Princess Cruises Unveils Largest-Ever Japan 2028 Summer Season and Expansive Southeast Asia Program for 2027-2028

Rhea-AI Summary

Princess Cruises (NYSE: CCL) unveiled its largest-ever Asia deployment, combining 2027–28 Southeast Asia and 2028 Japan programs. The season includes 96 departures across 61 itineraries, visiting 55 destinations in nine countries, with two ships homeporting in Tokyo and festival-timed late-night stays.

Highlights: 85 Japan departures across 52 itineraries, 29-day Grand Circle Japan voyages, up to $800 instant savings plus upgrades and member bonuses; voyages on Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess are on sale now.

Positive

• 96 departures across 61 itineraries connecting Asia
• 85 Japan departures across 52 itineraries, largest Japan season
• Two ships (Diamond Princess, Sapphire Princess) homeporting in Tokyo
• Visits to 55 destinations in nine countries including 19 UNESCO sites
• Up to $800 instant savings plus FREE room upgrades and member bonuses

Negative

• None.

News Market Reaction – CCL

+3.39%

+3.39% Session close to close

In the Apr 14 session, CCL gained 3.39%, reflecting a moderate positive market reaction.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

Market Context

This announcement expands Princess Cruises’ footprint in Asia with 96 departures across Japan and So...

Analysis

This announcement expands Princess Cruises’ footprint in Asia with 96 departures across Japan and Southeast Asia, including long 29-day Grand Circle voyages and up to 28-day regional sailings. It builds on Carnival’s recent pattern of unveiling multi-year deployment plans and experience-focused offerings. Investors may track how these itineraries translate into booking trends, pricing and onboard spend, especially alongside the company’s previously disclosed earnings recovery, capital allocation plans and ongoing fleet investment.

Key Figures

Japan & Asia departures: 96 departures Japan season destinations: 41 destinations Japan departures: 85 departures +5 more

8 metrics

Japan & Asia departures 96 departures Total 2027–2028 Asia season across 61 itineraries

Japan season destinations 41 destinations 2028 Japan season across three countries

Japan departures 85 departures 2028 Japan season over 52 itineraries

Grand Circle Japan 29-day voyages Signature Grand Circle Japan itineraries

Southeast Asia departures 11 departures 2027–2028 Southeast Asia program across 9 itineraries

Southeast Asia voyage length Up to 28 days Longer-duration sailings connecting multiple regions

Instant savings offer Up to $800 Instant savings on 2027–28 voyages

Captain's Circle bonus Up to $200 Additional savings per stateroom for loyalty members

Historical Context

5 past events · Latest: Apr 02 (Positive)

Pattern 5 events

Date	Event	Sentiment	24h Move	Catalyst
Apr 02	Promotional sale	Positive	-3.5%	Holland America ran an Anniversary Sale with fare discounts and onboard credits.
Mar 27	Record earnings	Positive	-4.3%	Company reported record Q1 revenue, EBITDA and a new share buyback program.
Mar 27	Brand partnership	Positive	-4.3%	Holland America launched a Jefferson’s Bourbon at-sea aging initiative across its fleet.
Mar 25	Voyage program	Positive	+1.0%	Seabourn opened 2027–2029 ocean voyages, including a 120-day world cruise.
Mar 24	Itinerary launch	Positive	+0.1%	Princess announced 2027–28 South America season with Antarctica and UNESCO sites.

24h Move is the share-price change in the day after each event; other market factors may also have contributed.

Pattern Detected

Recent positive commercial and earnings announcements have often been met with muted or negative near-term price reactions, though some itinerary releases saw modest gains.

Recent Company History

Over the last several weeks, CCL brands have consistently launched new products and highlighted strong fundamentals. Events include a 153rd anniversary sale at Holland America, record Q1 2026 results with a large buyback, experiential partnerships like Jefferson’s Bourbon at sea, and multi-year Seabourn and Princess deployment announcements. Despite largely positive fundamentals and product expansion, several of these news items were followed by short-term share price declines, suggesting markets have been cautious on good news.

Key Terms

unesco world heritage sites, repositioning cruises, world cruise

3 terms

unesco world heritage sites regulatory

"Access to 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Mount Fuji..."

