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Grand Princess to undergo dramatic transformation

The most far-reaching transformation of a Princess Cruises ship will be undertaken in the spring when Grand Princess goes into dry-dock.

During a 24-day makeover, the UK dedicated ship, which was the prototype for the line’s “Grand Class” vessels, will undergo a remarkable renovation to receive many of Princess’s trademark features introduced since the ship’s 1998 debut including the signature Piazza atrium.

Several new features will be also be added including a unique tea lounge and library called Leaves, and Alfredo’s, a full-service pizzeria showcasing this renowned Princess dish.

Grand Princess will undergo a remarkable renovation to receive many of Princess’s trademark features
A brand new nightclub called One5, inspired by its deck location, will be created on the top deck of the ship, replacing its iconic Skywalker Nightclub, which has given the ship its distinctive profile.

Skywalkers will be removed from its 18th deck perch, with its replacement located on deck 15. This change will significantly improve the operational performance of the ship, including greater fuel efficiency.

“This is the largest makeover we’ve ever undertaken for any of our ships,” said Pieter van der Schee, head of brand marketing Princess Cruises UK.

“Grand Princess was the most innovative cruise ship when she was launched and is already very popular in Britain. With the latest innovations from her recent sister ships added she will be an even greater attraction for British cruisers looking for a pampering, relaxing holiday.”

The changes will be made during a drydock from April 11 to May 4 at the Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport ahead of Grand Princess’s return to Southampton for a programme of summer cruises.

Highlights of the dramatic makeover include:

Crown Grill – A classic steakhouse with rich wood surroundings, this specialty restaurant features an open, theatre-style kitchen where chefs custom-prepare premium aged beef and fresh seafood items, including live lobsters

Leaves Tea Lounge and Library – A fusion of tea lounge and library, the new Leaves offers a distinctive opportunity for passengers to custom-blend a variety of base teas with herbs, fruits and spices to create a personalised tea blend. Created in partnership with Mighty Leaf Tea Company, one of the world’s premier makers of artisan teas, Leaves will give passengers an impressive choice of up to 500 different tea blends to suit their palates. A trained tea sommelier will assist passengers in blending a personalized tea creation, which they can enjoy in the midst of the library and a good book

Alfredo’s Pizzeria – Known for serving the best pizza at sea, Princess will introduce Alfredo’s, a new sit-down pizzeria with an enticing menu of freshly-prepared individual-size pizzas. Named for the line’s master executive chef, Alfredo Marzi, the pizzeria will feature an open kitchen where passengers can watch chefs create the pizzas they’ll enjoy with a glass of wine or other beverage

One5 Lounge – The new One5 lounge will replace Skywalkers as the place to be for nighttime dancing and relaxing. The new lounge on deck 15 (hence its name) takes its inspiration from the chicest urban nightclubs, and will offer a cool vibe, contemporary seating and lighting, and a dramatic back-lit bar.

Also part of the renovation will be ten new suites; remodelled casino, boutiques and art gallery; enhancements to the Horizon Court, Lotus Spa, and wedding chapel; and the addition of Crooner’s Martini Lounge.

The newly renovated Grand Princess will debut in Southampton on May 21 with new itineraries to offer more choice to past passengers, as well as a three-night Weekend Sampler to offer new customers an opportunity to try out the brand.

In addition to her popular 14-night Mediterranean cruises and seven-night short-breaks Grand Princess will sail two 17-night cruises from the UK to the central Med, including Venice, an 11-night cruise to the Canary Islands and Madeira, and a 14-night cruise to Norway and Spitsbergen.