Star Princess Vs. Sun Princess: What's the Difference?

Star Princess and Sun Princess are the newest sister ships in Princess Cruises' innovative Sphere Class. Built with the same modern design, premium accommodations, and cutting-edge entertainment, the two ships share many similarities, making it difficult for travelers to decide which one to book.

Although they feature the same size, passenger capacity, and many of the same restaurants and public spaces, they are not completely identical. Star Princess is the newer ship and includes several refinements introduced after the launch of Sun Princess, while Sun Princess currently offers more sailing dates and itinerary options.

In this complete comparison, we'll look at the differences between Star Princess and Sun Princess, including ship size, cabins, dining, entertainment, pools, itineraries, pricing, and onboard experience, helping you choose the ship that's right for your next cruise vacation.

Quick Answer: Star Princess vs Sun Princess

Star Princess is the better choice if you want Princess Cruises' newest Sphere Class ship with the latest enhancements and updated venues. Sun Princess is ideal for travelers looking for more sailing dates or a better itinerary, as both ships deliver a nearly identical onboard experience.

Here's a quick comparison of the two ships.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Choose Star Princess if: You want Princess Cruises' newest Sphere Class ship with the latest updates and onboard refinements.
• Choose Sun Princess if: You prefer more itinerary options, additional sailing dates, or find a better cruise fare.
• Best for first-time Princess cruisers: Either ship, as both offer nearly identical accommodations, dining, entertainment, and premium Sphere Class amenities.

Despite these similarities, there are a few differences that may influence your decision. Let's compare them in detail.

Star Princess vs Sun Princess: Ship Overview

Photo Courtesy: Princess Cruises

Star Princess and Sun Princess belong to Princess Cruises' newest Sphere Class, representing the cruise line's largest and most advanced ships. The Sphere Class introduces a completely redesigned cruise experience with larger public spaces, more outdoor venues, expanded dining options, and innovative entertainment.

Compared to older Royal Class and Grand Class ships, the Sphere Class focuses on creating brighter interiors, better ocean views, and a stronger connection to the sea. Signature attractions include the spectacular The Dome, a glass-enclosed entertainment venue inspired by Santorini terraces, and the three-story Piazza, which serves as the social heart of the ship.

Because Star Princess entered service after Sun Princess, Princess Cruises incorporated several small improvements based on passenger feedback from the first Sphere Class vessel. These updates mainly focus on operational efficiency and guest experience rather than major design changes.

For most travelers, however, both ships provide an almost identical luxury cruise experience with the same premium atmosphere, modern architecture, and signature Sphere Class features.

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Ship Size and Design

When comparing Star Princess vs Sun Princess, ship size isn't a deciding factor because both vessels share nearly identical specifications.

Each ship measures 1,133 feet (345 meters) in length with a gross tonnage of 175,500 GT, making them the largest ships ever built for Princess Cruises. Both feature 21 passenger decks and were designed to maximize open spaces, natural light, and panoramic ocean views.

The overall layout is nearly the same on both ships and includes:

• The Dome entertainment venue
• Three-story Piazza
• Spacious outdoor pool decks
• Modern observation lounges
• Multiple infinity-inspired outdoor areas
• Expanded specialty dining venues
• Contemporary cabin designs

Although the general layout remains the same, Star Princess includes a few subtle refinements introduced after the launch of Sun Princess. These improvements are designed to enhance guest flow and onboard operations rather than dramatically changing the ship's appearance.

As a result, most guests will notice very little difference in the overall size, layout, or design when sailing on either ship.

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Passenger Capacity and Atmosphere

Both Star Princess and Sun Princess accommodate approximately 4,300 guests at double occupancy and carry around 1,600 crew members, allowing Princess Cruises to maintain its signature premium level of service.

The atmosphere aboard both ships combines elegant surroundings with a relaxed resort-style environment. Rather than focusing on high-thrill attractions found on some contemporary cruise lines, the Sphere Class emphasizes upscale dining, live entertainment, stylish lounges, wellness facilities, and scenic outdoor spaces.

These ships appeal to a wide variety of travelers, including:

• Couples
• Families
• Multi-generational groups
• Adults seeking a premium cruise experience
• First-time Princess Cruises guests

The larger public areas, wider walkways, and multiple entertainment venues also help distribute passengers throughout the ship, making crowded spaces less common even on fully booked sailings.

Since both ships have the same passenger capacity, crew size, and overall layout, guests can expect a very similar onboard atmosphere regardless of which ship they choose.

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Cabins

Star Princess and Sun Princess each offer more than 2,150 staterooms, featuring modern interiors, upgraded amenities, and a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and travel styles.

Guests can choose from:

• Interior Cabins
• Oceanview Cabins
• Balcony Cabins
• Deluxe Balcony Cabins
• Mini Suites
• Reserve Collection Mini Suites
• Signature Suites
• Sanctuary Collection Suites

The cabins feature contemporary décor, premium bedding, improved storage space, spacious bathrooms, multiple USB charging ports, and smart design elements that create a more comfortable onboard stay.

