Sailing the Star Princess: An Unforgettable 7-Night Cruise through

Spain & France

When the oceans and stars align, I must go — and that’s exactly how I felt when this incredible opportunity came my way. 

I was offered something that anyone in my position could never say no to: a chance to fly to Barcelona, Spain, to embark on the world’s newest cruise ship at the time — the magnificent Star Princess. Even better, I was joining her on only her second voyage which departed Barcelona on the 15th October 2025!

After three flights and nearly 28 hours in the air and in transit through Singapore and Munich, I finally arrived in beautiful Barcelona. My first afternoon was spent the best way possible: with a welcome sangria, some authentic Spanish tapas, and a leisurely stroll through the Gothic Quarter — just enough to keep me awake and take in the atmosphere.

FIRST NIGHT IN BARCELONA - DINNER AT LOS CARACOLES

On our first night in Barcelona, we dined at one of the most charismatic restaurants in the city, Los Caracoles — a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Catalan cuisine. Founded in 1835 by the Bofarull family, the restaurant has been maintained by four more generations of the family and is located in the Gothic District near Las Ramblas. The atmosphere was vibrant and lively, filled with the sounds of chatter, clinking glasses, and the aroma of traditional dishes being prepared – you had to walk through the kitchen to get to the restaurant’s tables.

I enjoyed classic Spanish fare — rich, flavourful, and perfectly seasoned — from hearty tapas to their famous snails (not to be confused with escargot). Sharing local wine with the meal made it even more special, and the experience of dining in such a historic, iconic spot gave a real sense of place. It was the perfect introduction to Barcelona, setting the tone for the incredible week ahead.

That night, sleep was hard to come by — the excitement was electric. Tomorrow, I’d step aboard the glamorous Star Princess, and I could hardly believe it. It was a pinch-me moment in my travel career, one I knew I’d never forget.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF THE STAR PRINCESS

Morning arrived, and with it came a mix of excitement and disbelief — this was finally the day! As our taxi approached the port, the sight of the Star Princess quite literally took my breath away. There she was, gleaming in the Barcelona sunshine — elegant, commanding, and utterly magnificent. She stood tall before me, the largest ship I had ever sailed on in my 25-year career, and seeing her in person felt completely surreal.

From the moment I stepped into the Barcelona International Cruise Terminal, everything was effortless. Embarkation was seamless — smooth, organized, and welcoming. From bag drop to security, check-in, and finally boarding, the entire process took just eight minutes! The Princess Cruises team welcomed us with warm smiles and genuine hospitality, setting the tone for the journey ahead.

Before I knew it, I was stepping aboard the ship — the scent of the unmistakable “new ship” excitement took over.

As I stepped into the atrium, I was instantly captivated, at first it felt smaller than I had imagined from the photos I had seen online, but that impression quickly changed. The space was bright, open, and full of energy — designed to make a statement from the moment you arrived. Sunlight poured in through the large glass panels on both sides, the very feature that gives the ship its Sphere Class designation, casting a lively glow across the atrium.

There was a real buzz in the air as guests stopped to take photos and admire the surroundings. For me, it was a genuine “wow” moment — standing there, taking it all in, I couldn’t help but feel proud to be part of this experience. After 25 years in the travel industry, I have sailed on many beautiful ships, but the Star Princess had something extra — a sense of space, style, and sophistication that made her truly unforgettable.

MY STATEROOM - #11118

Stepping into my stateroom, cabin 11118, I was immediately impressed. It’s a Deluxe Balcony Cabin, but unlike most, it features an enclosed balcony towards the front of the ship. The cabin felt spacious, bright, and thoughtfully designed — modern finishes and clever storage solutions made it both stylish and functional.

The bed was plush and inviting, designed for ultimate comfort, it felt like sinking into a cloud after a day of travel and exploration around the Mediterranean

The cabin included a comfortable seating area with a three-seater couch — big enough for an adult to sleep on (I may have had a nap there a time or two!). It also featured a spacious vanity with ample room for getting ready or organizing belongings.

I was pleasantly surprised by the number of power outlets throughout the cabin — a true win for modern travellers. On both sides of the king-size bed were USB, USB-C, and US plug chargers, making it easy to keep devices charged. Plus, the vanity offered three additional US ports, one European port, and two USB and two USB-C outlets — thank you very much, Princess!

