Following a review of the remaining construction milestones, both parties have chosen to push the second Sphere-class ship’s delivery from 29 July 2025 to 26 September 2025.

The move means Princess will cancel nine of the ship’s sailings. Star Princess’ new maiden will now be an 11-day Mediterranean cruise on 4 October 2025.

Following a subsequent seven-day Mediterranean voyage on 15 October, the ship will begin a 14-day transatlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale on 22 October. 

The ship’s new itineraries will go on sale on 30 April 2024.  

Affected guests will be given several options: book any Princess cruise worldwide, including onboard the new Star Princess, sister ship Sun Princess or any other Princess ship.

Guests who choose to rebook with receive future cruise credits and onboard credits depending on the cruise they select. 

Customers will also have the option to cancel and receive a full refund of the cruise fare. 

The line confirmed that it will protect travel agent commissions on all bookings that have been paid in full. 

Princess president John Padgett said: “Despite our collective dedication and relentless pursuit to deliver the ship in late July, it has become evident that additional time is required to ensure the Star Princess is delivered to the highest standards expected by our guests.” 

This is not the first time Princess has been forced to delay the launch of a Sphere-class vessel this year. In February, the line postponed the launch of Sun Princess twice to allow for additional work to be completed. 

The 4,300-passenger ship finally set sail on 28 February – 20 days later than originally planned.