The newest ship from Princess Cruises, Sun Princess, will debut in October 2024 with a bounty of food choices for every ethnic taste. Passengers will never feel hungry, that’s for sure.

One of the highlights will include a theater of Japanese Teppanyaki at Umai Teppanyaki, where the cuisine mingles with captivating performances.

For pub fans, there will be O’Malley’s. Princess says the venue “reimagines the classic Irish pub concept with a refreshing twist."

Seafood devotees can grab their fill at the Catch by Rudi from award-winning chef Rudi Sodamin. And for American food traditionalists, the Promenade will serve up slices of pizza, gourmet burgers, flavorful hot dogs, freshly baked bagels, and a tempting selection of ice cream.

Traditional favorites  

While the new additions promise novelty, Sun Princess will also offer timeless favorites such as the Crown Grill (love the steaks there) and  Sabatini’s (great Italian fare0. And of course Alfredo’s Pizzeria, Kai Sushi, Crooners, and the uber popular  Wheelhouse Bar all return.

The ship’s multiple dining decks cater to all appetites beginning with breakfast and continuing through late-night snack time. Ethnic eats range from Mexican to Mongolian, and cruisers can enjoy coffee concoctions, frozen treats, sushi specials, artisanal pizza, tangy barbecue, deluxe burgers and hot dogs. Vegetarian and plant-based meals give all diners plenty of options.

The Horizons dining room will provide stunning views of the wake amid a natural light that highlights a decorative sculpture. The room stretches from decks 6 to 8.  

The suite life

It depends on your budget, of course, but my motto is to always book a suite if you can. And the choices on the Sun sound ab fab. It starts with the Signature Collection, which offers access to the new Signature Restaurant (deck 7) and Signature Lounge (decks 15-16). Guests booked in the Reserve Collection of mini-suites and cabana cabins will have access to the Reserve Collection restaurant (deck 7). Both private dining areas offer exclusive menu options that include a Prime Rib Carving Trolley as well as an expanded list of chefs’ culinary creations.

A bounty of bars and lounges

Tipplers will be able to belly up to the bar with choices such as Bellini’s Cocktail on deck 7. It's an attractive venue that sparkles like a diamond in the center of the Piazza.  

Good Spirits at Sea (deck 7) takes guests around the globe in search of extraordinary everyday people, sharing stories of spirits and collecting farm-fresh, local ingredients to inspire one-of-a-kind cocktail creations. Immerse yourself in the region as skilled bartenders lead you through an immersive cocktail experience. On Sun Princess, this Princess favorite is a distinct venue, and it also offers an immersive martini experience as well as an immersive royal tea experience.

The O’Malley’s Irish Pub, which took its bow on Enchanted Princess, joins Sun Princess as a traditional Irish pub with live music, interactive entertainment and menu items including the freshly ground ribeye-blend Bushmills Blue Burger and the O’Malley’s Burger patties, dressed with Bushmills whiskey glaze. Located in the heart of the ship adjacent to the Piazza and open for lunch, dinner and late-night fare, O’Malley’s serves up comfort food at its best– pub-style Fish & Chips, Traditional Bangers & Mash, Shepherd’s Pie – along with casual and friendly banter and possibly even a wee bit of blarney.

Specialty dining

The iconic Crown Grill is truly a carnivore’s delight with premium aged beef cooked to your gusto. There are also fresh seafood items ... but the meat rules. It happens to be a charming room where my husband Richard and I had a few celebratory birthdays and anniversary dinners over the years.

Kai Sushi — which sits adjacent to the heart of the Piazza — serves your favorite sushi, sashimi, rolls and more,  along with spectacular views from the Sphere window. It offers a vast array of sushi and sashimi specialties, plus signature rolls like Crispy Lobster Tempura. Diners at Wagyu at Sabatini’s can witness pasta being made fresh in an all-new pasta room with sweeping circular windows. This Princess favorite features an inspired interior design with intimate bistro-style nooks and a dramatic circular dining room. Menu favorites include Sicilian fried mozzarella rice balls scented with black truffle, creamy burrata caprese and classic beef carpaccio for starters. Then they bring on seafood dishes, and primavera pastas round out a menu peppered with savory meat dishes featuring lamb chops, veal tenderloin and strip loin steak. Il Dolce caps the experience with an Italian classic, tiramisu, as well as a selection of pastries, tortes and a ricotta cheesecake.

