Europe and Mediterranean: European Explorer Cruise

Princess Cruises

Once home to ancient civilizations and famous philosophers, the Mediterranean continues to define tradition. Departing from Rome, Athens or Barcelona, sail into Marseille and bask in the beauty of Provence's lavender fields. Explore Pompeii's ruins while visiting Naples. Or taste cuisine as rich as the culture with fresh vegetables in Santorini and hand-thrown pizzas in Naples.

Included Extras

Executive Member Benefit

  • Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

Digital Costco Shop Card

  • Member Exclusive: Digital Costco Shop Card with every Princess Cruises® sailing†

Sailing Itinerary

Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.

Day 1 Port of Call Barcelona Departure 5:00pm

Overview

Barcelona is a charming, cosmopolitan port on the shores of the Mediterranean sea. This prosperous and bilingual (Spanish and Catalan) metropolis measures up to a city such as Madrid: its museums, theaters, art galleries and nightlife area of an impressive high standard. Besides that, this art and design centre has a lot of interesting sights to offer to its visitors. The best place to watch people go by, to stroll or simply relax, is 'Las Ramblas', a pedestrian street with dozens of outdoor cafes. Here, you’ll find flower-stands, book kiosks and small market stalls where they sell birds and small animals. You’ll also find an endlessly fascinating flowing receptacle of pageant-jugglers, singers, dancers, puppeteers, sidewalk artists, living statues and assorted oddballs on parade. Nearby is 'Plaça Real', with plenty of bars and restaurants, and 'Palau Guell', built by the Catalan architectural genius Antoni Gaudi in his undulating art-nouveau style. After having seen these sights, stroll the narrow winding streets of the 'Barri Gotic', the medieval Gothic quarter full of interesting tapas bars and cafes. Check out Picasso’s old hangout, 'Els Quatre Gats', which has been renovated without losing its bohemian charm. Or head for the old Barceloneta section on the waterfront. This working-class area, which was always slightly rundown and scruffy-looking, is now packed with paella restaurants. The new beach area, which runs from Barceloneta to the Olympic village, is much cleaner than the old beach area. Although some people believe that it has been cleaned up considerably, it might be a wise idea to stay out of the water. Fortunately, the beach itself is already a feast for the eyes (and ears), with its huge and roaring waves.

Day 2 Port of Call Palma de Mallorca Arrival 7:00am Departure 5:00pm

Overview

Palma is a resort city and capital of the Spanish island of Mallorca (Majorca), in the western Mediterranean. The massive Santa María cathedral, a Gothic landmark begun in the 13th century, overlooks the Bay of Palma. The adjacent Almudaina is a Moorish-style Arab fortress converted to a royal residence. West of the city, hilltop Bellver Castle is a medieval fortress with a distinctive circular shape. Most of the major buildings and monuments in Palma were constructed during the "Golden Age," between 1276 and 1344 under the rule of the Kingdom of Aragon. Among the most impressive is the graceful Gothic Cathedral, which was commissioned by King Jaime I of Aragon in 1230. Legend has it that on his way to recapture Mallorca from the Moors, Jaime the First's ship was struck by a terrible storm, and he vowed at that moment, to the Virgin Mary, that if he survived he would erect a church in her honor. He made good on his promise but it took a while. The Cathedral wasn't completed until 1601! You will find the people of Mallorca are quite charming, as their experiences have allowed them to perfect the art of hospitality. So relax and enjoy this unique multicultural island — you're in the hands of professionals.

Day 3 Port of Call Cartagena/Spain Arrival 8:00am Departure 6:00pm

Overview

The capital of the region with a population of 168,000, Cartegena was founded, as its name suggests, by the Carthargenians in 227 BC and it became Hannibal’s capital city on the Iberian Peninsula. Today it is a modern, industrial city although relics of the its past are still highly visible. The narrow streets of the old town were built around the ruined 13th century cathedral. There are several sites of historical interest including the remains of the Roman road, an old Roman theatre and the Literna (an ancient lighthouse of Moorish origins). Cartagena’s ancient seaport and naval dockyard is where the first submarine was built in 1900 and where submarines are still built today. The port consists of a deep bay with a natural harbour, hence the town’s historical importance. Cartagena has a large shopping centre, plenty of supermarkets and other amenities you would expect to find in a large town including a hospital, schools and sports facilities. The town is the major service centre for the Costa Calida urbanizations that continue to develop around it. Cartegena is 30 minutes drive from Murcia via the N301 San Javier airport is 15km from Cartagena. The excellent golf courses at La Manga, which has 3 18-hole courses of international standard, are 20km away.

