If you’ve ever gone down the rabbit hole of Princess cruise ships by age and thought, “Okay… but which one is actually right for me?” you’re in the right place. Ship age isn’t everything, but it quietly shapes almost every part of your cruise: the layout, venues, tech, cabin options, and even the kind of itineraries each ship can sail.
Princess sits in a sweet spot between mega-ship chaos and tiny-ship minimalism. You’ve got brand-new Sphere Class ships like Sun Princess and Star Princess at one end of the spectrum, and the still-loved Grand Princess anchoring the other. In between are Royal Class resort-style vessels and smaller Coral / Grand Class ships that can slide through the Panama Canal and into more intimate ports.
This guide pulls all 17 Princess ships together, sorted by age, then actually explains what that age means in real life. We’ll cover the full fleet from Star Princess (2025) down to Grand Princess (1998), highlight classes, tonnage, and capacities, and talk through which ships are best for families, first-timers, bucket-list travelers, and budget cruisers.
Want to understand how Princess ships differ before choosing your cabin? Check out our full guides on Princess Cruise Ship Classes and Princess Cruise Ships by Size to see how each class and ship layout affects your cabin experience.
Table of Contents
Why Ship Age Matters on Princess Cruises
Age affects a lot more than just how shiny the atrium is. On Princess, ship age tends to correlate with:
- Size & layout
- Newer ships like Sun Princess and Star Princess are Sphere Class giants around 175,000+ tons and 4,300 guests.
- Older tonnage like Coral Princess and Island Princess sits under 100,000 tons with roughly 2,000–2,200 passengers.
- Amenities & tech
- Newer ships come with full MedallionClass baked in from the start, bigger pool decks, more specialty dining, and more modern theater tech.
- Older ships lean harder into traditional promenade decks, panoramic lounges, and classic dining rooms rather than top-deck waterparks.
- Itineraries & destinations
- Larger, newer Royal & Sphere Class ships dominate Caribbean and Med “resort-style” routes.
- Smaller Grand / Coral Class vessels can tackle Panama Canal, longer repositionings, and some more niche ports.
- Cabin mix & feel
- Newer ships have Sky Suites, ultra-modern suites, and lots of balconies, often with larger standard balconies and more interconnecting options.
- Older ships still have a lot of traditional oceanviews and a slightly more old-school decor vibe, even after refurbishments.
Age on Princess is less about “old = bad, new = good” and more about personality. Newer ships feel like floating resorts; older ships feel like classic liners with a modern coat of paint. The trick is to match your personality with theirs.
How Ship Age Changes the Onboard Experience on Princess
When you look at Princess cruise ships by age, you are really looking at three different styles of vacation that all happen to wear the same logo. Newer Princess ships behave like full-on resorts. Mid-era ships balance classic structure with modern upgrades. The oldest ships are more intimate, more itinerary-focused, and usually quieter. The hardware nudges you toward a certain kind of cruise before you ever step onboard.
Cabins and suites on older vs newer Princess ships
Across Princess cruise ships by age, cabins are recognizable: lots of balconies, familiar layouts, similar decor language. The differences are in the details. Newer ships like Sun Princess, Star Princess, and the later Royal Class vessels lean harder into suite complexes, Sky Suites, and premium balcony layouts. Older ships offer more oceanviews, more “traditional” cabins, and sometimes smaller standard bathrooms, but they often feel simpler and easier to understand at a glance.
On the newest end of the Princess cruise ships by age spectrum, you get:
- Bigger suite choices with more perks and sometimes exclusive areas
- More interconnecting cabins for families and groups
- Balconies that are often standardized and a bit more compact, but with better furniture and lighting
- Medallion-ready cabin design from day one
On the older end, cabins on ships like Grand Princess, Coral Princess, and Island Princess tend to feel more “classic hotel at sea.” You’ll sometimes see:
- A higher percentage of oceanview cabins instead of balconies
- Slightly smaller bathrooms and more modest storage in older-standard rooms
- Occasional quirky layouts where cabins were added or reconfigured over time
- A cozier, less “cookie-cutter” feel in some categories
Neither approach is inherently better. If your cruise style is “sleep, shower, and then be out exploring,” classic cabins on older Princess cruise ships by age are more than enough and often cheaper. If you plan to live in your cabin, a newer ship with upgraded suites or more balcony variety might be worth the premium.
Dining and nightlife as ships get newer
Dining is one of the clearest ways that age shows across Princess cruise ships by age. As ships got newer, Princess layered in:
- More specialty restaurants
- More casual grab-and-go spots
- Lounges and bars with stronger themes
- Extra outdoor dining spaces
Newer Sphere and Royal Class ships have a real “dining ecosystem”: multiple specialty restaurants, upgraded buffet layouts, al fresco options, and more late-night snacks. You can spend a week on a ship like Sun Princess or Sky Princess and still feel like you haven’t tried everything. That’s fantastic if you love variety, date nights, and trying new menus.
As you move down the list of Princess cruise ships by age into Grand, Coral, and older Grand Class ships, dining becomes:
- More focused on the Main Dining Rooms and buffet, with a handful of specialties
- A bit more traditional in style and pacing
- Less overwhelming in choice, which some people love
Nightlife follows the same pattern. The newest ships have:
- Larger theaters with flashier production shows
- More bars and lounges with unique vibes
- Bigger, more energetic pool decks after dark
Older ships still have shows, live music, and bars, but the vibe is more low-key, with fewer simultaneous events. If you want to “do something” every night, newer ships win. If you prefer a quiet drink and a piano bar, an older Princess ship might feel just right.
Activities, pools, and top-deck features by age
On the activity side, Princess does not go as over-the-top as some competitors, but the gap between the newest and oldest Princess cruise ships by age is still noticeable. Newer ships lean into:
- Expanded pool complexes with more distinct zones
- Larger movie screens and outdoor entertainment at night
- Activity spaces designed around multi-use programming
You’re not getting giant waterparks, but on Sphere and Royal Class ships you definitely get more pool variety and more organized daytime happenings. That’s a big win for families and anyone who loves sea days.
On Coral Class and older Grand Class ships, the top decks are simpler:
- Fewer pools, but often more open, quiet space to sit and read
- Classic promenades you can walk all the way around
- Less competition for loungers on port-intensive itineraries
If you naturally compare Princess cruise ships by age and imagine how you’ll spend sea days, the decision comes down to this: do you want choices and energy, or simplicity and calm? Newer ships are built to entertain; older ships are built to let the itinerary shine.
Tech, MedallionClass, and how age affects “friction”
Every ship in the fleet is now MedallionClass, but the way that tech feels across Princess cruise ships by age is slightly different. On the newest ships, Medallion tech was integrated from the start:
- Better Wi-Fi coverage and a stronger digital backbone
- Door locks, signage, and venue layouts designed around the wearable
- Staff more accustomed to guests ordering drinks and food through the app or screens
On older ships, MedallionClass was retrofitted. Functionally you still get:
- Keyless stateroom access
- Location-based services in the app
- The ability to order food and drinks to your location
But now and then you might feel the ship’s original design peeking through, with certain areas where connectivity is a little weaker or where movement flows like “old-school cruising” with a tech layer added on top.
If you’re the kind of person who loves using your phone to order everything and track everyone, the newer end of the Princess cruise ships by age list will feel the most seamless. If you’re not fussed either way, you won’t notice much difference beyond Wi-Fi handling big crowds a bit better.
Pricing, value, and itineraries across the age spectrum
Age also nudges pricing and itinerary style. In general:
- Newer ships (Sphere and late Royal) command higher baseline fares and focus on very popular routes: Caribbean, Med, some headline Alaska and Europe itineraries. You’re paying for the ship as much as the destinations.
- Mid-era ships (early Royal, Crown, Caribbean, Gem variants) often hit a sweet spot of modern enough but more affordable, especially outside peak season.
- Older ships (Coral, Island, Grand) frequently carry some of the most interesting itineraries at very competitive fares: Panama Canal, longer journeys, repositionings, and niche routes.
