery Princess, and was refurbished in 2018.
The Piazza: By adding a bit of dazzle — including grand staircases, theatrical balconies, live entertainment, and new places to grab a drink — Princess turned the ship's atrium into the can't-miss hangout spot.
Alfredo's: The best pizza at sea is at this pizzeria in the Piazza. You can even watch the chefs hand-toss the wonderfully thin-crusted pies and apply your choice of toppings, including prosciutto and buffalo mozzarella.
The Views: The ship has a walkway with see-through floors on the upper deck — you can look down at the sea some 128 feet below. And, at the SeaView Bar, there's the fun distraction of bottle-tossing bartending demonstrations.
Romance: This "Love Boat" offers plenty of opportunity for together time. You can book couples massages in special villas in the Lotus Spa or in the cushy adults-only sunning area, the Sanctuary. Or, order up a steak and lobster dinner served on your private stateroom balcony.
Couples and Singles: The ship has plenty of spaces indoors and out to hang out and relax. There's also a nightlife scene that will appeal to all ages — as long as you don't expect anything too frenetic.
Families: Youth facilities attractions include video games and outdoor play areas (teens even get their own wading pool). On-deck Movies Under the Stars is another family favorite.
Expect Lots of Upcharges: There are many attractive additions on Royal Princess, but they carry extra fees — for everything from specialty dining at Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and Crown Grill steakhouse to oyster shooters at Ocean Terrace seafood bar in the Piazza. Budget accordingly.
There's Not Much Whiz-Bang: You won't find such activities as rock-climbing walls or water slides on this ship.