Thrill-seeking Experiences Will Not Open on New Princess Cruise Ship
Princess Cruises has revealed that some of the most anticipated adventurous features on their latest ship, Sun Princess, will not be opening. This news comes after the ship, which debuted on February 28, 2024, has been operating without these features for months.
The attractions that will remain closed are the RollGlider, Coastal Climb, and Ropes Course, all part of the ship’s Park19 area. These activities were designed to provide guests with unique, thrill-seeking experiences at sea.
“We regret to announce that Princess is unable to accept delivery of the RollGlider, Coastal Climb, and Ropes Course features within Park19 aboard Sun Princess, and those experiences will not be opening,” the cruise line confirmed in a statement.
The RollGlider was set to be a one-of-a-kind glider-style zipline that would let riders soar at speeds up to 11 miles per hour, suspended from an overhead track. Designed to be ADA-accessible, it aimed to offer stunning views for everyone.
Coastal Climb, the ship’s ropes course, featured various bridges, nets, and planks, providing higher perspectives for the more daring guests. This attraction climbed from deck 19 to 20, culminating at The Lookout, an open-air observation deck offering 360-degree views.
Unfortunately, these features will not be available to guests. The exact reasons for the closures are unknown, but could include safety concerns, construction issues, regulatory barriers, or other factors. No new features have been announced for the space yet.
“We are actively evaluating these areas for future recreational opportunities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all our guests,” Princess Cruises stated.
Many cruise ships offer unique rides and activities, from roller coasters to surf simulators and go-kart tracks. Princess Cruises plans to continue gathering guest feedback to consider new options for the Sun Princess, ensuring memorable and fun experiences.
The 175,500-gross-ton Sun Princess, the first of the line’s Sphere class vessels, is now offering various Mediterranean itineraries. She will undertake her first transatlantic crossing in late September, heading to Fort Lauderdale for the Caribbean winter season. The ship can accommodate 4,300 guests and is staffed by roughly 1,500 international crew members.
Sun Princess‘s sister ship, the upcoming Star Princess, likely would have included similar adventurous features. However, no official announcements have been made regarding whether these features will appear on the second Sphere-class ship or if they will be substituted. Star Princess is currently under construction at Fincantieri and is set to debut in October 2025.
What Can Guests Still Do?
The Park19 area on Sun Princess still has plenty of options for both adventure and relaxation. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the best views at Infinite Horizon, where cantilevered walls extend over the ship’s sides for exhilarating perspectives.
For fun across all ages, the Splash Zone offers colorful water sculptures and pop jets, ideal for cooling off. For a more relaxed experience, guests can head to the Hammock Area to unwind.
Additionally, Sun Princess features a classic Recreational Court for sports like cornhole, shuffleboard, and ping pong. The Jogging Track provides a perfect place for fitness enthusiasts to enjoy ocean breezes while running or walking, offering elevated views throughout the day.
