Experience the Sun Princess Like Never Before: My Exclusive Invitation to the North American Debut

Experience the Sun Princess Like Never Before: My Exclusive Invitation to the North American Debut

I am beyond thrilled to share some exciting news! I have been personally selected to attend the exclusive North American debut of the stunning Sun Princess from October 11 to October 14, 2024. As your trusted travel advisor, this is an incredible opportunity for me to immerse myself in everything this brand-new ship has to offer, so I can bring you firsthand insights, reviews, and recommendations that will help you plan your perfect Princess Cruise vacation.

A Preview of Unmatched Luxury

During this special debut, I’ll be joined by an incredible lineup of Princess Cruises’ top executives—including the President of Princess Cruises—and world-renowned celebrity chefs who’ve crafted the exceptional menus aboard the Sun Princess. This exclusive preview will give me a chance to taste the cuisine, explore the entertainment, and dive deep into the luxurious amenities that are set to make the Sun Princess one of the most exciting ships on the seas.

Tyra Banks, Magic Castle, and More

I’ll also get to experience Princess Cruises’ newest partnerships, including an appearance by the one and only Tyra Banks, who is bringing her delicious ice cream brand on board. This means I can give you all the scoop on her sweet treats and where you’ll be able to find them when you cruise.

Plus, I’ll be dining at the incredible Magic Castle, a restaurant that blends world-class magic with gourmet cuisine, and the whimsical new Love by Britto, where every dish is inspired by artist Romero Britto’s signature bold, colorful style.

To top it all off, I’ll be attending an exclusive performance of Cirque de Soleil’s ‘Blue’, right on the ship. I’m eager to report back on this breathtaking production, so you can know what to expect from the entertainment onboard the Sun Princess.

80s Dance Party and Unmatched Entertainment

It won’t just be all about dining and entertainment; I'll also be attending the iconic 80s Dance Party! Whether you're a fan of the music, fashion, or vibe of the 80s, I’ll have all the details to share with you about this energetic, nostalgia-filled event that’s sure to get everyone moving.

The Sanctuary Collection: Pure Relaxation

One area I’m especially excited to experience is the all-new Sanctuary Collection. This private, adults-only retreat is designed to offer total relaxation and luxury, with personal cabanas, exclusive spa treatments, and elevated services that are truly a step above. I'll be able to give you a complete review of this serene escape, which will be perfect for those who want to unwind in peace and quiet while enjoying spectacular ocean views.

Cutting-Edge Design and Features

The Sun Princess is redefining cruising with cutting-edge spaces and amenities. I’ll be exploring them all, including:

• The Dome: A stunning multi-level glass-enclosed venue that offers panoramic ocean views and hosts dazzling performances.
• The Piazza: The grand atrium, where live entertainment meets stylish lounges and boutique shopping.
• O’Malley’s Irish Bar: A cozy pub serving authentic Irish fare and drinks, where you can enjoy a pint and feel like you’re in Dublin.

Princess Arena: A brand-new, state-of-the-art entertainment venue featuring immersive performances, game shows, and more.

Cheers to Innovation: Specialty Drinks Onboard

One aspect I’ll be keeping an eye on is the ship’s incredible Mixology Team. Whether you're a fan of creative cocktails or alcohol-free refreshers, the Sun Princess has a drink for everyone. I’ll be sampling some of these specialty drinks and sharing my favorites with you, so you can be sure to try them during your voyage.

As one of the select few chosen to attend this exclusive launch, I am committed to bringing back all the insights you need to make your next Princess cruise extraordinary. Whether you're interested in a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, the Sun Princess promises to deliver a next-level cruising experience that’s perfect for any traveler.

Day 1

Embarking on a cruise from the Caribbean should be a smooth start to a relaxing adventure, but our check-in experience will not go down as the smoothest in history! The check-in process was chaotic, with the staff using iPads to manage check-ins, but the folks utilizing those iPads appeared highly untrained on the devices. Unfortunately both of us experienced problems, and when it was clear the check-in team needed help, Sandra, a supervisor, literally ran away from assisting the agents!  Sean had to go find another supervisor who came to check us in.  Thankfully, we finally managed to board, greeted with a welcome glass (well, maybe more) of champagne and several photo ops—something we always look forward to as a cherished keepsake of our cruises.

Navigating Reservations with the App

Dinner reservations on board can be conveniently made through the ship’s app or by dialing 5555 on any ship phone to speak directly with the dining staff. While we appreciated the options, we ran into trouble with the app. We each saw different shows and experiences listed on different days, which made planning tricky.  After about an hour, our reservations started to sync.

