Princess Cruises’ Star Princess reached a major milestone as she successfully completed her sea trials from August 9-12, 2025. She departed the Fincanieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy to complete a series of tests of her steering, navigation series and propulsion.
The newbuild team of the second Sphere-class ship was led by Captain Gennaro Arma during her sea trials. Now, the 27-year Princess Cruises’ veteran leads a team of 1,600 crew members during the ship’s final outfitting as they prepare Star Princess to welcome her first guests on October 4, 2025 from Barcelona.
“We confidently led Star Princess through sea trials,” said Captain Arma. “As the proud leader of our newest vessel, I’m extremely impressed with the ship’s navigation capabilities and maneuverability. With the final countdown underway, my incredible teammates and I can’t wait to welcome guests aboard for unforgettable adventures this fall.”
When Star Princess debuts, Princess Cruises will also reveal a reimagined Spellbound by Magic Castle. The immersive experience is a collaboration between Princess Cruises and The Magic Castle which debuted aboard Sun Princess. The venue allows guests to experience “the world of illusion, sleight-of-hand, and unforgettable storytelling at sea.”
Spellbound by Magic Castle features a series of newly themed spaces which includes a whimsical ticketing booth, the mysterious Inner Circle, the enchanting Cardini Bar, a behind-the-curtain Backstage area, and the Peacock Theater. Additionally, the Cardini Bar will include an exclusive magical new cocktail menu.
“Spellbound has quickly become one of the most talked-about experiences at sea, and we’re thrilled to take it to the next level aboard Star Princess,” said Lorna Warren, Princess Cruises Vice President Hotel Operations and Guest Experiences. “By bringing to life the spirit and setting of the original Magic Castle in Hollywood, our reimagined speakeasy will deliver a one-of-a-kind venue where every guest can feel like they’ve stepped into a world of true magic.”
Spellbound by Magic Castle is available to all guests each evening at $45 per person. However, unlike on Sun Princess, the experience will not include dinner prior to the show. Guests are encouraged to dine at one of the various dining venues aboard the ship at least two hours before their showtime. Star Princess will sail her inaugural season throughout the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal and Alaska.