Umai Teppanyaki is exclusive to Sun Princess. The Umai Teppanyaki is a feast for the senses, offering a fusion of top cuisine and showmanship. Here, highly skilled masters of teppanyaki take center stage, using their fiery skills and flair to create a dazzling display on a sizzling hot grill. Masters of slicing and dicing, the chefs mesmerize guests while juggling meats, poultry, fish and vegetables on the iron Teppan grill that serves as their stage. Guests have front-row seats at the table to witness the fun while sipping signature drinks like the Wasabi Cocktail and Japanese Martini. This three-act show begins with a selection of starters like Pork Belly Yakitori or Spicy Tuna on the Rocks; progresses to entrées like black cod in soy reduction and filet mignon with champagne Cognac flambé; then takes a bow with a charming Chocolate Bento Box dessert with green tea ice cream.

Adjacent to World Fresh is the Catch by Rudi (deck 9), a pop-up dinner concept from renowned chef Rudi Sodamin showcasing treasures from the sea like oysters on the half shell with red-and-pink peppercorn mignonette; calamari with seasoned panko coating and lemon aioli; Mussels Provençale with crusty bread for dipping; and a Catch of the Day lineup sure to make pescatarians and omnivores smile.

On deck dining

World Fresh Marketplace has been reimagined and now offers your taste buds a journey of of flavors and experiences from around the world.  /the chefs serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner at nine food stations ranging from Mongolian barbeque and Tapas stations to Asian stir fry and Panini stations. There’s something for every guest at stops that feature carving boards of roasted meats, bread and salad selections, fruits, hot dishes, and desserts for every sweet tooth.

International Cafe is another favorite that feeds passengers around the clock from savory breakfast sandwiches to focaccia and flatbreads, along with delightful desserts.

The Promenade puts passengers back in beachy California with outdoor dining offering views close to the waterline. The Promenade Grill and Bar outdoor food counters serve up quick and tasty favorites. Guests can sit at a mix of covered tables and lounge seating open to the sky or an aft view on the covered deck.

Interested in a cruise on Sun Princess?

Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the 175,500-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess will boast the most balcony space in the fleet. The ship sets sail in October 2024.

Interested in a cruise on this ship? Contact the Cruiseable Business Department and a travel consultant will send you all the info you need — plus get you all the extras. Email [email protected] or call 1-877-322-3773. 

River cruising is one of the breakout stars in travel for 2016 and there are more ways than ever to experience rivers around the world onboard any number of ships. However, there are a few tried and true tricks to making your river cruise experience a success and to fall in love with this mode of travel that can take you around the world.

Here are five ways to enjoy the journey.

One of the first things I always did when cruising on a Crystal ship was to book massages and facials. The ships’ spas were so popular that treatments often sold out well before embarkation day.

So it comes as welcome news that Crystal Cruises, which is returning to the high seas this summer after bankruptcy proceedings, will be launching a new conceptual spa aptly named Aurora — inspired by the Roman goddess of the same name.

As we reported earlier, Crystal Cruises, the popular luxury line that suddenly went belly-up last year, is returning to the seas in 2024 under the aegis of Abercrombie and Kent, which took possession of its ships Serenity and Symphony at auction following a bankruptcy proceeding.

Now comes word that the sister ships will re-enter the nautical arena with inviting new itineraries that include four glorious Grand Journeys of 37 to 68 nights to some of the most sought-after destinations in the world.

The Grand Voyages will offer longer port stays and overnight calls to iconic and off-the-beaten-track ports of call throughout the globe.

Dreamy destinations

Crystal Serenity will call at 29 countries and 62 destinations over the course of up to 141 nights. Among the offerings are:

Vancouver to Quebec City (August 13 - September 24, 2024) is an epic 42-night cross-continent journey that starts with a sailing down the West Coast, Baja California, and Mexican coasts.  She will also sail through the Caribbean before heading up the East Coast to New York City and on to Quebec City.

Mathieu Dupuis / Cruise Saint LawrenceQuebec City will be the final port of call for Crystal Serenity's first Grand Voyage in summer-fall 2024.

 Meanwhile, Crystal Symphony will be kicking off its return debut on January 24, 2024 with a Sydney to Singapore sailing that ends March 12, 2024 and is part of its three Grand Journey Itineraries.

Symphony sails on a seven-week voyage from Sydney to Hong Kong on January 4, 2024 that will explore Australia, New Zealand, and Asia with highlights including the Great Barrier Reef, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and include overnight calls in destinations such as Vietnam, Thailand, and China.

Next on its agenda is a Lisbon to Monte Carlo voyage that begins May 20 and ends July 4. This 45-night journey provides  passengers a taste of Iberian culture with port calls in Portugal and Spain before sailing the blue sea to the enchanting cities of Cannes and Monte Carlo. Crystal Symphony will then head south in Italy toward stops in France, Croatia, and Greece, featuring visits to some of the most breathtaking islands such as Santorini, Crete, and Mykonos. An overnight call in Istanbul kicks off the last segment before this trip concludes in Monte Carlo.

