Sun Princess Maiden Voyage Delayed: Compensation and New Departure Details Revealed

Carnival Corp.’s Princess Cruises has delayed the maiden voyage of its latest ship, the Sun Princess, which was initially scheduled to depart from Rome on February 18. The cruise line has cited the need for additional technical work on the vessel as the reason for the postponement, with the new departure date set for February 28. This move underscores the company's commitment to delivering an outstanding vacation experience for its guests.

The Sun Princess is a significant addition to the Princess Cruises fleet, described as one of the most luxurious and stunning ships ever created by the line. Weighing in at 175,500 tons and with a capacity for 4,300 guests, it boasts several innovative features, including The Dome, an entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini. Additionally, the ship marks Princess Cruises' first foray into LNG-powered vessels, highlighting an industry-wide shift towards more sustainable cruising options.

In response to the delay, Princess Cruises is offering affected passengers a full refund of their cruise fare and any pre-purchased onboard services. To further compensate guests, the cruise line is providing a 50% future cruise credit for another voyage, underlining their efforts to maintain customer loyalty despite the setback. For those affected by the change in travel plans, the company has implemented a policy to cover up to $200 per person for flight change fees for guests who have not yet traveled to Rome. For guests already in Italy, the cruise line will reimburse their round-trip airfare. Additional refunds will be provided for hotel costs on the nights of February 18 and 19, along with €140 per person, per day for dining and other expenses, to mitigate the inconvenience caused by the delay.

The postponement of the Sun Princess' maiden voyage follows a similar delay of the ship's inaugural cruise from Barcelona, which was also attributed to the need for further technical adjustments. Princess Cruises has expressed its apologies for the disruption caused by this delay and has communicated directly with passengers and travel agents regarding the changes and compensation offered.

As preparations continue for the Sun Princess' departure from Civitavecchia (Rome) on February 28, the cruise line remains focused on ensuring that all aspects of the ship meet its high standards. The Sun Princess is set to offer guests an array of luxurious accommodations, entertainment options, and amenities, promising an unforgettable cruising experience once it sets sail.