The Majestic Princess, a prominent vessel from Princess Cruises, is set to embark on its inaugural summer cruise season in the United Kingdom, marking a significant milestone for maritime tourism. This nine-year-old Royal class ship has established Southampton as its homeport for the first time in 2026, commencing operations this month with a series of round-trip itineraries scheduled through the end of September.
Itinerary Details and Pricing
Passengers can select from a range of 11 to 14-night sailings that explore the scenic coastlines of the British Isles, France, and northern Europe. The ship will return for a second season from April to October 2027, featuring similar routes alongside new transatlantic voyages. Prices for these cruises start from an accessible £1,079 per person, offering competitive options for travellers seeking immersive experiences without the hassle of flights.
Onboard Amenities and Unique Features
On board the Majestic Princess, guests are treated to a wealth of amenities designed for relaxation and entertainment. The pool deck provides a serene setting for lounging, while the Movies Under the Stars programme allows for cinematic enjoyment beneath the night sky. Adventurous spirits can brave the 60-foot-long glass-bottomed SeaWalk, offering breathtaking views of the ocean below.
The ship boasts exclusive facilities such as private karaoke rooms and an authentic Irish pub, fostering a lively social atmosphere. For adults seeking tranquillity, the Hollywood Club offers an exclusive retreat with a pool surrounded by stylish sun loungers and artistic sculptures. Notably, the Majestic Princess is one of the few ships in the fleet equipped with an indoor pool, ensuring comfort regardless of unpredictable British weather.
Culinary and Cultural Highlights
A standout feature is the Harmony Chinese restaurant, the only one of its kind in the Princess Cruises fleet. This reflects the ship's origins in 2017, when it was initially dedicated to the Asian market before expanding to global itineraries. With a capacity for 3,560 passengers, the vessel also hosts live performances and snacks in the European square-inspired Piazza, as well as Broadway-style shows in the Princess Theatre, enhancing the onboard cultural experience.
Competitive Landscape in UK Cruising
This summer, passengers have a variety of no-fly cruise options departing from Southampton to reach Mediterranean and other destinations. Competing vessels include Royal Caribbean's recently refurbished Liberty of the Seas, MSC Virtuosa, and Disney Dream. Additionally, Disney Cruise Line plans to introduce one of its largest ships, the Disney Wish, to the UK in summer 2027, further enriching the market with family-friendly offerings.
The arrival of Majestic Princess underscores a growing trend in UK-based cruising, providing travellers with convenient and luxurious alternatives to traditional holiday options. Its blend of unique amenities, diverse itineraries, and competitive pricing positions it as a compelling choice for both seasoned cruisers and first-time explorers.