Following that is a Stockholm to London voyage (August 11 - September 18, 2024). The Baltic and Northern Europe Grand Journey begins with visits to destinations including Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. Four overnights include Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Dundee. From there, the ship will  spend seven nights exploring all Iceland has to offer, including the iconic Northern Lights in Reykjavik. The voyage will sail down the Scottish coast and around England and conclude in Dover.

Major facelifts

Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony have been crowning jewels of the sea, offering the ultimate in refined elegance. And when they relaunch, they will continue to shine after undergoing extensive refurbishments in Trieste, Italy. Both vessels will sport larger, nore modern suites with artisanal finishes, progressive onboard wellness offerings, a tonier spa and a pickleball court. Other changes include revitalized entertainment and events.

Signature savings

Abercrombie & Kent is expected to maintain Crystal’s highly rated signature services, amenities and all-inclusive fare structure of free  drinks, gratuities, superb cuisine, top-notch crew and highly trained butlers on Penthouse decks.

Ready to cruise in luxury?

Interested in hearing more about the new Crystal ships? Contact a Cruiseable travel consultant in our business department at 1-866-3773 or email [email protected].

Related

• Crystal returns under new owner with lots of dazzle

I can remember way back when Princess Cruises operated a tiny fleet of Love Boats. My husband and I sailed on them all — Island Princess, Pacific Princess and Princess Italia — and they were dreamy getaways for an idlyllic escape.

Since then the fleet has increased with bigger, innovative and even dreamier vessels. The newest, now under construction, will be Star Princess, the second Sphere Class cruise ship. It will begin an inaugural season of Mediterranean voyages when it debuts in August 2025.

Tickets go on sale June 1 for its Europe 2025 program.

Star Princess joins Sun Princess as the largest ships ever built for Princess at 175,500 gross tons and carrying 4,300 guests at double occupancy. The new ship is built on a platform that is distinctly different and unique to Princess, designed to simultaneously embrace the Princess heritage while celebrating the romance of the sea by offering more dynamic, outward views.

Bigger than all the rest

The Star is 20 percent larger than any of the line’s existing ships. At the same time, the ship's design has been modeled to retain Princess's intimacy. It will boast groundbreaking spaces such as the Dome, a transformational entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini. Also featured will be a next-level Piazza with a large glass sphere and Princess Arena, a configurable, technologically advanced main theater

Among other highlights is a majestic dining room situated aft of the ship that offers memorable views of the ship's wake. Other distinctive characteristics include new food and beverage concepts, an expanded casino, a two-story Lotus Spa and headline entertainment by Cirque Éloize.

Roomier accommodations

The cramped quarters of past ships are now a distant memory. Star is a prime example of the modern cruise ship with more spacious staterooms and suites.

Star will be the second in the Princess fleet to be powered by LNG fuel technology and also is being built with the most advanced sustainable innovations available.Star Princess makes its debut on Aug. 4, 2025 with a nine-day inaugural Italy & Greece round-trip voyage from Rome (Civitavecchia). It will make port stops at Corfu, Kotor, Mykonos, Santorini and Naples (for Capri and Pompeii), followed by a variety of 9- and 10-day cruises sailing from Rome, Athens or Trieste (Venice) that visit idyllic coastal ports. The ship, with a length of 1,133 feet, will have 21 decks.

A little backstory

Princess’ first ship named Star Princess initially launched in 1988 as Sitmar Fair Majesty (and I was on it). With the merger of Sitmar Cruises into Princess, she then entered service as Star Princess in 1989, and was christened by legendary actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn (I was there for that, too). Hey I've been writing about cruises for decades and have made more than 400 sailings. The second Star Princess launched in 2002, as the third Grand-Class vessel playing an instrumental role in the evolution of the brand with popular offerings like Anytime Dining, the only dining program in the industry at the time to give guests freedom to dine where, when and with whom they wish.

Ready to book? 

Interested in a cruise on Star Princess? Contact a Cruiseable travel consultant in our business department at 1-866-3773 or email [email protected].

If you didn’t get the memo, the beloved luxury brand Crystal Cruises went belly up about a year ago. Its two luxury liners, Symphony and Serenity, were purchased on the auction block by the prestigious travel company Abercrombie & Kent.

A&K has altered the cruise line's name to Crystal: Exceptional at Sea but retained the ships' names. They've been redesigned and reimagined to include more spacious suites and staterooms, nine restaurants, dazzling décor, a new spa, gym and even a pickleball court.

