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Princess Cruises Announces Three New Voyager Class Ships: Here's What We Know
Princess Cruises is making waves with one of the most exciting fleet announcements in its history. The cruise line has officially ordered three brand-new Voyager Class ships, marking the largest and most technologically advanced vessels ever built for the Princess fleet.
The new ships won't begin sailing for several years, but they represent a major investment in the future of cruising. From cleaner fuel technology to innovative public spaces and larger guest capacity, these ships are expected to redefine what travelers can expect from a Princess vacation.
Here's everything we know so far.
A Brand-New Class of Ships
Princess Cruises has signed an agreement with renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri to construct three next-generation Voyager Class ships. Rather than expanding an existing ship class, Princess is creating an entirely new platform that builds upon the success of the Sphere Class ships, Sun Princess and Star Princess.
The Voyager Class will become the flagship class for Princess Cruises and is designed to combine the cruise line's elegant atmosphere with modern innovations and sustainability.
These Will Be the Largest Princess Ships Ever Built
Each Voyager Class ship will measure approximately 183,000 gross tons and accommodate around 4,700 guests, making them the largest vessels in Princess Cruises' history.
For comparison:
Ship Class Approximate Guest Capacity
Royal Class 3,560
Sphere Class 4,300+
Voyager Class Approximately 4,700
The additional size will allow Princess to introduce new venues while expanding many of the guest favorites cruisers already enjoy.
Delivery Timeline
Cruise fans will have to be patient, as construction of these impressive vessels will take place over the next decade.
The scheduled delivery dates are:
First Voyager Class ship: 2035
Second Voyager Class ship: 2038
Third Voyager Class ship: 2039
These ships represent Princess Cruises' long-term vision for fleet growth well into the next decade.
Cleaner, More Sustainable Cruising
One of the biggest improvements comes from what's powering these new ships.
The Voyager Class vessels will operate using dual-fuel engines capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG). LNG is widely regarded as one of the cleanest marine fuels currently available and can significantly reduce emissions compared to traditional marine fuels.
Princess continues joining other major cruise lines in investing in more environmentally conscious technologies while maintaining the comfort and amenities guests expect.
What Can Guests Expect Onboard?
While Princess Cruises has not released complete deck plans or venue lists, company executives have shared several exciting details about the overall design direction.
Guests can expect:
Reimagined outdoor deck spaces designed to create stronger connections with the ocean
Updated stateroom designs featuring modern layouts and improved functionality
A redesigned Piazza, one of Princess Cruises' signature gathering places
Enhanced entertainment and dining experiences
New guest-focused technologies throughout the ships
Expanded public areas to better accommodate a larger number of passengers
Princess says the new ships are being designed using extensive feedback from both loyal Princess guests and travel advisors, balancing familiar favorites with exciting new concepts.
Building on the Success of the Sphere Class
The Voyager Class won't replace the popular Sphere Class—it will build upon it.
The innovative features introduced aboard Sun Princess and Star Princess, including spectacular entertainment venues, expanded dining options, and modern accommodations, have provided Princess with valuable insights into what today's travelers want. The Voyager Class is expected to refine those ideas while introducing entirely new experiences unique to this class of ship.
Why This Announcement Matters
Cruise ships aren't designed overnight.
By announcing these ships nearly a decade before the first delivery, Princess Cruises is demonstrating confidence in the continued growth of the global cruise industry. The investment also signals that the company intends to remain competitive with the newest mega-ships entering service across the industry.
Rather than simply making ships larger, Princess appears focused on combining innovation, sustainability, and the premium guest experience that has long defined the brand.
Questions We Still Have
Although this announcement answered several important questions, cruise fans are already wondering:
What will the ships be named?
Which homeports will they sail from?
Will they debut in Europe, the Caribbean, or another region?
What exclusive venues will be introduced?
Will Princess expand favorites like The Dome, Love by Britto, or specialty dining concepts?
How will the new Piazza differ from existing ships?
Princess Cruises has indicated that additional design details and onboard features will be announced as construction progresses.
