Core Insights - Princess Cruises has launched its newest Sphere-Class ship, Star Princess, which is embarking on its inaugural voyage from Barcelona, marking a significant addition to the fleet [1][2] Ship Features - Star Princess is a 177,800-ton vessel with a capacity for 4,300 guests, featuring 30 dining and bar venues, luxurious accommodations, and elevated entertainment options [2][5] - The ship includes over 1,500 balcony staterooms, providing guests with panoramic views and exclusive amenities [5][8] Inaugural Voyage Details - The inaugural 11-day Western Mediterranean voyage runs from October 4 to October 15, 2025, with stops in Marseille, Rome, Naples, Sicily, Cartagena, and Gibraltar before returning to Barcelona [6] - Following the Mediterranean voyage, Star Princess will sail a transatlantic route before debuting in Fort Lauderdale for its Caribbean season and official naming ceremony on November 6, 2025 [6] Entertainment Offerings - New entertainment highlights include the return of the acclaimed show "Spellbound," original theatrical productions "Meridian" and "Illuminate," and a vibrant array of deck parties and themed events [7][4] - The ship features a new Candlelight Concert Series in the glass-enclosed Dome, enhancing the onboard entertainment experience [7] Culinary Experience - Guests can choose from 30 dining venues, including an expanded O'Malley's Irish Pub and a specialty dining space by artist Romero Britto, offering a diverse culinary experience [12] - The Love Line Premium Liquor Collection features curated wines and spirits from renowned celebrities, enhancing the onboard beverage offerings [12] Wellness and Recreation - Star Princess offers wellness options such as a two-story Lotus Spa, a fitness center, and a new sports court for activities like pickleball and basketball [12]

Core Insights - Princess Cruises has announced 13 new shore excursions in Mexico, enhancing its offerings for the 2025-2026 sailing season, including a special wine tasting experience exclusive to Princess guests [1][2][3] New Shore Excursions - The new excursions cover destinations such as Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, Manzanillo, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta, with a total of 31 departures scheduled for the upcoming season [2][3] - The Todos Santos Wine Experience in Cabo San Lucas features a guided tour of Viñedo Las Tinajas, including wine tastings and a visit to Todos Santos [4] - Other excursions include a transparent boat adventure at Land's End, a cultural tour in Todos Santos, and various beach and culinary experiences across the different locations [5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16] Promotional Offer - A limited-time promotion offers up to 20% savings on select shore excursions booked between September 10-16, 2025, applicable to Mexico voyages through April 2026 [3]

Core Insights - Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) officially christened its newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, in Miami, marking a significant milestone for the company [1][3][4] - NCL announced plans to enhance its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, with new experiences set to debut in the fourth quarter of 2025, focusing on relaxation and family activities [1][6][8] Ship Details - Norwegian Aqua is the first ship in the Prima Plus Class, measuring 1,056 feet long and weighing 156,300 gross tons, accommodating 3,571 guests at double occupancy [15] - The ship features the world's first hybrid roller coaster and waterslide, named the Aqua Slidecoaster, along with various entertainment options and spacious accommodations [16][17] Great Stirrup Cay Enhancements - The island will see the introduction of an expansive pool area, a kids splash zone, and a swim-up bar, enhancing the family-friendly experience [6][7] - Additional amenities will include a new Vibe Beach Club for adults, Horizon Park for recreational activities, and a relaxation area with hammocks [7][8] Event Highlights - The christening ceremony was attended by over 2,000 guests and included performances and remarks from key NCL executives [3][6][9] - Eric Stonestreet, the godfather of Norwegian Aqua, emphasized the ship's unique features and the overall guest experience [10][9] Future Itineraries - Following its christening, Norwegian Aqua will operate seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida, with stops at various destinations including Great Stirrup Cay [11] Value Offerings - NCL introduced the "More At Sea" program, providing guests with unlimited open bar, specialty dining credits, and other benefits, enhancing the overall value of cruising with NCL [12][19]