Princess Cruises is counting down to the return of Grand Princess, with the iconic vessel set to arrive in Australian waters in just over 100 days as the line’s next year-round ship.
The return coincides with Princess Cruises’ 50th anniversary of sailing in Australia and will see Grand Princess operate cruises around Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific and longer itineraries, including the 79-day Circle Pacific voyage visiting Hawaii, Alaska, Japan and Southeast Asia.
A ship with a celebrated history
Since entering service in 1998, Grand Princess has become one of the cruise line’s most recognisable vessels. She was the first of the Grand Class ships, a design that helped shape modern cruise ship development, and was christened by Academy Award-winning actress Olivia de Havilland.
The ship has travelled almost three million nautical miles during her career – the equivalent of circling the globe around 130 times – while welcoming millions of guests on voyages around the world.
Built for classic cruising
Among the vessel’s standout features is a full wraparound promenade deck with traditional timber decking, a feature increasingly rare on modern cruise ships. Her mid-sized design also allows access to a wider range of ports while still offering the dining, entertainment and onboard experiences Princess Cruises is known for.
Matthew Rutherford, Princess Cruises Vice President Asia Pacific, said Grand Princess holds a special place in the cruise line’s history.
“Few ships in our fleet embody the history and traditions of Princess Cruises quite like Grand Princess. As we celebrate 50 years in Australia, it’s fitting a ship so closely connected to our heritage will be welcoming guests year-round to some of the world’s most spectacular destinations,” he said.
Princess Cruises is also marking the occasion with a limited-time “Grand Offer”, including up to US$600 onboard spending money per stateroom on selected Brisbane sailings, plus additional air and shore excursion credits on eligible 2027 cruises.