The Bottom Line
The Voyager Class represents one of the most ambitious projects in Princess Cruises' history. With larger ships, cleaner LNG propulsion, thoughtfully redesigned public spaces, and next-generation technology, these vessels are poised to shape the future of the Princess fleet for decades to come.
While the first ship won't set sail until 2035, the announcement gives cruise enthusiasts plenty to look forward to. If you're a Princess fan—or simply enjoy following the latest cruise industry developments—this is definitely a story worth watching.
Stay Up to Date on Cruise News
The cruise industry is constantly evolving, with new ships, exciting itineraries, and major announcements happening throughout the year.
For the latest cruise news, destination guides, travel tips, money-saving advice, and vacation inspiration, visit JackieFleetwoodTravels.com.
Be sure to follow Cheap and Last Minute Cruises on Facebook for breaking cruise news, incredible cruise deals, itinerary updates, and helpful planning tips to make your next vacation unforgettable.
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10 Cruise Ships That Receive the Most Passenger Complaints (And What Cruise Lines Are Doing to Improve Them)
Planning a cruise vacation is exciting, but with hundreds of ships sailing around the world, it can be difficult to know which ones consistently meet passenger expectations—and which ones receive more criticism than praise.
It's important to remember that no cruise ship is universally "bad." Every sailing is different, and many factors can influence a guest's experience, including the itinerary, weather, staffing levels, and even the time of year. A ship that receives a disappointing review from one traveler may be someone else's favorite vacation.
Still, by looking at thousands of passenger reviews from major cruise review websites and travel communities, certain ships consistently receive more complaints than others. The good news? Most cruise lines actively listen to guest feedback and continue investing millions of dollars into refurbishments, crew training, and service improvements.
Let's take a look at ten cruise ships that have generated some of the most frequent passenger complaints—and how their cruise lines have responded.
1. Costa Fortuna
One of Costa Cruises' older ships, Costa Fortuna is often praised for its classic Italian atmosphere but criticized for its aging appearance.
Common Passenger Complaints
Cabins and public spaces feel dated.
Housekeeping quality can be inconsistent.
Buffet selections are repetitive on longer cruises.
Communication can be difficult for English-speaking guests.
Customer service experiences vary widely.
Improvements
Costa Cruises has invested in updating cabins, refreshing public areas, modernizing dining venues, and improving onboard amenities as part of its fleet renewal efforts.
2. Costa Smeralda
Despite being one of Costa's newest and most visually impressive ships, Costa Smeralda has received mixed reviews.
Common Passenger Complaints
Long waits at restaurants.
Crowded buffet areas.
Inconsistent food quality.
Confusing ship layout.
Service that varies depending on the sailing.
Improvements
Costa has continued refining dining operations, adjusting staffing levels, and enhancing entertainment based on passenger feedback.
3. MSC Seashore
MSC Seashore offers beautiful design, excellent outdoor spaces, and competitive pricing, but reviews often point to inconsistent service.
Common Passenger Complaints
Long buffet lines.
Busy bars with extended wait times.
Crowded pool decks.
Communication issues.
Food quality that varies between sailings.
Improvements
MSC Cruises has expanded crew training, improved digital services, refined dining operations, and continues updating its onboard app and guest services.
4. Norwegian Epic
Few cruise ships generate stronger opinions than Norwegian Epic. Some travelers absolutely love it, while others promise never to sail it again.
Common Passenger Complaints
Unusual bathroom design with little privacy.
Small cabins.
Crowded pool areas.
Awkward public space layout.
Elevator congestion.
Improvements
Norwegian Cruise Line has completed multiple refurbishments, refreshing cabins, restaurants, entertainment venues, and public spaces. However, the original cabin layout remains unchanged.
5. Carnival Adventure
Formerly sailing for P&O Australia, Carnival Adventure is still transitioning into the Carnival fleet.
Common Passenger Complaints
Older décor.
Fewer dining choices than Carnival's newest ships.
Inconsistent service during the transition period.
Some entertainment still feels limited.
Improvements
Carnival has begun updating dining venues, entertainment programming, branding, and guest experiences as the ship fully joins the fleet.
6. Carnival Encounter
Carnival Encounter shares many similarities with its sister ship, Carnival Adventure.
Common Passenger Complaints
Aging interiors.
