Princess Cruises has officially launched its newest ship, the Star Princess, which departed from Barcelona on Saturday for its inaugural 11-day voyage. The vessel, which can accommodate approximately 4,300 guests, is now sailing a Western Mediterranean itinerary, marking its public debut.
Key Takeaways
- The Star Princess, the 17th ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, has begun its maiden voyage from Barcelona.
- The ship features unique entertainment, including a new theatrical dining experience called "Spellbound by Magic Castle."
- With a capacity for 4,300 guests, the vessel will sail the Mediterranean before repositioning to North America.
- Future itineraries include Caribbean routes from Fort Lauderdale and an Alaska season scheduled for the summer of 2026.
Inaugural Mediterranean Journey
The Star Princess embarked on its first commercial journey from Barcelona, Spain. The 11-day trip is scheduled to visit several key ports in the Western Mediterranean, including Marseille in France and the Italian destinations of Rome, Naples, and Sicily. The voyage will conclude with a return to Spain.
This initial season in Europe serves as the introduction for what Princess Cruises describes as its next generation of ocean travel. The ship is one of the largest ever built for the company, signifying a major investment in its fleet modernization.
"Star Princess shines brightly as one of the largest and most spectacular ships we’ve ever built, and we proudly welcome excited guests on her inaugural voyage," said Gus Antorcha, president of Princess Cruises.
Star Princess by the Numbers
- Guest Capacity: Approximately 4,300
- Fleet Number: The 17th ship for Princess Cruises
- Maiden Voyage: 11-day Mediterranean cruise
- Departure Port: Barcelona, Spain
Unique Onboard Entertainment
A central feature of the Star Princess is its focus on immersive entertainment. The ship offers a variety of exclusive shows and experiences designed to set it apart from other vessels in the market.
Spellbound by Magic Castle
One of the most promoted attractions is Spellbound by Magic Castle, a unique dining and cocktail experience. Developed in partnership with the famous Magic Castle in Los Angeles, the venue combines magic performances with a 1920s-inspired speakeasy atmosphere.
This new version of the show introduces a theme inspired by the legendary illusionist Richard Valentine Pitchford, who was known professionally as The Great Cardini. According to Princess Cruises, this iteration builds on a previous collaboration on a sister ship but offers a fresh narrative and design. The original Magic Castle is currently owned by Randy Pitchford, a video game developer and the great-nephew of The Great Cardini.
The Magic Castle Connection
The Magic Castle is a private clubhouse for magicians and magic enthusiasts in Hollywood, California. Known for its exclusive and secretive nature, it provides a unique backdrop for the cruise ship's entertainment concept, lending an air of mystique and vintage charm to the onboard experience.
Theater and Live Performances
Beyond the magic-themed venue, the Star Princess is equipped with a high-tech theater that will host two original stage productions. The ship will also feature various live music events and themed nightlife options throughout its different lounges and public spaces.
Another notable architectural and entertainment feature is the ship's glass-enclosed dome. This area is designed for relaxation during the day and transforms into a venue for special events, including candlelit concerts, in the evening.
Leadership and Future Itineraries
The ship's first voyage is under the command of Captain Gennaro Arma, who has been involved with the vessel's development throughout its construction phase in Italy. Leading the maiden voyage "is a true honor," Captain Arma stated.
Following its inaugural Mediterranean season, the Star Princess has a detailed schedule for the next two years. The ship will complete a transatlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where an official naming ceremony is planned for November 6.
Once based in North America, the vessel will operate a series of routes in the Caribbean. After its Caribbean season, the Star Princess is scheduled to transit the Panama Canal. This move will position the ship for its first Alaska season, which is set to begin in the summer of 2026, offering passengers a completely different cruising environment.
- Mediterranean Season: Currently underway (Fall 2025)
- Transatlantic Crossing: Late 2025
- Naming Ceremony: November 6 in Fort Lauderdale
- Caribbean Season: Winter 2025-2026
- Panama Canal Transit: Spring 2026
- Alaska Season: Summer 2026
A Focus on Modern Luxury
Princess Cruises is positioning the Star Princess as a leader in modern cruising, emphasizing its luxury design elements and elevated dining options alongside its entertainment. The company aims to attract both loyal customers and new travelers with a product that combines traditional cruising with contemporary amenities.
In his statement, Gus Antorcha extended well wishes to the crew. "We wish our Star Princess captain, senior officers, and crew much success – may her voyages be safe, her sunsets unforgettable, and may she shine, as her name promises, in the sky and on the seas."
The launch of the Star Princess represents a significant step for the cruise line as it continues to update and expand its fleet to compete in the global travel market.