Much to the delight of Crystal’s foodie fans, world-famous Master Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa will once again offer his culinary creations for your dining pleasure in the superb Japanese-influenced venue UMI UMA.

Family-owned AmaWaterways will be the first river cruise company to sail the magnificent Magdalena River in Colombia in 2024 when it debuts  its AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia.  This is good news for riverboat lovers looking for adventures on new vessels.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have two beautiful ships joining our growing fleet of 26 award-winning river cruise ships and share details on the new itineraries cruising between Cartagena and Barranquilla along the Magdalena River,” said Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and president of AmaWaterways.

“Everything, from the design of our two stunning ships to the immersive curated itineraries, reflects our pioneering spirit and mission to provide our guests with top-of-the-line accommodations, warm and welcoming services, locally inspired cuisine and enriching experiences engaging with local communities along this fascinating river,” added Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways. “We are extremely grateful for our travel advisor partners and loyal guests who continue to support us and are as excited to discover this new continent for river cruising.”   

Launch times

Ama Magdalena launches on March 30, 2024, and Ama Melodia hits the river on  June 19, 2024. The ships are specifically  designed to maximize the picturesque views along the Magdalena River. AmaMagdalena offers a 60-guest capacity. AmaMelodia can host 64.

Both vessels are fitted with spacious staterooms that range from 237 to 516 square feet. All boast  AmaWaterways signature twin balcony design with both a French balcony and an outside balcony. Public spaces include a sundeck pool, spa and fitness room.  

Immersive itineraries 

Starting in spring 2024,the line will offer two seven-night itineraries, Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia, sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla. Both itineraries provide curated experiences and unforgettable excursions. 

Highlights on these two itineraries include: 

• Uncovering the soul and spirit of the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms” at a special Carnaval celebration in Barranquilla featuring vibrant live performances reserved exclusively for AmaWaterways guests. 
• Exploring the country’s most fascinating cities through historical walking tours in destinations including Mompox, a UNESCO site preserved in colonial charm, where guests will be welcomed by an exclusive jazz performance.
• Birdwatching tours will captivate guests with more than 1,900 species of birds including the Cianeguo hummingbirds and the Chauna chavaria – only found in the Colombia region.  
• Visiting Palenque, historically named the first “free city” in the Americas,where guests will enjoy dancing to world renowned musical styles such as cumbia and vallenato during a Drum Rhythms and Freedom Historical tour.  
• Riding an authentic paola through the town of Calamar.  
• Witnessing the natural beauty of the great Magdalena basin, which harbors many species of flora and fauna not found anywhere else on the planet.

While in Colombia, travelers have the opportunity to make the most of their time and extend their journey with AmaWaterways’ optional pre-cruise land packages in Medellín and Cartagena, and post-cruise land package in Panama City, Panama.  

In Medellín, guests can start their journey with a three-night stay in Colombia’s second largest city. Guests will enjoy indulging in the refined flavors of Medellín’s famous coffee and cuisine during a Coffee Region Tour and Tasting, as well as discover its unique heritage with friendly guides and residents from diverse backgrounds who live beyond the riverbanks. Combining innovation and history into one beautiful destination, travelers will witness the incredible transformation that the city has undergone while visiting neighborhoods such as Comuna 13. 

AmaWaterways’ two-night pre-cruise land package in the thriving city of Cartagena takes guests for a deep dive into the city’s royal history and heritage. Travelers will be inspired by the city that has withstood the test of time and the plundering of pirates through a walled city walking tour, and amazed by the excursions to the Gold Museum, Caribbean Naval Museum and San Felipe Castle.

There's a post-cruise land package to the beautiful isthmus where North and South America meet in Panama City, Panama, that extends the river cruise experience by three nights and allows for time in the Amador Causeway, the historic buildings of Panama La Vieja. It also allows time to walk traipse through the tropical rainforest of the Chagres National Park, where they can delight in the breathtaking scenery of the jungle and learn more about the indigenous Emberá people.  

Fans of Silversea Cruises can look forward to a series of epic Grand Voyages that include three drooly-worthy expedition voyages. 

Take if from one who has sailed on several lengthy Silversea journeys — there’s nothing like it. We’re talking a voyage in the lap of luxury with butler service, fine food, crew members who can’t say no (even with no tipping expected) and lots of free stuff (including Wi-Fi).

"With the global restart of cruise travel, we saw — and continue to see — a strong demand for extended voyages among our guests," said Barbara Muckermann, chief commercial officer of Silversea. "People are prioritizing travel like never before, with a sense of urgency that is unprecedented. Our Grand Voyages tap into a growing interest among luxury travelers for more immersive travel experiences that take them closer to the authentic beauty of the world.