Longer service times.
Limited specialty dining.
Fewer attractions compared to Carnival's newest ships.
Improvements
Carnival continues refreshing public areas while introducing more of its signature dining and entertainment experiences.
7. Diamond Princess
Diamond Princess remains a favorite for Alaska and Asia itineraries, but its age is becoming noticeable.
Common Passenger Complaints
Older cabins.
Dated décor.
Slower internet service.
Maintenance issues on some sailings.
Improvements
Princess Cruises recently completed an extensive refurbishment that included updated cabins, refreshed public spaces, improved technology, and upgraded amenities.
8. Carnival Firenze
Carnival Firenze is one of the newest additions to Carnival's fleet after transitioning from Costa Cruises.
Common Passenger Complaints
Crowded public areas.
Long waits during peak dining hours.
Mixed reviews of food quality.
Some confusion over the blend of Costa and Carnival experiences.
Improvements
Carnival introduced its "Fun Italian Style" concept, expanded entertainment, updated dining options, and continues making operational adjustments based on guest feedback.
9. Carnival Elation
One of Carnival's oldest ships, Carnival Elation delivers affordable cruises but lacks many modern features.
Common Passenger Complaints
Smaller cabins.
Limited attractions.
Aging décor.
Fewer specialty restaurants.
Occasional maintenance concerns.
Improvements
Carnival has completed several refurbishments over the years, refreshing cabins, public spaces, and addressing maintenance and sanitation issues.
10. Carnival Paradise
Carnival Paradise remains popular for shorter cruises but often receives criticism when compared to Carnival's newer vessels.
Common Passenger Complaints
Limited entertainment options.
Outdated interiors.
Smaller pool areas.
Fewer dining venues.
Aging cabin furnishings.
Improvements
Carnival continues investing in cabin refreshes, upgraded restaurants, improved Wi-Fi, and periodic dry dock enhancements.
What Complaints Appear Most Often?
After reading thousands of passenger reviews, several common themes appear repeatedly regardless of cruise line.
Crowding
Modern mega-ships can feel extremely busy during sea days. Long buffet lines, crowded elevators, and packed pool decks are among the most frequent complaints.
Inconsistent Food
Dining is highly subjective, but many guests mention buffet quality, limited menu variety, and slower restaurant service during busy sailings.
Aging Ships
Older vessels naturally show more wear and tear. While many are well maintained, travelers accustomed to brand-new ships may notice dated cabins and fewer onboard attractions.
Service Differences
One sailing may receive glowing reviews while another, just weeks later, receives poor ratings. Crew rotations, staffing levels, and passenger capacity all play a role.
Are These Ships Really "Bad?"
Not necessarily.
Many of these vessels still earn thousands of positive reviews every year. Travelers often praise the friendly crews, exciting itineraries, affordable pricing, and memorable destinations.
In fact, several of these ships have loyal repeat guests who return year after year because they appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and lower fares.
A cruise experience is about much more than the ship itself. Cabin selection, itinerary, expectations, travel companions, and attitude all contribute to whether a vacation becomes unforgettable for the right reasons.
The Cruise Industry Is Listening
Today's cruise lines pay close attention to passenger feedback. Guest surveys, online reviews, and social media comments help shape future improvements.
Recent upgrades across the industry have included:
Refreshed cabins and public spaces
Faster Wi-Fi and improved mobile apps
Expanded specialty dining options
Better entertainment programming
Additional crew training
Improved embarkation technology
Enhanced buffet layouts to reduce congestion
More family-friendly and adult-only spaces
As ships return from scheduled dry docks, many emerge with noticeable improvements that directly address the concerns raised by passengers.
Final Thoughts
Reading reviews is one of the best ways to prepare for your next cruise, but don't let a handful of negative comments discourage you from booking a vacation you're excited about.
Every traveler has different expectations. One person's biggest complaint may be another person's minor inconvenience. Focus on finding the cruise line, itinerary, and ship that best match your travel style, and you'll greatly increase your chances of having an unforgettable vacation.
Whether you're sailing on one of the newest mega-ships or enjoying a classic vessel with plenty of character, the memories you make at sea often matter far more than the reviews you read beforehand.
