Grand Princess set to become a San Francisco base ship in 2013

On your last Mediterranean cruise or Caribbean cruise vacation, you may have traveled on Grand Princess - one of the many state-of-the-art ships offered by Princess Cruises.

Now, you can see more of the world in 2013 on Grand Princess as the ship travels to new locations and offers individuals exciting vacations in Mexico, Hawaii and Alaska.

Princess Cruises announced this year that the renovated Grand Princess is set to become a base ship off the coast of San Francisco, giving travelers the option to experience some of the amenities featured on recently constructed Princess cruise ships.

"Princess ships have been cruising from San Francisco for more than 40 years, and we greatly appreciate the company's longstanding partnership with our city," said Monique Moyer, executive director of the Port of San Francisco. "We are delighted to now have our first year-round ship based here, and it is a natural fit that the vessel is the caliber of Grand Princess."

Renovations on Grand Princess

Princess Cruises redesigned and revamped Grand Princess for San Francisco to ensure a state-of-the-art experience for seasoned travelers and new cruisers alike. On Grand Princess, there is an Italian-inspired Piazza, numerous clubs, bars and staterooms with 24-room service. The ship caters to approximately 2,600 passengers.

Leaves, the cruise line's first specialty tea lounge, is also on board Grand Princess. Enhancements have been made to the Lotus Spa, Horizon Court and the wedding chapel.

The 2013-14 sailing season

To celebrate the newly renovated Grand Princess, there will be a series of vacation options for travelers who want to embark on an Alaska cruise, Hawaii cruise or trip down to Mexico. Grand Princess is slated to go on 13 voyages to Alaska, two to Mexico and 15 sailings to the Hawaiian Islands.

Furthermore, more than a handful of sailings will be offered to those who want to explore the lush California coast - the new home of Grand Princess. Travelers can visit Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, San Diego and Ensenada.

Whether you want to explore the Hawaiian islands or you want to stay close to home and explore California on the mainland, the renovated Grand Princess can take you there. While on board, you won't have a shortage of activities to participate in as you sail to your desired destination.