Grand Princess

Grand Princess, delivered in 1998, launched the Grand class and was the largest and most expensive cruise ship ever built at the time. It was famous for Skywalkers Nightclub, a lounge perched high above the stern that was removed in a 2011 refit. The ship has several pools, Movies Under the Stars and The Sanctuary, and it has spent many seasons sailing from the West Coast to Hawaii, Mexico and Alaska. As one of the oldest ships in the fleet, its cabins and bathrooms are smaller and less modern than on newer Princess ships, but the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.

Best for: Travelers who want a calm, traditional Princess ship for West Coast itineraries and don’t need the latest cabin designs.

Princess Cruises is a mid-priced, relaxed line known for Alaska, smooth MedallionClass technology and a calm, grown-up atmosphere with traditional touches. It sails almost everywhere, from Glacier Bay to Japan and the Mediterranean. It suits couples, retirees and multigenerational families who want comfort without big-ship thrills, less so travelers hunting for water parks or nightlife.