That’s why it’s so important to look at Princess cruise ships by age in context. A family doing a single big Caribbean trip every few years might happily pay extra to be on Sun Princess or Sky Princess. A couple chasing bucket-list routes like a full Panama Canal transit or a longer repositioning voyage might deliberately choose Coral Princess or Island Princess and feel they got more value and better ports, even though the ship is older.
The age of the ship doesn’t tell you if your cruise will be good. What it tells you is what kind of good it’s built to deliver.
Princess Cruise Ships (2026 Fleet Overview)
Here’s the 2026 Princess fleet at a glance, sorted from newest to oldest. Numbers are approximate and can vary slightly by source, but this will give you a solid feel for size and era.
| Ship | Class | Year Launched | Approx. Tonnage (GRT) | Approx. Passengers (double) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Princess | Sphere | 2025 | ~177,800 | ~4,300 |
| Sun Princess | Sphere | 2024 | ~177,800 | ~4,300 |
| Discovery Princess | Royal | 2022 | ~145,000 | ~3,660 |
| Enchanted Princess | Royal | 2020 | ~144,650 | ~3,660 |
| Sky Princess | Royal | 2019 | ~144,650 | ~3,660 |
| Majestic Princess | Royal | 2017 | ~143,700 | ~3,560 |
| Regal Princess | Royal | 2014 | ~142,200 | ~3,560 |
| Royal Princess | Royal | 2013 | ~142,200 | ~3,560 |
| Ruby Princess | Grand / Crown sub-class | 2008 | ~113,561 | ~3,080 |
| Emerald Princess | Grand / Crown sub-class | 2007 | ~113,561 | ~3,080 |
| Crown Princess | Grand / Crown sub-class | 2006 | ~113,561 | ~3,080 |
| Caribbean Princess | Grand (modified) | 2004 | ~112,894 | ~3,140 |
| Sapphire Princess | “Gem” / Grand variant | 2004 | ~115,875 | ~2,670–2,680 |
| Diamond Princess | “Gem” / Grand variant | 2004 | ~115,875 | ~2,670 |
| Island Princess | Coral Class | 2003 | ~92,822 | ~2,200 |
| Coral Princess | Coral Class | 2002 | ~91,627 | ~2,000 |
| Grand Princess | Grand Class | 1998 | ~107,517 | ~2,600 |
Now let’s go ship by ship, from newest to oldest, and talk about what each one is really like to sail.
Princess Cruise Ships by Age and Class
Looking at Princess cruise ships by age is helpful, but looking at age plus class is where things really click. Ships in the same class share core layout, vibe, and “personality,” even if they’re a few years apart. Once you understand how the Sphere Class, Royal Class, Grand / Crown / Gem variants, and Coral Class feel, it becomes much easier to narrow down the best match for your style.
Sphere Class: The New Flagships
Sphere Class is the top of the pyramid when you rank Princess cruise ships by age. Sun Princess and Star Princess are the newest, largest, and most modern ships in the fleet. They carry more than 4,000 guests, push close to 180,000 gross tons, and are built around huge glass spaces, multi-deck domes, and outward-facing design.
What Sphere Class feels like on board:
- A full-on resort at sea, with lots of dining and entertainment options
- Bright, airy spaces with glass everywhere and dramatic atrium views
- Multiple distinct pool zones, including that enclosed dome area that morphs from pool to entertainment space
- The most advanced version of MedallionClass and Princess’s newest suite concepts
Sphere Class is perfect if:
- You love sea days and want the ship itself to be the main attraction
- You enjoy trying different restaurants, bars, and lounges all week
- You want the newest cabins and suites Princess offers
You might want to skip Sphere Class if:
- You strongly prefer smaller, quieter ships
- You care more about unusual itineraries than onboard features
- You hate crowds and prefer ships that feel under 3,000 passengers
Royal Class: Modern Resort-Style Princess Ships
If you lined up the main Princess cruise ships by age after the Sphere duo, you’d hit the Royal Class next: Royal Princess, Regal Princess, Majestic Princess, Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess, and Discovery Princess. These ships are big but not Sphere-big, usually in the 140,000–145,000 ton range with around 3,500–3,700 guests.
What Royal Class feels like on board:
- A polished, upscale-resort vibe with a grand Piazza at the heart
- Multiple specialty restaurants, casual venues, and good bar variety
- Adults-only Sanctuary, Movies Under the Stars, and strong theater offerings
- Full MedallionClass experience with good Wi-Fi and app integration
Royal Class is perfect if:
- You want a ship that feels modern and lively without needing waterparks and rollercoasters
- You like having several different dinner and drink options across a week
- You enjoy people-watching in a central atrium and classic cruise entertainment
You might want to skip Royal Class if:
- You find larger ships confusing or overwhelming
- You’re specifically chasing Panama Canal or very small-port itineraries
- You want the most intimate ships in the Princess cruise ships by age lineup
In practice, Royal Class is the “default recommendation” for a huge portion of cruisers: first-timers, families, couples, and groups who want big-ship choice with Princess’s calmer personality.
Grand / Crown / Gem Variants: Classic Big-Ship Princess
Next in the Princess cruise ships by age timeline are the Grand-based ships: Grand Princess, Crown Princess, Emerald Princess, Ruby Princess, Caribbean Princess, Sapphire Princess, and Diamond Princess. These represent different sub-eras and tweaks of the original Grand Class design.
Across this group, you’re usually looking at ships around 110,000–115,000 tons with roughly 2,600–3,100 guests. They feel noticeably smaller than Royal and Sphere, but still very much like “proper big ships” with multiple pools, lounges, and dining options.
What these Grand-era ships feel like on board:
- More traditional layouts, often with wraparound promenades
- Plenty of balconies, but also a good number of oceanviews
- Slightly fewer specialty restaurants and bars than Royal Class, but still enough variety for a 7–10 night cruise
- A classic Princess atmosphere that many repeat guests adore
This era is perfect if:
- You want a big-ship feel without Royal/Sphere scale
- You’re happy with a few specialty restaurants instead of a dozen
- You enjoy a balance of activities and quiet corners
You might lean away from this era if:
- You absolutely must have the newest tech and biggest cabin selection
- You want the most cutting-edge entertainment production values
- You hate any hint of “classic” decor or layout
Within this group, Caribbean Princess leans into warm-weather, family-friendly Caribbean runs, Sapphire and Diamond often tackle Asia and longer routes, and Ruby / Emerald / Crown are versatile all-rounders. When you compare Princess cruise ships by age and want something that feels like “peak classic Princess,” you usually land here.
Coral Class and Grand Princess: Canal-Capable Classics
At the oldest end of the Princess cruise ships by age list sit Island Princess, Coral Princess, and Grand Princess. Island and Coral form the Coral Class, built specifically to fit through the Panama Canal, while Grand Princess is the original Grand Class prototype and now the elder stateswoman of the fleet.
What these classics feel like on board:
- Smaller overall, with roughly 2,000–2,600 guests
- More intimate public spaces and fewer venues, but less crowding
- Wraparound promenade decks, great viewing spots, and a more traditional “ocean liner” feel
- A higher emphasis on itineraries and scenery rather than onboard attractions
This corner of the fleet is perfect if:
- You care more about routes like Panama Canal, longer repositionings, or port-heavy cruises
- You prefer ships where you can recognize most public spaces after day two
- You like the idea of fewer people and more chances to find a quiet nook
You might want something newer if:
- You need the maximum variety of dining and nightlife to feel entertained
- You’re traveling with kids or teens who want lots of organized activities and flashy features
- You’re very particular about having the most modern cabin designs and bathrooms
When people really dig into Princess cruise ships by age and match that to their travel style, they often discover that Coral Class and Grand Princess offer some of the best value itineraries in the fleet. You give up a bit of onboard flash but gain calmer sea days and more interesting port combinations.
Complete Princess Cruise Ships by Age List
Newest Princess Ships (Sphere & Late Royal Class)
These are the headliners in any Princess cruise ships by age conversation. If you want the most up-to-date design, big-ship energy, and the broadest selection of modern venues, this is where you start.
Star Princess – 2025 (Sphere Class)
Star Princess is the second Sphere Class ship and, along with Sun Princess, one of the largest ships Princess has ever built. We’re talking roughly 177,800 gross tons, around 4,300 guests, and 21 decks built around dramatic outward-facing spaces like the Sphere atrium and a huge glass dome that flips from pool by day to entertainment venue by night.
