Princess Cruises has unveiled the new features added to the Royal Princess after completing two weeks of dry dock work in Singapore. The refurbishment, carried out between October 16 and 30, includes the arrival of the Sanctuary Collection on board, as part of the expansion of this concept to five Royal-class ships, as well as various improvements to its public spaces.
Among the main additions are O'Malley's Irish Pub, which occupies the former Vines space on deck 5, and the expansion of Bellini's, which now boasts a larger area with views of the Piazza. The ship also features upgrades to the Princess Casino and a revamped Effy jewelry boutique.
“The upgrades to the Royal Princess include new accommodations, distinct spaces for entertainment, dining, and socializing, as well as carefully renovated areas to enhance every aspect of the onboard experience,” said Rodrigo Llaguno, Chief Operating Officer of Princess Cruises. He explained that these additions reinforce the ship’s appeal and the company’s commitment to creating memorable vacation experiences.
The Sanctuary Collection arrives on the Royal Princess
The Royal Princess incorporates the Sanctuary Collection, the premium concept with included services and amenities that Princess Cruises is extending to five of its Royal-class ships. This offering provides access to the Sanctuary Club, personalized services, and additional comforts.
On the Royal Princess, the collection includes new ocean-view outside cabins, as well as suites, mini-suites, and balcony and deluxe balcony staterooms. The ship also features the Sanctuary Restaurant, an exclusive restaurant for passengers staying in this category, located on Deck 6 next to the Concerto dining room.
The renovation has also allowed the addition of 20 cabins: six mini suites, seven outside cabins, two inside cabins and five single inside cabins.
New spaces in the Piazza
The Piazza, one of the ship's main meeting points, features two renovated spaces that expand the options for meeting up, eating, or having a drink.
O'Malley's Irish Pub brings the atmosphere of Irish pubs on board, with a menu inspired by Irish cuisine and a selection of drinks. Meanwhile, Bellini's now occupies the former photo gallery space and offers a larger area with views of the Piazza. Its menu includes cocktails inspired by the classic Bellini, champagne, sparkling wines, and other specialty drinks.
Both establishments reinforce the role of the Piazza as the center of social activity on the Royal Princess, both during the day and at night.
Casino and shop renovation
The Princess Casino has also been reorganized to offer a more open gaming space and expand the area dedicated to slot machines. To achieve this, the staircase connecting decks 6 and 7 has been removed, freeing up floor space and allowing for a wider range of games.
On the retail side, the Effy jewelry boutique unveils a refreshed look and an improved space to showcase its collections. The Shops of Princess have also been updated, coinciding with the addition of Starboard as a new onboard retail partner.
Australian season from Sydney
After completing its refurbishment in Singapore, the Royal Princess is now headed to Australia to begin a Sydney-based cruise season, offering itineraries to Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. Passengers will be able to explore the ship's new facilities while visiting some of the region's top destinations.
The Royal Princess will be one of three Princess Cruises ships deployed in this area during the 2026-2027 season. The company's schedule includes 42 different itineraries and 62 departures, with offerings that combine major cities, natural landscapes and cultural destinations, as well as shorter coastal cruises.
The Royal Princess's Sanctuary Collection will include access to the Sanctuary Club from April 22, 2027. Until then, all adult passengers aged 16 and over will be able to experience this space, formerly known as the Retreat Pool and The Sanctuary.
Follow cruise news at Cruisesnews.es