First Impressions & the VIP Show

We kicked off the evening with a reception on the Lido deck, expecting it to be poolside, but it was suddenly moved without notice. Luckily, we were treated to a VIP showing of their new Cirque Show Blue, a dazzling production that was truly worth the ticket. After the show, we headed back to our room to freshen up, finding that our attendant had already brought in our luggage and reconfigured the beds from twin setup to our requested configuration—a nice surprise!  Our room attendant proved to be one of the best we have ever had!

Dinner at the Crown Grill: A Specialty Dining Letdown

We had high hopes for the Crown Grill, the ship’s steakhouse and one of its specialty dining options. However, the dining experience fell short. Service was incredibly slow—waiting 27 minutes just to speak to the sommelier.  It took more than 38 minutes before our order was taken. Since this was the ship’s first Caribbean sailing, we wondered if the team was adjusting, though they had already been operating in the Mediterranean previously. Unfortunately, when our food arrived, it was cold and left us underwhelmed. Specialty dining costs extra (unless you have Premier status), and for $15 more, you can even order an additional entrée. However, the quality left us hesitant about returning to this restaurant on future cruises.

Unwinding at O’Malley’s Irish Pub

Ending our night on a high note, we stopped by O’Malley’s Irish Pub for a round of drinks and live music by the talented Sirens Call band. Their mix of traditional Irish tunes and pop hits created a vibrant atmosphere, making it one of our favorite spots of the day.  To be blunt, this was a lot of fun and the drinks were fun and festive.

Final Thoughts on Day 1

The first day of our cruise was a bit of a rollercoaster. While the check-in and dinner experiences weren’t ideal, the welcoming atmosphere on board, VIP Cirque show, and lively evening at the pub were definite highlights. We were hoping things settled into a smoother rhythm as the cruise progresses, so we could fully relax and enjoy the journey!

Day 2

Day two of our cruise was all about exploring the Sun Princess from every angle. We set out to tour various cabin types, hoping to get a feel for the different accommodations on board. Unfortunately, there was some miscommunication, and several rooms we’d been scheduled to view had changed without any notice. Even with the hiccup, it was still interesting to see the range of options, each with unique features to suit different traveler preferences.  Overall, we were quite impressed with the rooms, their sizes, the bathrooms, and more.  Even in the interior room was much more spacious than expected.

Lunch at the Lido Deck: Casual and Varied Dining Options

For lunch, we headed to the Lido Deck, where the variety of food was impressive. We kept it simple with classic hamburgers, hot dogs, and pizza, but this area had much more to offer, including made-to-order salads, a taco station, and a well-stocked bar. It’s a fantastic place for those who enjoy casual dining with lots of choices!  Eating outdoors and close to the pool!  It could not get better.

An Exclusive Presentation by the Princess Cruises President and Tyra Banks

Later, we attended a special presentation by the President of Princess Cruises, showcasing all the innovative features of the brand-new Sun Princess. One of the highlights of this event was the culinary team—all the chefs who had collaborated on the ship’s restaurants and menus were there, giving us a sense of the dedication to dining excellence on board.

To our surprise, Tyra Banks also made an appearance! She’s recently partnered with Princess Cruises to launch her new ice cream brand on board, and she shared the story behind her venture into the dessert world. Everyone got to sample her ice cream afterward, and it definitely added a sweet touch to the day.

Limited Sports Options on Board

One thing to note: Sun Princess doesn’t have a dedicated sports bar, so for those who enjoy watching sports, options are limited. They did show one college football game on the big screen by the pool, but if you’re a die-hard fan, it’s something to keep in mind for future sailings.

A Magical Evening at Spellbound by Magic Castle

The highlight of our day was the exclusive dining experience at Spellbound, in collaboration with the Magic Castle. This experience is currently held in the Sanctuary dining room, with a private setting and limited seating for up to 30 guests. The meal featured a set menu with multiple choices, and we were seated alongside other guests, adding a social element to the evening.

After dinner, we were escorted to the Spellbound area, a place filled with surprises and enchantments. The first thing we noticed was a self-playing piano that could play anything from Bach to Lady Gaga. Naturally, we had to request Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5, and it didn’t disappoint! We also enjoyed unique cocktails before the show began.

The main act featured a mind-blowing mentalist who left us amazed with his performance. Spellbound is an unforgettable experience, especially for those who love a blend of fine dining, entertainment, and mystique. It’s an upgraded dining experience with an extra fee, but all food and drinks are included, and you’re welcome to stay in the Spellbound area for as long as you like.  You literally can enjoy drinks and the atmosphere all night.

Final Thoughts on Day Two

Day two on the Sun Princess was a day of discovery, delicious food, and dazzling entertainment. While there were some communication hiccups around the cabin tours, the unique events of the day—especially the Spellbound experience—more than made up for it. We’re looking forward to seeing what the rest of the cruise holds!

