Princess Cruises, the world-renowned cruise line known for delivering dream vacations to millions each year, celebrated a significant construction milestone of its second Sphere-Class vessel, Star Princess, today with the traditional maritime float out ceremony. The event took place at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, marking the first time the superstructure of the new ship met water. Following the float out, Star Princess will move to the outfitting quay where construction will continue in anticipation of her debut in Fall 2025.
Honouring Maritime Traditions
The float out ceremony is a centuries-old seafaring tradition that celebrates the first time a ship's superstructure touches water. This milestone signifies the transition from the ship's structural assembly to its outfitting phase, where interiors, systems, and amenities are completed.
Chiara Del Vecchio, the brand’s first madrina from the technical team, served as the brand's madrina, honouring Princess Cruises' commitment to integrating technical excellence with traditional maritime customs.
Leadership Appointments Under Commodore Nick Nash and Captain Gennaro Arma
During the ceremony, Princess Cruises President John Padgett announced the appointment of Commodore Nick Nash and Captain Gennaro Arma as the new masters of Star Princess. Commodore Nash will transition to the helm of Star Princess upon the ship's delivery next fall, following his distinguished service within the company. Captain Gennaro Arma, a seasoned mariner, will serve as the master of Star Princess until Commodore Nash assumes his role.
Meet the New Senior Officers
In addition to the master appointments, several key senior officers have been named to ensure the seamless operation of Star Princess:
- Chief Engineer Gaetano Guida: Joining Princess Cruises in 2002, Guida was named Chief Engineer aboard Royal Princess in 2017. He played a pivotal role in the construction and delivery of Star Princess from the Fincantieri shipyard.
- Chief Engineer Massimiliano Imperiale: A 15-year veteran of Princess Cruises, Imperiale joined in 1999 as a third engineer and was appointed Chief Engineer aboard Caribbean Princess in 2013.
- Staff Captain Chris King: Since joining Princess Cruises in 2010 as a third officer, King has progressed through the ranks and was named Staff Captain in 2023, currently serving aboard Discovery Princess.
- Staff Captain Michele Russo: With nearly two decades at Princess Cruises, Russo advanced from deck cadet to Safety Officer in 2017 and was promoted to Staff Captain last year.
- Hotel General Manager Ralph D'Souza: Joining in 2006 as a junior purser, D'Souza was appointed Hotel General Manager in 2019. He has been integral to the launch teams for several ships, including Sun Princess and the MedallionClass Experience.
- Hotel General Manager Bosco Pires: A seasoned professional with almost 25 years in the cruise industry, Pires has been a hotel general manager since 2019, bringing extensive experience in both business and hospitality operations.
Star Princess: A New Era of Cruising
The Star Princess is a 178,000-ton, 4,300-guest vessel and the second in Princess Cruises' innovative Sphere Class. Powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), Star Princess exemplifies Princess Cruises' commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly operations. Her sister ship, Sun Princess, debuted in February and has been praised for its elegance and cutting-edge design.
Innovative Features of Sphere Class
Star Princess boasts several architectural marvels that set her apart in the cruise industry:
- The Dome: The cruise industry's first geodesic feature on the top deck, providing panoramic views and a unique aesthetic.
- The Sphere: A suspended glass Sphere Piazza at the heart of the ship, offering an open, airy space for guests to relax and socialise.
- The Arena: The most technically advanced theatre at sea, designed to host spectacular performances and events.
These features, combined with elegant structural lines, create an eye-catching and inviting environment for all guests.
Celebrating Teamwork and Craftsmanship
John Padgett, President of Princess Cruises, expressed his pride in the collaboration between Princess Cruises and Fincantieri: "Today is a celebration of teamwork, craftsmanship, and innovation. Star Princess is the second ship in our new Sphere class, and now as she prepares to take to the water for the first time, it is a testament to the incredible dedication and skill of the entire shipyard team. Fincantieri has again turned vision into reality, building on the success of her sister ship - Sun Princess, which has already captured the hearts of our guests with its elegance and cutting-edge design. Together, we are creating amazing machines that will inspire adventure and deliver unforgettable experiences for all who sail with us for decades to come."
The Journey Ahead
Following the float out ceremony, Star Princess will undergo further outfitting to prepare for her debut cruise in Fall 2025. Princess Cruises is committed to ensuring that Star Princess meets the highest standards of luxury, comfort, and safety, providing guests with exceptional experiences on board.
Upcoming Voyages
Voyages for Star Princess's inaugural season are now on sale, offering a variety of itineraries that showcase some of South America's most enchanting destinations. From exploring the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires to witnessing the natural beauty of the Chilean fjords, guests can look forward to a cruise filled with adventure and discovery.
Honouring a Maritime Legacy
The float out ceremony not only marks a significant milestone in Star Princess's construction but also honours the rich maritime heritage that Princess Cruises embodies. The presence of senior officers, dignitaries, and maritime leaders underscores the importance of this event in celebrating the continued legacy of excellence and innovation within the cruise industry.
Setting Sail for the Future
The float out of Star Princess signifies the dawn of a new era for Princess Cruises. With her impressive size, innovative features, and dedicated leadership team, Star Princess is poised to become a favourite among cruise enthusiasts worldwide. The collaboration with Fincantieri and the appointment of seasoned officers ensure that Star Princess will deliver the exceptional experiences that Princess Cruises is renowned for.
At S.W. Black Travel, we are excited to assist you in planning your journey aboard Star Princess. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Star Princess promises to deliver unforgettable memories and unparalleled luxury. Connect with a travel adviser to start planning your extraordinary cruise adventure and be among the first to experience the elegance and innovation of Star Princess.
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