Questions about cruises commonly asked by first-time cruisers. For more details, explore the full Princess Cruises FAQ.
Your fare includes accommodations, dining throughout the day (including our multi-course dining rooms), entertainment, and a wide range of activities such as Stargazing and kids’ crafts. You’ll also travel from one destination to the next without additional intercity transport costs. When compared with a land vacation of similar quality, many guests find cruising offers excellent value.
Additional fees may apply for items like specialty dining, shore excursions, spa and salon services, laundry and dry cleaning, beverages beyond standard offerings, and some onboard activities.
Princess ships are large and equipped with advanced stabilizers, so most guests feel minimal motion—especially on itineraries known for calmer waters, such as Alaska’s Inside Passage and the Caribbean. Staterooms located mid-ship typically experience the least motion.
If you’re prone to motion discomfort: - Consider itineraries with fewer sea days or more port-intensive schedules. - Speak with your physician about medications or alternatives. - Many guests find over-the-counter remedies, patches, or acupressure wristbands helpful.
Crew appreciation is a daily, adjustable amount added to your onboard account and pooled to recognize team members across Bar, Dining, Entertainment, Housekeeping, Guest Services, Galley, and other onboard areas. Current daily amounts: - $18 USD per guest in Interior, Oceanview, and Balcony staterooms - $19 USD per guest in Mini-Suites and Reserve Collection - $20 USD per guest in Suites
Note: Not applicable to residents of Australia or New Zealand.
Daytime: Casual resort wear—shorts, lightweight pants, tees, sundresses, and comfortable walking shoes. Pack a sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings or air-conditioned venues.
Evenings: Dress as you would for a nice restaurant at home. For cruises of five days or longer, at least one evening is formal: - Women: Cocktail dresses or evening gowns - Men: Tuxedos, dinner jackets, or dark suits
Every Princess ship offers spacious decks, inviting public spaces, and a variety of stateroom options, with plenty of room to relax as well as opportunities to socialize and enjoy entertainment. Ships vary in size and features, so you can choose the ambiance that suits you best. Explore our ships.
Mobile service is available at sea and in many ports where permitted; charges are billed by your mobile provider. Your provider must have a roaming agreement with Maritime Communications Partner (MCP) or Wireless Maritime Services (WMS). Check with your carrier for rates and availability.
For internet, Princess offers MedallionNet and MedallionNet Max Wi‑Fi, suitable for streaming, video chat, and sharing photos. Packages can be purchased before or during your cruise. Learn more about MedallionNet at sea.
Unlikely. Activities span culinary demonstrations, bingo, wine tastings, spa services, fitness classes, dance lessons, destination enrichment (like North to Alaska), movies, live shows, games, and more. Do as much—or as little—as you like.
Princess welcomes approximately 1.7 million passengers annually, and safety is our top priority. Onboard medical centers meet or exceed American College of Emergency Physicians standards and are staffed by full-time doctors and nurses, available 24/7 for emergencies.
Ships comply with rigorous international and U.S. Coast Guard regulations covering fire safety, navigation, and security. Princess pioneered the SeaSmart virtual training program for bridge officers and has installed fire sprinklers in all cabins and balconies fleetwide.
All staterooms are thoughtfully designed. Pick what fits your style and budget: - Interior or Oceanview: Best value - Balcony: Private outdoor space and fresh air on demand - Mini‑Suite: More living space and an upgraded bathroom, typically with a tub - Suite: The most space and premium perks, often including complimentary laundry and professional cleaning
Traveling together? Many ships offer connecting staterooms and family suites (sleeping up to eight, on select ships).
Explore stateroom options:
- Suites
- Mini‑Suites
- Balcony
- Oceanview
- Interior
Shore excursions are curated experiences in each port—sightseeing, culture, adventure, family activities, and more—operated by vetted providers that meet Princess standards. We coordinate tour timing with ship operations and monitor returns; if a Princess‑operated tour is delayed, the ship can be held to ensure your return.
You can book shore excursions in Manage Booking starting approximately 12 weeks before travel and up to 5 days before departure. Explore ports and excursions or browse destination videos.
Want deeper details on policies, packing, accessibility, embarkation, and more? Visit the comprehensive Princess Cruises FAQ.
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