Even the little details — from the lighting to the bathroom amenities and extensive storage — felt carefully considered, adding to the overall sense of comfort and luxury. It was clear that every aspect of this stateroom had been designed to enhance the guest experience, making it a perfect home base for my weeks adventure ahead.

EXPLORING THE OPEN SPACES

Once I had settled into my stateroom, it was time to explore the Star Princess’ public spaces — and wow, there is so much to see. From wide promenades to multiple lounges, every area felt thoughtfully designed to balance elegance, comfort, and functionality.

One of the things that immediately struck me about the Star Princess was the sense of openness throughout the ship. Everywhere you look, there’s space to breathe, to move, and to take in the views. Wide promenades along the decks, while lounge areas and seating nooks are thoughtfully placed, creating spots for relaxation.

The atrium itself flows seamlessly into other public areas such as bars, casino and gift shops, giving a sense of connection and continuity.  It’s clear that space and comfort were priorities in the design. The Star Princess manages to feel grand without being overwhelming.

POOLS AND RELAXATION

The Star Princess offers a variety of stunning pool options, each designed for relaxation, fun, and spectacular views. The indoor/outdoor pool under the Dome is a highlight — a unique space where you can enjoy swimming no matter the weather.

In addition, there are two central pools on the main deck, ideal for lounging, soaking up the sun, or enjoying a refreshing drink while watching the ocean roll by.

But the real showstopper is the Wakeview infinity pool at the aft of the ship. Hanging off the back, it feels like you’re floating above the ocean, with uninterrupted views stretching to the horizon. The sensation of standing there, water at your feet and the vast sea before you, is truly breathtaking — a wow moment you’ll remember long after your cruise ends.

THE DOME - A SPECTACULAR EXPERIENCE

The Dome on the Star Princess is truly a showstopper — a spectacular space both indoors and out. Its soaring architecture and open design make it feel grand yet welcoming.

But what really sets The Dome apart is the Candlelight Concerts. Experiencing Rob Marx, the talented guitarist, serenade the audience was both personal and unforgettable. The combination of the intimate performance, the beautiful acoustics, and the unique ambiance of The Dome light up in thousands of candles (battery operated of course) created a magical moment that felt far more than just entertainment — it was a genuine highlight of the cruise.

Whether you’re visiting during the day to enjoy the open space and natural light or attending an evening performance, The Dome offers an experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.

DINING ON THE STAR PRINCESS

After exploring the ship, it was time for one of the best parts of any cruise: dining. Princess Cruises has a reputation for excellent cuisine, and the Star Princess certainly lived up to it.

My first meal was a true delight. The main dining room was elegant yet welcoming, with plenty of space between tables to feel comfortable — from intimate tables for two to larger tables for ten, thoughtfully scattered throughout the room. The service was attentive without being intrusive, and each course felt carefully prepared. From fresh starters to perfectly cooked mains, the quality and presentation were impressive — a reminder that dining onboard is not just a necessity, but an experience in itself.

Even the casual dining options didn’t disappoint. From the International Café for that morning espresso coffee and pastry, to the Eatery (the Star’s version of the buffet), and casual dining locations like Alfredo’s Pizzeria and O’Malley’s Irish Pub offered a wide variety of flavours, catering to every taste and craving. Whether you’re after a quick bite between activities or a leisurely multi-course dinner, the ship makes it effortless to find something delicious at any time of day.

SPECIALITY DINING EXPERIENCES

During my time onboard, I had the pleasure of dining at two of the Star Princess’ specialty restaurants: The Butcher’s Block by Dario and Love by Britto. Both offered unique experiences that were a step above standard dining, showcasing Princess Cruises’ dedication to variety and quality.

The Butcher’s Block by Dario is a meat lover’s dream classified as family style dining. From perfectly cooked steaks to expertly prepared sides, every dish was rich in flavour and beautifully presented. The atmosphere was sophisticated yet relaxed, making it the perfect spot for an indulgent evening.

Love by Britto, inspired by the colourful, whimsical art of Romero Britto, was an entirely different but equally memorable experience. The vibrant décor set the tone, and the menu reflected the same creativity — bold flavours, imaginative presentations, and dishes that delighted the senses. Dining here felt like more than a meal; it was a celebration of art, colour, and flavour all in one (sorry couldn't limit the photos).

Both specialty restaurants reminded me why cruising is not just about the destinations, but about the experiences onboard. Each meal felt carefully crafted, turning every dining experience into a memorable part of the journey.