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Cruise News Roundup:
Royal Caribbean Welcomes Legend of the Seas
MSC Expands Wellness Experiences
Holland America Elevates Its Farewell Dining
The cruise industry never stands still, and this summer has brought several exciting developments for travelers planning future voyages. From the arrival of another groundbreaking Icon-class ship to enhanced wellness offerings and new dining experiences, cruise lines continue investing heavily in giving guests more reasons to book their next adventure.
Here's a closer look at three cruise industry updates generating buzz among cruise enthusiasts.
Royal Caribbean Takes Delivery of Legend of the Seas
Royal Caribbean has officially taken delivery of Legend of the Seas, the third vessel in the revolutionary Icon Class lineup built by the renowned Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.
Following the enormous success of Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, the arrival of Legend of the Seas signals Royal Caribbean's continued confidence in the future of mega-ship cruising.
What Makes the Icon Class So Special?
When Icon of the Seas debuted, it immediately changed expectations for what a cruise ship could offer. Rather than simply being larger, the Icon Class was designed to function as a floating destination with experiences aimed at families, couples, multigenerational groups, and adventure seekers alike.
Highlights expected aboard Legend of the Seas include:
Category 6 Waterpark
The largest waterpark at sea features multiple waterslides, racing slides, family raft slides, and splash zones.
Crown's Edge
Part skywalk, part ropes course, and part thrill ride, this attraction combines spectacular ocean views with adrenaline-pumping excitement.
Surfside Neighborhood
A dedicated family-focused area designed specifically for younger cruisers and parents.
AquaDome
One of the most visually impressive spaces at sea, featuring immersive entertainment, aerial performances, waterfalls, and panoramic ocean views.
Chill Island
Multiple pools create distinct experiences for every type of cruiser, from lively social pools to quiet relaxation areas.
The Hideaway
An adults-only retreat featuring a suspended infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
Suite Neighborhood
Luxury travelers can enjoy exclusive dining, lounges, and private sundecks.
Expanded Dining Options
Guests can expect more than 40 dining, beverage, and entertainment venues throughout the ship.
Potential Future Itineraries
Royal Caribbean has not been shy about positioning its newest ships on highly desirable routes.
Potential itineraries for Legend of the Seas may include:
Eastern Caribbean
St. Thomas
St. Maarten
Puerto Rico
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Western Caribbean
Cozumel
Costa Maya
Roatan
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Southern Caribbean
Aruba
Curacao
Bonaire
St. Kitts
Mediterranean Opportunities
Many cruise fans are hoping Royal Caribbean eventually positions an Icon-class ship in Europe for Mediterranean sailings.
Imagine exploring:
Barcelona
Rome
Naples
Santorini
Mykonos
Dubrovnik
While no permanent European Icon deployment has been announced, cruise enthusiasts continue to speculate that such a move is only a matter of time.
Who Will Love Legend of the Seas?
This ship is likely to appeal most to:
Families
Multigenerational travelers
First-time cruisers
Active vacationers
Travelers seeking resort-style experiences
For many guests, the ship itself becomes the destination.
Holland America Line Introduces New Fleetwide Farewell Dinner
For many cruisers, dining is one of the highlights of any voyage. Holland America Line has long been known for its culinary excellence, and the company is now introducing a new fleetwide Farewell Dinner experience designed to create a memorable final evening onboard.
Why the Farewell Dinner Matters
One common theme among experienced cruisers is that the final night of a cruise often arrives too quickly.
Holland America aims to make that last evening feel more special by offering guests an enhanced dining experience that celebrates the voyage they've shared.
The new Farewell Dinner showcases:
Elevated menu selections
Signature culinary favorites
Destination-inspired dishes
Enhanced presentation
Special desserts
The goal is to create a memorable sendoff before guests disembark.
Holland America's Culinary Reputation
Holland America has consistently ranked among the strongest cruise lines for food quality.
Guests frequently praise:
Fresh Seafood
Many menus feature regionally inspired seafood offerings that reflect the itinerary.
Destination-Inspired Cuisine
Dishes often incorporate flavors and ingredients from ports visited during the cruise.
