Princess Cruises has announced its biggest Caribbean cruise season ever for summer 2026. Two of the so-called “Love Boat” cruise line’s ships will be dedicated to the region, making more than 90 voyages to every part of the Caribbean for the first time ever over the period.
“Meaningful connections” for 6500 guests
The Regal Princess will depart from Fort Lauderdale and Port Everglades, while the Caribbean Princess will sail from Port Canaveral. Between them, the ships represent accommodation for 6,500 guests.
While some destinations around the world, such as Alaska, Barcelona, Montenegro, Santorini and Venice are grappling with the negative effects of the huge influx of visitors brought by such vast cruise liners, UN and maritime bodies have highlighted the importance of tourism for small island states and Princess claims that its itineraries and ships “create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world.”
Departures from central and south Florida
Princess Cruises president, John Padgett said in a press release that the line “continues to expand access to our world-class premium experience now operating from eight North America homeports. With ships now departing from both Central Florida and South Florida, it’s easier and more convenient than ever to set sail aboard the iconic Love Boat.”
By “world class” Padgett is referring to the ships’ luxurious staterooms and dining options, entertainment and award-winning casinos, high-end spas, and packages that include WiFi, beverages, desserts, fitness classes, crew appreciation and more.
Six to 14-day itineraries can be combined
The release gives a taste of the itineraries planned for summer 2026 sailing from May through October, and points out that the cruises can be combined. From Port Canaveral, voyages include six and seven-day trips around the Turks and Caicos, as well as seven-day cruises bringing the Western Caribbean together with Mexico, or the Eastern Caribbean with Puerto Rico.
Meanwhile from Ft. Lauderdale, the whole Caribbean opens up from April, with seven and eight-day itineraries including the south and the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao); eastern voyages including the Bahamas or St Thomas; and western trips again including Mexico.
For those who want a longer voyage without combining two itineraries, two southern islander 13 and 14-days sailings will go from Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral and New York.
Offers and free spending money
Early takers who are Captain’s Circle Members are being offered up to $200 in onboard spending money for bookings made before 31 October 2024. Summer 2026 guests will receive $50/per person for 7-10-day voyages, $100/per person for combined bookings and 14-day Caribbean Adventurer voyages. In addition, inclusive packages represent up to 65% compared to amenities purchased separately.