EXPLORING THE PORTS OF CALL 

One of the best parts of any cruise is exploring the ports along the way, and my 7-night Spain and France itinerary did not disappoint. Each stop offered its own unique charm, history, and flavour.

Malaga & Granada
Our first port was Malaga, but I couldn’t resist venturing inland to Granada which was a 2 hour drive, so I had gone with a Princess Shore Excursion. Wandering the old Spanish streets was like stepping back in time — narrow cobbled lanes, historic churches, and bustling markets around every corner. I savoured tapas at local restaurant and enjoyed glasses of wine as I soaked in the vibrant atmosphere and people watching. The energy of Granada, combined with its rich history, made it an unforgettable introduction to the cruise.

Gibraltar
Next, we docked in Gibraltar. I rode the cable car up to see the famous Barbary apes — but I have to admit, I was a little nervous! These mischievous creatures are known for grabbing shiny items like watches, earrings, and even trying to snatch bags, so you have to stay alert. On the day I visited, there was a lot of fog, which added an eerie, mysterious feel to the experience. Despite the mist and the cheeky antics of the apes, the views over Gibraltar once the fog started to lift were impressive. I would recommend if heading up, don’t go early, as we were on a 7.30am departure from the ship, to beat the crowds BUT the fog did not start to lift until almost 10am. It was a bit of a waste of the morning.

Once we had come down from the Rock, I proceeded to walk along Main Street, Gibraltar which is the vibrant heart of Gibraltar’s old town, stretching from Grand Casemates Square in the north to the historic Southport Gates in the south.  Its pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare is packed with retail shops, cafés and restaurants, and showcases a fascinating architectural mix.

Cartagena
Cartagena was the biggest surprise of the itinerary. I spent the day wandering the town on my own, exploring streets, popping into shops, and taking in the local life. Lunch was the perfect people-watching opportunity, and I found myself charmed by the relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere. Cartagena is one of those hidden gems that you fall in love with without warning.

Marseille
Finally, we arrived in Marseille, France, where indulgence was the order of the day. I treated myself to local pastries, wandering the streets of Vieux-Port and taking in the sights and sounds of this historic port city which is the oldest in France. It was the perfect sweet ending to a week full of discovery, culture, and culinary delights. A must is to try the Navettes, which are boat-shaped orange blossom biscuits from Les Navettes des Accoules, mmm.

Behind the Scenes (or up the front) – A Bridge Tour

While onboard, I had one of the most unforgettable experiences: a tour of the ship’s bridge. I felt incredibly lucky to get this rare opportunity to step onto the bridge of the Star Princess, the very heart of this magnificent new ship, and to be personally welcomed by Captain Gennaro Arma himself.

This experience was beyond words and I know my son Callum, whom is an avid cruising lover at the young age of 11, would have loved this experience even more than I did. 

Captain Arma shared fascinating insights about the Star Princess’s design, operations, and navigation systems. He even told us a fun story about how he had requested couches on the bridge after seeing them on the lower deck during the last sailing — and, of course, they were promptly added!

I’ve done bridge tours before on other ships, but standing on the bridge of the world’s newest ship, surrounded by state-of-the-art technology and panoramic views, was a moment of pure awe and gratitude. It’s an experience I’ll never forget and one that gave me a new appreciation for the incredible skill and teamwork required to operate a ship of this size.

Reflections on an Unforgettable Voyage

My week aboard the Star Princess was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I arrived in Barcelona and dined at the iconic Los Caracoles, to exploring the ship, relaxing by the pools, and enjoying unforgettable specialty dining, every experience felt curated for both comfort and delight.

The ports of call — Granada, Gibraltar, Cartagena, and Marseille — offered a perfect balance of culture, history, and culinary adventures. Each stop revealed something unique, from wandering historic streets and sipping local wine to discovering hidden gems and indulging in fresh pastries.

Onboard, the Star Princess proved to be a remarkable blend of elegance, innovation, and thoughtful design. Whether it was the open public spaces, the luxurious stateroom, the spectacular Dome, or the rare behind-the-scenes bridge tour with Captain Arma, every moment was memorable. The care and attention to detail across the ship, from comfort to technology, truly enhanced the experience.

This cruise reminded me why I love what I do — helping people create lifelong memories through travel. If you’re dreaming of your next adventure, a voyage aboard the Star Princess promises a perfect mix of excitement, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

Ready to plan your own journey? Let’s make it happen — your next adventure is just a step away!