For travelers seeking a luxury experience, the Sanctuary Collection offers exclusive access to private dining, premium relaxation areas, priority embarkation, upgraded amenities, and personalized services.

While the cabin categories and layouts remain nearly identical across both ships, Star Princess benefits from a handful of small refinements introduced after Sun Princess entered service. These adjustments improve the overall guest experience without significantly changing the accommodation itself.

Overall, travelers can expect virtually the same level of comfort, style, and premium accommodations whether they choose Star Princess or Sun Princess.

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Dining and Restaurants

Dining is one of the biggest highlights on both Star Princess and Sun Princess. Since they belong to the same Sphere Class, both ships feature an impressive selection of complimentary dining venues, specialty restaurants, cafés, bars, and casual eateries. Whether you're looking for gourmet seafood, Italian cuisine, premium steaks, sushi, or quick snacks by the pool, both ships offer something for every taste.

Complimentary dining is included in your cruise fare, while specialty restaurants require an additional cover charge or are included with certain Princess packages.

Popular complimentary dining venues on both ships include:

• Horizons Dining Room
• Americana Dining Room
• The Eatery (Buffet)
• Alfredo's Pizzeria
• International Café
• Coffee Currents

Specialty dining options available on both ships include:

• Crown Grill
• Sabatini's Italian Trattoria
• The Catch by Rudi
• Umai Teppanyaki
• Makoto Ocean
• Love by Britto

Both ships also feature numerous lounges, cocktail bars, wine bars, coffee shops, and poolside bars serving cocktails, wines, beers, soft drinks, and specialty coffees throughout the day.

Bars and Lounges

Both Star Princess and Sun Princess feature a wide variety of bars and lounges spread throughout the ship, offering everything from handcrafted cocktails and premium wines to specialty coffees and live music venues.

Popular venues include:

• Bellini's Cocktail Bar
• Crooners
• O'Malley's Irish Pub
• Good Spirits Bar
• Wheelhouse Bar
• Coffee Currents
• Pool Bars
• Wake View Bar

Whether you prefer a quiet evening with a glass of wine, live jazz music, craft cocktails, or late-night dancing, you'll find plenty of options onboard both ships.

Since the overall nightlife and lounge selection remain nearly identical across both vessels, most travelers are unlikely to notice any significant difference in their evening entertainment experience.

Dining Comparison

Both ships offer nearly identical dining experiences. Depending on the sailing and venue availability, Sun Princess may feature one additional specialty dining venue, but Princess Cruises continues to make adjustments as Star Princess expands its deployment.

Also Read: Princess Cruise Ship Classes Explained: Sphere, Royal, Grand & Coral Guide

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Pools and Wellness

Star Princess and Sun Princess provide excellent outdoor spaces designed for both relaxation and recreation.

Each ship features:

• Five swimming pools
• Eleven hot tubs
• Infinity-style pool areas
• Adults-only retreat spaces
• Spacious sun decks
• Outdoor lounge seating
• Private cabanas (select areas)

The main pool deck serves as the center of daytime activity with live music, movies, games, and poolside entertainment. Guests looking for a quieter atmosphere can relax in adults-only areas or enjoy one of the secluded whirlpools overlooking the ocean.

Beyond the pool decks, both ships also offer a wide range of wellness facilities, including:

• Lotus Spa
• Beauty Salon
• Thermal Suite
• Fitness Center
• Yoga classes
• Pilates sessions
• Personal training
• Wellness programs

Whether you're planning an active vacation or a relaxing escape, both ships provide nearly identical wellness facilities and outdoor amenities.

Also Read: Princess Cruise Ships by Age 2026: Full Fleet From Newest to Oldest

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Activities

Although both ships focus more on premium cruising than amusement-style attractions, they still offer plenty of activities throughout the day for guests of all ages.

Popular onboard activities include:

• Trivia competitions
• Cooking demonstrations
• Destination enrichment programs
• Art auctions
• Dance classes
• Fitness sessions
• Shopping boutiques
• Wine tastings
• Cocktail-making classes
• Pool games
• Bingo
• Photography experiences

Families traveling with children can also enjoy:

• Youth clubs
• Teen programs
• Family activities
• Outdoor games
• Interactive entertainment

One of the biggest highlights aboard both ships is The Dome, which hosts multiple daytime and evening experiences. The Piazza also remains active throughout the cruise with musicians, performers, seasonal events, and interactive entertainment.

Because Star Princess entered service after Sun Princess, some entertainment schedules and daily activities may differ slightly depending on the sailing, but the overall onboard experience remains nearly identical.

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Family Activities

Although Princess Cruises is often known for attracting couples and adult travelers, both Star Princess and Sun Princess are excellent choices for families.

