When planning a cruise, selecting the right package can significantly impact your overall experience. Princess Cruises offers two primary packages—Princess Plus and Princess Premier—each with its own set of features designed to enhance your journey. Let’s delve into the details of what each package includes, followed by guidance on how to choose the best option for your cruise.
What Is Included in Princess Plus?
Princess Plus is designed for those looking to enhance their cruise experience without going overboard on spending. Here’s a breakdown of what this package offers:
Plus Beverage Package
The Plus Beverage Package covers a variety of drinks, including cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages like coffee and tea. The $15 USD (or $22 AUD) limit per drink is more than sufficient for most onboard beverages, but keep in mind that if you prefer high-end wines or premium spirits, you might find this cap slightly restrictive. The package also includes specialty coffees and smoothies, making it versatile for different preferences throughout the day.
Wi-Fi
The package includes unlimited MedallionNet Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family, browse social media, and keep up with your daily online activities. While the internet at sea can sometimes be slower than on land, the service is generally reliable and sufficient for casual browsing and staying in touch.
Crew Appreciation
Gratuities are automatically covered in this package, which means you won’t have to worry about tipping staff during your cruise. This feature simplifies your onboard financials, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without additional daily charges.
Desserts
A sweet perk of the Princess Plus package is the inclusion of two premium desserts per day from Gelato, available on select ships. This feature is perfect for those with a sweet tooth, offering a daily indulgence without worrying about extra costs.
Fitness Classes
The package includes two complimentary fitness classes, which is a great option for those looking to stay active during their cruise. Whether you’re into yoga, Pilates, or cardio workouts, you can enjoy these classes without incurring additional fees.
What Is Included in Princess Premier?
Princess Premier is the more luxurious option, offering an expanded list of perks designed for those who want the best of everything on their cruise. Here’s what you get:
Premier Beverage Package
The Premier Beverage Package expands the drink options by increasing the cap to $20 USD (or $30 AUD) per drink. This means you have access to more premium beverages, including top-shelf spirits, reserve wines, and high-end cocktails. If you enjoy indulging in finer drinks, this package provides excellent value.
Wi-Fi
Like the Plus package, Premier includes unlimited MedallionNet Wi-Fi, but with an additional benefit—priority access to the fastest available internet at sea. This is ideal for those who need reliable connectivity for work or who simply prefer uninterrupted streaming and browsing.
Crew Appreciation
Gratuities are also covered in this package, ensuring that your daily service charge is taken care of. This feature is particularly beneficial for longer cruises, where daily tipping can add up quickly.
Unlimited Specialty Dining
One of the standout features of the Premier package is unlimited access to specialty dining venues. This means you can dine at Crown Grill, Sabatini’s, and other exclusive restaurants as often as you like without worrying about the cost. For food enthusiasts, this feature alone makes the Premier package worth considering.
Photo Package
The Premier package includes an unlimited digital photo package, allowing you to capture and keep memories from your cruise without worrying about additional costs. This is perfect for families or couples who want to document their journey with professional-quality photos.
Princess Prizes
This package also includes access to daily Princess Prizes, where you can win a range of onboard perks, from wine tastings to onboard credits. It adds an element of excitement to your cruise, with the potential for pleasant surprises throughout your journey.
Reserved Seating
Reserved seating in the Princess Theater ensures that you always have a prime spot for the evening’s entertainment. This is a great perk for those who don’t want to worry about finding a good seat for popular shows.
Choosing the Right Package
When deciding between Princess Plus and Princess Premier, consider the following factors to help you make the best choice for your cruise:
- Budget: The first consideration is your budget. Princess Plus is a great option for those looking to enhance their cruise experience without overspending. It covers the essentials—drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities—making it a solid choice for most travellers. However, if you’re willing to spend more for added luxury, Princess Premier offers a range of extras that can make your cruise feel truly special.
- Dining Preferences: If specialty dining is a priority for you, Princess Premier’s unlimited access to specialty restaurants is a significant advantage. Frequent visits to Crown Grill or Sabatini’s can quickly add up if you’re paying out of pocket, so the Premier package offers substantial savings if you plan to dine at these venues regularly.
- Connectivity Needs: Both packages include unlimited Wi-Fi, but Princess Premier offers prioritised access to faster internet speeds. If you require consistent, high-speed internet for work or other activities, the Premier package is likely the better choice.
- Beverage Choices: Consider your drink preferences when choosing between the two packages. If you prefer premium spirits or high-end cocktails, the Premier package’s higher drink limit will better suit your tastes. However, if you’re satisfied with standard options, Princess Plus should meet your needs.
- Length of Cruise: The longer your cruise, the more value you’re likely to get from the Premier package. The cost of specialty dining, premium beverages, and other perks can add up over time, making the higher upfront cost of the Premier package worthwhile for longer journeys.
- Special Occasions: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, such as an anniversary or birthday, the additional luxuries offered by the Premier package can make your cruise feel even more memorable. From unlimited specialty dining to reserved theatre seating, the Premier package adds an extra layer of indulgence to your trip.
Making the Right Choice for Your Cruise
Choosing between Princess Plus and Princess Premier ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities. If you’re looking for a package that covers all the basics while still offering a few indulgent perks, Princess Plus is an excellent choice. However, if you’re willing to invest a bit more for an enhanced experience, Princess Premier provides added luxuries that can make your cruise feel truly special.
At S.W. Black Travel, we’re here to help you make the best choices for your next adventure. Whether you opt for Princess Plus or Princess Premier, we can assist you in planning every detail of your cruise to ensure it’s everything you’ve dreamed of. Book a call with a travel adviser to get started on your next unforgettable journey.
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