Friday, January 17, 2025
Emily Fisher Vice President of Programs and Planning | Florida Ports Council

Princess Cruises' Caribbean Princess starts voyages from Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral has expanded its fleet with the addition of the Caribbean Princess from Princess Cruises. This marks the first "Love Boat" to be homeported at the port, launching itineraries ranging from 4 to 14 days to destinations in the Caribbean and Central America.

This move is part of Princess Cruises' strategy to grow its presence in North America, providing more accessible voyage options for guests traveling from Central Florida. Capt. John Murray, CEO of Port Canaveral, expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, stating, “Our collaboration with Princess Cruises marks an exciting milestone for us. They are a brand that many cruise enthusiasts have long awaited to sail from our Port.”

The inaugural arrival was commemorated with a traditional maritime plaque exchange involving Canaveral Port Authority Commissioner Kevin Markey, Caribbean Princess Captain Vincenzo Lubrano Lobianco, and Vicki Johnson, Head of Communications for Princess Cruises.

Terry Thornton, Chief Commercial Officer for Princess Cruises, highlighted the benefits of Port Canaveral's facilities and location: “We’re very excited to homeport Caribbean Princess in Port Canaveral which not only offers excellent facilities but a convenient location that’s easily accessible for our guests."

In support of the local community and ahead of Thanksgiving, Princess Cruises donated food items to the South Brevard Sharing Center.

The Caribbean Princess embarked on its maiden voyage from Port Canaveral on a four-day cruise to Grand Turk. The ship will offer diverse cruises featuring various destinations such as St. Thomas, Cozumel, Belize City, and Nassau. These itineraries include six- and eight-day options that can be combined into a 14-day trip.

With 1,571 staterooms and several amenities like Sabatini’s Italian restaurant and Lotus Spa enhanced by Medallion class technology, guests can personalize their experience aboard this 3,140-passenger vessel.