She debuts in 2025 with Mediterranean itineraries, then branches into Caribbean and other routes, bringing a resort-style layout to traditionally itinerary-focused regions. Inside, you get the latest version of MedallionClass, the Sanctuary Collection (a “ship within a ship” concept with special suites and a dedicated restaurant and club), and brand-new show concepts like the Peacock Theater and immersive productions such as Illuminate and Meridian.
Who Star Princess is best for
- Cruisers who want the newest hardware and don’t mind crowds.
- Families and multigenerational groups that want something like a floating resort but with Princess’s calmer vibe.
- Repeat Princess guests ready to see what the line’s next decade looks like.
If you’re ranking Princess cruise ships by age and want “top of the tech tree,” Star Princess is your flagship.
Vibe on board:
Star Princess sits at the very top of the Princess cruise ships by age list, and it feels like it. The atmosphere is bright, modern, and energetic, with that “new ship smell” and lots of glass, curves, and statement spaces. It leans resort-style rather than classic-liner, so you can expect a constant sense of buzz: multiple venues active at once, a lively central Sphere atrium, and big production shows making use of the newest tech onboard.
Typical itineraries:
You’ll see Star Princess on headline routes first: Mediterranean, then likely Caribbean or other marquee regions. She’s designed for week-long and longer itineraries where the ship is as big a draw as the ports. When you look at Princess cruise ships by age for “bucket list but still mainstream” trips, Star Princess is the ship built to carry those.
Why choose Star Princess over other ships of a similar age:
If you want the absolute cutting edge of what Princess is doing in 2026, this is it. You’re choosing Star Princess over slightly older Royal Class ships for space, spectacle, and suite product, and over Sun Princess if the itinerary or dates line up better for your schedule.
Sun Princess – 2024 (Sphere Class)
Sun Princess is the first Sphere Class ship, slightly edging out Star in age but identical in concept: big, bright, and built to maximize sea views. At about 175,500+ tons and around 4,300 guests, she’s significantly larger than the previous Royal Class ships, yet designed to feel open instead of overwhelming.
The standout is the central Sphere atrium and the glass-topped dome that acts like a hybrid indoor-outdoor lounge, pool, and entertainment space. You’ll also see new food concepts, expanded specialty dining, and a modern take on the classic Princess “Love Boat” DNA with plenty of al fresco options. Sun Princess is also LNG-powered, reflecting a push toward more efficient, cleaner burning fuel.
Who Sun Princess is best for
- First-time Princess cruisers who want the freshest, most Instagram-able ship.
- Families and couples who like a good variety of dining and entertainment but don’t need waterpark chaos 24/7.
- Loyalty guests curious about what’s beyond Royal Class.
If you’re coming from mega-ships on other lines and wondering how Princess matches up in 2026, Sun is your easiest comparison point.
Vibe on board:
Sun Princess feels like someone took all the traditional Princess ideas and stretched them out into a glass-wrapped, next-gen resort. The mood is airy and upscale but still familiar if you’ve sailed the line before. Expect a lot of natural light, a big focus on outdoor living, and plenty of spaces that transform between day and night. It’s the kind of ship where you can wander for a week and still stumble across a venue you somehow missed.
Typical itineraries:
You’ll mostly see Sun Princess running Caribbean and Mediterranean programs, plus some longer repositioning sailings that show off her range. She’s a prime candidate if you’re comparing Princess cruise ships by age and want new hardware on classic sunny itineraries, especially if you’re sailing with a mix of first-timers and veterans.
Why choose Sun Princess over other ships of a similar age:
Versus Royal Class, Sun Princess gives you more dramatic architecture, more outdoor variety, and next-gen suites. Versus Star Princess, it may simply come down to where and when she sails. If you see the itinerary you want on Sun Princess at a fair price, you’re not “settling” for the second-newest ship. You’re still at the very top of the Princess cruise ships by age and features.
Discovery Princess – 2022 (Royal Class)
Discovery Princess is the sixth and final Royal Class ship, and she feels like a polished “best of” compilation of everything Princess learned from Royal, Regal, Majestic, and Sky. At around 145,000 tons with roughly 3,660 guests, she’s big but not Sphere big, and she leans into classic Royal Class hallmarks like the central Piazza, a strong specialty dining lineup, and movies under the stars.
One major calling card is her Sky Suites, enormous accommodations perched above the pool deck with some of the largest balconies at sea. There’s also The Catch by Rudi for seafood fans, and full MedallionClass integration so you can open your cabin, order drinks, and find your travel mates with a tap. Her itineraries often focus on Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific, positioning her as a highly flexible, modern “adventure with comfort” ship.
Who Discovery Princess is best for
- Guests who want a modern, feature-rich ship without going all the way up to Sphere Class.
- Families or groups who might splurge on Sky Suites or Mini Suites for a special trip.
- Alaska and South Pacific cruisers who like scenic routes but still want plenty going on at sea.
Vibe on board:
Discovery Princess feels like a refined, dialed-in Royal Class ship. The Piazza is lively but not chaotic, the decor leans contemporary and polished, and the onboard energy is active without feeling like a theme park. You’ll find a good balance of quiet corners and buzzy bars, which makes her comfortable for both couples and multigenerational groups.
Typical itineraries:
She spends much of her time on Alaska, Pacific, and Australia/New Zealand routes, plus seasonal Caribbean or repositioning sailings. If you’re looking at Princess cruise ships by age and want a modern ship for a scenic itinerary, Discovery Princess is often one of the best-matched hulls.
Why choose Discovery Princess over other ships of a similar age:
You’re picking Discovery over older Royal Class sisters if you want the latest iteration of the design, and over Sphere Class if you prefer a ship that’s big but not too big. For Royal fans, she’s the “final draft” of that class.
Enchanted Princess – 2020 (Royal Class)
Enchanted Princess is a Royal Class ship with a bit of a milestone badge: she was the 100th cruise ship built by Fincantieri and the first delivered after the industry’s major pandemic shutdown.
She brings the familiar Royal Class package (Piazza, multiple specialty restaurants, adult Sanctuary, outdoor movies) plus a standout concept: 360: An Extraordinary Experience, a multi-sensory, reservation-only dining event where projected visuals, storytelling, and a multi-course menu all play together. This makes her a favorite for food-focused cruisers who still want traditional Princess ambiance.
Enchanted spends a lot of time in the Caribbean and Mediterranean, offering a mix of week-long and longer itineraries that balance sea days with port time.
Who Enchanted Princess is best for
- Couples who enjoy theater and dining experiences as much as ports.
- Guests who like Royal Class styling but want a slightly newer ship than Royal / Regal.
- Repeat cruisers looking for something familiar but not the absolute newest Sphere hardware.
Vibe on board:
Enchanted Princess feels warm, polished, and very “Princess” in personality. The Piazza is the social heart, with live music, coffee, and cocktails swirling around you. The ship balances a romantic, European-style mood with modern amenities, so it works nicely for couples and food-focused cruisers who still want that classic cruise vibe.
Typical itineraries:
She tends to divide her time between Caribbean and Mediterranean seasons, often with some longer or repositioning sailings in the mix. When you look at Princess cruise ships by age for sun-and-sea itineraries that still offer interesting ports, Enchanted Princess sits in a sweet spot.
Why choose Enchanted Princess over other ships of a similar age:
You might prioritize Enchanted if 360: An Extraordinary Experience appeals to you or if her specific Med/Caribbean itineraries line up better with your schedule. Compared with Sky Princess or Royal Princess, she has a slightly newer feel while remaining firmly in that familiar Royal Class groove.
Sky Princess – 2019 (Royal Class)
Sky Princess was the first Princess ship to debut Sky Suites, essentially private viewing platforms with 270-degree views and massive verandas facing the Movies Under the Stars screen.
She also was the first ship built from the ground up with MedallionClass tech integrated into her DNA rather than retrofitted. That means better Wi-Fi performance, more seamless location services, and smoother use of the wearable for opening doors, ordering drinks, and navigating the ship.
