This weekend Princess Cruises’ newest ship, Star Princess, successfully launched with the departure of its maiden voyage
Sailing out of Barcelona, Star Princess began an 11-day Western Mediterranean cruise feature calls in Marseille, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Sicily, Cartagena and Gibraltar before returning to Spain.
The debut sailing began on 4 October, until 15 October, after which the cruise ship will cross the Atlantic for Fort Lauderdale, where an official naming ceremony will take place.
After that, Star Princess will get up and running with a winter season of Caribbean sailings, before transferring to Seattle for a program of seven-day Alaska cruises in summer 2026.
"Star Princess shines brightly as one the largest and most spectacular ships we've ever built, and we proudly welcome excited guests on her inaugural voyage," said Gus Antorcha, Princess Cruises president.
"May her voyages be safe, her sunsets unforgettable, and may she shine, as her name promises, in the sky and on the seas."
Star Princess, a 177,800-ton vessel, has capacity for 4,300 guests and it has become the 17th ship in the Princess fleet.
Hollywood celebrities Camila and Matthew McConaughey were unveiled last week as the 'godparents' of the new cruise ship.
It is home to 30 dining and bar venues, an expanded O’Malley’s Irish Pub, and Love by Britto speciality dining, plus the Sanctuary Collection of suites, mini-suites and balconies for extra-amenity stays.
Entertainment highlights include the return of Spellbound by Magic Castle, a speakeasy-style experience themed to legendary illusionist “The Great Cardini”, and two new arena shows: Meridian, a cinematic voyage of masked romance, and Illuminate, a nostalgic circus-inspired production.
Star Princess captain Gennaro Arma, meanwhile, commented: "This journey is a true honor for me and our dedicated crew. We warmly invite guests to come aboard our new Star Princess to experience the extraordinary and well-loved service Princess is known for."
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When is Star Princess officially named and where?
Star Princess holds its official naming on 6 November 2025 in Fort Lauderdale.
What is the Star Princess maiden voyage itinerary?
Star Princess sails 11 days from Barcelona, visiting Marseille, Rome, Naples, Sicily, Cartagena and Gibraltar before returning.
What new entertainment does Star Princess feature?
Star Princess debuts Spellbound by Magic Castle plus new arena shows Meridian and Illuminate.
