Following their golden anniversary this year, Princess Cruises are set to increase the number of cruises the line offers from the UK in 2016. The bumper year is spearheaded by a 48 night round-the-world cruise from Southampton to Sydney and an increased number of Mediterranean cruises out of the south coast port.
The Emerald Princess is scheduled to make 15 cruise journeys from Southampton to the cultural cities of the Mediterranean rather than the 10 it is currently operating. Theses cruises will benefit from Europe’s summer sun, launching between April and September.
For the first time in three years, Princess Cruises will offer a taster cruise, with a three night itinerary sailing out of Southampton. The port will also enjoy visits from the line’s two newest ships, Royal Princess and Regal Princess.
The Royal Princess, christened by the Duchess of Cambridge in 2013, will be based out of Southampton, completing a series of seven to 21 night cruises to a range of destinations including Barcelona and Rome. The Regal Princess will be based out of Copenhagen and sail through the Fjords, visiting the cities of Scandinavia as well as sailing to the UK and other Northern European countries.
With a capacity of 3,000 passengers, the Caribbean Princess will complete round-Britain cruises – belying her exotic and region-specific name. The small Pacific Princess (capacity: 670 guests) will split her season between Dover and the Greek islands.
Princess Cruises managing director UK and Europe, Paul Ludlow, enthused: “There really is a cruise in Europe for everyone and our 2016 programme is packed with options. We have some returning guest favourites such as the Canaries, while the addition of a three-night sampler cruise is a must for anyone wishing to try Princess for the first time.
“Meanwhile, our free drinks package offers great value for anyone who wants to know their bar bills are taken care of in advance of their trip.”
Images sourced via Flickr Creative Commons. Credits: saipal, Raging Wire