Day 4 Cruising
Day 5 Port of Call Cadiz Arrival 7:00am Departure 5:00pm

Overview

The city of Cadiz, which practically accounts for the whole of the municipal area, lies to the east of the bay of the same name, in an area which could be described as half island, half peninsula, connected to the mainland by a slender, sandy strip. Its situation is responsible for its obvious maritime tendencies, and it has been totally dedicated to seafaring pursuits since its foundation. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and Arabs all passed through what is believed to be the western world’s oldest city, and it was here that Spain’s first democratic Constitution was drawn up. Despite its essentially urban nature, it also boasts areas of natural interest, such as the beaches of La Cortadura and El Chato, as well as Santibanez Mud Flats, which are part of Cadiz Bay Natural Park. The city, popularly known as “La Tacita de Plata” (The Silver Cup), has an unmistakable marine flavour, and its people are famous for their good humour and hospitality, as witnessed by the famous carnival; it boasts monuments of great interest, such as the Cathedral, the city walls, Holy Cross Parish Church, the Genoese Park, Puerta de la Caleta, etc. All places of indubitable charm, to which we must add the city’s cuisine and beaches, famous for their beauty, such as La Caleta, Santa Maria del Mar and La Victoria. History This legendary city was founded by the Phoenicians in 1100, although the oldest archaeological remains date back to around 800 B.C. Mythology links its foundation with Hercules and the legendary Tartessia. The Phoenicians called the city Gadir, meaning “closed area”. They built a commercial factory and a temple in honour of the god Melkart In 206 B.C. it was joined with Rome as an allied city under the name Gades. This was the start of one of the most prosperous periods in Cadiz’s history, and it became one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire. In the Imperial age, it was known as “Augusta Urbs Julia Gaditana”. Its inhabitants were soon granted Roman citizenship. When the Moslem invasions began in the 8th century, it provided the armies with significant support by facilitating their passage, though it soon suffered a decline in importance which would prevail until the Christian conquest and re-settlement at the hands of Alfonso X, known as The Wise, between 1260 and 1262. During the 15th century, the city’s economic activity was based essentially on sea commerce, particularly in North Africa. In 1493, the Catholic Monarchs made Cadiz Crown property; it had belonged to the Ponce de Leon estate since 1470. With the discovery of America, Cadiz’s rise to greatness began, culminating in the 18th century. Its natural conditions meant that whenever it was impossible for ships to berth in Seville, they could do so in Cadiz. In 1717, Seville’s Contracting House was moved to Cadiz, the monopoly of American trade travelling with it; however, this situation was short-lived, as the concession to trade with the New World was extended to twelve ports in 1778. The town centre was consolidated in the 18th and 19th centuries, when urban renovation was carried out and most of the monuments and buildings that we know today were built. La Isla del Leon, now San Fernando, was the setting for the earliest meetings of the famous Cadiz Cortes, general constituent assemblies set up to provide Spain with a Constitution during the war of independence. Fleeing from the French, the Government took refuge near Cadiz, the only stronghold that the French were unable to capture during the whole of the war. Between 1810 and 1811, Government assemblies took place in La Isla de Leon Theatre; in February 1811, the proximity of Napoleon’s troops forced them to move to San Felipe de Neri Church in Cadiz, returning once more to La Isla de Leon before finally making their definitive journey back to Madrid in 1813. After the war, the city continued at the vanguard of liberalism, with its support for Riego in 1820 and its leading role in the face of the French invasion in 1823. In a similar vein, Cadiz was at the forefront of the 1868 uprising. At the end of the 19th century, the city’s economic decline began. A series of events including the loss of the colonial market, culminating in the 1898 Disaster, and the African War, among others, ushered in a crisis that was to have grave consequences.

Day 6 Cruising
Day 7 Cruising
Day 8 Cruising
Day 9 Port of Call Southampton Arrival 7:00am

Overview

Southampton is a port city on England’s south coast. It’s home to the SeaCity Museum, with an interactive model of the Titanic, which departed from Southampton in 1912. Nearby, Southampton City Art Gallery specialises in modern British art. Solent Sky Museum features vintage aircraft like the iconic Spitfire. Tudor House & Garden displays artifacts covering over 800 years of history, including a penny-farthing bike.

Day 10 Port of Call Southampton Arrival 6:00am

Overview

Southampton is a port city on England’s south coast. It’s home to the SeaCity Museum, with an interactive model of the Titanic, which departed from Southampton in 1912. Nearby, Southampton City Art Gallery specialises in modern British art. Solent Sky Museum features vintage aircraft like the iconic Spitfire. Tudor House & Garden displays artifacts covering over 800 years of history, including a penny-farthing bike.

