The keel laying of a new ‘sustainable’ class of Princess Cruises ship is to take place next month.
The Sphere class vessel will be the first in the fleet to be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG).
The first of two next generation vessels, with a capacity for 4,300 passengers, is due to enter service in 2023.
The line is to unveil more details about the latest class of vessel at the June 8 event at a Fincantieri ship yard in Italy.
The disclosure came from president John Padgett as he unveiled a new add-on package being introduced for £60 a day from June 1 for sailings starting on June 25.
Princess Premier includes unlimited wi-fi for up to four devices, premium drinks, photos, two specialty dining meals, crew gratuities and the chance to win ‘Princess Prizes’ including a cruise for two every year for a decade and up to $100,000 in cash.
It is an enhancement of the existing Princess Plus offering which provides elements such as unlimited wi-fi, a basic drinks package and gratuities.
The new initiative gives the line a three stage pricing model and follows a disproportionate take up of the Princess Plus option by passengers from the UK, according to Padgett.
He said: “Guests have overwhelmingly embraced the convenience and value offered in Princess Plus, so we are adding Princess Premier to take our inclusivity options to the next level.
“Princess Premier is our most inclusive package, offering guests sought-after on board amenities at an incredible value. Whether a guest prefers a standalone cruise purchase or a fully inclusive vacation, Princess has hassle-free options for everyone. Every option is intended to provide great value.”
The three package options:
- Princess Standard cruise package, including the standard cruise fare
- Princess Plus (£30 per person, per day until June 1; £40 per person, per day starting June 1) – including unlimited wi-fi for a single device; drinks package (covering drinks up to $12, 25% off bottles of wine, specialty coffees, smoothies and bottled water); and daily crew appreciation
- Princess Premier (£60 per person, per day), on sale from June 1
Passengers on sailings departing on June 25 and beyond who previously purchased Princess Plus can upgrade to Princess Premier for an additional £20 per person, per day.