Completing its first comprehensive phase of construction, Princess Cruises’ biggest ever and first LNG-powered ship launches in February 2024.

The first of two Sphere class ships on the books, Sun Princess will offer an array of never-seen-before dining, entertainment and activity offerings, along with new category staterooms and enhanced offerings for suite passengers.

“This is something new, something different – we are building the future of cruising,” said Captain Gennaro Arma, who is responsible for Sun Princess shipbuilding operations, readiness and delivery.

“We started back in March 2017 with a blank piece of paper – Sun Princess is a concept, our first ship designed from the ground up to service guests as efficiently as possible,” said Richard Parker, director of new build and product development, Princess Cruises.

“The ship has been softened with lots of curves and circular edges, and has been designed looking outwards to celebrate and embrace the views and let natural light in.”

Sun Princess basking in the er, sun at Fincantieri. Image: Princess Cruises

Sun Princess fast facts

Inaugural cruise: February 8th, 2024

Decks: 21

Staterooms: 2,157 (1,500 balconies – the most on any Princess ship – no obstructed views and no more shower curtains)

Suites: 50

Connecting rooms: More than 100

Bars and restaurants: More than 29

Retail space: two decks

Accessibility: All stateroom categories are accessible

Sustainability: LNG-powered and can also use diesel engines. Speed optimisation to use less fuel and the utilisation and reintroduction of energy throughout

Princess Cruises’ Richard Parker and Harry Allnap from designers Richmond International show guests round. Image: Rebecca Barnes

Sun Princess key features

A number of evolutionary enhancements will flood spaces with natural light, increase passenger flow and bring personality to every deck.

The Dome
Inspired by the terraces of Santorini, this multi-level covered deck with first-of-its-kind glass dome, features an indoor-outdoor pool which can convert into a stage by night and transform into an entertainment space, with furniture converting to day beds.

The Sphere
Designed by Eckersley O’Callaghan (EOC), London, the Sphere is arranged over nine decks, and houses the three-storey Piazza and six upper decks of staterooms.

The Piazza
Designed by Jeffrey Beers International, this three-storey glass space in the centre of the ship showcases the ocean and provides opportunities to connect with the sea, with the six upper decks of the Sphere holding accommodation. Features include wood oak and champagne metal detailing and an LED screen that can be moved and configured to deliver live entertainment.

Cove balcony staterooms
These are situated close to the waterline on deck 6 below the Piazza.

Signature Collection suites
In addition to premium stateroom amenities, these allow access to a private lounge, restaurant and sun deck, a private area of The Sanctuary.

Reserve Collection staterooms
The best located mini suite staterooms. Within this will be the Reserve Collection Cabana rooms, resort-style staterooms which offer a balcony and private cabana, as well as access to a private outdoor deck with sunken jacuzzi, and Reserve Collection restaurant. The ship is focusing on multi-gen guests and these are a great option for groups.

The nine-deck Sphere from the outside and right, a closer look from on deck. Images: Rebecca Barnes

Princess Arena
With a capacity of 1050, the ships’ theatre features an LCD panel and can be used in a variety of ways and can reconfigure itself into a traditional performing space or a theatre in the round.

Wake View Terrace
Situated at the aft and designed by Tilberg Design, this South-Beach style resort deck features an infinity glass pool and is available to all passengers.

The Landing
This embarkation/disembarkation point has gangways within it that move with the tide, so the guest will alway enter on deck 4. Includes a bar area and grab and go food.

Horizons Dining Room
Designed by Tilberg Design and featuring wake views, the ships’ main dining room is an evolutionary space set over three storeys.

Crew facilities
Said to be a ‘fresh reset’, the crew have given feedback and as a result the two-deck crew deck features pools, jacuzzis and relaxation areas. Crew cabins also have more storage than usual.

A rendering of the Cabana Deck. Image: Rebecca Barnes

Sun Princess will sail an inaugural spring/summer season of Mediterranean cruises from February 2024 followed by Western and Eastern Caribbean voyages in autumn 2024. The ship’s first three voyages will go on sale on Friday, September 16th, 2023.