Sky’s itineraries tend to be Caribbean and Europe heavy, with plenty of 7–15 night sailings that appeal to both North American and European guests.
Who Sky Princess is best for
- Guests who want the full Royal Class experience with top-tier suites.
- Tech-comfortable cruisers who like being able to order room service or drinks via app or Medallion.
- Families who want a modern ship without overwhelming top-deck attractions.
Vibe on board:
Sky Princess runs stylish and confident. The ship feels like a modern resort with a strong sense of vertical drama in the Piazza and plenty of outdoor seating facing the sea. The mood skews a bit more energetic than older ships but stays comfortably within Princess’s relaxed DNA. If you like a lively evening scene without true “party ship” vibes, Sky fits perfectly.
Typical itineraries:
She’s heavily used on Caribbean and European itineraries, including longer Med routes and some repositionings. For many guests comparing Princess cruise ships by age, Sky Princess is the “default modern choice” because her deployment is often right where mainstream cruisers want to go.
Why choose Sky Princess over other ships of a similar age:
Sky Princess is your pick if you’re intrigued by Sky Suites, want very current decor, and like the idea of a Royal Class ship that feels completely bedded in operationally. She hits a nice sweet spot between “new and shiny” and “well proven in service.”
Majestic Princess – 2017 (Royal Class)
Majestic Princess started life tailored for the Chinese market, then was repositioned and refitted for a more global audience. She’s still Royal Class at heart, but with some unique touches in her venues and art. At around 143,700 tons and 3,560 guests, she fits right alongside Sky and Regal in size.
After recent dry-dock work, she now closely resembles her Royal Class sisters, with Princess staples like Sabatini’s, Alfredo’s, Ocean Terrace Sushi Bar, Salty Dog Gastropub, and O’Malley’s pub. That refit also tailored her for Mediterranean, Canada/New England, Alaska, and Caribbean seasons, so she’s no longer niche to Asia alone.
Who Majestic Princess is best for
- Travelers who like Royal Class features but want a slightly quirkier ship history and design.
- Guests sailing mixed itineraries (Med, North America, Australasia) who value a familiar layout.
- Those who appreciate a balance of classic Princess ambiance and updated venues.
Vibe on board:
Majestic Princess has a slightly different personality than her Royal sisters because of her original design for the Asian market. Even after refits, you can still feel a bit of that international flair in some venues and decor choices. The atmosphere is upbeat but not wild, with a strong emphasis on dining and evening entertainment rather than top-deck thrills.
Typical itineraries:
You’ll see Majestic rotating through Mediterranean, Canada/New England, Alaska, and Caribbean depending on season. She’s one of the more globally flexible ships in the Princess cruise ships by age family, often used where Princess wants a big, capable ship but not necessarily the very newest.
Why choose Majestic Princess over other ships of a similar age:
Choose Majestic if her itineraries line up with your plans and you like the idea of a Royal Class ship with just a hint of a different design story. She’s especially attractive if you’re doing a Europe + North America combo within the same year and want consistency in ship features.
Regal Princess – 2014 (Royal Class)
Regal Princess is a near twin of Royal Princess, with the same SeaWalk glass walkway jutting out over the side, inviting (or terrifying) you to look straight down at the water far below. She launched with some improvements over Royal, including a proper aft pool that early feedback had demanded.
She clocks in at roughly 142,000+ tons and about 3,560 guests, and features the full Royal Class lineup: Piazza, adults-only Sanctuary, Movies Under the Stars, multiple specialty venues, and modern cabins heavy on balconies.
Who Regal Princess is best for
- First-timers who want the “classic” Royal Class experience without worrying about experimental features.
- SeaWalk fans (or people who want that iconic photo).
- Cruisers who like a large ship but still want a certain level of calm and traditional dining.
Vibe on board:
Regal Princess feels like the “classic” version of what Royal Class is supposed to be. The SeaWalk, the Piazza, the pool deck, and the mix of bars and lounges all come together in a way that feels settled and familiar. The energy is friendly and social, but many guests still find it easy to slip away to quieter corners when they want a break.
Typical itineraries:
She’s frequently on Caribbean and Europe runs, with some transatlantic and repositioning cruises in the mix. For many people sorting Princess cruise ships by age and availability, Regal Princess ends up in the “happy middle” on price, age, and itinerary options.
Why choose Regal Princess over other ships of a similar age:
Regal Princess is ideal if you want a straightforward decision: modern, not the newest, with a layout that has proven popular. You choose her when you don’t need the absolute latest ship, but you want a Royal Class experience with lots of sailings to choose from.
Royal Princess – 2013 (Royal Class)
Royal Princess was the prototype Royal Class ship, the one that set the template for Regal, Majestic, Sky, Enchanted, and Discovery. She debuted features like the SeaWalk, a grand Piazza atrium, and the more vertical, resort-style layout that defines modern Princess megaships.
She was christened in Southampton by Catherine, Princess of Wales (then Duchess of Cambridge), which is a fun bit of trivia that still comes up in ship lore. Since launch she’s been upgraded with enhancements like an aft pool and other tweaks based on early guest feedback, plus later MedallionClass updates. She’s often found in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, plus seasonal routes elsewhere.
Who Royal Princess is best for
- Fans who want to experience the original Royal Class layout that started it all.
- Travelers interested in South Pacific and ANZ itineraries on a large, modern ship.
- Guests who like a good mix of tradition and modern perks.
Vibe on board:
Royal Princess has a bit of a flagship aura because she was the first of her class and has that royal naming story. The vibe onboard is elegant and slightly more traditional than some of the newer sisters, but the Piazza and pool areas still provide plenty of life. She feels like a bridge between classic and modern Princess, which many loyalists love.
Typical itineraries:
She often works Australia, New Zealand, South Pacific, and sometimes Alaska or Europe, depending on season. If you’re comparing Princess cruise ships by age and want a Royal Class experience outside the standard Caribbean/Med pattern, Royal Princess is often the one doing those interesting deployments.
Why choose Royal Princess over other ships of a similar age:
You pick Royal Princess if you like the idea of sailing the original Royal Class blueprint, or if her itineraries in the South Pacific or Australia line up with your dream trip. She’s a great option when you want Royal Class features in more far-flung regions.
Mid-Era & Crown / Grand Class Princess Ships
Here’s where you move from the mega-new to ships that still feel contemporary but have more “classic Princess” lines. These often balance good value, slightly smaller crowds, and still-plenty-of-amenities.
Ruby Princess – 2008 (Grand / Crown Sub-Class)
Ruby Princess is the youngest of the Crown / extended Grand Class, essentially the capstone of a very successful design era. At around 113,561 tons and roughly 3,080 guests, she’s big for her generation but noticeably cozier than Royal and Sphere.
She added the Riviera Deck on top of the original Grand Class blueprint, bumping capacity and reshaping cabin distribution. A 2018 refit brought in Princess Luxury Beds across all cabins and added Club Class Mini Suites, giving frequent cruisers an “almost suite” option with dedicated dining perks.
You’ll typically see Ruby sailing West Coast routes, Alaska, and Australia depending on the season. She hits that sweet spot where you still get multiple pools, specialty dining, and entertainment, but the ship feels more navigable and less “mall at sea.”
Who Ruby Princess is best for
- Guests who want big-ship options without mega-ship crowds.
- West Coast regulars and Alaska cruisers who prioritize itinerary and value.
- Travelers who appreciate a classic Princess feel with updated cabins and Club Class options.
Vibe on board:
Ruby Princess feels like a comfortable, classic big ship. The decor leans warm and traditional, the crowds are manageable, and the overall rhythm is a little slower than on the newest giants. You still get multiple pools, a busy Piazza, and live music, but the ship doesn’t feel like it’s trying to be a theme park.
Typical itineraries:
She’s often seen on West Coast, Alaska, Australia, and Hawaii itineraries, with seasonal shifts that make her a favorite for people who cruise from San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Sydney. If you’re sorting Princess cruise ships by age and want a familiar, flexible workhorse, Ruby Princess fits that bill.
