Princess Cruises nears Star Princess debut after official 'handover' in Italy

Princess Cruises has today took official delivery of its newest cruise ship, Star Princess.

It is the cruise operator's second 'Sphere' class newbuild, and it becomes the 17th ship in its global fleet.

Star Princess has capacity for 4,300 guests, with more than 1,500 balcony cabins, the countdown is now on to its maiden voyages out of Barcelona in early October.

Departing on 4 October, the Star Princess debut will be an 11-day trip around the Western Mediterranean.

On board Star Princess, guests will find 30 distinct dining and bar venues plus 'The Sanctuary' - which has its own restaurant and adults-only pool deck - and 'The Dome' relaxation and entertainment space, 'The Arena' high-tech theater, a sweeping Piazza.

Star Princess also boasts 'Spellbound by Magic Castle', a speakeasy-style entertainment venue created in a collaboration with Hollywood’s famous Magic Castle.

"Today is a proud moment for Princess as we welcome the new Star Princess to our incredible fleet," said Princess Cruises president Gus Antorcha.

Star Princess's official handover ceramony took place at Fincantieri’s Monfalcone shipyard, in Italy.

"This remarkable vessel is a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship of our long-standing partners at Fincantieri, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to the shipbuilding team for bringing our newest ship to life," Gus Antorcha added.

After the inaugural cruise out of Barcelona, Star Princess moves across the Atlantic, with a winter program running from Fort Lauderdale to Alaska kicking of from 7 November.