10 Things You’ll Love About Princess Cruises (Compared to Other Lines)

If you’re dreaming of a cruise that feels like a step above the ordinary, Princess Cruises might be just what you’re looking for. Having cruised with them three times, I was thoroughly impressed by the premium touches that set them apart from the more ‘mainstream’ lines.

While not officially a luxury cruise line, Princess has a way of making you feel like you’re on one, which is why many cruise fans count it as their favourite.

To uncover what makes Princess Cruises so unique, I asked my Facebook fans for their opinions and dug into other sources to bring you the top 10 things they do better compared to other cruise lines.

1. International Café and Piazza Entertainment

The International Café, open 24 hours, is the ultimate pit stop for a quality coffee or a cheeky pastry, whether you’re starting the day slow or winding it down after an evening show. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a bite without needing to brave the buffet — a win in anyone’s book.

Then there’s the Piazza, the vibrant epicentre of the ship, where the entertainment comes to you. On my cruise around Scotland, I was treated to a bagpiper’s haunting melody echoing through the space — an atmospheric experience that made me stop mid-cocktail sip. Guests love the spontaneous performances that can turn a quiet coffee into a lively gathering with music and occasional dancing.

And let’s not forget the people-watching — it’s a goldmine. Whether you’re observing fellow cruisers or losing track of time watching the performers, the Piazza is a place you’ll keep coming back to.

2. MedallionClass Technology

When it comes to standout features, Princess Cruises’ Medallion technology is a firm favourite among passengers.

This small metal device, provided to every guest, might look simple, but it packs a punch when it comes to convenience. It’s your room key, your payment method, and your personal assistant all rolled into one. Boarding is a breeze, and you can even use it to order drinks or food, which will be delivered right to wherever you’re lounging on the ship. Handy, right?

The Medallion also acts as a clever GPS tracker, making it a lifesaver for groups or families trying to find each other onboard. On my last cruise, we relied on it so much that it became second nature — no more wandering around wondering where everyone had disappeared to!

Solo travellers also love it for creating chat groups (like a ship-based WhatsApp) or just ensuring their drink order finds them without fuss. And if privacy is a concern, you can switch off the locator feature whenever you want some time to yourself.

For younger cruisers, it adds an extra layer of fun with interactive games around the ship — keeping them entertained.

Introduced in 2017, the Medallion has been a game-changer for Princess, with no other cruise line offering anything quite like it.

There’s even a whole market for Medallion accessories to customise how you carry it. It’s a small device, but it truly transforms the cruise experience — and it’s easy to see why Princess fans rave about it.

3. Friendly and Attentive Staff

Another huge highlight for Princess cruisers is the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff on board. Across the fleet, Princess crew members are known for their warm, welcoming attitude and genuine interest in making every guest feel valued.

One of the things passengers love most is that staff members take the time to stop, chat, and make you feel at home — no rush, no hurry. On my last Princess cruise, our waiter went above and beyond every single night, remembering not just our favourite drinks but even our quirks, like how we like our drinks and our favourite food. It’s those little touches that make a big difference.

Whether it’s a room steward greeting you by name or entertainment staff creating moments of connection without being overbearing, the service feels deeply personal and sincere. Many guests commented that they never felt like ‘just another cruiser’ with Princess, suggesting that some other cruise lines are losing that personal touch.

For many regulars, it’s this approachable and attentive crew that makes each cruise feel special. It’s no surprise that so many guests find themselves booking with Princess again and again.

4. Princess Plus and Premier Packages

The Princess Plus and Premier packages are a game-changer for anyone who loves the simplicity of an all-inclusive experience.

The Plus package is a straightforward option that bundles drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities, along with a few other perks. On my last cruise, this package made life so much easier — no need to stress about added costs piling up every time I ordered a drink or hopped online. Plus, the value is undeniable when you realise that the drinks package alone costs almost as much as the Plus fare, with all the extras thrown in!

For those looking to elevate their cruise experience further, the Premier package steps it up a notch. It includes everything in the Plus package but adds speciality dining and a wider selection of premium drinks, including top-shelf spirits and wines. It’s perfect if you’re after a touch of luxury without overcomplicating things.

Compared to other cruise lines, Princess Cruises’ bundled packages offer exceptional value. Guests love the peace of mind these options provide, allowing them to fully relax and enjoy their cruise without unexpected charges sneaking up. It’s flexibility and convenience wrapped into one smart package, and it’s easy to see why so many choose Princess for this reason.

5. Quality Food and Dining Options

Princess Cruises is celebrated for its exceptional variety and quality when it comes to dining options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

The main dining rooms consistently deliver excellent meals, with menus that change daily to cater to a range of tastes. Whether you’re into classic dishes or more adventurous flavours, you won’t be disappointed.

One of my personal favourites was Alfredo’s Pizzeria. The fresh, hand-tossed pizzas cooked in a brick oven were such a treat — I enjoyed them so much that I couldn’t resist returning a few days later! While it’s a shame Alfredo’s now has a charge, it’s still free for Premium guests, and the Plus package covers some meals as well.

