Royal Princess Adds Sanctuary Collection Ahead of Australia Season
The ship adds premium accommodations, a dedicated restaurant and new social spaces, with exclusive Sanctuary Club access beginning in April 2027.
Photo: Courtesy of Princess Cruises
Royal Princess has completed a two-week drydock in Singapore, adding Sanctuary Collection accommodations, 20 cabins, and updated dining and social spaces before its 2026–27 season sailing from Sydney.
The refurbishment brings Princess Cruises’ premium accommodation offering to the 3,595-guest ship as part of an expansion across five Royal-Class vessels. On Royal Princess, travelers can book Sanctuary Collection accommodations in categories ranging from newly constructed ocean-view staterooms to balcony cabins, deluxe balconies, mini-suites and suites. Collection guests have access to a dedicated Sanctuary Restaurant on deck 6, adjacent to the Concerto Dining Room, along with upgraded amenities and personalized service.
The Sanctuary Club will become part of the Sanctuary Collection on April 22, 2027. Until then, all guests aged 16 and older may preview the space, formerly the Retreat Pool and The Sanctuary. Clients booking the collection for the upcoming Australian season should therefore distinguish the dedicated restaurant benefit from the club access that takes effect in April.
“The enhancements aboard Royal Princess introduce new accommodations, distinctive venues for entertaining, dining and socializing, and thoughtfully refreshed spaces designed to elevate every aspect of the guest experience,” said Rodrigo Llaguno, Princess Cruises’ chief operating officer.
The Oct. 16–30 drydock also added six mini-suites, seven ocean-view cabins, two interior cabins, and five single interior cabins, expanding the ship’s accommodation options for solo travelers. Around the Piazza, O’Malley’s Irish Pub replaces Vines on deck 5 and serves Irish-inspired food and drinks. Bellini’s cocktail bar has expanded into the former Photo Gallery, adding space overlooking the ship’s central gathering area.
Elsewhere, Princess removed the staircase connecting decks 6 and 7 within the casino, creating a more open layout and room for additional slot machines. The Effy jewelry boutique was refreshed, and onboard shops were updated as Princess transitioned to retail partner Starboard.
Royal Princess now heads to Sydney for voyages visiting Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, alongside shorter coastal getaways. It is one of three Princess ships operating in the region during the 2026–27 season; the line’s regional program comprises 42 distinct itineraries and 62 departures.