Why choose Ruby Princess over other ships of a similar age:
You pick Ruby when you want big-ship options with slightly lower pricing than Royal Class, and when her West Coast or Australasian deployment lines up with your plans. She’s a sweet-spot choice if you like Princess but don’t need the newest hardware.
Emerald Princess – 2007 (Grand / Crown Sub-Class)
Emerald Princess is another Crown-era ship, virtually sharing specs with Ruby: around 113,561 tons and just over 3,000 guests. She’s known for her multi-deck Piazza, multiple pools, and strong mix of European and long-haul itineraries, including ex-UK sailings and extended routes to Hawaii, Alaska, and the Caribbean in the mid-2020s.
A substantial 2019 renovation refreshed cabins and public areas, added the Princess Luxury Bed fleet-wide, introduced interconnecting cabins for families, and brought in the Salty Dog Gastropub.
Who Emerald Princess is best for
- UK and Europe-based cruisers who want a familiar, mid-sized ship.
- Guests who like a traditional Piazza vibe and good pub-style options.
- Families who can use those newer connecting-cabin options.
Vibe on board:
Emerald Princess offers a cozy, traditional Princess feel with a lively Piazza and plenty of outdoor space. The ship feels friendly and familiar, with a passenger mix that often includes lots of repeat Princess guests. It’s easy to navigate after a day or two, which many people prefer over the vertical layers of the newest megaships.
Typical itineraries:
She frequently runs ex-UK European cruises, Caribbean seasons, and longer itineraries to Hawaii and Alaska. If you’re browsing Princess cruise ships by age from a UK or European departure point, Emerald Princess is likely to show up again and again.
Why choose Emerald Princess over other ships of a similar age:
Emerald is a strong choice if you want a classic Princess experience with updated cabins, especially when sailing from the UK or chasing longer Europe/Caribbean/Hawaii itineraries without moving to Royal Class fares.
Crown Princess – 2006 (Grand / Crown Sub-Class)
Crown Princess is the first of the Crown-era trio (Crown, Emerald, Ruby) that iterated on the Grand Class design. The big differences over earlier Grand ships were the additional Riviera Deck and the introduction of the adults-only Sanctuary, which became a Princess signature.
A major 2018 refit added Princess Luxury Beds, refreshed poolside dining into more modern fast-casual options, and rolled out Club Class Mini Suites. Like her sisters, she aims squarely at cruisers who want lots of dining and entertainment but still prefer a more traditional cruise personality than you’ll find on the very newest giants.
Who Crown Princess is best for
- Guests who like adults-only spaces like the Sanctuary and a classic top deck.
- Repeat Princess cruisers who know the layout and want something “just right” in size.
- Travelers who like plenty of familiar venues rather than experimental concepts.
Vibe on board:
Crown Princess feels like Ruby and Emerald’s slightly older sibling: a big, classic Princess ship with an easygoing atmosphere and a strong sense of routine. Regulars love her because the ship “flows” the way they expect, and new cruisers often appreciate that she offers a lot without feeling chaotic.
Typical itineraries:
You’ll typically find Crown Princess on Caribbean, Europe, and North American coastal routes, often mixing in some longer sailings. For travelers comparing Princess cruise ships by age who want familiar ports and straightforward itineraries, she’s a very safe bet.
Why choose Crown Princess over other ships of a similar age:
Choose Crown if you value the Sanctuary, adult spaces, and a time-tested layout. She’s a great option when you want a big ship that still feels like a traditional Princess cruise rather than a floating theme park.
Caribbean Princess – 2004 (Grand Class, Warm-Weather Focused)
Caribbean Princess is a modified Grand Class ship built for, shockingly, the Caribbean. She omits the retractable pool roof needed for chillier itineraries, which lets her lean into sunny-weather design and a family-friendly pool deck that’s more open and playful.
At around 112,894 tons with a bit over 3,100 guests, she carries a similar passenger load to Crown-era ships but with some layout tweaks. A 2019 refresh updated cabins and restaurants, including the Reef Splash Zone and staples like Sabatini’s. A lighter refresh in 2022 added more outdoor relaxation spaces and hot tubs, keeping her competitive despite her age.
Who Caribbean Princess is best for
- Families who want a Caribbean-optimized ship with a strong kids’ pool area.
- Sun-seekers who don’t care about indoor pools or cold-weather routes.
- Budget-conscious cruisers who still want a “proper” big-ship experience.
Vibe on board:
Caribbean Princess feels sunny and informal. The design is tailored to warm-weather, family-friendly cruising, with an emphasis on the open pool deck and casual outdoor spaces. The energy skews more family and group oriented, especially in holiday and summer periods, but there are still quiet corners to be found.
Typical itineraries:
As her name suggests, she’s heavily focused on the Caribbean, plus related warm-weather itineraries. If you’re scanning through Princess cruise ships by age and mostly care about short to medium Caribbean runs at reasonable prices, Caribbean Princess is often front and center.
Why choose Caribbean Princess over other ships of a similar age:
You pick Caribbean Princess when you want maximum sunshine, pools, and family energy, don’t need the newest bells and whistles, and would rather put your budget into excursions and extras instead of ship age.
Sapphire Princess – 2004 (Gem/Grand Variant)
Sapphire Princess is one of two Japanese-built Gem-variant Grand class ships, along with Diamond Princess. Coming in around 115,875 tons and roughly 2,670 guests, she’s slightly larger in tonnage but carries fewer passengers than some Crown-era sisters, which gives her a nice space-per-guest feel.
Instead of one huge main dining room, she has multiple smaller restaurants that together handle traditional and flexible dining, which many people prefer for the more intimate feel. Refits have added Club Class Mini Suites, an upgraded spa, and refreshed kids’ and teen spaces, keeping her comfortable and appealing even as younger ships arrive.
Who Sapphire Princess is best for
- Cruisers who like smaller dining rooms instead of one massive MDR.
- Guests who want a “big enough” ship with good itineraries but fewer crowds than Royal Class.
- Travelers who enjoy longer, often more exotic routes (she’s frequently used in Asia, Alaska, and other destination-heavy regions).
Vibe on board:
Sapphire Princess feels like a hybrid: big enough to have several distinct spaces, small enough to feel manageable. The multiple smaller dining rooms, rather than one huge MDR, help the ship feel a bit more intimate at mealtimes. Overall, the mood is relaxed, slightly international, and very itinerary-focused.
Typical itineraries:
She often sails Asia, Alaska, and longer international routes, depending on deployment. When you compare Princess cruise ships by age and zoom in on scenic or less typical itineraries, Sapphire Princess frequently shows up.
Why choose Sapphire Princess over other ships of a similar age:
You’d choose Sapphire if you like the idea of a Grand-based design with smaller dining rooms, plus the ability to chase more diverse itineraries than you’re likely to see on Caribbean-heavy ships like Caribbean Princess.
Diamond Princess – 2004 (Gem/Grand Variant, Japan-Focused)
Diamond Princess is Sapphire’s near twin, but with an important twist: she’s heavily customized for the Japanese market, homeporting in Yokohama and featuring onboard experiences tailored to local tastes.
She’s the only Princess ship with a large Japanese bath complex, plus a true sushi restaurant and ramen / noodle offerings integrated into the buffet. Onboard programming might include yukata try-ons, basic Japanese lessons, and cultural storytelling, which makes the ship itself part of the destination.
Who Diamond Princess is best for
- Travelers wanting an authentic Japan-focused cruise experience where the ship complements the ports.
- Guests who enjoy Japanese cuisine and spa culture.
- Repeat Princess cruisers looking for something very different from the mainstream Caribbean / Med product.
Vibe on board:
Diamond Princess feels distinctly Japanese-influenced compared with the rest of the fleet. You’ll notice it in the bath complex, food offerings, and elements of onboard programming. The ship still feels like Princess, but with a strong local layer that makes the cruise feel more connected to its home region.
Typical itineraries:
She’s primarily homeported in Japan and sails Asian itineraries, including Japan-intensive routes and regional combos. For anyone comparing Princess cruise ships by age and hunting specifically for Japan, Diamond Princess usually rises straight to the top of the shortlist.
