Princess Cruises hikes popular package prices by $5 per day

Princess Cruises is increasing the cost of its Plus and Premier add-on packages by $5 per person per day, with the new rates taking effect for all sailings departing on or after Oct. 13. The price adjustments also include a restructuring of the cruise line's standalone Wi-Fi plans, a move that has prompted some passengers to reconsider their vacation budgets and booking strategies.

The company confirmed to Fox News Digital that the Princess Plus package will rise to $70 per day, while the Premier package will increase to $105 per day. For the Sun Princess and Star Princess, the respective daily rates will reach $75 and $110. A Princess Cruises spokesperson stated that the cruise line periodically reviews package pricing to account for changes in its operating environment while aiming to offer guests strong value and a convenient way to bundle popular amenities.

The bundled packages provide distinct tiers of shipboard perks. Under the Plus tier, travelers can consume up to 15 alcoholic drinks daily, with each beverage valued at no more than $15. This plan also covers four casual meals, room service charges, prepaid tips, and internet connectivity for a single device. The Premier tier broadens these benefits to include unlimited drinks, capped at $20 per item, alongside unrestricted access to casual and specialty dining. Premier guests also receive internet access for four devices and up to $300 per person in credit for shore excursions. The cruise line noted that the crew appreciation included in these packages goes directly to the crew members.

In addition to the package hikes, Princess Cruises is retiring its four-device Wi-Fi tier. In its place, the company has introduced a two-device option priced at $39.99 per day. Rates for single-device internet access have also increased; purchasing it once onboard now costs $39.99 per day for a 24-hour period, or $33.99 per day when booked for the entire sailing.

Social media users have reacted to the pricing structure, with some stating the increases make paying à la carte more attractive. One Reddit user said the changes make their decision to sail standard easier, while another commenter suggested that high fuel and food costs could lead to further increases in gratuities and specialty dining. Another traveler who had purchased a four-device internet package for two upcoming cruises said the changes were another reason to explore other cruise lines after their current voyages. Some passengers indicated that the higher price point might make the Princess Plus package less worthwhile for those who do not utilize all included benefits.

These price changes follow recent announcements regarding stricter booking policies, including higher deposits and earlier final payment deadlines. In August, Princess Cruises told Fox News Digital that for new bookings for sailings departing in 2027 and beyond, it is implementing a 120-day final payment requirement and a modified cancellation fee schedule. The company said these changes bring greater consistency to the booking process and reflect broader industry practices.

Princess Cruises operates 17 ships across four classes, ranging from mid-sized vessels for destination-focused routes to larger amenity-focused ships. Its newest additions are the Sphere Class vessels, Sun Princess and Star Princess.