Specialty Restaurants
Popular venues include:
Pinnacle Grill
Canaletto
Tamarind
Rudi's Sel de Mer
Culinary Demonstrations
Guests can often attend cooking shows and food-focused presentations during their voyage.
Best Holland America Itineraries for Food Lovers
Alaska
Fresh salmon, crab, and regional specialties shine throughout the voyage.
Mediterranean
Italian, Greek, French, and Spanish influences appear across many menus.
Canada & New England
Seafood enthusiasts enjoy lobster, scallops, and coastal-inspired cuisine.
Grand Voyages
Extended itineraries allow Holland America chefs to showcase an even broader range of culinary experiences.
Popular Holland America Ships
Travelers interested in experiencing the new Farewell Dinner may find it aboard ships such as:
Rotterdam
Nieuw Statendam
Koningsdam
Eurodam
These ships continue to earn loyal followings among cruisers who appreciate premium service, excellent dining, and destination-focused itineraries.
What These Changes Mean for Future Cruisers
Taken together, these announcements highlight several major trends shaping the cruise industry:
Bigger and More Innovative Ships
Royal Caribbean continues pushing the boundaries of onboard entertainment and attractions.
Wellness-Focused Travel
MSC is responding to travelers seeking healthier, more restorative vacations.
Elevated Dining Experiences
Holland America is enhancing one of its strongest selling points: exceptional food and service.
For travelers, the result is more choice than ever before. Whether you want thrilling waterparks, peaceful spa retreats, world-class dining, or a combination of all three, cruise lines are investing heavily in creating unforgettable experiences both at sea and ashore.
MSC Cruises Expands Spa and Wellness Experiences Across the Fleet
As wellness travel continues to grow in popularity, MSC Cruises is investing heavily in enhanced spa, fitness, and wellness offerings throughout its fleet.
Today's travelers increasingly seek vacations that leave them feeling refreshed rather than exhausted, and MSC is responding by elevating its wellness programs across multiple ships.
What's New?
MSC's upgraded wellness experience focuses on several key areas.
Enhanced Thermal Areas
Guests can enjoy expanded access to:
Steam rooms
Saunas
Salt therapy rooms
Relaxation lounges
Hydrotherapy pools
These areas are particularly popular on sea days and after active shore excursions.
New Wellness Treatments
MSC is introducing additional:
Massage therapies
Body treatments
Skin care services
Recovery-focused therapies
Couples spa experiences
Expanded Fitness Programming
Many ships are receiving upgraded exercise offerings, including:
Yoga classes
Pilates sessions
Stretching programs
Functional fitness workouts
Guided wellness activities
Mindfulness Experiences
Recognizing growing interest in mental wellness, MSC is adding more opportunities for guests to unplug and recharge during their voyages.
Best MSC Ships for Wellness Travelers
Several MSC ships are especially appealing for travelers seeking wellness-focused vacations.
MSC World America
One of MSC's newest ships features:
Expansive Aurea Spa
Modern fitness facilities
Multiple relaxation areas
Adults-focused spaces
MSC Seascape
Known for:
Outdoor wellness spaces
Ocean-view relaxation areas
Extensive spa offerings
MSC Euribia
Features sustainability-focused design alongside premium wellness facilities.
Ideal Itineraries for Wellness Cruisers
Wellness-focused travelers may especially enjoy:
Caribbean Sailings
Warm weather, beach days, and spa treatments create a perfect relaxation combination.
Mediterranean Cruises
Combine cultural exploration with rejuvenating sea days.
Northern Europe Voyages
Scenic cruising and cooler climates pair beautifully with thermal spa experiences.
Transatlantic Cruises
Multiple sea days provide ample opportunity to enjoy onboard wellness amenities.
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Planning Your Next Cruise?
Whether you're dreaming of sailing aboard Legend of the Seas, relaxing in MSC's upgraded wellness spaces, or enjoying Holland America's newest culinary offerings, now is a great time to start planning your next voyage.
For the latest cruise news, ship reviews, destination guides, cruise deals, and personalized vacation planning assistance, visit:
Jackie Fleetwood Travels
You'll find inspiration, expert guidance, and plenty of foodie and travel ideas to help make your next cruise your best one yet.