Sea trials successfully completed for Star Princess, the second Sphere-class unit of Princess Cruises, under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone.
The final tests, the company explains, part of the Carnival group, were conducted in the Adriatic Sea between August 9 and 12, and were supervised by Captain Gennaro Arma. Among other things, the trials verified aspects such as maneuverability and navigation and propulsion systems. In addition to LNG power, other notable features of Star Princess include the presence of two Azipod units and four large variable-pitch bow thrusters.
“As the proud captain of this new ship of ours, I am extremely impressed by its navigation and maneuvering capabilities,” commented Arma, stating he is ready to welcome guests alongside the crew next fall for “unforgettable adventures.” As previously known, the inaugural voyage of Star Princess will consist of a Mediterranean cruise departing on October 4 from Barcelona. The delivery of the ship, initially scheduled for July, was mutually postponed by the company and the shipyard in April of last year following a review of the remaining construction timeline.
Sister ship to Sun Princess, also built in Monfalcone and delivered in 2024, Star Princess has a gross tonnage of 177,800 tons, can accommodate 4,300 passengers, and will feature 30 different restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
