Known for a time as the Pacific Pearl, the Star Princess made its debut in 2002 as a Grand Class ship. Until spring 2014, it traveled multiple itineraries from Los Angeles, venturing into the Pacific to Hawaii, Samoa, and French Polynesia or northward to Alaska.
The past few years have seen changes. Refurbishment in 2011 added Princess’ now-standard amenities, such as the adults-only Sanctuary, the Piazza-like Atrium, and Movies Under The Stars®. As well, since spring 2014, the Star Princess calls San Francisco home, and this port of call serves to start trips to Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, and Alaska, with the latter replacing the Grand Princess’ route.
The Basics
The Star Princess was built to hold 2,600 passengers, with rooms, accommodations, dining, and activities spread out over a 17-deck design.
In terms of living accommodations, the ship features the following options:
• 23 Suites with private balconies
• 2 Family suites with interconnecting cabins
• 180 Mini-suites with private balconies
• 518 Balcony cabins
• 212 Ocean view cabins
• 362 Inside cabins
25 rooms provide wheelchair accessibility.
Dining, as well, follows Princess’ typical choice pattern. Cruisers looking for the fixed-time, formal experience can get it, while those wanting something more versatile and casual will equally be fulfilled. On board the Star Princess, options are as follows:
Traditional: With scheduled meal times and a group you eat with each night, this option is held in the Amalfi Dining Room.
Anytime: When you want quality on your schedule, opt to have your meals in either the Portofino or Capri Dining Room.
Specialty: Princess’ specialty options are so sought after, it’s practically necessary to make reservations! Get a delicious Italian meal at Sabatini’s, sink your teeth into as steak at the Crown Grill, or try Ultimate Balcony Dining.
Casual: By the poolside? Late at night? Less formal? Casual dining checks off all these boxes with the 24-hour International Café, Horizon Court, Vines Wine Bar, Scoops ice cream, Prego Pizza, the Trident Grill, afternoon tea, and 24-hour room service.
What to Do Onboard
There’s never a shortage of enjoyment onboard the Star Princess, regardless of time of day, a passenger’s personal preference, or age.
Because of the warm climate surrounding most of the Star Princess’ itineraries, many head toward the pools – a perfect all-ages activity or offering the right amount of tranquility. This ship’s designed with four pools – one more than usual – and nine whirlpools.
Afterwards, keep your activity level going with the many options onboard the ship. The Center Court’s perfect for starting a game with your fellow passengers, or if you’re looking to meet your fitness goals, reach your limit in the Lotus Spa and Gym.
But sometimes on board, you’re looking for some down time or something low key. Depending upon what you’re seeking, you’ll acquire extra knowledge in a Scholarship@Sea class, research on your own terms in the library, or get that deal you’ve always wanted in the duty-free boutique.
Princess considers the whole family with its trips, and if you’re bringing children 17 years of age and younger, age-appropriate activities are easily found. Three age groups will spend hours learning new things and enjoying themselves in the Teen Center, Youth Center, or Splash Pool.
By night, it’s all about picking your passion – watching a show, dancing in a club, or lounging with the perfect drink in a bar. From the quality acoustics and performances in the Princess Theater to a range of nightclubs and lounges to Movies Under The Stars®, every level of nighttime adventure will find satisfaction.
Are you thinking about a trip up to Hawaii or Alaska? Get the accommodations you want as you discover new lands onboard the Star Princess. Find an itinerary, and schedule your trip today with Direct Line Cruises.
