Home » CRUISE NEWS » Princess Cruises Sets Course for a Tourism Boom With 2027-28 Journeys Linking Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, San Juan and the Heart of the Caribbean
Published on
November 14, 2025
Princess Cruises is making waves in the travel world by unveiling its most expansive Caribbean and Panama Canal cruise lineup yet for the 2027-28 season. The renowned cruise line will introduce exciting new destinations and experiences for its guests, including the stunning Celebration Key in the Caribbean, set to debut in 2026. This new addition, alongside other breathtaking stops and the introduction of Miami as a new homeport, makes for a must-see vacation in the Caribbean and beyond. Travelers can look forward to cruising on 31 ports across the region, with 43 itineraries ranging from 4 to 15 days, all starting from five major homeports, including San Juan, New York, and Port Canaveral. But that’s not all—Princess Cruises will also offer special late-night stays in the ABC islands and unforgettable journeys through the Panama Canal. Let’s dive deeper into the exciting details of this upcoming season.
A Thrilling New Destination: Celebration Key
Princess Cruises will make a monumental addition to its already impressive Caribbean portfolio in the form of Celebration Key, a new private island oasis that promises a luxurious experience for guests. This exclusive stop will first be graced by the Star Princess on November 1, 2026, and other ships like the Regal Princess and Caribbean Princess will follow soon after. Situated in the heart of the Caribbean, Celebration Key offers a perfect blend of pristine beaches, rich culture, and world-class amenities, providing an ideal escape for those looking to savour the Caribbean’s natural beauty.
An Impressive Fleet and New Homeport: Miami Joins the Lineup
The new 2027-28 season will see the addition of Miami as a homeport for Princess Cruises, a significant development that will make embarking on Caribbean adventures easier for many cruisers. This new homeport, alongside the existing ones in Port Canaveral, Ft. Lauderdale, San Juan, and New York, will make Princess Cruises more accessible to travellers across the United States. Additionally, ships such as the Star Princess and Sun Princess will sail through the region for the first time, adding even more excitement to the roster.
Inaugural Star Princess Sails from Port Canaveral
Another highlight of this expanded season is the inaugural homeport season of the Star Princess from Port Canaveral, Florida, starting in October 2027. This is a momentous step for the cruise line, allowing more cruisers in Florida to embark on breathtaking journeys throughout the Caribbean and Panama Canal regions. With numerous ports of call, including Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire, passengers can explore exotic locations like never before.
More Ashore: Late-Night Stays in the ABC Islands
Princess Cruises continues its commitment to offering more time for exploration with its “More Ashore” programme, which extends late-night stays in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. This initiative will give passengers the opportunity to soak in the vibrant culture, enjoy the island nightlife, and explore the stunning landscapes that these islands offer. The extended stays mean that cruisers can fully immerse themselves in the relaxed atmosphere and unique offerings of these Caribbean gems.
The Panama Canal: A Journey Through History and Nature
Princess Cruises’ Panama Canal season is set to shine during the 2027-28 period, with 22 departures scheduled from Ft. Lauderdale, Los Angeles, and Vancouver. The voyage will feature a variety of itineraries that include roundtrip sailings from Ft. Lauderdale and one-way cruises from Port Canaveral. This route offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and engineering marvel, making it an unforgettable journey for those wishing to witness the grandeur of the canal while enjoying the comfort of a Princess cruise.
Travel Tips: Maximise Your Experience in the Caribbean and Panama Canal
If you’re planning to set sail on one of Princess Cruises’ expanded itineraries in the Caribbean or Panama Canal, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:
Pack for the Weather: The Caribbean boasts warm, tropical weather year-round, so pack light clothing, swimwear, and sunscreen. However, it can get cooler in the evenings, especially during the Panama Canal portion of the trip, so pack a light jacket as well.Excursions Are a Must: While onboard entertainment is top-notch, the real magic lies in the excursions at each port. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins in Mexico, lounging on the beach in Aruba, or hiking through tropical rainforests, don’t miss out on the chance to see the local culture up close.Plan for Extended Stays: With the “More Ashore” programme offering later departure times in key islands, plan your activities wisely. Take the opportunity to explore local nightlife, dine in hidden gems, or even enjoy a peaceful evening on the beach.Make Use of the New Homeport: If you’re flying into Miami for the first time, consider arriving a day early to explore the vibrant city before your cruise. Miami offers world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment, making it a great addition to your vacation.A Season of Unmatched Variety and Luxurious Voyages
With 187 departures on nine ships, Princess Cruises is set to offer an extraordinary cruise season, featuring a wide array of destinations, itineraries, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the beaches of the Caribbean, the historic wonders of the Panama Canal, or the lush landscapes of Central America, this season promises to be the perfect opportunity for a dream vacation. Be sure to book your tickets early, as these cruises are expected to fill quickly due to the increasing demand for these incredible voyages.
Final Thoughts: An Unmissable Experience for 2027-28
Princess Cruises is providing an extraordinary opportunity for travellers to explore some of the world’s most captivating destinations, with new ports of call, extended stays, and an expanded fleet. Whether you’re cruising through the sparkling waters of the Caribbean or experiencing the wonders of the Panama Canal, this will undoubtedly be a season to remember. Don’t miss your chance to embark on the ultimate adventure—this is the cruise season that promises to exceed all expectations.
