Planning a cruise is an adventure in itself! The anticipation, the destinations, the onboard experiences… it’s all incredibly exciting. But choosing the right ship and cabin can feel a little overwhelming. That’s where understanding the deck plans comes in, especially for a groundbreaking vessel like the Princess Cruises Sun Princess.
This guide to the Sun Princess deck plans will help you navigate the layout of this incredible ship, highlighting the newest features and changes, and ensuring you choose the perfect cabin and location to maximize your cruise vacation. We'll break down the key areas, point out potential pros and cons of different decks, and give you insider tips to make informed decisions.
One of the most important tips for selecting the right cabin is to consider its location relative to noisy areas like the pools, theaters, or elevators. Studying the deck plans carefully will help you avoid cabins directly above or below these areas if you're sensitive to noise. This is particularly crucial on a large ship like the Sun Princess.
Princess Cruises Sun Princess Deck Plans: A Detailed Look
The Sun Princess is a revolutionary ship for Princess, boasting innovative designs and a wealth of new features. Understanding the deck plans is crucial for making the most of your time onboard. Let's dive into a deck-by-deck overview, highlighting the key attractions and important considerations for each area. This detailed ship guide will help you plan your cruise vacation with confidence.
Decks 4-8: The Heart of the Ship
These lower decks are primarily dedicated to cabins, but also house essential services and embarkation points. Reviewing the deck layout of these levels is vital to find a stateroom that balances value, comfort, and convenience for accessing the rest of the ship.
Deck 4: Primarily crew areas and some inside cabins. Not much passenger traffic. Deck 5: Medical Center, Guest Services, and a selection of inside and outside cabins. Close to essential services, but may experience some foot traffic. Deck 6: Lower Promenade Deck. Here you'll find the Princess Theater lower level, various shops, and a wide range of cabin options. If you are sensitive to noise, avoid cabins near the theater. Deck 7: The Piazza, a central hub with restaurants, bars, and entertainment. Also houses the Princess Casino and more shops. Expect significant foot traffic and potential noise, especially in the evenings. Consider this if you're choosing a cabin on this deck. Deck 8:Another deck dominated by cabins, offering a mix of inside, outside, and balcony options. It sits above the bustling Deck 7, so noise could be a factor to consider. The other main consideration is whether your cabin is above or below a lounge/bar.
Decks 9-16: Mid-Ship Marvels: Cabins, Pools, and More
The middle decks of the Sun Princess are where you'll find a diverse range of amenities and cabin options. This area is extremely popular, so booking early is key.
Decks 9-14: Primarily cabin decks, featuring a wide variety of stateroom categories, including balcony cabins and suites. Central location for easy access to both upper and lower decks. Be mindful of cabin locations near elevators or stairwells, as these can be high-traffic areas. Deck 15: Lido Deck. Home to the World Fresh Marketplace (buffet), the Wake View Terrace, and several pools and hot tubs. Expect significant daytime activity and potential noise. Cabins on this deck may experience noise from the pool deck. Deck 16:Another deck with cabins, but also features the Princess Arena. Consider the location of cabins relative to the theater to minimize potential noise disturbances.
Decks 17-20: Above It All: Recreation and Relaxation
These upper decks are dedicated to recreation, dining, and relaxation. They offer stunning views and access to some of the ship's most exciting features.
Deck 17: Home to the Sea View Terrace, the Park19 family activity zone (including the Rollglider), the Sports Court and the Fitness Center. A great area if you like being close to the action, but consider the potential noise from outdoor activities when choosing a cabin on the decks below. Deck 18: Sanctuary Deck, offering a tranquil retreat with comfortable seating, a pool, and dedicated service. Also the upper level of Park19 and the Sun Princess Waterpark. A great place to relax and unwind. Deck 19: The Dome, a unique entertainment venue that transforms from a pool area by day to a show lounge by night. Also home to Umai Teppanyaki, a unique dining experience. Expect noise and activity in this area, especially during evening performances. Deck 20: The very top deck, offering panoramic views and access to the upper level of The Dome.
What's New and Noteworthy on the Sun Princess Deck Plans?
The Sun Princess introduces several exciting new features and design elements, making it a truly unique cruise experience. Understanding these innovations is key to selecting the best cabins and planning your onboard activities.
The Dome: This groundbreaking entertainment space is a marvel of engineering, transforming from an indoor pool area during the day to a captivating show lounge at night. Cabins nearby may experience noise, but the proximity to this unique venue could be a plus for some. Park19: A dedicated family activity zone spanning multiple decks, offering a variety of engaging experiences for all ages, including the first Rollglider on a cruise ship. This could be a huge draw for families, but those seeking quieter surroundings should choose cabins further away. The Piazza: A reimagined central hub featuring stunning architecture and a variety of dining and entertainment options. It’s the heart of the ship, so expect significant foot traffic. More Balcony Cabins and Suites: The Sun Princess offers an increased number of balcony cabins and suites, providing breathtaking ocean views and private outdoor spaces.
Which decks are best on Princess Cruises Sun Princess?
The "best" deck depends entirely on your personal preferences. For easy access to the main attractions and minimal elevator usage, mid-ship decks (9-14) are generally a good choice. For stunning views and a quieter atmosphere, consider higher decks (17-18), keeping in mind potential noise from Park19 or The Dome. Families might prefer decks close to Park19 (17-18), while those seeking tranquility might prefer decks further away from activity zones.
Are there cabins to avoid on Princess Cruises Sun Princess?
While all cabins on the Sun Princess are designed for comfort, some locations may be less desirable for certain travelers. Cabins directly above or below the Princess Theater, the Princess Casino, the World Fresh Marketplace (buffet), or the pool deck might experience noise. Cabins near elevators or stairwells can also be high-traffic areas. Carefully review the deck plans and consider your sensitivity to noise when making your cabin selection.
What should I look for when studying the Princess Cruises Sun Princess deck plans?
Pay close attention to the location of your desired cabin relative to public areas such as restaurants, lounges, theaters, and elevators. Consider the potential for noise and foot traffic. Also, check the orientation of the cabin to understand the direction of the views from the balcony (if applicable). Look for any potential obstructions, such as lifeboats or support structures. And of course, compare the different cabin categories to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Cabin on the Sun Princess
Consider your priorities: Are you a light sleeper? Do you prefer easy access to certain amenities? Are you traveling with children? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and choose the best cabin location for your needs. Read reviews: Check online forums and cruise review websites to get insights from other travelers who have stayed in specific cabins or on certain decks. Use a travel agent: A knowledgeable travel agent can provide personalized recommendations based on your preferences and budget. They can also help you navigate the deck plans and identify potential issues. Book early: The best cabins tend to sell out quickly, so book your cruise as early as possible to secure your preferred location.
With its innovative design and diverse array of amenities, the Sun Princess promises an unforgettable cruise experience. By carefully studying the deck plans and considering your personal preferences, you can choose the perfect cabin and location to maximize your enjoyment onboard. Don't be afraid to ask questions, do your research, and trust your instincts. You're on your way to planning the cruise of a lifetime!