Sun Princess vs Discovery Princess
Princess's revolutionary new Sphere Class vs the refined Royal Class. Same MedallionClass technology, different ship experiences.
Last updated: January 8, 2026
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | ☀️ Sun Princess | 🔭 Discovery Princess |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Tonnage | 175,500 GT✓ | 145,000 GT |
| Passenger Capacity | 4,300 guests✓ | 3,660 guests |
| Year Built | 2024✓ | 2022 |
| The Dome | Yes - glass entertainment venue✓ | No |
| MedallionClass | Yes | Yes |
| Spellbound Show | Yes - magic spectacular✓ | No |
| Alaska Specialist | European focus initially | Yes - purpose-built✓ |
| West Coast Homeport | Limited | Yes - LA/Seattle✓ |
☀️Choose Sun Princess if you...
- •Want the newest Princess innovation
- •The Dome entertainment experience
- •Mediterranean/European itineraries
- •Spellbound magic show enthusiasts
🔭Choose Discovery Princess if you...
- •Alaska cruisers (purpose-designed)
- •West Coast departures
- •Mexican Riviera itineraries
- •Prefer proven Royal Class design
💡 The Bottom Line
Sun Princess is larger and newer with the revolutionary Dome venue. Discovery Princess is optimized for Alaska and West Coast sailings. Both offer Princess's excellent MedallionClass technology.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much bigger is Sun Princess than Discovery Princess?
Sun Princess is considerably larger at 175,500 GT compared to Discovery Princess at 145,000 GT. Sun Princess also carries 4,300 guests versus 3,660 on Discovery. Sun Princess is the first of Princess's new Sphere Class, while Discovery is the final Royal Class ship.
What is The Dome on Sun Princess?
The Dome is a glass-enclosed entertainment venue unique to Sun Princess and the Sphere Class. It transforms from a relaxed pool area by day into an immersive entertainment space at night, featuring the Spellbound magic spectacular. Discovery Princess does not have this venue.
Which Princess ship is better for Alaska cruises?
Discovery Princess is purpose-built for Alaska sailings and homeports on the West Coast in LA and Seattle. Sun Princess initially focuses on European and Mediterranean itineraries. If Alaska is your goal, Discovery Princess is the clear choice.
Do both ships have MedallionClass technology?
Yes, both Sun Princess and Discovery Princess feature Princess's MedallionClass technology. This includes the OceanMedallion wearable for contactless boarding, keyless cabin entry, on-demand food and drink delivery, and location-based services throughout the ship.
Which ship has better entertainment?
Sun Princess has the edge in entertainment with The Dome venue and the Spellbound magic show, both exclusive to the Sphere Class. Discovery Princess offers excellent Princess-standard shows in its main theatre but lacks the innovative Dome concept.