In a pivotal update from the maritime world, Princess Cruises, with renowned shipbuilder Fincantieri, has postponed the debut of its much-anticipated Sphere Class vessel, the Star Princess. Initially slated for delivery on July 29, 2025, the new timeline pushes this to September 26, 2025. This adjustment necessitates the cancellation of its nine inaugural voyages, a decision fueled by a strategic commitment to quality and guest satisfaction.

John Padgett, President of Princess Cruises, emphasized the decision’s rationale: “Despite our collective dedication and relentless pursuit to deliver the ship in late July, it has become evident that additional time is required to ensure the Star Princess is delivered to the highest standards expected by our guests.”

The revised inaugural schedule features three enticing new voyages. The Star Princess will begin with an 11-day roundtrip Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona on October 4, 2025, followed by a 7-day Mediterranean adventure on October 15. The sequence culminates in a 14-day transatlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale on October 22, marking the beginning of the ship’s Caribbean season. Prospective travellers can mark their calendars for April 30, 2024, when these cruises will officially open for sale.

Affected guests have been provided with several compensatory options. They can rebook on any Princess cruise globally, including aboard the new Star Princess or its sister ship, the Sun Princess, among others. Incentives for rebooking include future cruise credits and onboard credits tailored to the selected cruise. Alternatively, a full refund is available for those who cancel their bookings outright.

Princess Cruises has also pledged to protect travel agent commissions on all fully paid bookings, underscoring its commitment to its partners during this scheduling shift.

The Star Princess represents the second jewel in Princess Cruises’ new Sphere Class. Its sister ship, the Sun Princess, set sail in February and has been lauded as a modern incarnation of the iconic Love Boat. The ship introduces innovative features such as The Dome and The Sphere, a suspended glass piazza, pushing the boundaries of traditional cruise ship design.

For further details on the Sphere Class ships or to explore Princess Cruises’ offerings, visit www.princess.com or consult a professional travel advisor.

Written by: Michelle Warner

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