A groundbreaking naming event for Princess Cruises took place in Barcelona.
- The ‘ship-within-a-ship’ concept has been introduced for the Sun Princess.
- Hannah Waddingham was appointed as godmother during the ceremony.
- The exclusive Sanctuary Collection offers luxury accommodations and benefits.
- Delays in the launch of sister ships were announced alongside the event.
In an event that marked a significant milestone for Princess Cruises, the renowned actress Hannah Waddingham took centre stage as the godmother of the new Sun Princess ship. This grand occasion, held in Barcelona, witnessed the introduction of an innovative ‘ship-within-a-ship’ concept, providing guests with a novel cruising experience.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the ‘Sanctuary Collection’. This exclusive offering features three tiers of lavish accommodations: Signature Collection Suites, Mini Suites, and Premium Deluxe Balconies. These are tailored to provide an indulgent experience akin to that of a high-end resort, promising passengers a sense of exclusivity and luxury.
The Sanctuary Collection will be available to passengers from October, signifying a forward-thinking approach to cruise offerings. Passengers opting for this premium service will enjoy access to a private top-deck retreat and a host of bespoke amenities and events. The aim is to elevate the cruising experience beyond traditional expectations, tapping into the market for luxury and exclusivity at sea.
Furthermore, Princess Cruises president John Padgett expressed pride in this advancement, noting, “Our new Sanctuary Collection offers guests those ultra-private, tucked away spaces that rival any high-end resort.” Such sentiments underscore the cruise line’s commitment to innovation and grandeur.
However, amidst the fanfare, it was also disclosed that the delivery of the sister ship, Star Princess, will be postponed. Originally planned for a July debut, it is now set to commence its Mediterranean voyages in September 2025. Similarly, Sun Princess itself faced delays and is scheduled to begin its inaugural cruise season later this winter.
Hannah Waddingham, widely celebrated for her role in ‘Ted Lasso’, holds a personal affinity with the sea, making her an apt choice for this honorary role. Her participation in the ceremony underscores her connection to maritime traditions, a sentiment she echoed by sharing her familial ties to the Royal Navy.
The event not only celebrated maritime advancement but also set a new precedent in cruise luxury.
