The Sun Princess has finally arrived, and it took a star to welcome her in style. Princess Cruises celebrated the christening of its largest vessel ever with the help of “Ted Lasso” star Hannah Waddingham. The Emmy Award-winning actress and singer presided over a dazzling ceremony that included the smashing of a massive nebuchadnezzar of Veuve Clicquot Champagne against the ship’s hull.
As the ship’s godmother, Waddingham placed a triangular “sun ray” representing Sun Princess into a sun sculpture on stage before triggering the bottle smash. The event was a nod to her family’s maritime history, with her 107-year-old grandfather serving on convoy ships during World War II.
Sun Princess, built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, is the first of Princess’ new Sphere Class of vessels. With a capacity for up to 5,189 passengers, it boasts exclusive features like suites with access to a private restaurant, lounge, and sun deck. The ship also offers innovative cabana cabins, a glass-dome-topped pool area, and revamped dining options.
The arrival of Sun Princess marks Princess Cruises’ first new class of ship in over a decade. With 16 vessels in its fleet, Princess now ranks as the world’s fifth-largest cruise line. The ship is currently sailing in Europe before repositioning to Fort Lauderdale for Caribbean voyages. Fares start at $577 per person for a seven-night Caribbean sailing.
A second ship in the Sphere Class series, Star Princess, is set for delivery in 2025. The debut of Sun Princess signals a new era of luxury and innovation for Princess Cruises, setting the stage for exciting new adventures on the high seas.