Whether you’re new to cruising or trying a different line, here’s a quick guide to Princess Cruises. Voted highly in Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards in 2025, Princess is part of Carnival Corporation (alongside Holland America, Seabourn, Cunard, and Carnival). Its 17-ship fleet sails worldwide, with particular renown for West Coast departures and Alaska itineraries that often combine land and sea segments and visits to Glacier Bay National Park.
Expect a generally older, multigenerational crowd and an atmosphere that’s elegant but relaxed—less frenetic than many mega-ship lines. Onboard programming includes destination-focused enrichment and nights that range from game shows and silent discos to movies under the stars. Dining options cover casual favorites (an Irish pub, pizzeria, sushi counter) and specialty restaurants like Crown Grill and Chef’s Table; the premier package provides a more all-inclusive experience. Princess’s MedallionClass technology simplifies onboard life—wearable medallions link to your account and stateroom for touchless payments and automatic stateroom access.
Promotions and savings
Enjoy Epic Voyages with up to $1,000 onboard credit
Princess’s Epic Voyages are 14+ day themed sailings (transatlantic, South Pacific, and more). On select 40+ day Epic Voyages booked by March 17, 2026, travelers can receive up to $1,000 in onboard credit to use for excursions, specialty dining, spa treatments, or other extras.
Instant savings by cruise length
Current promotions offer tiered instant savings based on cruise length:
– 4–5 day cruises: up to $200 in instant savings
– 6–8 day cruises: up to $500 in instant savings
– 9+ day cruises: up to $1,000 in instant savings
Military and past-guest perks
U.S. and Canadian military personnel—active, retired, veterans, or disabled—are eligible for up to $250 in onboard spending money (amount varies by cruise length; starting at $50 for voyages of six days or less).
Repeat guests are invited into the Captain’s Circle loyalty program. New members start at Gold after their first cruise; after three cruises or 30 cruise days you reach Ruby, with further tiers of Platinum and Elite available as you sail more. Benefits include early access to itineraries, special pricing, members-only onboard events, and other perks.
Onboard rewards and referrals
Casino players can earn Princess Casino perks that may include discounts, VIP invitations, tournament access, and opportunities toward comps or future cruise offers.
The Princess Rewards Visa Card offers a sign-up bonus—20,000 points (roughly $200 in onboard credit) after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days—and then 2x points per $1 on Princess purchases, including onboard spending (terms apply).
Referral and group savings let you earn easily: give friends $25 in onboard spending and receive $25 for each valid referral.
Book now, pay later and extras
Princess offers flexible flight booking through EZair Flights, which lets you reserve flights with no money down and change or cancel without fees until final cruise payment. Princess also runs promotional email offers—signing up can earn $50 in onboard credit for your next cruise.
Quick notes
– Princess is positioned as a reasonably affordable premium line, offering variety in dining and onboard activities.
– The MedallionClass system streamlines payments and stateroom access for passengers.
– Promotions and savings often have booking deadlines and eligibility rules, so check terms before booking.
Further reading
Traveler’s reviews of Princess ships include coverage of Sun Princess, Discovery Princess, and Enchanted Princess.