Why choose Diamond Princess over other ships of a similar age:
You pick Diamond when you want Japan to be the star of the show and you like the idea of the ship itself reflecting local culture through cuisine, baths, and activities. She’s less about being the newest hardware and more about being the right tool for that specific job.
Coral & Grand Class “Classics”: Smaller, Canal-Capable & Itinerary-Focused
These are the veterans of the Princess fleet: not the newest hardware, but often the most interesting itineraries, especially if you love the Panama Canal, classic promenades, and a slightly more intimate scale.
Island Princess – 2003 (Coral Class)
Island Princess is one of only two Coral-class ships, custom-built to fit the Panama Canal locks while still offering a modern big-ship feel. At around 92,822 tons and roughly 2,200 guests, she’s small by modern standards, but that’s exactly the point.
She has a high percentage of oceanview and balcony cabins, wraparound promenade spaces, and a layout that prioritizes scenery and exterior views. Recent refits (including updates through 2024) have kept cabins and public spaces fresh, while preserving that “classic liner” vibe many long-time Princess fans love.
Island often handles Panama Canal, longer repositionings, and more niche routes, making her ideal for people who cruise as a way to truly travel, not just float around the Caribbean.
Who Island Princess is best for
- Travelers chasing Panama Canal and longer, itinerary-driven cruises.
- Guests who prefer smaller, quieter ships with strong sea-view access.
- First-timers who might be intimidated by Sphere or Royal Class scale.
Vibe on board:
Island Princess feels like a classic, smaller cruise ship with a big emphasis on windows and views. The mood is quieter and more intimate than on Royal or Sphere Class, with more passengers reading, chatting, and staring out at the scenery instead of racing between activities. It’s a ship that encourages you to slow down.
Typical itineraries:
She is heavily used on the Panama Canal, Alaska, and other scenic or extended routes, often including full transits and repositionings. When people sort Princess cruise ships by age for complex, destination-heavy itineraries, Island Princess is one of the most frequently recommended options.
Why choose Island Princess over other ships of a similar age:
Choose Island if you want maximum scenery, manageable crowds, and classic promenade decks, and you don’t mind having fewer specialty venues in exchange for better routes and more window seats.
Coral Princess – 2002 (Coral Class)
Coral Princess is Island’s slightly older sister and the smallest ship in the Princess fleet, at roughly 91,627 tons and about 2,000 passengers. She shares Island’s canal-optimized hull and classic promenade-deck styling, plus a heavy focus on Panama Canal, Alaska, and extended itineraries.
Multiple refits, including a major 2019 refresh and further work around 2024, have kept Coral feeling more current than her 2002 birthdate might suggest. She doesn’t have the sheer variety of venues found on Royal Class, but she compensates with quiet corners, wide windows, and fewer people competing for the best spots to watch the scenery.
Who Coral Princess is best for
- Guests who prefer smaller ship cruising with a traditional flavor.
- Panama Canal and longer-route cruisers who care more about views than water slides.
- Budget-savvy travelers who want strong itineraries on a ship that still feels well-looked-after.
Vibe on board:
Coral Princess has a calm, traditional vibe. She’s small enough that you start recognizing faces quickly, and there’s a sense of community that builds over longer routes. Public spaces feel comfortable and human-scaled, with lots of spots to sit, talk, and watch the water without hunting for a chair.
Typical itineraries:
Like Island, Coral Princess is a Panama Canal and longer-itinerary specialist, often doing full transits and multi-region cruises. She’s also used on some extended Alaska and repositioning voyages where the route is the main attraction.
Why choose Coral Princess over other ships of a similar age:
You choose Coral when you see a Panama Canal or long, scenic itinerary that excites you and you want a ship that’s built on purpose for that style of cruising. Among all Princess cruise ships by age, she’s one of the best choices if you prioritize itinerary over onboard flash.
Grand Princess – 1998 (Grand Class, Fleet Elder)
Grand Princess is the oldest ship in the Princess fleet, and she has the kind of story that cruise nerds love: when she debuted in 1998 she was the biggest, fastest, most advanced cruise ship afloat. Today, of course, many ships have eclipsed her size, but she still has an important role as a smaller big ship with strong itineraries and loyal repeat passengers.
At about 107,517 tons and around 2,600 guests, Grand is now one of the smallest ships in the Grand Class family. Refits (notably in 2019) have refreshed cabins and public spaces and added modern touches like Princess Luxury Beds, yet she retains classic signatures like a wraparound promenade and traditional design elements that newer classes have partially sacrificed.
In the mid-2020s she’s used on Caribbean, Mexico, Australia, and short “sampler” cruises, often at attractive pricing.
Who Grand Princess is best for
- Guests who want lower fares and fewer crowds, and don’t need the newest bells and whistles.
- Nostalgia-minded cruisers who like older ship charm.
- First-timers trying Princess on a shorter, inexpensive sailing.
Vibe on board:
Grand Princess feels like an old-school cruise ship that has stayed in shape. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, with plenty of loyal Princess guests and crew who’ve been with the ship a long time. Decor and layout feel more classic than on newer classes, but there’s a certain charm in that; you feel like you’re on a ship, not just a giant floating resort.
Typical itineraries:
She often operates Caribbean, Mexico, Pacific, and Australia itineraries, including shorter “taster” cruises and value-friendly trips. If you’re ranking Princess cruise ships by age and price together, Grand Princess usually appears as one of the most affordable entry points into the brand.
Why choose Grand Princess over other ships of a similar age:
You pick Grand if you want a lower price point, smaller crowds, and a traditional experience, and you’re fine with fewer bells and whistles. She’s excellent for first-timers testing whether they like cruising at all, and for veterans who actually prefer the feel of a classic ship to the latest megaship.
Princess Cruise Ships by Age: New vs Old, What Really Changes
Looking across the Princess cruise ships by age, you can think in three broad tiers:
- New Era (Sphere + late Royal):
- Star, Sun, Discovery, Enchanted, Sky
- Big, bright, built around Medallion tech and multi-venue dining.
- Better for families, activity fans, and guests who love “ship days” as much as ports.
- Middle Era (Royal / Crown / Caribbean / Gem variants):
- Majestic, Regal, Royal, Ruby, Emerald, Crown, Caribbean, Sapphire, Diamond
- A balance of size, variety, and price.
- Great for mainstream Caribbean, Med, Alaska with lots of choices but not Sphere-level crowds.
- Classic Era (Coral, Island, Grand):
- Coral, Island, Grand
- Smaller and more traditional, with strong itineraries like Panama Canal and longer repositionings.
- Perfect for people who cruise for routes and views, not for top-deck gimmicks.
Age correlates with volume and vibe: newer ships feel more resort-like; older ships feel more like gently modernized classics.
Choosing the Right Princess Ship for You (By Traveler Type)
Instead of just memorizing Princess cruise ships by age, it’s more useful to map them to how you actually cruise.
Best for first-time cruisers
If it’s your first Princess cruise and maybe your first cruise ever, you generally want:
- Easy layouts
- Lots of things to do
- Modern cabins and tech
Top picks:
- Sun Princess or Star Princess if you’re comfortable with a big, busy ship and want the “wow” factor.
- Sky Princess or Discovery Princess if you want modern but slightly less overwhelming.
- Regal or Royal Princess if you’re happy with a solid, proven Royal Class experience.
Best for families
Families usually want flexible dining, strong pool decks, kids’ clubs, and plenty of space:
- Sun Princess & Star Princess: huge, flashy, and filled with modern family zones and pools.
- Discovery, Enchanted, Sky: Royal Class with family-friendly cabins and lots of food options.
- Caribbean Princess: warm-weather design, family pool focus, and post-refit kids’ zones.
Best for bucket-list and scenery trips
If you care more about what you see from the rail than what’s on the waterslide, look at:
- Island Princess & Coral Princess: Panama Canal, Alaska, long repositionings.
- Diamond Princess: Japan and Asia focus with deep cultural integration.
- Radiance-style experiences on Enchanted/Sky/Discovery: for Med and Alaska with more bells and whistles.
Best for budget-friendly cruising
Older doesn’t mean bad; it often means better pricing:
- Grand Princess: oldest, often very competitive fares, especially on shorter trips.
- Caribbean Princess: lots of cabins and good deals on Caribbean itineraries.