Onboard the Sun Princess

Costco Member Reviews

Sun Princess® is the first ship in the fleet to be powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG). This cleaner burning fuel will significantly reduce air emissions and marine gasoil to minimize the environmental footprint. Offering more than 29 bars and restaurants and the most balconies on any Princess ship, this new Sphere class generation cruise ship boasts expansive venues, contemporary entertainment and next-level stateroom accommodations.

Onboard Activities

Activities & Services (included in cruise)

Casino

  • Casino
  • Movies
  • Theater/Show Lounge
  • Fitness Center
  • Fitness Classes
  • Sauna/Steam Room
  • Pool - Outdoor
  • Sports Facilities
  • Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
  • Art Gallery
  • Bars/Lounges
  • Children's Indoor Play Area
  • Children's Outdoor Play Area
  • Organized Age Specific Activities
  • Teen Center or Disco
  • Teen Programs
  • Concierge Desk
  • Elevators
  • Infirmary/Medical Center
  • Self-Service Laundromat

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

Duty Free Shops

  • Beauty Salon
  • Full-Service Spa
  • Spa Services/Massage
  • Educational Programs
  • Internet Center
  • Babysitting
  • Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
  • Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques

Costco Travel makes every effort to verify the accuracy of all information provided. Additional fees for amenities or services may be charged by the cruise line. Amenities or services may be discontinued or revised by the cruise line without notice. Staterooms designated as wheelchair-accessible do not necessarily meet ADA requirements. Costco Travel is not responsible for inaccuracies or provider modifications.

Dining

Main Dining

Main Dining

Horizons: A main dining venue that elevates the traditional main dining experience with stunning wake views and natural light that highlight a decorative sculpture, stretching from deck 6 to deck 8. Horizons will serve guests multicourse meals from friendly waitstaff with each level having its own personality, offering different dining experiences and ranges in levels of formality.

Sabatini's

Specialty Dining

O'Malley's Irish Pub: A popular new pub now on Enchanted Princess, O'Malley's joins Sun Princess as a traditional Irish pub with live music, interactive entertainment and mouthwatering menu items including the freshly-ground ribeye-blend Bushmills Blue Burger and the O'Malley's Burger patties, dressed with Bushmills Whiskey glaze. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Crown Grill: The iconic Crown Grill experience goes next level with a modern, sleek design and theater-style kitchen. Featuring premium aged beef and fresh seafood items, this specialty restaurant offers an intimate dining experience in a classically-elegant setting, offering a guests'-eye-view into the show galley buzzing with top chefs on a mission to serve top-quality cuts of beef, chops and seafood. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Kai Sushi: A modern sushi bar adjacent to the heart of the Piazza, Kai Sushi offers spectacular views from the Sphere window with a vast array of sushi and sashimi specialties, plus signature rolls like Crispy Lobster Tempura, Wagyu Tataki, and Asparagus and Salmon. Guests can enjoy mouthwatering bites from intimate tables or watch sushi crafting at its best from expert chefs at the traditional sushi bar. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Sabatini's: Watch pasta being made fresh every day in an all-new pasta room with sweeping circular windows. Families and friends share stories over unique, handmade pasta courses made with the finest ingredients in a trattoria style dining experience. Irresistible Sicilian fried mozzarella rice balls scented with black truffle, creamy Burrata Caprese, and Classic Beef Carpaccio are just the beginning. Seafood dishes and primavera pastas round out a menu peppered with savory meat dishes featuring lamb chops, veal tenderloin, and strip loin steak. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Umai Teppanyaki: Exclusive to Sun Princess, Umai Teppanyaki is a feast for the senses, offering a fusion of top cuisine and showmanship. Here, highly skilled masters of teppanyaki take center stage, using their fiery skills and flair to create a dazzling display on a sizzling hot grill. Masters of slicing and dicing, chefs mesmerize guests while juggling meats, poultry, fish, and vegetables on the iron "Teppan" grill that serves as their stage. Guests have front-row seats at the table to witness the fun while sipping signature drinks like the Wasabi Cocktail and Japanese Martini. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

The Catch by Rudi: A pop-up dinner concept from renowned Chef Rudi Sodamin showcasing treasures from the sea like Oysters on the Half Shell with red-and-pink peppercorn Mignonette; Calamari with seasoned panko coating and lemon aioli; Mussels Provençale with crusty bread for dipping; and a Catch of the Day lineup sure to make pescatarians and omnivores smile. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

International Cafe

Casual Dining

International Café: Featuring an ever-changing array of small bite meals, treats and gourmet beverages.

Pizzeria Outdoor Dining: Delight in the classic favorites like pepperoni and margherita, as well as daily specialty pizzas.

