By
Alex Smith |
Princess Cruises is to introduce a new family activity zone called Park19 onboard its new ship, Sun Princess, when it launches in February 2024.
Located on decks 19, 20 and 21 of the ship, Park19 will feature nine activities for families. The first of these is Sea Breeze, the first rollglider on a cruise ship. The electric ride will be able to reach speeds of up to 11 miles per hour along the overhead track during a 60-90 second experience, which will also be accessible for guests with disabilities.
Coastal Climb is a climbing structure that will see guests ascend from decks 19 to 20 through a series of obstacles, before sliding back down to the bottom. While at the top, they will also be able to visit The Lookout open-air observation deck to take in the views from the highest part of Sun Princess.
Guests can traverse unstable bridges, a z-shaped balance beam and climb cargo nets harnessed above deck 19 in The Net, while Infinite Horizon offers views down to deck nine from deck 19 over leaning tilt walls cantilevered over the side of the ship. A hammock area will be available for visitors to relax in, while the Splash Zone will offer pop jets and a water sculpture.
The Recreational Court will feature a rotation of sports and wellness options from ping pong and shuffleboard to Xponential Fitness classes and morning meditation. Guests can also exercise on the open-air jogging track, with 6.7 laps around the track equalling on mile.
“Park19, as the name suggests, is a new space created for all our guests, including activities to bring together multi-generational travel families in a location with spectacular views and fun outdoor activities for all,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “The new area was tailored based on guest feedback for more family and group activities spaces.”
Princess will also introduce additional family-centric offerings in Sun Princess’ Youth & Teen Centres on deck six and seven, which offer activities for children aged between six months and 17. These include Firefly Park, a space for guests between six months to seven years old to play together with their families or take part in a programme of art projects, theme parties and group games. Firefly Park also offers families with babies and toddles a dedicated play area. After hours babysitting is available from 10 pm to 1- am for children aged between three to 12 years old.
Meanwhile, Neon Grove and The Underground will offer a space for teenagers to socialise. Both spaces feature colourful sofas and chairs, PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch gaming consoles, air hockey, table football and skeeball. Programme activities include ship scavenger hunts, movie nights, competitions and dance parties.
“These expanded offerings give younger cruisers plenty to explore and enjoy aboard Sun Princess, creating an even more family-friendly experience with something for everyone regardless of age,” said Padgett.
Sun Princess is currently under construction by Fincantieri in Italy.