Princess Cruises and Fincantieri have jointly announced a delay in the launch of the Star Princess, originally scheduled for July 2025.
- The delivery date has been shifted to September 2025, affecting nine inaugural sailings that were planned.
- This decision was reached after a thorough evaluation of the construction progress, ensuring adherence to high standards.
- Guests affected by the change will be able to rebook on any Princess cruise globally, with additional incentives offered.
- The revised inaugural cruises for the Star Princess will be available for booking from April 2024.
Princess Cruises, in collaboration with Fincantieri shipyard, has made the executive decision to delay the launch of their much-anticipated vessel, the Star Princess. Originally slated for delivery on July 29, 2025, the new launch date has been pushed to September 26, 2025. This shift in schedule results in the cancellation of nine previously planned inaugural sailings.
The decision to postpone was not made lightly. It emerged after a comprehensive review of the remaining construction milestones. President John Padgett emphasised the collective effort and unwavering commitment to meeting the anticipated delivery in July; however, it became apparent that additional time was necessary to meet the rigorous standards expected by their guests.
Passengers who are impacted by this change have several options available to them. They can opt to rebook on any other Princess cruise worldwide and will receive future cruise and onboard credit corresponding to their new selection. Alternatively, they may choose to cancel for a full refund of the cruise fare, ensuring flexibility and customer satisfaction.
In a strategic move to protect relationships with travel agents, commissions for bookings paid in full will be safeguarded despite the adjustments. This decision underscores Princess Cruises’ dedication to their partners in the industry.
As a forward-looking response, sales for the revised inaugural voyages of the Star Princess will commence on April 30, 2024. This proactive approach aims to assure customers and agents alike of the company’s commitment to excellence and transparency.
The postponement of the Star Princess launch underscores a prioritisation of quality and customer satisfaction by Princess Cruises and Fincantieri.
