Not since Princess Diana has a princess divided opinion quite like the Sun Princess. Bold, misunderstood, and full of surprises, this cruise ship has a personality all her own — much like the late Lady Di herself. In this blog, I’ll share my personal experiences onboard the Sun Princess and explain why this divisive royal at sea has captured my heart — enough to book a return trip next year.

Early Promise and Divisive Reputation

When Princess Cruises announced their all-new “Sphere Class” in 2022, expectations were sky-high. The Sun Princess was poised to be a game-changer: fresh design, bold architectural features, and a promise to redefine cruising luxury. But, like Lady Diana, who captivated the world but often faced criticism and misunderstanding, the Sun Princess sparked mixed reactions.

Was she a mistake? Or simply a misunderstood misfit? Let’s dive in.

Rocky Start, Growing Confidence

The Sun Princess had some early teething issues — incomplete areas on deck 19 and a restaurant reshuffle to fix layout problems. But nearly a year on, she has matured gracefully. No longer tentative, she cruises confidently, ready to take on the seas and her passengers’ expectations.

The Piazza: Bright, Modern, and Like Diana Herself

At the heart of the ship lies the Piazza — a bright, modern, open space full of natural light. It’s inviting and alive, truly the life & soul of the ship but at times, it can get loud for those craving the more intimate, classic feel of earlier Princess ships’ Piazzas. This energy, much like Diana’s public persona, can be both a strength and a challenge.

The Piazza becomes a venue in itself hosting day time activities like Zumba & Deal or No Deal, in the evening it’s an entertainment space one downside to this is the buzz & noise leaks into nearby venues off piazza like the upscale sushi restaurant Makoto Ocean impacting the restaurants ambience.

Intimate Spaces Amid Thousands

Though some venues are smaller than one might expect for a 4,000-passenger ship, the layout cleverly breaks the ship into defined, intimate areas. This compartmentalisation creates a sense of calm and quiet, helping the Sun Princess feel less overwhelming — much like how Diana had the rare gift of making everyone she met feel uniquely special. Good Spirits at Sea & Wheelhouse Bar were two venues that really stood out if you wished for a more intimate venue.

The Dome: Exclusive Yet Magical

The Dome is a dazzling concept — a sunlit, elegant venue for performances and shows. However, its small size makes it feel exclusive, which raises the question: how does everyone get to experience this gem? Perhaps a reservation system, like a palace tour, would ensure all guests can share in its beauty.

Serenity and Innovation at the Aft

The aft of the ship is full of serene hideaways. The infinity pool offers a tranquil retreat, away from the hustle of the main pool deck. The Americana Diner nearby serves up quick service with a fun twist — robot servers at night! Each deck’s aft corridor ends with a peaceful viewpoint perfect for sailaway watching.

Some suggest these could have been cabins, but I love that these spaces are open to all — a nod to Diana’s status as the “people’s princess” who was accessible and all-inclusive.

“A real catch”

For speciality dining, The Catch by Rudi was our favourite. It serves beautifully prepared dishes in an elegant but relaxed atmosphere — a perfect balance that echoes the ship’s personality: sophisticated yet approachable.

Deck 7: My Favourite Haunts

On Deck 7, two venues quickly became my personal sanctuaries:

   •   Bellinis Cocktail Bar: Where the Sgroppini cocktail was a standout — crisp, refreshing, and celebratory.

   •   Coffee Currents: The friendly crew patiently mastered my complicated coffee orders, serving up perfect cups almost hourly — always with a smile and zero wait.

Final Thoughts: A Princess Worth Knowing?

In the end, the Sun Princess’ divisive nature only makes her more fascinating. Like Diana, she inspires strong opinions but also affection and admiration. Her imperfections, boldness, and undeniable charm make her unforgettable.

I’m so intrigued that I’ve already booked a different Mediterranean itinerary with her next year — eager for the next chapter in this royal adventure.

Have You Sailed the Sun Princess?

I’d love to hear your experiences or thoughts! Was she a royal delight or a misunderstood misfit for you? Share your story in the comments below.