- Coral / Island Princess: smaller, but often well-priced for longer routes versus newer megaships.
Best Princess Cruise Ships by Age for Different Travelers
Looking at a big table of Princess cruise ships by age is helpful, but most people don’t book by tonnage or launch year. They book by “Will my family like this?” or “Is this good for Alaska?” or “Can we keep this under budget without feeling cheap?”
This section takes the full list of Princess cruise ships by age and reshapes it by traveler type, so you can see which ships actually fit your life.
Best Princess Cruise Ships by Age for First-Time Cruisers
If it’s your first cruise, or your first time with Princess, you usually want three things: simple choices, modern hardware, and lots to do. You probably don’t want to worry about whether the ship feels dated or if there’s “enough going on” on sea days.
The newer half of the Princess cruise ships by age spectrum is your friend here. Sphere Class and Royal Class give you:
- Big, bright public spaces
- Multiple restaurants and bars
- Familiar “cruise wow” features (big screen by the pool, fancy atrium, stylish lounges)
For most first-timers, the right ships are:
- Sun Princess & Star Princess (Sphere Class): Perfect if you want the newest, flashiest ships Princess has. Think full resort feel, tons of dining, and the most modern cabins and suites.
- Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess, Discovery Princess (newer Royal Class): Great if you want modern design and MedallionClass tech without going quite as big as Sphere.
- Regal Princess & Royal Princess (early Royal Class): Ideal if you want a proven layout and big-ship options but don’t care about being on the absolute newest hull.
If you’re scanning a list of Princess cruise ships by age and feel overwhelmed, here’s the simple rule: for a first cruise, don’t overthink it. Pick a Royal or Sphere Class ship on an itinerary you like, then focus your energy on choosing cabins and planning what you’ll do in port.
Best Princess Cruise Ships by Age for Families
Families care about a slightly different mix: kids’ spaces, pool decks, food flexibility, and reasonable cabin options for 3, 4, or 5 people. Age matters here because newer ships tend to have more:
- Modern kids’ clubs and hangouts
- Family-friendly pool layouts
- Interconnecting cabins and better sofa bed options
The most family-friendly choices across Princess cruise ships by age:
- Sun Princess & Star Princess: The newest family playgrounds in the fleet, with multiple pool zones, huge open spaces, and lots of choice for picky eaters and teens.
- Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess, Discovery Princess: Royal Class ships with a great mix of venues, kids’ and teens’ clubs, and cabins that work well for families of 3–4.
- Caribbean Princess: Built for warm weather, with a very family-focused pool deck and upgraded kids’ water play area; a smart choice if you want a Caribbean-first experience.
- Ruby Princess, Emerald Princess, Crown Princess: A strong option for multigenerational groups who want a classic Princess feel, decent kids’ spaces, and slightly lower fares than Sphere or Royal Class.
If you’re comparing Princess cruise ships by age for a family with young kids, I’d prioritize Royal or Sphere Class for the extra venues. If your kids are teens who care more about ports and Wi-Fi than water slides, some of the Grand-era ships can be great value.
Best Princess Cruise Ships by Age for Couples
Couples usually want atmosphere, good food, and quiet places to sneak away, not just a ton of activities. Ship age matters here because it changes how crowded the ship feels and how many “nooks” you can find.
Newer Princess ships by age (Sphere/Royal) give couples:
- More specialty restaurants for date nights
- Big production shows and live music options
- Plenty of bars and lounges with different moods
Older and mid-era ships give couples:
- More intimate promenades and lounges
- Fewer crowds and often easier bar seating
- Itineraries that feel a bit more adult, especially outside school holidays
Top couple picks across the Princess cruise ships by age list:
- Sky Princess & Enchanted Princess: Great balance of modern style and romantic spots. The Piazza area, specialty venues, and adults-only Sanctuary work really well for couples.
- Sun Princess & Star Princess: If you like a buzzier resort vibe with lots of bar-hopping and varied dining, these are a fun choice.
- Island Princess & Coral Princess: Perfect for couples who care more about scenery and routes like the Panama Canal or longer voyages than about having the latest onboard concepts.
- Ruby Princess & Emerald Princess: A sweet spot for couples who like a traditional Princess ambience, plenty of lounges, and a slightly calmer crowd.
If you’re browsing Princess cruise ships by age as a couple, the key question is: Do we want the ship to be a destination, or just a very comfortable hotel that gets us to great ports? For “destination ship,” look at Sphere and Royal; for “hotel with views,” look at Coral/Island/Grand era.
Best Princess Cruise Ships by Age for Seniors & Relaxation
If your top priorities are relaxation, good service, a quieter crowd and easy navigation, the newest, largest ships are rarely the best match, even if they’re the shiniest. Age helps you here because older Princess ships:
- Carry fewer passengers
- Have fewer loud, high-energy spaces
- Often do longer, more relaxed itineraries
Across the Princess cruise ships by age, the sweet-spot picks for seniors and relaxation are:
- Coral Princess & Island Princess: Smaller ships with big windows, promenade decks, and itineraries like Panama Canal, Alaska, and longer repositionings. Great for scenic cruising with lots of sea-view seating.
- Grand Princess: The oldest ship in the fleet, but updated and often on easygoing, affordable itineraries where the vibe is relaxed and friendly.
- Emerald Princess & Crown Princess: For guests who want a bit more variety in venues but still prefer a calmer, more traditional cruise experience versus the biggest, newest ships.
You can absolutely relax on a Royal or Sphere Class ship, but if you’re actively matching Princess cruise ships by age to a calmer experience, look toward the middle and older part of the list rather than the very newest.
Best Princess Cruise Ships by Age for Budget Cruisers
Budget cruising is where ship age can really work in your favor. Newer ships almost always command a premium. If you’re flexible, comparing Princess cruise ships by age can save you hundreds (or thousands) over a family or group booking.
General rule:
- Newer = higher price, more features
- Older = lower price, better itineraries per dollar
Great value picks:
- Grand Princess: Often among the best-priced options fleetwide, especially on shorter Mexico or Caribbean runs and “taster” cruises.
- Caribbean Princess: A lot of cabins to sell, often very competitive for Caribbean itineraries, especially shoulder season.
- Coral Princess & Island Princess: Fantastic value when you factor in how complex and special Panama Canal and long repositionings are compared with a basic 7-night Caribbean circuit.
- Ruby Princess & Emerald Princess: Frequently priced under Royal Class for similar routes, but still big, full-featured ships that feel like a “real” Princess experience.
If you line up Princess cruise ships by age and sort lowest-to-highest fare instead of youngest-to-oldest, you’ll basically end up anchoring on Grand, Caribbean, Coral, Island, and some Crown-era sailings. These are where you get the best “dollars per sea day.”
Best Princess Cruise Ships by Age for Itinerary Nerds & World Travelers
Some people choose a cruise line because of the ships. Others choose it because of the itineraries. If you’re in that second camp, ship age is actually a huge clue, because the most adventurous and unusual routes tend to fall to the smaller, older ships.
If you’re a map-lover, chasing bucket-list trips, or trying to stack multiple regions in one itinerary, focus less on Sphere Class and more on the classic workhorses when you compare Princess cruise ships by age:
- Coral Princess & Island Princess: Top picks for full and partial Panama Canal runs, longer Alaska trips, and extended repositionings.
- Diamond Princess: Specialised Japan-and-Asia ship with onboard touches that match the destination, ideal if you want the ship experience to feel local, not generic.
- Emerald Princess & Crown Princess: Strong choices for ex-UK Europe routes, transatlantic crossings, and multi-region itineraries.
- Grand Princess: Useful when you want varied regions on a budget and are happy with a traditional ship feel.
If you’re the type who studies deck plans and port maps for fun, you’ll probably end up deliberately choosing the older half of the Princess cruise ships by age list. You trade a bit of onboard novelty for more interesting stamps on your cruise history.
Princess Cruise Ships by Age: Quick Comparison
To sum it up in practical terms:
- Newer ships (Star, Sun, late Royal Class)
- Pros: Biggest range of restaurants and bars, newest cabins, best tech, flashy public spaces.
