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Why Go?
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 One of Princess' mid-sized ships
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Pathfinder splits its time between Asia and Australia
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Rendezvous Bar serves wine and appetizers such as caviar and pate
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Asian-themed Lotus Spa and fitness center
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Features one alternative eatery, Sterling Steakhouse
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Itineraries and Ports of Call: Asia • Australia & New Zealand • South Pacific
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Sun Princess Review
When Sun Princess was launched (way back when!) in 1995, it was not only Princess' largest ship but also the industry's biggest-ever vessel. Along with Sun-class vessels that followed -- such as Sea Princess, Dawn Princess and the former Ocean Princess (now P&O's Oceana) -- the ship was outfitted with innovative features and amenities, created a revolutionary impact on the industry, and served as a precursor to Princess' later introduction of Grand-class ships like Grand Princess.
These days, the ship, which is now one of the smallest in the fleet, is promoted with the "big ship choice and small ship feel" moniker. Is it accurate?
On a recent cruise aboard Sun Princess, it was clear that despite its handsome ambience, the ship has been a bit bypassed by more contemporary Princess innovations. Personal Choice Dining was unveiled long after this ship was designed and so the concept of flexibility isn't as smoothly incorporated into the restaurant scenario. Standard cabins, while efficiently appointed, can be a tight fit for two, and balconies (which number 400) are less than plentiful when compared to newer ships in the fleet. Kids' facilities -- particularly Off Limits, the teen center -- seemed anachronistic.
And, finally, the ship always seemed crowded. There are lines for every buffet, sale and activity. Comparing Sun Princess with the newer Island Princess and Coral Princess, which are 14,000 tons larger yet carry a similar number of passengers, it's pretty clear why the vessel consistently felt crowded.
On the plus side, Sun Princess is welcoming and well run. Princess still provides terrycloth robes and fresh fruit upon request. Boarding passengers are met at each stairwell and directed to their cabins, which is nicer than having to find your own way. Turndown service with chocolates is provided in the evening. And we love that wooden deck chairs with steamer blankets are available upon request.
The ship spent two weeks in a dry dock in Brisbane in the beginning of November 2007 prior to commencing Princess Cruises' first-ever year-round deployment from Australian ports -- mainly Sydney but also Fremantle. (Prior to the refit, furniture in some areas, such as La Patisserie and the adjacent atrium, looked well worn.)
Read Complete Sun Princess Review
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Princess Ships: Caribbean Princess • Coral Princess • Crown Princess • Dawn Princess • Diamond Princess • Emerald Princess • Golden Princess • Grand Princess • Island Princess • Pacific Princess • Royal Princess • Ruby Princess • Sapphire Princess • Sea Princess • Star Princess • Sun Princess • Tahitian Princess
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