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are landmarks or areas—natural or man-made—recognized by an international body for their outstanding cultural, historical or environmental value. For investors, the designation acts like a high-profile badge that can boost tourism, local business activity and property appeal while also bringing stricter conservation rules and possible limits on development; think of it as both a popularity boost and a longer-term planning constraint.

repositioning cruises technical

"Roundtrip Singapore sailings and Japan–Singapore repositioning cruises"

Repositioning cruises are one-way sailings where a cruise ship moves between regions to follow seasonal demand, like a delivery truck relocating inventory ahead of a busy season. They tend to be longer, visit unusual ports, and often sell at lower fares to fill cabins. Investors watch them because they affect a line’s seasonal revenue, occupancy, fuel and port costs, and the timing of cash flow and profitability.

world cruise technical

"Six exclusive events headline Silversea's new 125-day World Cruise 2029"

A world cruise is a single, long-duration passenger voyage that circles multiple regions or the entire globe, stopping at many ports over weeks or months; think of it as a multi-stop tour packaged on one ship instead of separate trips. For investors, world cruises matter because they tie up a vessel and generate large, often premium, advance bookings and onboard spending but also concentrate revenue into a long itinerary and carry greater exposure to itinerary changes, geopolitical events, and seasonal demand shifts.

AI-generated analysis. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.

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New Sailings Feature Immersive Cultural Experiences, Festival Access, and Extended Voyages Across Asia

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., April 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises releases its most expansive Asia deployment ever, bringing together its 2027 and 2028 Southeast Asia and 2028 Japan program in a single, comprehensive reveal. In total, the season features 96 departures across 61 itineraries visiting 55 destinations in nine countries, with now two ships homeporting in Japan, offering guests deeper cultural immersion, access to iconic festivals, and unforgettable journeys across some of the world's most captivating destinations – on sale now.

"This is the most immersive Japan season we've ever introduced and one that reflects how our guests want to experience the destination today," said Jim Berra, Princess Cruises Chief Commercial Officer. "With Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess homeporting in Tokyo for the first time, late‑night stays timed to Japan's most celebrated summer festivals, and sailings that visit all four main islands during cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons, we're delivering unprecedented access to the culture, cuisine and traditions that define Japan. Paired with longer, destination‑rich Southeast Asia voyages that connect multiple countries in a single journey, this program offers a depth, scale and authenticity that simply doesn't exist elsewhere in the region."

What's New for 2027 and 2028

• Expanded late-night stays aligned with major summer festivals across Japan
• New festival inclusion: Osaka Bon Odori, with dedicated visits by both ships

Largest-Ever Japan Season with Two Ships Homeporting in Tokyo

The 2028 Japan season marks a major milestone for the cruise line, featuring 41 destinations in three countries. For the first time, both Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess will homeport in Tokyo for the full season, offering more convenient access closer to the city center.

Japan season highlights include:

• 85 departures across 52 itineraries, ranging from 7-29 days
• Two sister ships, the 2,706-guest Diamond Princess and 2,678 guest Sapphire Princess, both built in Japan
• Sailings visiting all four main islands of Japan, following peak cherry blossom blooms from south to north
• Six late-night stays in Aomori, Hakodate, Hiroshima, Kochi, Osaka (for Kyoto) and Tokushima
• Access to 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Mount Fuji (from Shimizu), Himeji-jo Castle (from Osaka), Hiroshima Peace Memorial and Sado Island Gold Mines (from Niigata), Shirakawago Historic Village (from Toyama)
• Signature 29-day Grand Circle Japan voyages, including fall foliage sailings visiting up to 24 ports

Festival-Focused Voyages and Authentic Cultural Immersion
Designed to immerse guests in Japan's rich traditions, sailings are timed to coincide with the country's most celebrated seasonal events, many featuring late-night stays for optimal access. Festival experiences include:

• Aomori Nebuta Festival
• Hakodate Minato Festival
• Kochi Yosakoi Dance Festival
• Tokushima Awa Odori Festival
• Osaka Bon Odori Festival
• Kumano Fireworks Festival

Cultural experiences include:

• Traditional tea ceremonies, Kabuki performances, Zen gardens and Shinto shrines

Iconic Destinations and Natural Beauty Across Japan
Itineraries highlight Japan's dynamic mix of historic landmarks, modern cities and breathtaking landscapes. Featured destinations and experiences:

• Cities including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto (via Osaka), Hiroshima and Sapporo
• Landmarks such as Himeji-jo Castle, Kochi Castle, Sannai-Maruyama ruins and Mt. Fuji (from Shimizu)
• Scenic regions including Aomori, the Oga Peninsula and Lake Towada
• Seasonal sailings aligned with cherry blossom and fall foliage periods, mountain landscapes and coastal vistas

Culinary Journeys Showcasing Regional Flavors
Guests can savor Japan's world-renowned cuisine both onboard and ashore, with a focus on regional specialties and authentic dining experiences. Food highlights include:

• Fresh seafood markets in Shimizu and local specialties like Aomori apples
• Iconic dishes such as sushi, ramen, tempura and wagyu
• Cultural dining experiences in izakayas, tea houses and sake breweries
• Onboard both ships, Chef Makoto Okuwa's Edomae-style sushi at the cruise line's acclaimed Makoto Ocean specialty restaurant

