Star Princess Shines Through Successful Sea Trials

Rhea-AI Summary

Princess Cruises (NYSE:CCL) announces the successful completion of sea trials for its second Sphere-Class ship, Star Princess. The 177,800-ton vessel, accommodating 4,300 guests, is set to debut on October 4, 2025, sailing from Barcelona.

The ship, powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), features advanced propulsion systems including two Azipod units and four bow thrusters. Under Captain Gennaro Arma's leadership, the vessel will offer 30 distinct dining and bar venues, enhanced entertainment spaces, and over 1,500 balcony staterooms. Key attractions include The Dome, The Arena theater, The Piazza, and Spellbound by Magic Castle®.

Star Princess will operate routes across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Alaska, with bookings currently open.

Positive

• Second LNG-powered ship in fleet demonstrates environmental commitment
• Advanced propulsion system with Azipod units enhances maneuverability and efficiency
• Significant capacity with 4,300-guest accommodation and 1,500 balcony staterooms
• Diverse revenue streams through 30 distinct dining and bar venues

Negative

• None.

Second Princess Sphere-Class Vessel Readies for October 4 Debut

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises' highly anticipated second Sphere-Class ship, the stunning Star Princess, which is currently being built by Fincantieri, has reached a major milestone with the successful completion of its sea trials. The ship is on track to welcome its first guests on October 4, 2025, sailing the scenic Mediterranean from Barcelona.

During these final sea trials from August 9–12, Star Princess departed the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, for the Adriatic Sea, where the vessel completed a comprehensive series of tests, including steering, navigation systems, and propulsion. As the second ship in the Princess fleet powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), Star Princess represents a significant step forward in reducing emissions.

To optimize both power efficiency and maneuverability, the vessel is fitted with two Azipod propulsion units, providing 360 degree thrust for both forward and reverse movement, along with four large controllable pitch bow thrusters, enabling precise lateral maneuvering.

Star Princess Captain Gennaro Arma, a 27-year veteran with Princess Cruises and leader of the Sphere-Class newbuild site team, oversaw the sea trials. He now heads a team of 1,600 dedicated crew members as the ship enters its final phase of outfitting.

"We confidently led Star Princess through sea trials," said Captain Arma. "As the proud leader of our newest vessel, I'm extremely impressed with the ship's navigation capabilities and maneuverability. With the final countdown underway, my incredible teammates and I can't wait to welcome guests aboard for unforgettable adventures this fall."

Currently under final construction at Fincantieri, the 177,800-ton, 4,300-guest Star Princess - sister to the award-winning Sun Princess - will feature 30 distinct dining and bar venues, elevated entertainment and activity offerings, and luxurious accommodations, including Sanctuary Collection suites, mini-suites and balcony rooms, each offering a private getaway with exclusive amenities, spaces and rooms.

With over 1,500 balcony staterooms, guests will enjoy panoramic views from the privacy of their own rooms. Standout venues include The Dome, a next-generation relaxation and entertainment space; The Arena, Princess' most technologically advanced theater yet; The Piazza, the architectural centerpiece of the ship with its dramatic curves, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sweeping ocean vistas; and Spellbound by Magic Castle®, the captivating speakeasy experience born from a collaboration with the famed Hollywood icon, The Magic Castle™.

Star Princess will debut with a rich inaugural season featuring sailings to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Alaska. Voyages are available for booking now at https://www.princess.com/ships-and-experience/ships/st-star-princess.

For more information, contact a professional travel advisor, call 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or visit www.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. Sun Princess, the brand's new, next-level Love Boat named Condé Nast Traveler's Mega Ship of the Year, introduces the groundbreaking Sphere Class platform and will be joined by sister ship, Star Princess, in Fall 2025. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK). 

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SOURCE Princess Cruises

FAQ

When will the Star Princess cruise ship start its first voyage?

The Star Princess will welcome its first guests on October 4, 2025, beginning with Mediterranean sailings from Barcelona.

How many passengers can the CCL Star Princess accommodate?

The Star Princess can accommodate 4,300 guests and features over 1,500 balcony staterooms.

What are the key features of the Star Princess cruise ship?

Key features include 30 dining and bar venues, The Dome relaxation space, The Arena theater, The Piazza with ocean views, and Spellbound by Magic Castle® speakeasy experience.

What destinations will the Star Princess cruise to?

The Star Princess will sail to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Alaska during its inaugural season.

How is the Star Princess different from other cruise ships?

The Star Princess is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and features advanced propulsion with two Azipod units and four bow thrusters for enhanced maneuverability.