Our First Look at the Star Princess: Magic, Modern Design, and Elevated Experiences

From the moment we stepped aboard Star Princess, it was clear this was no ordinary cruise. Sailing on an inaugural voyage is always a treat, but with Matthew McConaughey serving as the ship’s godparent and Princess Cruises’ senior leadership onboard, this particular sailing delivered something truly unforgettable.

The Star Princess, the second vessel in the cruise line’s Sphere Class, combines sleek architecture with approachable elegance. It offers both longtime Princess guests and newcomers a fresh perspective on what cruising can look and feel like: comfortable, elevated, and full of surprises.

Here’s everything we experienced during our time onboard, and what you can look forward to when sailing this stunning new ship.

Star Princess sets a confident tone from the moment you step onboard. The Piazza is grand, the open spaces are well-lit and inviting, and the overall vibe is balanced. “It’s a lively environment that isn’t over the top but also not stuffy,” we noted. From the moment we stepped onboard, it felt upscale and fresh without feeling inaccessible.

Service was a clear standout. Across the ship, we were consistently met with attentive, warm, and helpful crew members who added a personal touch to every interaction.

One tip for guests: The ship’s layout can take a bit of adjustment. Certain decks don’t allow direct access from front to back due to strategically placed venues. But after exploring a bit, the flow makes sense, and the design encourages discovering something new around every corner.

If there’s one feature that left a lasting impression, it was Spellbound by Magic Castle. This immersive venue blends illusion, ambiance, and cocktail artistry into a one-of-a-kind experience. “Spellbound is unlike anything I’ve ever seen at sea,” we said. “It’s a show, it’s a bar, it’s an event, and it’s something you absolutely have to see.”

Guests staying in certain accommodations get access to the Sanctuary Club, a premium space offering sweeping views, plush seating, and exceptional service. It’s a tranquil retreat where you can sip your morning espresso or relax with a cocktail in the evening.

Another showstopper onboard is The Dome, a glass-enclosed space that transforms from a relaxing daytime hangout into a dynamic nighttime venue. Its 360-degree lighting and immersive performances make it one of the most unique entertainment settings at sea.

Other favorites included the vibrant multi-level Piazza, the cozy O’Malley’s Irish Pub, and the versatile Princess Live!, where everything from trivia to live music kept the atmosphere engaging.

Princess Cruises has long been known for its culinary offerings, and Star Princess builds on that legacy. For us, several dining venues stood out for both quality and variety.

Alfredo’s Pizzeria delivered some of the best pizza onboard, crispy, flavorful, and satisfying. We especially enjoyed grabbing a slice there on port days when things were a bit quieter.

Catch by Rudi, a seafood-centric specialty restaurant, offered an upscale yet approachable dining experience. The creativity in plating and depth of flavors made it one of the top culinary moments of the trip.

We also highlighted Americana Diner for its nostalgic charm and well-executed comfort food. Even the buffet exceeded expectations with fresh options and thoughtful variety.

For cocktails, Good Spirits at Sea stole the show. More than just a bar, it offered interactive mixology presentations that turned every drink into a mini experience.

The entertainment lineup aboard Star Princess proved to be another highlight. One evening, we attended a candlelight concert in The Dome, where a live string quartet played under soft ambient lighting. “It was elegant, atmospheric, and one of the most unique moments I’ve had at sea."

We also enjoyed a high-energy comedy show, as well as spontaneous performances throughout the ship. One of the most memorable aspects was the accessibility of entertainment, with venues like Princess Live and the Piazza bringing performances into the heart of the ship rather than tucking them away in a theater.

We stayed in a Sanctuary category balcony cabin, which came with added perks like access to the Sanctuary Club. The cabin’s design was smart and comfortable, featuring modern amenities and ample storage.

One standout feature? “The bathroom was surprisingly spacious,” we noted, especially compared to similar cabin types on other ships. It made the entire experience feel just a little more luxurious and relaxing.

Whether you’re getting ready for a night out or winding down after a port day, the cabin served as a comfortable, calming space to recharge.

We shared that Star Princess is especially well suited for:

• Couples looking for romantic, relaxing experiences with refined touches
• Princess loyalists who want to experience the brand’s evolution
• Travelers who value premium experiences without an overly flashy atmosphere
• Guests seeking elevated entertainment and service without overwhelming crowds or chaos

This ship isn’t about water slides or adrenaline. It’s about ambiance, elegance, and immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression.

As Princess Cruises continues to evolve its fleet, Star Princess sets a new benchmark for what a modern cruise ship can offer. From the innovative Spellbound venue to spacious cabins and service that genuinely stood out, every element of the sailing felt carefully considered.

“A true star of the Princess fleet,” we said, and one that offers something different from the typical megaship.

If you’re looking to experience what’s next for Princess Cruises, Star Princess is ready to welcome you.

Connect with a Personal Travel Advisor to explore Star Princess itineraries, get expert guidance, and unlock exclusive offers for your next unforgettable cruise.