Sea Princess

Australia’s a growing cruise market, with travelers from all over the world wanting to see the sights of Sydney, experience the Outback, and observe wildlife found nowhere else. Princess has a stronghold on this region, with the Sea Princess offering trips year round. This mid-sized ship providing accommodations for just under 2,000 passengers may spend just a few days going around the continent’s major ports. Or as the South Pacific proves to have stunning sights, landscapes, and wildlife, cruises continue from the continent to French Polynesia. To give the ship the cruise line’s latest features, the Sea Princess went through a series of upgrades in 2012. This included making overall improvements to the design, which were recorded on film by a National Geographic crew, and adding the tranquil, adults-only Sanctuary.

Ship Basics

Since its debut in 1998, the Sea Princess has gone through an interesting journey. The ship was known as “Sea Princess,” until 2003, when Princess rebranded it as Adonia for an adults-only fleet. Two years later, Princess went back to the ship’s original name and eventually upgraded the vessel. The Sea Princess now offers 1,008 rooms for travelers, with the following available: • 6 suites with private balconies • 32 mini-suites with private balconies • 372 balcony cabins • 193 ocean view cabins • 405 inside cabins 19 rooms provide wheelchair access. As well, Princess’ approach of dining choices covers everything from the traditional cruise experience to 24-hour room service and meals on your own time: Traditional: Set meal times, tablemates, and wait staff define the typical cruise dining experience and, here, are found in the Traviata Dining Room. Specialty: Looking for a bit of variety? Indulge in new, delicious tastes at Princess’ specialty restaurants. Find many mouth-watering dishes at Sterling Steakhouse, or try Ultimate Balcony Dining. Casual: Whether you want your meals in a less formal atmosphere, want to dine by the poolside, or are looking for a late-night snack, all options and more fall under Princess’ casual dining. Get the right taste at the Horizon Court Buffet, the Wine Bar, the patisserie, the ice cream bar, Café Corniche, or the Riviera Grill, or order afternoon tea or room service at any time of the day.

Activities

When it comes to finding something to do, travelers don’t know where to begin. Many opt for the pools. Three pools and eight whirlpool spas create a relaxing, fun-in-the-sun experience for all ages. Adults, if you’re looking to get away from the kids, can find a similarly calming feel at the Sanctuary. If you’re outdoors, why not start up a game in the Sports Court? If it’s staying active and in shape you’re after, the Lotus Spa, gym, and fitness center might be more along the lines of what you’re seeking. For a change of pace, head over to the library and writing room, or exercise your brain with a Scholarship@Sea course. Adults looking for something leisurely might also want to find a deal at the duty-free boutique, where merchandise from designer brands may be 30-percent off. Kids aren’t left out on the Sea Princess, and the ship’s latest design includes a Youth Center and Arcade, with activities for children between 3 and 17 years of age. At night, it’s all about finding your passion. Many opt for a show at the Princess Theater or Vista Lounge, or for more casual entertainment, there’s Movies Under The Stars®, known for showing first-run films, concerts, and sports games in a relaxing outdoor setting. For a bit more adults-only excitement, try your lucky hand at the casino, or lounge while sipping your favorite cocktail in the ship’s many bars and lounges. As you go to enjoy Australia, do it with the comforts of Princess. To find an itinerary onboard the Sea Princess, browse and then make reservations through Direct Line Cruises.