Children and teenagers can participate in Princess Cruises' supervised youth programs, which include age-appropriate games, educational activities, sports, arts and crafts, and themed events.

Family-friendly amenities include:

• Kids Club
• Teen Lounge
• Family game shows
• Swimming pools
• Sports courts
• Movies Under the Stars
• Interactive family activities
• Casual dining options

Parents can enjoy adult-only areas, specialty dining, or spa treatments while younger guests participate in supervised activities led by trained youth staff.

Because both Sphere Class ships offer the same family facilities and youth programs, families can expect a nearly identical experience whether sailing on Star Princess or Sun Princess.

Also Read: Princess Cruise Ships Ranked 2026: Sun, Star & Discovery Top All 17

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Entertainment

Entertainment is one of the biggest highlights of Princess Cruises' Sphere Class ships, and both Star Princess and Sun Princess offer an extensive lineup of shows, attractions, and activities throughout the day.

Passengers can enjoy:

• Broadway-style production shows
• Live music performances
• Comedy shows
• Movies Under the Stars
• Princess Theater productions
• Casino
• Shopping boutiques
• Art gallery
• Game shows
• Trivia competitions
• Live bands
• Nightclubs
• Lounges
• Piano performances

The Dome

One of the signature attractions on both ships is The Dome, a glass-enclosed entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini.

During the day it serves as a relaxing pool area with panoramic ocean views, while at night it transforms into an entertainment venue featuring aerial performances, immersive productions, and live music.

Both ships feature the same core entertainment venues and signature Sphere Class attractions. Production shows and entertainment schedules may vary by sailing, but guests can expect a very similar overall entertainment experience on either ship.

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Itineraries

Both ships sail to many of Princess Cruises' most popular destinations, although their seasonal deployment differs.

Star Princess

Primarily sails to:

• Caribbean
• Mediterranean
• Europe
• Alaska (selected sailings)

Sun Princess

Primarily sails to:

• Mediterranean
• Caribbean
• Europe

Princess Cruises adjusts itineraries each season, so deployment may change depending on demand and future schedules.

The biggest difference is not the destinations themselves but the available sailing dates and departure ports.

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Prices

Since both ships belong to the premium Sphere Class fleet, pricing is generally very similar.

Typical cruise fares vary by itinerary and sailing date. As a general guide:

• Interior Cabin: From around $150+ per person, per night
• Balcony Cabin: Around $220–$350+ per person, per night
• Suites: Typically $450+ per person, per night

Final pricing depends on:

• Sailing date
• Cruise length
• Cabin category
• Destination
• Promotions
• Booking time

Additional onboard expenses may include:

• Specialty dining
• Beverage packages
• Wi-Fi
• Shore excursions
• Spa treatments
• Casino gaming
• Gratuities
• Shopping

Early booking promotions often include extras such as Wi-Fi, beverage packages, specialty dining credits, or onboard spending money, making either ship an excellent value depending on the offer available at the time of booking.

Star Princess vs Sun Princess Pros and Cons

Star Princess Pros

• Newest Princess Cruises ship
• Latest Sphere Class updates
• Modern cabins
• Improved guest flow

Star Princess Cons

• Fewer itineraries
• New ship pricing may be higher

Sun Princess Pros

• More sailing dates
• More established itineraries
• Slightly more specialty dining options

Sun Princess Cons

• Not the newest ship
• Minor design refinements came later on Star Princess

Which Ship Is Right for You?

Choose Star Princess if you:

• Want the newest Princess Cruises ship
• Prefer the latest onboard refinements
• Enjoy sailing on newly launched vessels

Choose Sun Princess if you:

• Want more itinerary options
• Find a better cruise fare
• Prefer additional departure dates

For most travelers, the choice between Star Princess and Sun Princess comes down to itinerary, departure date, pricing, and whether you prefer sailing on Princess Cruises' newest ship.

Final Thoughts

Star Princess and Sun Princess are remarkably similar because both belong to Princess Cruises' newest Sphere Class. They share nearly identical ship dimensions, passenger capacity, accommodations, dining concepts, entertainment venues, pools, and overall onboard atmosphere.

The primary differences come from their launch dates, seasonal itineraries, and a handful of updated venues and refinements introduced aboard Star Princess. Travelers who prefer sailing on the newest Princess ship may appreciate Star Princess, while Sun Princess offers almost the same premium Sphere Class experience with an already well-established onboard product.

Overall, Star Princess and Sun Princess deliver nearly the same Sphere Class experience, featuring modern accommodations, outstanding dining, world-class entertainment, and premium service. If sailing on the newest ship matters most, Star Princess is the better choice. If itinerary flexibility or pricing is your priority, Sun Princess offers excellent value with virtually the same onboard experience. For most travelers, the best choice comes down to itinerary, departure date, and the price available when booking.