Channel 4's 'Cruising to the Ends of the Earth'
You may have seen that there is an exhilarating new series on Channel 4, Cruising to the Ends of the Earth, which was filmed on four Princess ships. Packed with epic scenery and unforgettable adventures, the series follows crew and guests as they venture to some of the world’s most striking frontiers, from Alaska’s icy wilderness to the dramatic Mediterranean landscapes and the vibrant shores of Japan and South Korea. Scroll down to discover the destinations that were visited and meet the crew who were filmed.
Discover the Mediterranean’s best-kept secrets on a fly cruise
Start your journey among ancient wonders, with easy access to the Acropolis and old Athens. Discover Venetian harbours, Cretan cuisine and historic quarters from Crete, one of Greece’s largest islands. Enjoy a beautiful Adriatic stop in Bar, Montenegro, with its medieval old towns, coastal landscapes and Balkan charm. Corfu is famous for its greenery and old fortress. In Messina, experience a mix of history, architecture, and coastal scenery. Take a trip up Mt. Etna, where shifting landscapes, high‑altitude exploration, and guided crater walks showcase the volcano’s dramatic natural beauty. The cruise ends in Barcelona, one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Discover Gaudí’s architecture, Mediterranean beaches, tapas and markets. After 40+ years sailing the region, we know the Mediterranean is a feast of culture, cuisine and iconic, award-winning experiences.
From glaciers to gold mines in Alaska
We’ve spent over 50 years exploring Alaska — and it shows. Our port-packed itineraries deliver nonstop adventure. Soar by helicopter to Denver Glacier to meet mushers and spirited sled dogs, then paddle an Alaskan Native–style canoe across Mendenhall Lake past icebergs and roaring Nugget Falls toward the glacier. Continue with whale watching and a wild salmon feast, experience Alaska’s logging heritage with thrilling lumberjack competitions, and explore the Tracy Arm–Fords Terror Wilderness by high-speed vessel for close-up glacier and wildlife views. Add an adrenaline-filled UTV trek through Tongass Forest, followed by craft beer and local delicacies at George Inlet Lodge, and finish by stepping into Juneau’s gold‑mining past at the historic Gastineau Mill, complete with a mine‑tunnel visit and guaranteed gold panning.
Sailing into Japan’s soul
Japan’s Aomori Nebuta Festival dazzles with giant illuminated floats paraded through the streets and later set afloat amid fireworks, while Busan offers vibrant hillside art in Gamcheon Culture Village, scenic coastal walks, and bustling markets. Onboard, a Bridge visit reveals the precision behind navigating a modern cruise ship, and Diamond Princess’s Izumi Bath provides a uniquely authentic Japanese onsen-style retreat at sea. You can also explore Korean culture through panoramic parks, historic temples, and a traditional tea ceremony, then enjoy a scenic Kinko Bay cruise with views of Sakurajima, a stop at Terukuni Shrine, a black‑vinegar brewery visit, and dramatic volcanic vistas from the Arimura Lava Observatory.
Step inside the spotlight: meet the crew
Dive into the incredible behind-the-scenes facts about some of the crew who bring these adventures to life in the series.
- Captain Craig Street
- Sam Williamson, Bridge Manager
- Palma Arpino, 1st Officer
- Peter Priestley, Food & Beverage Director
- Jess Wallace-Warby, Dancer
- Sarah Vanderplank, Activity Manager
Born in Norfolk and raised around the world, our Captain has spent 35 years with Princess and 17 as Captain. He loves French Polynesia, never sails without chocolate, holds helicopter licences, once crossed the Atlantic by yacht, and shares life ashore with two rescue cats, Blue and Tiger.
Born in Scarborough and now living in Sherburn, Sam has spent 10 years with Princess and now enjoys life in his new role. Inspired by childhood cruises and his stepdad’s ship stories, he’s travelled to 61 countries, the Med is his favourite, though nothing beats sailing into Sydney. He always packs photos and flags to make his cabin feel like home.
Born and raised in Vico Equense, Palma splits her time between home and Ischia. She’s sailed with Princess for 15 years, chasing the adventure she dreamed of as a kid watching ships in Naples. She’s visited 45 countries, loves Alaska most, and never travels without her beauty routine essentials.
Born in Portsmouth and now living in Kyiv, Peter has spent 14 years with Princess and served as F&B Director since 2018. He joined for bigger challenges and worldwide adventure, and he’s visited more countries than he can count. He always brings photos of his family to keep him grounded at sea.
Born in Carshalton and now based in Maidstone, Jess joined Princess in 2022 to pursue a dream of performing at sea. She has danced her way through 32 countries, adores the sparkle of St. Thomas, and never sails without Cadbury treats, Robinsons squash and the cherished teddy from her mum.
Born and living in St Ives, Sarah spent six years with Princess chasing adventure across 45 countries on five continents. She loves meeting new people, exploring Norway, and always packs her photo printer, a good book, her Bible, her laptop and her favourite hoodie. Working onboard is truly her dream come true.
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