Your guide to Princess Cruises destinations

Princess Cruises – classic journeys with a global touch

Very Good

Destination Coverage

Itinerary Variety

Scenic & Iconic Ports

Shore Experiences

Ease of Exploration

Convenient Departures

There’s something magical about watching the world unfold from the deck of a cruise ship, and Princess Cruises understands this better than most.

With over five decades of experience navigating the globe’s most enchanting waters, Princess has perfected the art of destination cruising. Each voyage feels less like a simple holiday and more like a carefully orchestrated journey of discovery.

From the dramatic fjords of Norway to the sun-drenched islands of the Caribbean, Princess Cruises opens doors to more than 330 destinations across all seven continents. This isn’t just about getting from point A to point B – it’s about experiencing places in a way that feels both effortless and enriching. Whether guests are first-time cruisers or seasoned travellers, Princess creates an atmosphere where exploration feels natural and rewarding.

Destination coverage

Princess Cruises boasts one of the most comprehensive destination portfolios in the cruise industry. The line’s global reach is genuinely impressive, spanning from the icy wilderness of Antarctica to the tropical paradise of Tahiti. Alaska remains one of Princess’s crown jewels, with itineraries that venture deep into Glacier Bay National Park, where guests can witness calving glaciers and spot humpback whales in their natural habitat.

European itineraries are equally compelling, with Mediterranean routes that weave through historic ports like Barcelona, Rome, and Santorini. For British travellers, the convenience of round-trip sailings from Southampton cannot be overstated – guests can board directly without the hassle of international flights, making European exploration remarkably accessible.

The line’s Asian itineraries reveal hidden gems across Japan, Southeast Asia, and Australia, whilst their transatlantic crossings offer a romantic nod to the golden age of ocean travel. Even more adventurous souls can embark on world cruises that span 111 days, visiting dozens of countries in a single, extraordinary voyage.

Itinerary variety

Princess excels at crafting itineraries that strike the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Short seven-day escapes to the Caribbean provide just enough time to unwind, whilst longer 14-day European journeys allow for deeper cultural immersion. The pacing feels thoughtful – port-intensive itineraries include strategic sea days for rest and reflection, whilst longer voyages incorporate overnight stays in key cities.

The Norwegian fjord cruises showcase Princess at its most dramatic, with ships threading through narrow waterways flanked by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Panama Canal transits offer a fascinating blend of engineering marvel and tropical beauty, whilst South Pacific itineraries reveal some of the planet’s most pristine islands.

For those seeking truly unique experiences, Princess offers repositioning cruises that follow seasonal migration patterns, such as autumn journeys from Alaska to California or spring sailings from the Caribbean to Northern Europe. These routes often include unexpected ports and represent exceptional value for adventurous travellers.

Shore experiences

Princess’s shore excursion programme reflects the line’s commitment to meaningful travel experiences. The Discovery and Animal Planet exclusive tours stand out as particularly special, offering small-group adventures that delve deeper into local ecosystems and cultures. In Alaska, guests might join marine biologists to study whale behaviour, whilst in Italy, they could participate in truffle hunting expeditions through Tuscan countryside.

Cultural immersion experiences feel authentic rather than touristic. Cooking classes with local families in Greece, sake tasting sessions in Japanese breweries, and flamenco workshops in Spain all provide genuine connections with destinations. The line’s partnerships with local operators ensure that excursions benefit communities whilst delivering memorable experiences for guests.

Adventure seekers aren’t forgotten either. Helicopter tours over glaciers, snorkelling expeditions in coral reefs, and hiking adventures through national parks all feature regularly. The variety ensures that whether guests prefer gentle sightseeing or adrenaline-pumping activities, there’s something perfectly suited to their interests.

Private and small-group options cater to those seeking more personalised experiences, whilst wheelchair-accessible tours ensure that mobility concerns don’t limit exploration opportunities.

Ease of exploration

Princess makes destination exploration remarkably stress-free. The MedallionClass app streamlines the entire process, from booking excursions to receiving port information and weather updates. Guests can easily modify their plans even whilst onboard, providing flexibility that’s particularly valuable for first-time cruisers who might feel overwhelmed by choices.

Tendering operations in ports without deep-water docks run smoothly, with crew members providing clear instructions and assistance. Local guides consistently receive high marks for their knowledge and enthusiasm, striking the right balance between informative commentary and engaging storytelling.

Onboard enrichment programmes add significant value to the destination experience. Guest lecturers, many of whom are published authors or recognised experts, provide historical and cultural context for upcoming ports. These presentations transform sightseeing into genuine learning opportunities, helping guests appreciate the significance of what they’re seeing.

The line’s partnerships with local transportation providers ensure reliable transfers, whilst clear communication about departure times and meeting points reduces anxiety for less experienced travellers. Shore excursion staff are readily available to answer questions and provide recommendations, creating a supportive environment for exploration.

Port presentations provide practical information about local customs, currency, and shopping recommendations, whilst the guest services team can arrange special dietary requirements or mobility assistance for shore excursions when needed.