Day 3

Today, our ship docked in Nassau, but with countless visits to this port under our belts, we decided to skip the usual excursions and take advantage of everything the Sun Princess has to offer. It was the perfect chance to explore the ship’s dining, decor, and ambiance without any rush.

Lunch Plans Redirected

Our first stop was O’Malley’s Irish Pub since we’d heard rave reviews about the lunch there. However, we discovered that on port days, the pub only opens for dinner—meaning we’ll have to come back for a taste on a future cruise. Undeterred, we headed to The Eatery, the Sun Princess buffet, and were in for a pleasant surprise.

A Fresh Take on Buffet Dining at The Eatery

The Eatery isn’t your traditional buffet experience. First, rather than self-service, friendly staff serve you each dish. The layout itself is spacious, sprawling across three different areas with a wide selection to suit every palate. Options included Tex-Mex, a pasta station where you can order custom creations, asian cuisine, a deli section for fresh sandwiches and salads, and a carving station, which featured roasted turkey with all the fixings. The seafood and other fresh meat selections were a highlight, and we sampled a bit of everything! We were seated by attentive servers who took our drink orders, making it feel less like a buffet and more like a full-service dining experience.  We are not fans of cruise ship buffets, but we loved our experience at the Eatery.

Capturing the Beauty of the Ship

After a pleasant lunch, we spent the afternoon exploring the ship, snapping pictures and taking videos to capture the Sun Princess’s stunning interiors and unique amenities. Every corner offered a new perspective, and it was wonderful to have a relaxed day on board to fully appreciate the ship.

We found tons of hidden sitting areas to just curl up with a book or camp out with your friends for drinks and conversation.  

Dinner at Love by Britto: Art and Cuisine Come Together

The highlight of the day was our dinner at Love by Britto, a specialty restaurant created in partnership with Romero Britto, famous for his bright, “happy” artwork. This is not the kind of restaurant you arrive at early; they encourage you to come precisely at your reservation time to experience the curated ambiance from start to finish.

Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a glass of a special vintage of Villa Sandi Prosecco—a collaboration with Britto that set the tone for a sparkling evening. The entire restaurant is infused with the theme of love, from heart-shaped dinner rolls to silverware adorned with heart designs. Everywhere you look, Britto’s signature style adds a vibrant, playful touch.

Dinner was a set menu with multiple options, each dish thoughtfully prepared and presented with Britto’s spirit of joy and love. The flavors were as impressive as the aesthetics, making this experience a feast for both the senses and the soul.

Final Thoughts on Day Three

Day three was a reminder that sometimes, staying on board can be just as rewarding as exploring a new port. From The Eatery’s elevated buffet experience to the unique charm of Love by Britto, the Sun Princess proved to be a destination in itself. We can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Thoughts on the Sun Princess

The Sun Princess represents a bold new chapter for Princess Cruises, seamlessly blending the classic appeal of the "Love Boat" legacy with modern touches that cater to today's travelers. This isn’t the Princess your grandparents sailed on—this ship is brimming with vibrant nightlife, world-class DJs, and a jaw-dropping Piazza that serves as the ship's central gathering place and social hub. From adults-only retreats to exciting multi-generational spaces, the Sun Princess strikes a perfect balance, offering something for everyone. Its small, intimate nooks, imaginative and playful designs, and cozy lounge areas make it an adventure on the high seas that feels both fresh and deeply connected to the iconic Princess spirit. It’s a ship that invites guests to rediscover Princess Cruises, bringing people together in unforgettable ways.

And coming in 2025, the Sun Princess’s sister ship, the Star Princess, is set to continue this legacy with unique twists perfect for exploring spectacular destinations like the Panama Canal and Alaska. Featuring breathtaking spaces like the Dome, which allows for panoramic views of the world’s most awe-inspiring waterways and landscapes, this new ship promises to make every moment a scenic wonder. With thoughtful designs throughout that bring passengers closer to the sights and sounds of the environment, this ship will provide ideal viewing areas and relaxation spaces for those magical journeys through Alaska’s rugged landscapes and the engineering marvels of the Panama Canal.  In fact, we intend to have groups on both ships.

Book Your Princess Cruise Today

Are you ready to experience this incredible ship for yourself? Let me help you plan your dream vacation aboard the Sun Princess or any other Princess Cruise ship. With my firsthand knowledge and expert advice, I’ll ensure you get the most out of your journey, from the perfect cabin to must-try dining and entertainment.

Contact me today to learn more about current promotions and sailings. Your perfect cruise is just a booking away!

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