World Fresh Marketplace: Whenever you visit, you’ll find plenty of well-balanced options to choose from.

Room Service: Call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® MedallionClass® app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. To order, guests can press the "Room Service" button on their stateroom phone, or order through OceanNow®.


Disclaimer regarding ship dining

Times, costs and other specifics are outside the control of Costco Travel. All information is at the sole discretion of the cruise line and is subject to change without notice. Dining time and table size preferences are submitted to the cruise line on a first-come, first-served request basis and are confirmed aboard ship. Questions, concerns and/or special needs regarding dining arrangements must be addressed with the maitre d' hotel aboard ship. Every effort is made to accommodate travelers' preferences; however, Costco Travel cannot guarantee dining arrangements. In specialty restaurants, space is limited and reservations are recommended. A cover charge and dress code may apply.

Staterooms

Stateroom features two twin beds or a queen-size bed and the basic amenities including private bathroom with shower, spacious closet, desk with chair, hair dryer and bathroom amenities, digital security safe, flat-panel TV to in-room refrigerator.

Interior (Category: IA)

Category: IA

Interior (Category: IB)

Category: IB

Interior (Category: IC)

Category: IC

Interior (Category: ID)

Category: ID

Interior (Category: IE)

Category: IE

Interior (Category: IF)

Category: IF

Single Interior (Category: IS)

Category: IS

Stateroom includes all the amenities of an interior room and the added benefit of ocean views that bring an airy openness to the space.

Premium Oceanview (Category: O2)

Category: O2

Premium Oceanview (Category: O3)

Category: O3

Premium Oceanview (Category: O5)

Category: O5

Stateroom offers all the amenities of an ocean-view with the added indulgence of a private balcony with well-appointed outdoor furniture and a relaxing view of the scenery that surrounds you.

Premium Deluxe Balcony (Category: D1)

Category: D1

Premium Deluxe Balcony (Category: D2)

Category: D2

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DA)

Category: DA

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DB)

Category: DB

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DC)

Category: DC

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DD)

Category: DD

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DE)

Category: DE

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DF)

Category: DF

Cove Balcony (Category: DG)

Category: DG

Cove Balcony (Category: DH)

Category: DH

Stateroom offers all the amenities of a balcony with a substantially larger space than a balcony stateroom and includes a separate seating area with sofa bed as well as two flat-panel TVs. Enjoy suite-only benefits and exclusive access to private restaurants and additional luxuries.

Signature Sky Suite (Category: S0)

Category: S0

Signature Owner’s Suite (Category: S2)

Category: S2

Signature Penthouse Suite (Category: S4)

Category: S4

Signature Suite (Category: S9)

Category: S9

Reserve Collection Cabana Mini-Suite (Category: C1)

Category: C1

Reserve Collection Cabana Mini-Suite (Category: C2)

Category: C2

Cabana Mini-Suite (Category: CA)

Category: CA

Cabana Mini-Suite (Category: CB)

Category: CB

Reserve Collection Mini Suite with Balcony (Category: M1)

Category: M1

Reserve Collection Mini Suite with Balcony (Category: M2)

Category: M2

Mini Suite with Balcony (Category: MA)

Category: MA

Mini Suite with Balcony (Category: MD)

Category: MD

Deck Plan

Cruise Ship
Deck 21
Key to Symbols
SymbolDescription

Ship Facts

Sun Princess ship image
  • Ship Name: Sun Princess
  • Year Built: 2022
  • Year Entered Present Fleet: 2024
  • Ship Class: Oceanliner
  • Maximum Capacity: 5,318
  • Number of Passenger Decks: 21
  • Number of Crew: 1,547
  • Officers' Nationality: International
  • Ocean-View without Balcony: 186
  • Ocean-View with Balcony: 1,511
  • Total Inside Staterooms: 460
  • Tonnage (GRT): 175,500
  • Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 2,150
  • Country of Registry: Bermuda
  • Total Staterooms: 2,157
  • Suites with Balcony: 80
  • Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International
Costco Travel makes every effort to verify the accuracy of all information provided. Additional fees for amenities or services may be charged by the hotel, resort or cruise line. Amenities or services may be discontinued or revised by the provider without notice. Hotels, resorts, ships or accommodations designated as wheelchair-accessible do not necessarily meet ADA requirements. Costco Travel is not responsible for inaccuracies or provider modifications.

Available Dates & Prices

Departure Date

Inside Stateroom

Ocean View Stateroom

Balcony Stateroom

Suite Stateroom

Terms & Conditions

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.

© Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. Ships of Bermudan and British registry.

Images are an artist's rendering.

    Package ID: PCLSUNEUR20240914