Sapphire Princess

Balcony on the Sapphire PrincessSee the stunning sights of East and Southeast Asia with Princess! As of 2014, the Sapphire Princess spends all seasons going between ports in this growing cruise market, with Shanghai reserved for the warmer months and Singapore for November through February. A Gem Class ship, the Sapphire Princess is the sister to the Diamond Princess, with both sharing the same group of features and layout. While the ship debuted in 2004, as the first cruise ship christened in Seattle, it went through improvements in 2012. Princess, at the time, upgraded the vessel to feature its latest attractions, including the Piazza space in the Atrium, the adults-only Sanctuary, and Movies Under the Stars® for the top deck. The Basic Features After being built in Japan and setting sail in 2004, the Sapphire Princess had been reserved for cruises to Alaska, Hawaii, California, and the Mexican Riviera. The ship – one of Princess’ largest at the time – is able to accommodate up to 2,670 people with 1,337 total cabins, which are divided as follows: • 28 suites with private balconies • 2 family suites • 186 mini-suites with private balconies • 522 balcony cabins • 216 ocean view cabins • 366 inside cabins 27 rooms out of this group provide wheelchair accessibility. Dining on board the Sapphire Princess is relatively standard, with Princess offering its choice of the following: Traditional: If you long for the more formal cruise experience, this choice in the International Dining Room includes fixed meal times, tablemates, and wait staff. Anytime: With so many things to do, why drop everything to go have a meal? Have it on your own schedule in the Pacific Moon or Santa Fe Dining Room. Specialty: When cruisers want some variety, the specialty dining options are always a hit – and as such, making reservations in advance is practically required. Get some fresh Italian cuisine at Sabatini’s, stop by the Sterling Steakhouse, or try out Ultimate Balcony Dining. Casual: For takeout, meals at any time of the day, or sitting by the poolside with a snack, casual dining explores all possibilities. Get a range of tastes from two pizzerias, the Horizon Court Buffet, the International Café, an ice cream bar, the Trident Grill, and the patisserie. Afternoon tea and 24-hour room service are also available.

Things to Do

Spa on Princess CruisesThe Sapphire Princess is so chock full of activities that passengers seem hesitant in leaving the ship. But true to the Princess experience, there’s something for all ages on board – and all preferences. During the day, as the sun passes over the ship, enjoy it from one of the three pools and eight whirlpool spas. Adults can get a bit more peace and quiet in the Sanctuary. Not far away are a range of outdoor activities. Stay fit in the Lotus spa, gym, and fitness center, or start up a game in the Center Court. Kids, as well, can stay occupied during the day. Just drop them off at the Fun Zone, Teen Center, or Splash Pool for age-appropriate activities ranging from arts and crafts to karaoke. But not everyone has that competitive attitude all the time, so if you need some down time or are looking for something low-key, you’ll find it in the library, writing room, art gallery, or duty-free shopping boutique. Nights see the Sapphire Princess transform into an entertainment complex. The traditional cruise activities are all there – such as performances in the Princess Theater or finding adventure in casinos, clubs, and lounges – but what has made Princess stand out for many years is Movies Under The Stars®. This quintessential feature places a large screen on deck for guests to watch first-run movies, concerts, and sports games from – you guessed it – by the poolside or anywhere outdoors on the ship. See the sights and cultures of Asia all from the excitement of the Sapphire Princess. Find an itinerary today and book your trip through Direct Line Cruises.