Princess Cruises has proudly claimed the title of the #1 Mega Cruise Ship in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. This prestigious accolade highlights the remarkable achievements of Princess’ Sphere Class ships—Sun Princess and Star Princess—known for their pioneering designs and exceptional service.
A Remarkable Recognition
This recognition from the readers of Condé Nast Traveler is not just an honor; it symbolizes the unparalleled cruise experiences aboard Princess' latest ships. The Sphere Class vessels boast an intricately designed environment, top-notch dining options, and personalized service ensuring unforgettable journeys at sea.
Marie Lee, Chief Marketing Officer of Princess Cruises, expressed her gratitude: “Receiving acknowledgment from Condé Nast Traveler's readers is a significant honor and speaks volumes about our Princess team. Our Sphere-Class ships were crafted to enhance the elements guests adore about Princess while introducing fresh spaces and innovations. The heart of this recognition goes to our dedicated crew members who deliver the Princess experience with genuine warmth and hospitality.”
Introducing a New Era of Cruise Ships
With routes that include Alaska (Star), the Mediterranean (Sun), and the Caribbean, the impressive 177,000-ton Sun Princess and Star Princess are merely a glimpse into the new generation of Princess ships. These vessels artfully merge expansive ocean panoramas, dramatic architectural features, and the personable service characteristic of Princess Cruises.
Achieving this honor marks the third consecutive year for the Sun Princess in the Mega Cruise Ship category, having previously triumphed in both 2024 and 2025. The Star Princess also made an impressive debut in her first year eligible for the Readers’ Choice Awards, bolstering her acclaim with a spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s revered 2026 Hot List.
Exceptional Amenities and Experiences
The Sun Princess and Star Princess have been designed to connect guests closely with the sea while offering a multitude of new experiences. Features that stand out include:
- Stunning Venues: The Dome, an exquisite glass-enclosed area inspired by Santorini’s terraces, the soaring Piazza with breathtaking ocean vistas, and the tech-savvy Princess Arena.
- Culinary Delights: A fantastic array of dining and beverage options such as Love by Britto, Makoto Ocean, and The Butcher’s Block by Dario, alongside numerous restaurants, bars, and lounges.
- Luxurious Getaway: The Sanctuary Collection features an exclusive retreat offering premium accommodations and amenities, including the Sanctuary Club and Restaurant.
- Tailored Entertainment: Original shows, live music, and immersive experiences specifically crafted for the Sphere Class ships ensure captivating entertainment.
The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, one of the most esteemed honors in the travel sector, has been recognizing outstanding travel experiences globally for years. Each year, readers highlight their favorite destinations, hotels, airlines, cruise lines, and more.
A Legacy of Excellence in Sphere-Class Design
Since its launch in 2024, Sun Princess has pioneered a new chapter for Princess Cruises as the inaugural Sphere-Class ship. Its sister, Star Princess, launched in October 2025, further enhances the legacy established by this innovative class, continuing to set the industry standard for guest experiences.
Tag: Cruises