Sun Princess Makes First Visit to Southampton
Meet New Sun Princess as she Debuts in Southampton
Sun Princess Exterior. Image: Princess Cruises
The new ‘Love Boat’ arrived in Southampton this weekend and hosted Media Guests to spread the sunshine
[Invited]
Princess Cruises New Generation Ship, Sun Princess, made her inaugural sailing into Southampton this weekend after sailing the Med since her maiden voyage back in February.
Sun Princess docks in early hours for first Southampton visit. Image Credit: Andrew Sassoli-Walker
She arrived under the cover of darkness in the early hours of Saturday 21st September 2024, at the start of a weekend of celebratory events, prior to her first transatlantic crossing, including the traditional Plaque and Key ceremony. We were fortunate to be invited aboard on Sunday for a special VIP media event, to discover why she shines so bright, even in the pouring rain.
Sun Princess - Here Comes the Sun!
Not only is Sun Princess the largest Princess Cruises ship EVER, she is the first of two new Sphere Class ships to be built for the brand (sister ship Star Princess joins the fleet in 2025). She is also the first ship in the fleet to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), making her the most environmentally friendly. Sun Princess boasts a host of exciting and innovative features, so you just know that this new ship is going to put others in the shade.
Sun Princess Facts & Figures
Sun Princess is the third in a line of namesakes - the first Sun Princess sailed from 1974 until 1988. The second ship sailed from 1995 until 2020 and had several claims to fame including being setting for TV show “Love Boat - The Next Wave”, and being the first of the Princess fleet to have a 24 hour cafe.
The new ship is still being tweaked and refined prior to her US Season, with some restaurants relocating and a few venues renamed, but we did get to see many of her fabulous venues and discover what she has to offer.
Groundbreaking Entertainment Spaces
The Piazza on Sun Princess. Image Credit: James Morgan, Getty Images, Princess Cruises
We were able to explore some of the show-stopping entertainment spaces on board Sun Princess, starting with The Piazza - a three-deck high contemporary “atrium” style entertainment space (capacity 300), which on our visit hosted a very talented and charismatic swing band, the Super Tenants.
Another versatile and technically-advanced space is the 900 capacity Princess Arena, where we sampled one of Sun Princess’s signature shows, high-energy, Latin-inspired Viva La Musica. We were also treated to a surprise performance by rock guitarist, singer and UK Eurovision representative, Sam Ryder.
The Dome on Sun Princess. Image: Andrew Sassoli-Walker - by day.
The glass-enclosed Dome, a stunning, yet more intimate, 250 capacity venue is a wonderful multi-faceted space which by day is a gorgeous pool and relaxation area, and by night transforms into a fabulous entertainment venue. It was here we enjoyed a set by DJ and newly crowned winner of “Celebrity Race Around the World”, Scott Mills.
As well as spectacular production performances, there is also a very special show, Spellbound by Magic Castle, combining the mystical world of close up magic with the art of mixology. The unique venue features incredible magicians, and surprises in themed rooms and theatrical cocktails. Whilst I didn’t get to experience it this time, it’s definitely on my agenda for when I’m next onboard.
Largest Casino in Princess Fleet - Sun Princess. Image: James Morgan, Getty Images for Princess Cruises
For those who like a flutter, Sun Princess also boasts the largest casino in the fleet, situated on Deck 8, with an astounding 50% more space and 30% more machines than the line’s Royal Class ships.
Finding Sanctuary in the Sun
Our event was hosted on the all new top-deck Sanctuary Retreat area which is reserved exclusively for adults (ages 16+) booking Sanctuary Collection accommodation. The New Sanctuary Collection on Sun Princess debuts on 14 October 2024, a “ship within a ship” concept which Includes 80 Signature Collection Suites, 123 Mini-Suites or 12 Premium Deluxe Balconies. All enjoy exclusive access to a host of additional elevated amenities to enhance your voyage, including exclusive private dining, a duplex Sanctuary Lounge, relaxation areas, and a luxurious stateroom experience, as well as the Princess Premier bundle to top off this all-inclusive luxury experience.
Sanctuary Staterooms
We were given access to Sanctuary Premium Deluxe Balcony cabins, Mini-Suites and the very luxurious Owners Suite all of which were beautifully appointed with contemporary decor, and little luxury touches. I will be writing a separate article to give you the full insight
Sun-Kissed Cuisine - A Foodies Paradise
Sun Princess has around 30 inviting restaurant and bar venues with a host of celebrity collaborators, and all using high-end ingredients. Highlights include Love by Britto, an artistic-inspired dining experience celebrating love, in partnership with Romero Britto (I’m OBSESSED with the crockery in this restaurant - I wonder if you can buy it onboard?); The Butcher’s Block by Dario, in partnership with the world’s most famous butcher, Dario Cecchini; Makoto Ocean, in partnership with Master of Edomae-style sushi Makoto Okuwa; and Umai Teppanyaki.
Princess favourites can also be found on Sun Princess including Alfredo’s Pizzeria! Crown Grill, O’Malley’s Irish Pub and Sabatini’s to name just a few.
As we were only onboard for a few hours, it was impossible to visit all the fabulous dining options onboard. However, we did get to sample some of the goodies on offer during our media reception such as fresh oysters from The Catch by Rudi and a wonderful take on surf and turf in the Americana restaurant.
Watch this space as I will be posting the ultimate guide to restaurants on Sun Princess very soon, including g menus. In the meantime you can get an overview here (although it possibly needs updating in light of some recent changes).
Feel Sun-sational and Relax in the Sun
There are plenty of areas, in addition to the Signature Sun Deck, for that much needed R&R on Sun Princess, including 5 Pools – 2 Lido-Deck Pools, Dome (indoor/outdoor), Sanctuary Pool and WakeView Pooland 9 Hot Tubs. Sadly the weather on our visit prevented us indulging, even though they looked so inviting. Other al-fresco areas include The Sea View Terrace at the front of the ship, the new Wake View Terrace featuring an infinity pool and unparalleled views. The two-story Lotus Spa and Lotus Salon offer relaxing treatments and services for guests to enjoy any time during their voyage, and there is a fitness Centre and Wellness Studio to help deal with those inevitable excesses.
Sun’s out, fun’s out
There is plenty to keep everyone happy on Sun Princess from Movies Under The Stars for movie buffs to the Sky Deck Sports Court and Track for the more active. There are also various kids clubs with appropriate activities for each age group:
Firefly Park Kids Club - ages 3-7 (Capacity: 70) *Parents with children six months to 2 years may enjoy the play area under their supervision
Neon Firefly Park Kids Club - ages 3-7 *Parents with children six months to 2 years may enjoy the play area under their supervision
Neon Grove Tweens Club - ages 8-12
The Underground Teen Lounge - ages 13-17
Sunset Reflections
We had a wonderful day onboard Sun Princess and realise we were very privileged to enjoy such lavish hospitality on such a beautiful ship. It has enabled us to bring you a preview of what you can expect when you sail on her, as you definitely should. I will definitely looking at itineraries for next year, as on our visit we were merely able to scratch the surface and there is so much more to explore. Thank you to Princess Cruises for hosting us.
Finally, as the days close in, remember brighter days are on the horizon if you just book a Sun Princess cruise.
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