Princess also shines with its speciality restaurants, offering a more elevated dining experience. Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and Crown Grill are standout options, where you can indulge in fine dining with attentive service and thoughtfully crafted menus.

With its focus on variety and quality, Princess Cruises keeps even the most seasoned cruisers satisfied, making dining one of the highlights of the experience.

6. Entertainment and Activities

Princess Cruises truly excels when it comes to entertainment and activities, offering a well-balanced mix that keeps guests entertained without ever feeling overwhelmed.

The theatre shows are a definite highlight, often compared to West End or Broadway productions. Whether it’s a lively musical or a hilarious comedy act, the performances cater to a wide range of tastes — and the best part? They’re all included in the cruise fare.

Poolside entertainment is another standout. From live music to themed parties, Princess adds their signature touch with ‘Movies Under the Stars.’ Watching a film on deck, bundled up with a blanket and popcorn, makes for a unique and cosy experience.

On both of my Princess Cruises, the poolside vibes and entertainment stood out as a major highlight. The cruise directors and entertainment staff were fantastic — engaging, but never cheesy, with just the right variety to keep everyone happy without being overwhelming.

For those who prefer daytime activities, Princess offers everything from dance classes to trivia contests and even art auctions. If you’re after something more low-key, their enrichment programmes deliver expert talks and workshops on topics ranging from history to photography.

That said, don’t expect adrenaline-fuelled features like rock climbing walls or surf simulators — that’s not Princess’s style. Instead, they deliver a refined and thoughtfully curated entertainment experience that feels just right for their guests.

7. Private and Exclusive Beach Experiences

Princess Cruises knows how to deliver private and exclusive beach experiences, offering passengers the perfect way to enjoy a special day ashore.

Princess Cays, a private resort on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, is an exclusive haven reserved just for Princess guests. With its pristine sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and ample loungers for sunbathing, it truly feels like a slice of paradise. Whether you’re snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing in a shaded cabana, the resort offers the perfect escape.

On a friend’s visit, she said she couldn’t resist booking one of the private bungalows. Having a cool, air-conditioned space to retreat to was a game-changer, and the incredible lunch delivered straight to our bungalow made it even more special.

In Roatan, Princess guests have access to another exclusive beach, offering a safe and secluded escape from the usual crowds. These beaches are not only beautifully maintained but also come with excellent facilities and attentive service from the onboard staff.

It’s this premium perk that lets Princess guests experience some of the most beautiful Caribbean destinations in a relaxed, personal way.

8. Loyalty Programme Benefits

Princess Cruises’ loyalty programme, the Captain’s Circle, is a standout for frequent cruisers, offering meaningful perks that keep guests coming back again and again.

While many cruise lines have loyalty programmes, Princess fans often praise the Captain’s Circle for the tangible benefits it provides, especially as you climb the tiers. As a Platinum or Elite member, you’re rewarded with perks like priority boarding, exclusive onboard receptions, and discounted fares — all of which make a noticeable difference to your cruising experience.

On my cruises, I’ve found the discounts from my loyalty status unbeatable. After pricing it out, I realised that thanks to my Elite status, Princess consistently offers the best value compared to other lines.

Additional benefits like complimentary internet minutes, laundry services, and extra discounts on future bookings make these higher tiers even more rewarding. Many passengers appreciate how these perks make them feel recognised and valued, adding a personal touch to their loyalty with Princess.

9. Iconic Ship Horn and Sail-Away Music

One of the delightful traditions that sets Princess Cruises apart is its iconic ship horn, paired with the memorable sail-away music that signals the start of each cruise.

Princess ships are famous for their unique horn, which plays a medley of tunes, including the beloved ‘Love Boat’ theme song. After all, the iconic TV show was set on a Princess ship, making it a nostalgic nod to the cruise line’s history.

For many passengers, hearing the horn is more than just a fun feature; it’s an emotional moment that builds excitement as the ship embarks on its journey. It’s one of those little touches that turns a simple departure into something truly memorable.

It might seem small, but you’d be amazed how often guests mention it as one of their favourite reasons to book with Princess.

10. Destination Experts and Shore Excursion Advice

All cruise lines offer shore excursions, complete with experts to give advice, but sometimes it feels like they’re more focused on upselling tours than genuinely helping.

Princess Cruises takes a refreshing approach. Their destination experts genuinely come across as helpful, offering practical advice tailored to your preferences. On one of my cruises, I loved how they provided plenty of tips for exploring independently in ports where it made sense. It’s perfect for those who prefer to go at their own pace.

Of course, there’s still a great selection of curated excursions to choose from if you want something planned. But the lack of a ‘hard sell’ makes the whole experience feel more authentic, giving you the freedom to decide how you want to explore ashore.

Final Thoughts

These highlights aren’t just good things about Princess Cruises; they’re what make the cruise line truly stand out.

Of course, it’s subjective, but these are the reasons many travellers choose Princess time and time again. The cruise line offers so many other fantastic experiences, which is why it’s a favourite for so many.

While it might not be the perfect fit for everyone—no cruise line is—if Princess sounds like your kind of holiday, it’s definitely worth exploring.

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