LAUDERDALE — Princess Cruises has marked another major milestone for the Star Princess, with a traditional maritime float out ceremony in Italy last week.

Held at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, the ceremony celebrated the first time the Sphere-Class vessel – Princess’ second overall – met water for the first time. Star Princess will now transfer to the outfitting quay where construction will continue in anticipation of its Fall 2025 debut.

“Today is a celebration of teamwork, craftsmanship, and innovation. Star Princess is the second ship in our new Sphere class, and now as she prepares to take to the water for the first time it is a testament to the incredible dedication and skill of the entire shipyard team,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “Fincantieri has again turned vision into reality, building on the success of her sister ship – Sun Princess, which has already captured the hearts of our guests with its elegance and cutting-edge design. Together, we are creating amazing machines that will inspire adventure and deliver unforgettable experiences for all who sail with us for decades to come.”

The 4,300-guest, 178,000-ton Star Princess will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Sister ship Sun Princess, also built by Fincantieri in Monfalcone, debuted in February as the next-level ‘Love Boat’ featuring architectural spectacles like The Dome, the cruise industry’s first geodesic feature on the top deck; The Sphere, the suspended glass Sphere Piazza at the center of the cruise ship; and The Arena, the most technically advanced theater at sea.

Voyages for the inaugural season of Star Princess are on sale now.