First-Time on Princess Cruises? Here’s What We Wish We Knew Before Boarding

If you’re about to set sail with Princess Cruises for the first time - firstly, lucky you! Secondly, you might be wondering what to expect, how it all works, and if there’s anything you should know before you step onboard.

We remember our first Princess cruise. There was a mix of excitement, a few rookie mistakes, and a fair bit of googling mid-voyage. So, we’ve put together the guide we wish we’d had - everything from embarkation tips to dining secrets, and the little things that made a big difference to our experience.

The MedallionClass App Isn’t Optional - It’s Essential

Before you even leave home, download the MedallionClass app. It’s not just for check-in. It’s how you’ll order drinks to wherever you’re sat, unlock your cabin, book activities, view your onboard account- and so much more.

We’d recommend setting everything up a few days before departure, especially uploading your travel docs and a passport-style photo. It speeds up embarkation like you wouldn’t believe.

The OceanMedallion Itself Is Brilliant

You’ll be given a wearable OceanMedallion (usually in a lanyard or wristband). This clever little disc replaces your cruise card and does all sorts of things - like opening your cabin door as you approach and letting crew know your name and preferences.

It makes everything feel just that little bit smoother - and more personal.

Dining Is More Flexible Than You Think

Princess used to be quite traditional with dining times, but now it’s super flexible with Dine My Way. You can pre-book times, restaurants, even tables through the app.

Tip: book popular venues early in the cruise, especially on sea days - they fill up quickly. And don’t worry if you change your mind - you can usually cancel or tweak your plans on the go.

Not All Food Is Free, But There’s Plenty That Is

Speciality dining (like Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria or Crown Grill) comes with an extra charge, but the main dining rooms and buffet are all included - and the quality is really decent.

We also loved the International Café for 24-hour snacks and coffee. And yes, room service is available too (some items are free, some cost extra).

Wi-Fi Packages Can Be Confusing

Princess offers MedallionNet Wi-Fi, which is genuinely fast - but it isn’t included in every fare. If you’ve booked a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package, you’ll have it sorted. Otherwise, it’s worth buying in advance for a better price than onboard.

Also, if you don’t need to be connected 24/7, you can log in and out as you go to make your minutes last longer.

The Shows Are Genuinely Worth Seeing

We weren’t sure what to expect from Princess entertainment, but the main theatre productions are West-End level. Definitely check out what’s on when you board - some only run once or twice.

There’s also live music, comedians, and movies under the stars (yep, that’s a thing). Grab a blanket and popcorn and enjoy an outdoor cinema at sea.

Tipping Is Automatic - But You Can Adjust It

Daily gratuities are added to your onboard account automatically. If you’ve got a Princess Plus or Premier fare, these are already included. If not, they’ll be around $16–$18 USD per person, per day.

You can adjust these at Guest Services, but we personally think the service level deserves every penny.

Laundry? Yes, Please

There are laundrettes onboard, which is a game-changer on longer trips. It’s self-service and costs a few dollars per wash or dry (use your Medallion to pay). Bring some pods or travel detergent if you prefer.

Some cabins also get free laundry included - check your perks!

You Can Bring Wine Onboard (But Not Spirits)

Princess lets you bring one bottle of wine or Champagne per adult in your carry-on when you board. Great if you want something special for sail-away. If you bring more, you might be charged a corkage fee - even if you’re drinking it in your cabin.

Spirits and beer are a no-go, and if you buy any in port or onboard, they’ll hold it for you until the end of the cruise.

Disembarkation Is Much More Relaxed Than You’d Expect

Gone are the days of rushing off at 6am. Princess now does 'easy disembarkation' where you can wait in your cabin, café, or lounge until your group is called.

They’ll send you all the instructions the night before - and it’s genuinely smooth.

Princess Cruises FAQs

Do I need to carry my OceanMedallion around the ship?

Yes - you’ll need it to get into your cabin, pay for things, and access services onboard. Most people wear it around their neck or wrist.

Can I use cash onboard?

No, the ship is cashless. All purchases are charged to your onboard account linked to your Medallion. You’ll settle the balance with your registered card at the end.

Are there formal nights on Princess Cruises?

Yes, typically one or two depending on cruise length. Think cocktail dresses and suits, though it’s not super strict. Smart casual is fine for most evenings.

What’s included in a standard Princess fare?

Your accommodation, food in main dining rooms and buffet, some onboard entertainment, access to pools, and fitness areas. Wi-Fi, drinks, tips, and speciality dining are extra—unless you’ve upgraded your package.

Do Princess Cruises cater for dietary requirements?

Absolutely. Let them know in advance via the app or your travel agent, and speak to the maître d’ when onboard. They’re great with gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan and allergies.

Is Princess Cruises good for solo travellers or families?

Yes to both! Solo travellers will find meet-ups and events, and families get dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs. Princess is quieter than some family-focused lines but still very welcoming.

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If you’re setting off on your first Princess cruise soon, we hope this helped settle a few nerves and answered some of those ‘should I know this?’ questions. It’s a lovely line with a great mix of tradition and modern tech - and once you’re on, you’ll see why so many people cruise with them again and again.

Planning your first Princess cruise? Let us know where you’re headed - we’d love to hear!