Whether you’re new to cruising or branching out to try a different line, here’s what you need to know about Princess Cruises. It’s a favorite of our readers—in 2025, it was voted #1 Mega Ship Line, #7 Large Ship Line, and #20 Medium Ship Line in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Part of the Carnival Corporation (meaning it’s under the same umbrella as Holland America, Seabourn, Cunard, and, of course, Carnival), Princess has a fleet of 17 ships that sail to all 7 continents. It’s perhaps best known for its West Coast and Alaska itineraries, many of which offer both land and sea portions, as well as access to Glacier Bay National Park.
The crowds onboard tend to be a bit older, though you’ll see a good amount of multigenerational families on board too. It falls somewhere in the middle in terms of vibes—expect an elegant atmosphere that’s slower paced than other mega-ships, but not without its perks: Enjoy enrichment activities tied to the destinations you’re sailing to, and evening activities ranging from game shows to silent discos to movies under the stars (sign me up!).
It’s known as being relatively affordable for a premium line, and offers a little taste of everything, literally: think casual dining spots like an Irish pub, pizzeria, and sushi counter, and more formal, special occasion experiences like Crown Grill (a steakhouse), and Chef’s Table. (For a more all-inclusive option, select the premier package.) A perk in most cruisers’ eyes is the MedallionClass technology used to get around the ship—the wearable button is linked up to the package you’ve purchased and the room you’re in, so you can pay on the go and enter your stateroom without thinking twice (as you near your room, the button unlocks your door).
Okay, now that the basics are out of the way, read on for ways to save on your first (or next!) sailing with Princess cruise discounts, offers, and sales.
Enjoy Epic Voyages with up to $1,000 in onboard credit
Recently retired? In a stretch of funemployment in between gigs? If you’re looking to spend a few weeks or longer at sea, consider Princess’s Epic Voyages. These 14+ day journeys come in the form of six curated themes, from transatlantic crossings to South Pacific adventures. On select 40+ day cruises booked by March 17, 2026, you can receive up to $1,000 in onboard credit to elevate your experience even more.
Save up to $1,000 on cruises of every length
Thankfully, you don’t have to be fully decamping from your day-to-day life to save; Princess’s current promotions also include up to $200 in instant savings on 4–5 day getaways, up to $500 in instant savings on 6–8 day cruises, and up to $1,000 instant savings on 9+ day voyages.
Exclusive perks for military members and past guests
Veterans and active, retired, or disabled military personnel from the US and Canada are offered up to $250 in free onboard spending as a thanks for their service. The full amount varies based on the length of your cruise, starting with $50 for voyages of six days or less.
Past guests can also redeem special offers that grow in value with each cruise you take—early access to new itineraries, preferential pricing offers, members-only onboard events, and more. After your first cruise, you’ll be invited into the Captain’s Circle at the Gold level; once you’ve completed 3 cruises or 30 cruise days, you’ll move up to Ruby status; sail even more to hit Platinum or Elite.
Earn more at sea: rewards, referrals, and casino perks
For those who plan to visit the casinos while at sea, know that you can earn Princess Casino perks and discounts as you play, which can turn into special perks like future discounts, comped cruises, VIP invitations to special events and tournaments, and more.
