Emerald Princess Cruise Ship Guide: Specs, Dining & Itineraries

The Emerald Princess stands as a pinnacle of modern cruising, blending elegance, comfort, and adventure across its expansive decks. Launched in 2007 by Princess Cruises, this Crown-class vessel has captivated travelers with its versatile itineraries and onboard luxuries, accommodating up to 3,080 guests on journeys spanning the globe.

Ship Specifications and History

Measuring 951 feet in length and boasting a gross tonnage of 113,561, the Emerald Princess features 15 decks and a beam of 159 feet, ensuring stability and ample space for relaxation. Built by Fincantieri in Monfalcone, Italy, it entered service on April 11, 2007, following its launch in June 2006. Christened by television icons from ‘The Brady Bunch’ and ‘Happy Days,’ the ship underwent a significant refurbishment in 2019, enhancing its facilities for contemporary cruisers.

Registered in Bermuda, the vessel is powered for an average speed of 22 knots, with a draft of 27 feet allowing access to diverse ports. Its crew of 1,200, comprising British/Italian officers and international staff, maintains a high service standard.

Accommodation Options

Emerald Princess offers 1,546 staterooms, with nearly 900 balconies providing ocean vistas. Categories range from interior cabins (440) to luxurious suites, ensuring choices for every budget and preference.

• Suites: 30 balcony suites, 2 family suites with interconnecting rooms, offering premium perks like priority disembarkation and mini-bar setups.
• Mini-Suites: 178 spacious options with separate seating, bathtubs, and enhanced amenities.
• Balcony Cabins: 676 rooms with floor-to-ceiling doors, tables, and chairs for al fresco dining.
• Oceanview and Interior: 222 outside and 440 inside cabins, averaging 146-206 sq. ft., with picture windows or portholes.

Reserve Collection Mini-Suites elevate the stay with sofa beds, priority services, and OceanNow app ordering for seamless room service.

Dining Experiences Aboard

Dining on Emerald Princess reflects Princess Cruises’ commitment to variety and quality. Multiple venues cater to gourmet tastes, from formal dinners to casual bites. The traditional main dining rooms offer multi-course meals with flexible Anytime Dining or reserved Traditional Dining.

Specialty options include upscale seafood at Sabatini’s, steaks at Crown Grill, and Italian fare at Alfredo’s Pizzeria. Casual spots like the International Café provide pastries, paninis, and coffee, while the Horizon Court buffet serves global cuisines around the clock.

Movies Under the Stars pairs outdoor films with poolside pizzas and popcorn. For wellness-focused eaters, the Lotus Spa Café emphasizes fresh, healthy choices.

Entertainment and Nightlife

The ship’s entertainment rivals Broadway, with the 800-seat Princess Theater hosting original musicals, magic shows, comedians, and films. Nightly productions draw full houses, complemented by plush seating and waiter service.

• Crooners Lounge: Martini bar overlooking the Piazza, featuring live vocalists and 52 martini varieties.
• Club Fusion: Daytime activities like trivia and bingo transition to evening dance parties.
• Gatsby’s Casino: Slots, tables, and gaming excitement in a glamorous setting.
• Piazza Atrium: Multi-level hub for live music, shopping, and people-watching.

The Wedding Chapel adds romance, ideal for vow renewals or ceremonies at sea.

Wellness and Recreation Facilities

Health enthusiasts find solace in the Lotus Spa and Fitness Center, offering massages, facials, and state-of-the-art gym equipment. The Sanctuary, an adults-only retreat, provides tranquil cabanas, meditation, and light spa treatments away from family bustle.

Outdoor pursuits include a nine-hole putting green, sports court for basketball and tennis, ping-pong, and a lawn for croquet and bocce. Four pools—three main with hot tubs and one kids’ paddling pool—dot the decks, surrounded by blue-and-white loungers.

Family and Kids’ Programs

Families thrive with Camp Discovery, tailored programs from turtles (ages 3-7) to bears (8-12) and teens (13-17). Activities span arts, crafts, themed parties, and late-night group babysitting. The paddling pool and sports areas keep young ones active.

Technology and Guest Services

Princess MedallionClass technology revolutionizes the cruise: keyless entry, personalized service via wearable medallions, fast Wi-Fi, and app-based ordering for food and drinks anywhere onboard.

Typical Itineraries and Destinations

Emerald Princess sails versatile routes, from Alaska’s glaciers and fjords to the Caribbean’s beaches, Europe’s historic ports, and transpacific adventures. Summer often features Mediterranean and Greek Isles, while winters head to warm southern climes.

• Alaska: Glacier Bay, Juneau, Ketchikan.
• Caribbean: From Fort Lauderdale to idyllic islands.
• Europe: 12-day voyages with cultural immersion.

Recent Updates and Refurbishments

The 2019 refurbishment introduced MedallionClass, refreshed interiors, and upgraded tech. Earlier 2015 updates enhanced entertainment and dining, keeping the ship vibrant.

Booking Tips and Passenger Insights

Opt for balcony cabins mid-ship for minimal motion. Book suites early for perks. Families should reserve kids’ clubs in advance during peak seasons. Reviews praise the food, service, and value, though entertainment varies night-to-night.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Emerald Princess delivers a balanced cruise experience, merging luxury with accessibility for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.