The summer cruise season in New Zealand has officially commenced with the grand arrival of the Crown Princess, alongside the Royal Princess and Diamond Princess. This trio of luxurious vessels is set to bring a wave of economic prosperity to local communities and businesses throughout the 2024-25 season. The Crown Princess, with a capacity to accommodate up to 3,090 guests, joins its sister ships in making regular visits to various ports across New Zealand, injecting an estimated NZD 30 million (around AUD 27 million) into the country’s economy. The three ships will grace New Zealand waters a total of 19 times from October 2024 through May 2025, promising a vibrant and bustling cruise season.
A Voyage of Discovery and Economic Growth
The Crown Princess’s itinerary is a captivating blend of natural beauty and vibrant urban experiences. The ship will sail to the picturesque Bay of Islands, followed by visits to major urban centers including Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington, and Picton. After these captivating stops, the Crown Princess will embark on a journey across the Tasman Sea, setting course for Sydney, where it will be homeported year-round. The deployment of the Crown Princess full-time in Australia, alongside the offer of popular itineraries in New Zealand, reflects Princess Cruises’ unwavering commitment to the region. The summer cruise season is poised to significantly boost the number of international visitors to New Zealand, playing a pivotal role in strengthening the local economy. This influx of travelers will act as a vital link between New Zealand and the global travel market, showcasing the country’s diverse attractions to a wider audience. Local communities are thrilled with the return of Princess ships, recognizing the substantial economic benefits they bring, particularly to areas that are often less frequented by tourists.
A Blend of Community Spirit and Environmental Stewardship
The anticipated visits of the Crown Princess and her companions are expected to foster a sense of pride among local residents and provide a much-needed boost to port destinations. The enthusiasm for these arrivals is palpable, with communities expressing heartfelt gratitude for the economic and social opportunities that accompany increased tourism. Princess Cruises, deeply committed to New Zealand’s well-being, continues to engage in local conservation efforts through its Princess Local Partnerships Program. This initiative provides vital support to projects like Bay Bush Action in Northland and Otago’s Nature Wonders, which are dedicated to safeguarding the country’s unique wildlife and natural habitats. These partnerships exemplify the cruise line’s dedication to environmental stewardship and its desire to leave a positive impact on the communities it visits.
A World Cruise of Epic Proportions
In May 2025, the Crown Princess is scheduled to embark on a truly extraordinary voyage: the largest world cruise ever undertaken by any cruise line in either the Southern or Northern Hemisphere. This ambitious journey will see 3,000 guests embark on a remarkable 113-night circumnavigation of the globe, marking a historic moment for both Princess Cruises and its travelers. The scale of this world cruise, featuring such a large number of participants traveling together continuously, highlights the growing popularity of world cruising in the region.
A Luxurious Onboard Experience
The Crown Princess offers a haven of luxurious comfort and entertainment. With 1,547 staterooms, including 200 suites and ‘MiniSuites’, passengers are treated to a wide range of accommodation options to suit every preference. The culinary experience is equally impressive, with an array of dining options, including popular specialty restaurants like Sabatini’s and Crown Grill, ensuring a gastronomic journey for all palates. Beyond dining, guests can indulge in a plethora of activities, ranging from live performances at the Princess Theatre to movie nights under the stars on the giant screen. The ship also features four swimming pools and the luxurious Lotus Spa, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation. The Crown Princess stands out for its exceptional number of balcony accommodations, with almost 900 staterooms boasting private balconies. This feature makes it the vessel with the most balcony staterooms in the region. To enhance the travel experience, Princess Cruises offers the Princess Plus and Premier packages, allowing guests to enjoy savings of up to 65% on amenities like Wi-Fi, beverages, fitness classes, and crew gratuities.
A Commitment to Premium Service
Regardless of the specific cruise, Princess Cruises is dedicated to delivering a premium holiday experience. The cruise line’s award-winning, signature Princess Medallion Class service offers unparalleled levels of personalization and service. With a fleet of 16 ships, Princess Cruises provides well-appointed staterooms, world-class dining, captivating performances, award-winning casinos, luxurious spas, and an array of imaginative experiences and activities. This commitment to excellence ensures a memorable and enriching voyage for every guest.