Curated Southeast Asia Voyages Connecting Multiple Regions Complementing the Japan season, Princess Cruises' Southeast Asia program offers a curated collection of longer, destination-rich itineraries operated by Diamond Princess, connecting Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia. Southeast Asia program highlights include:

• 11 departures across 9 itineraries
• Voyages designed as longer-duration sailings up to 28 days connecting multiple regions
• Roundtrip Singapore sailings and Japan–Singapore repositioning cruises
• Visits to 29 destinations across nine countries
• Overnight stay in Laem Chabang (for Bangkok) and late-night calls in Hong Kong and Osaka
• Access to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Singapore Botanic Gardens and Iriomote Island (from Ishigaki)

Rich Cultural, Historical and Local Experiences
Southeast Asia itineraries offer immersive access to the region's most iconic landmarks and traditions. Experiences include:

• Cultural sites such as the Giant Buddha (Lantau Island), Batu Caves, Sri Mariamman Temple and the Emerald Buddha
• Historic landmarks including Cu Chi Tunnels, Ayutthaya and Nagasaki Peace Park
• Local experiences like Mekong Delta sampan rides and Bangkok tuk-tuk tours

Tropical Landscapes, Beaches and Natural Wonders
Guests will discover some of the region's most stunning natural environments, from UNESCO sites to idyllic beaches. Natural highlights include:

• Visits to James Bond Island in Phuket
• Beaches such as Chaweng Beach in Ko Samui
• Rainforests, botanical gardens and vibrant marine life

Vibrant Culinary and Market Experiences
The region's dynamic food scene offers endless opportunities for discovery. Culinary highlights include:

• Cooking classes in Thailand and Vietnam
• Regional dishes such as Pad Thai, Banh Mi and Nasi Lemak
• Street food experiences in Hanoi, Hong Kong and Bangkok
• Visits to iconic markets including Temple Street Night Market and Bangkok floating markets

Seasonal Sailings and Holiday Voyages
The program also includes special seasonal departures designed for holiday travel.

• 14-day Southeast Asia holiday voyage visiting destinations including Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City
• A warm-weather festive escape combining cultural exploration with seasonal celebrations

Distinctive Onboard Experiences
Guests sailing aboard Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess will enjoy unique features inspired by the region, including the Izumi Japanese Bath (Diamond Princess only), the largest of its kind at sea, as well as specialty dining venues such as Makoto Ocean, offering an authentic extension of the destination experience onboard. Enrichment programming such as lectures and entertainment traditional to the destinations complement the local culture ashore.

Book a Cruise Now
2027–28 voyages are now on sale with up to $800 in instant savings, a FREE room upgrade, and up to $200 bonus savings per stateroom for Captain's Circle members.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting princess.com. 

About Princess Cruises:   
Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world's most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. Star Princess, the brand's newest and most innovative ship, launched October 2025, and sister ship to Sun Princess, named Condé Nast Traveler Mega Ship of the Year for a second consecutive year. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).  

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/princess-cruises-unveils-largest-ever-japan-2028-summer-season-and-expansive-southeast-asia-program-for-20272028-302741998.html

SOURCE Princess Cruises

FAQ

What does Princess Cruises' 2028 Japan season (CCL) include in departures and itineraries?

The 2028 Japan season includes 85 departures across 52 itineraries. According to Princess Cruises, sailings range from 7–29 days and visit all four main Japanese islands with festival-timed late-night stays.

Which Princess Cruises ships (CCL) will homeport in Tokyo for 2028 and why is that notable?

Both Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess will homeport in Tokyo for the full 2028 season. According to Princess Cruises, this is the first time two ships homeport in Tokyo, improving city-center access and longer festival stays.

How many destinations and countries do Princess Cruises' 2027–28 Asia sailings cover (CCL)?

The combined program visits 55 destinations across nine countries. According to Princess Cruises, itineraries include Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia with access to 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and regional cultural experiences.

What savings and offers are available for Princess Cruises 2027–28 bookings (CCL)?

Bookings offer up to $800 instant savings, a free room upgrade, and up to $200 bonus savings per stateroom for Captain's Circle members. According to Princess Cruises, these offers apply to the 2027–28 voyages now on sale.

What festival and cultural experiences are highlighted on Princess Cruises' 2028 Japan voyages (CCL)?

Voyages feature festival access like Aomori Nebuta, Tokushima Awa Odori, and Osaka Bon Odori with timed late-night stays. According to Princess Cruises, curated shore programs include tea ceremonies, Kabuki, and regional culinary experiences.