Royal Princess is back in service after a two-week refit in Singapore, and Princess Cruises has used the time to give the ship a noticeable upgrade across cabins, dining and entertainment. The work ran from 16 to 30 October, and the biggest headline for cruisers is the introduction of the Sanctuary Collection — a premium tier that bundles access to the adults-oriented Sanctuary Club, upgraded amenities and personalised service. Guests in the collection can also eat at the new Sanctuary Restaurant on Deck 6, which sits next to the Concerto Dining Room and is reserved exclusively for them. The collection covers suites, mini-suites, deluxe balcony and balcony staterooms, plus newly added oceanview rooms.
Space-wise, the drydock added 20 staterooms in total: six mini-suites, seven oceanview cabins, two interiors and five single interiors — that last category worth noting for solo travellers who don't want a hefty single supplement.
The social spaces got attention too. O'Malley's Irish Pub has taken over the Vines spot on Deck 5, serving Irish-inspired food and drinks, while Bellini's has expanded into the old Photo Gallery with extra seating overlooking the Piazza, pouring its signature Bellini cocktails alongside champagne and sparkling wines. The casino has been opened up as well — the staircase between Decks 6 and 7 was removed to create a bigger gaming floor with more slots. Retail has been refreshed too, with the Effy jewellery boutique updated and The Shops of Princess transitioning to new onboard partner Starboard.
So where does the ship go next? Straight to the southern hemisphere. Royal Princess is positioning in Sydney for the 2026–27 season, sailing itineraries across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. She'll be one of three Princess ships in the region that season, which spans 42 itineraries and 62 departures — everything from shorter coastal runs to longer voyages linking Australia and New Zealand.
For anyone eyeing a down-under cruise, the timing works in your favour. A freshly refitted ship sailing local seasons from Sydney means you can combine a city stay with a South Pacific or New Zealand itinerary, and the expanded cabin mix — particularly those single cabins — widens who can book comfortably. If the Sanctuary Collection appeals, booking early for the Australian season is the way to lock in the premium perks on a long-haul trip where the onboard experience matters that much more.