- Cons: Crowds, higher prices, busier vibes.
- Middle-age ships (Royal / Crown / Gem variants)
- Pros: Strong balance of features, price, and size; very “Princess” in feel; lots of balconies.
- Cons: Not as many cutting-edge venues, some design choices show their age.
- Oldest ships (Coral, Island, Grand)
- Pros: Smaller, more intimate, more traditional promenades and lounges, often better itineraries.
- Cons: Fewer venues, more modest cabins and pool decks, less wow factor.
If you line up the entire list of Princess cruise ships by age and pick purely “youngest,” you’ll almost always land on a Sphere or Royal Class ship. That’s fine for resort-style cruising. But if you care more about Panama Canal, longer global routes, and quieter ships, don’t be afraid to reach further down the age list.
Want the official word from Princess? You can also view the current fleet, ship details, and quick facts directly from the cruise line on the Princess Cruises Fleet Overview.
Jim’s Take
When I look at the Princess cruise ships by age, I don’t think “old vs new,” I think “resort vs classic” and “itinerary vs ship as destination.” Sphere and Royal Class are where I’d send people who want that big, bright, everything-in-one-place vacation: Sun Princess, Star Princess, Sky, Enchanted, Discovery are absolute powerhouses for families and first-timers.
But some of the best travel experiences I’ve seen people have are on the older ladies: Coral, Island, Grand, and the Crown-era ships. Fewer venues, yes, but more time watching the ocean and stepping into ports that mega-ships simply can’t visit. If your dream is the Panama Canal, a long repositioning, or a quiet Alaska sailing, your perfect match is probably not the newest hull in the water.
If you remember nothing else, remember this:
- Pick your itinerary first.
- Then decide if you want the ship to be a theme park (Sphere/Royal) or a comfortable hotel with a great view (Coral/Grand era).
- Only then worry about age.
Once you line up those pieces, the Princess cruise ships by age stop being a confusing list and start feeling like a menu you actually know how to order from.
Princess Cruise Ships by Age: FAQs
What is the newest Princess ship in 2026?
As of 2026, the newest ship in the Princess cruise ships by age lineup is Star Princess, a Sphere Class ship debuting in 2025, followed closely by Sun Princess, which launched in 2024. These two sit at the very top of the Princess cruise ships by age list and represent the newest design language, tech, and suite concepts the line offers.
What is the oldest Princess ship still sailing?
The oldest ship in the Princess cruise ships by age list is Grand Princess, launched in 1998. When she debuted she was the biggest and most advanced cruise ship at sea. Today she’s one of the smallest and most classic ships in the fleet. She’s been refurbished multiple times and still offers comfortable cabins, traditional promenade spaces, and solid itineraries to destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, and Australia.
Are older Princess ships worn out or outdated?
Not usually. Princess has been good about refurbishing and refreshing its older ships with updated cabins, Princess Luxury Beds, new dining concepts, and MedallionClass tech. You will notice differences compared with the newest ships: fewer specialty venues, more traditional decor, smaller spas and pool complexes. But if you look at Princess cruise ships by age and expect anything pre-Royal Class to feel “tired,” you’ll probably be surprised by how well the classic ships hold up, especially Coral, Island, and the Crown-era Grand variants.
Which Princess cruise ships by age are best for Alaska?
For Alaska, you want good views, covered spaces, and itineraries built around scenery. Newer Royal Class ships and older Coral Class ships both work really well, but for different reasons:
- Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess, Royal Class ships: Great for families and first-timers who want modern hardware and lots of dining options on Alaska routes.
- Coral Princess & Island Princess: Fantastic if you care deeply about panoramic viewing areas, promenades, and more intimate, itinerary-focused ships.
If you’re comparing Princess cruise ships by age just for Alaska, I’d choose a Royal Class ship for “big resort Alaska” or a Coral Class ship for “classic scenic Alaska.” Both models work; it just depends how much you value the ship vs the landscape.
Which Princess ships are best for the Panama Canal?
Panama Canal is where age and size really matter. The best fits in the Princess cruise ships by age lineup are:
- Coral Princess & Island Princess: They were literally built to transit the Panama Canal and remain the most iconic “Canal ships” in the fleet. Their size, deck plans, and viewing areas are perfect for locks and scenic cruising.
Larger Grand and Royal Class ships sometimes offer partial transits or Panama-included itineraries, but if you’re specifically booking for the Canal, the Coral Class is usually the Goldilocks choice: small enough to feel intimate, big enough to be comfortable on long routes.
Do all Princess ships have MedallionClass, even the older ones?
Yes. All current Princess cruise ships by age have been upgraded to MedallionClass, which means you’ll get:
- A small wearable Medallion instead of a traditional key card
- Keyless stateroom entry
- The ability to order food and drinks to your location
- Wayfinding, messaging, and other app features
On the newest ships, MedallionClass was integrated from the beginning. On older ships, it’s retrofitted onto a more traditional layout. Functionally, though, you’ll still get the core Medallion experience no matter which ship you choose.
Is it worth paying more to be on the newest Princess ships?
It depends how you cruise. The newest Princess cruise ships by age (Sun Princess, Star Princess, newer Royal Class) give you:
- The most modern cabins and suites
- The widest range of dining and bar options
- The biggest pool complexes and entertainment spaces
If you’re doing a once-in-a-decade family trip, traveling with kids or teens, or you just love new hardware, it can absolutely be worth the extra cost. If you’re more focused on itinerary and value, you might be happier booking an older ship like Coral Princess, Island Princess, Ruby Princess, Emerald Princess, or Grand Princess, and putting the savings into excursions and specialty dining.
Are older Princess ships better or worse for seasickness?
Seasickness is more about size, route, and weather than age alone. That said:
- Smaller, older ships like Coral Princess and Grand Princess can feel motion a bit more in rough seas compared with the largest Sphere and Royal Class ships.
- However, those smaller ships often sail more protected or scenic routes, and you can choose low, midship cabins to minimize motion.
If you’re worried about seasickness and comparing Princess cruise ships by age, your best bet is:
- Choose a larger ship or
- On a smaller ship, pick a midship, lower-deck cabin and avoid extreme forward or aft cabins.
Which Princess ships have the best suites?
If you’re chasing suites specifically, the newest half of the Princess cruise ships by age lineup is where the action is:
- Sun Princess & Star Princess: Sphere Class introduces some of the most advanced suite concepts in the fleet, including Sanctuary Collection suites with exclusive spaces.
- Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess, Discovery Princess: These Royal Class ships offer Sky Suites and a strong mix of higher-end suites with large balconies and upgraded perks.
- Majestic Princess, Regal Princess, Royal Princess: Solid suite offerings with great locations, especially for Med, Alaska, and longer itineraries.
That said, don’t ignore aft suites on older Grand-era ships. They may not be as glitzy as the newest designs, but they combine generous space, big balconies, and often lower pricing compared with the absolute newest ships.
Are smaller, older Princess ships better for a “relaxed” cruise?
Often, yes. If your mental picture of a perfect cruise is reading on deck, long dinners, and quiet sea days, the smaller, older side of the Princess cruise ships by age spectrum can be ideal. Ships like Coral Princess, Island Princess, Grand Princess, and even Ruby/Emerald/Crown tend to have:
- Fewer people competing for loungers and window seats
- Simpler, easier-to-navigate layouts
- Itineraries that emphasize ports and scenery over sea-day spectacle
You can absolutely relax on a brand-new Sphere or Royal Class ship, but if your main goal is calm, starting your search with the older, smaller ships usually makes your life easier.
Which Princess ship should I pick if I don’t want to overthink it?
If you’re staring at the full list of Princess cruise ships by age and feeling analysis paralysis, here’s the quick-and-dirty approach:
- If you want big, modern, lots-to-do → Royal or Sphere Class (Sky, Enchanted, Discovery, Sun, Star).
- If you want classic Princess with good value → Ruby, Emerald, Crown, Caribbean.
- If you want itinerary and scenery first → Coral Princess or Island Princess.
Pick your region and itinerary first, then pick the newest or most comfortable ship operating that route. That simple filter will get 90% of people onto a Princess ship they’ll genuinely enjoy.
