Princess Cruises in 2026: Fleet and MedallionClass Technology
Princess Cruises operates a 17-ship fleet in 2026, spanning five ship generations, but the two ships getting the most attention are Sun Princess (2024) and Star Princess (2025) — the line's new Sphere-class flagships. At roughly 175,000-178,000 gross tons and carrying around 4,300 guests each, they're the largest ships Princess has ever built, featuring a signature Piazza atrium and an observation venue called the Dome.
Every Princess ship in the fleet uses MedallionClass technology, a wearable disc that enables contactless boarding, keyless cabin entry, and food or drink ordering delivered anywhere on the ship through the companion OceanReady app. The system tends to run most smoothly on the newer Sphere-class ships, where it was built into the ship's design from the start, compared with older vessels where it was added afterward.
Before you book, it's worth checking current pricing and promotions with an advisor - call +1-800-406-8495 for a side-by-side comparison of your best options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Princess's newest ships?
Sun Princess (2024) and Star Princess (2025) are Princess's newest ships and the first in its Sphere class, each carrying about 4,300 guests.
How many ships does Princess Cruises operate in 2026?
Princess operates 17 active ships across five ship generations, from the 1998-built Grand Princess to the new Sphere-class Sun and Star Princess.
What is MedallionClass technology?
MedallionClass is Princess's wearable device system that enables contactless boarding, keyless stateroom entry, and ordering food or drinks delivered anywhere on the ship via a companion app.
Which Princess ships is MedallionClass most reliable on?
The technology tends to run most smoothly on the newer Sphere-class ships, Sun Princess and Star Princess, since it was built into those ships from the start rather than retrofitted.
What destinations is Princess best known for?
Princess has one of the most developed Alaska cruise programs in the industry, along with strong itineraries for the Panama Canal and longer Mediterranean voyages.
Is Princess a good choice for first-time cruisers?
Princess suits travelers who prioritize destinations and onboard enrichment over high-energy entertainment, making it a strong fit for Alaska or European itineraries in particular.
Who can help me compare Princess ships and itineraries?
Call +1-800-406-8495 and our advisors can walk through Princess's current fleet and itinerary options for your travel dates.
What dining venues are unique to the Sphere-class ships?
Sun Princess and Star Princess introduced new venues built around the Piazza and the Dome, including expanded specialty dining options not found on older Princess ships.
Does Princess have kids' programming on every ship?
Yes, all Princess ships offer age-based youth programs, though the size and scope of activities tends to be larger on the newer, bigger ships.
How does Princess compare to Holland America for older travelers?
Both lines skew toward a slightly older, destination-focused crowd, though Princess tends to have a slightly livelier onboard atmosphere and a larger overall fleet.