Although the hit TV series is long gone, Princess Cruises is still banking on the show with a special promotion that runs through Oct. 31, 2022. So hurry up and grab your love nest.

Fares to love by

The special deals are available for bookings in 2023 and beyond on cruises and cruise tours to Mexico, the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, the California Coast, Hawaii, the Panama Canal and Canada New England. Fares feature a $765 value when booking during The Love Boat Sale and include a $100 shore excursion credit.

Honoring the Love Boat

This special promotion pays tribute to the series that put Princess and the entire cruise industry on the map. By the way, the line is also preparing to launch another series, “The Real Love Boat,” on CBS in October. The original show took place on the Island Princess and Pacific Princess, mostly in Mexican seas. The new will be staged  the Regal Princess in the Mediterranean. It will be  hosted  by husband-and-wife team Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O’Connell.

How to get in on the deal 

To seal the deal, you need to book a cruise during The Love Boat Sale with the Princess Plus package. The fare  adds highly appealing amenities such as drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities. Another option is the  Princess Premier fare, which comes with everything offered in Princess Plus, plus multi-device Wi-Fi, specialty dining, a photo package, Princess Prizes and a $100 shore excursions credit per person.

The $765 value is based on a seven-day cruise booked with Princess Plus, with the added shore excursions credit, so those booking longer cruises and/or Princess Premier save even more.

Interested? Call a Cruiseable travel advisor

The Love Boat Sale ends Oct. 31 and is available to residents 21 years of age and older of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Bermuda. Wanna go? Call a Cruiseable travel advisor at 1-800-322-3773 or email [email protected].

If you booked a lower-priced cabin on a Princess cruise and are having second thoughts about it, not to worry. Starting in September you can upgrade to a higher category just by making a bid for it. 

Don't be one of those passengers who book cheaper accommodations only to suffer veranda, suite or mini-suite envy once on board. It really makes a difference to sail in more luxurious digs if you can swing it. 

Let the bidding begin!

Beginning Sept. 6, Princess Cruises is offering Princess Upgrade, a bid-based system, in partnership with PlusGrade, that gives guests a chance to  move on up to  an ocean view, balcony, deluxe balcony, mini-suite or a larger spread  suite.

Category elevations will be available initially on five North America-based ships: Caribbean Princess, Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess, Regal Princess and Ruby Princess. The cruise line will then offer it fleetwide at the end of October.

“Upgrading is a popular request from our guests, and we’re pleased to deliver a process that lets them improve their stateroom category by making an offer that fits their budget and lifestyle,” said Princess president John Padgett.

Simple as ABC

The process is fairly easy. Once your sailing is within the Final Payment period and full payment has been made, you will receive an invitation to take part in the program and submit a bid. It’s a small worthwhile gamble. You can choose any category. You can also cancel your bid anytime before it’s accepted, if  you change your mind (unlike gambling).

 Don’t worry if the Princess upgrade email invite doesn't arrive. You will be able to  place a bid online at a special link at princess.com. Additional details about Princess Upgrade can be found at https://www.princess.com/plan/princess-cruise-room-upgrade/.

I'll be using it, and I hope you find it useful, too!

It’s been a year since Holland America rebooted its cruise schedule with sailings on Nieuw Amsterdam back on July 24, 2021.

Surveying the state of cruising today, Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line, said, “The emotions and excitement from a year ago still resonate today as destinations around the world open and we persist in fully getting back to cruising. We are grateful to our guests who returned to sail with us, to our team members who came back to sea, to the ports that welcomed us, to our partners who stood by us and to all of our shoreside employees who got us back in the water.”

Over the past year HAL has operated more than 240 cruises, with hundreds more sailings on the horizon.

Courtesy of Holland America LineNieuw Amsterdam was the first Holland America ship to resume sailings after the pandemic.

10 ships sailing the seas

 Since last July, 10 remaining HAL ships resumed operations in a variety of destinations. In addition to Alaska, its ships are sailing travel to Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Mediterranean, Mexico, Northern Europe, Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South Pacific. And by year’s end,  the ships will return to Australia/New Zealand and South America/Antarctica.

Uber luxury cruise line Silversea just released a first look at its eight signature restaurants for its upcoming new ship Silver Nova. And the offerings are looking very tasty, with settings and menus for every culinary persuasion.

Passengers have a choice of spacious settings or intimate little venues and assorted cuisines. Silversea says diners will benefit from a greater sense of space and stronger connections with the destination, as each restaurant will incorporate all-new design features, facilitated by Silver Nova’s innovative asymmetrical design.