Discover the Allure of the Asian Winter in Style: Sapphire Princess Joins Diamond for 2026-2027 Season on Biddex: A Closer Look

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Tuesday 29 April 2025

Asian Winter in Style: Sapphire Princess Joins Diamond for 2026-2027 Season

In a strategic move that reflects the growing expansion of the Asian cruise market, Princess Cruises has announced that the luxurious Sapphire Princess will join her sister ship, the Diamond Princess, for the 2026-2027 winter season in Asia.

This announcement strengthens the company’s presence in the Far East and Southeast Asia, offering travelers more options to explore enchanting Asian destinations through cruises ranging from 10 to 42 nights, covering Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, and other culturally and naturally rich regions.

Details of the New Winter Program

The two ships will offer nearly 20 unique itineraries, with sailings scheduled between October 2026 and April 2027, departing from key ports such as Singapore and Yokohama.

The cruises include:

Visits to 37 destinations across 10 Asian countries
Late-night stays in six major ports, including: Hong Kong, Ha Long Bay, Laem Chabang (Thailand), and Osaka (Japan)
Access to 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto

The Sapphire Princess alone will add 18 new sailings to the 11 previously announced voyages aboard the Diamond Princess, expanding the variety of options available to guests.

Top Destinations in Asia

The itineraries feature a carefully curated selection of destinations to give travelers a comprehensive Asian experience:

Kagoshima (Japan): A volcanic city with rich cultural heritage
Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia): A blend of modernity and tradition
Phuket (Thailand): Tropical beaches and marine adventures
Da Nang (Vietnam): Gateway to the historic city of Hoi An

Some cruises also include visits to World Heritage Sites such as:

The Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto
Himeji Castle
Shirakawa-go Village

A Unique Transpacific Voyage

One of the season’s highlights is a repositioning cruise by the Sapphire Princess, sailing from Los Angeles to Yokohama across the Pacific Ocean.

This 33-night journey includes stops in Hawaii and various Asian destinations, offering travelers a rare opportunity to experience a transoceanic adventure that blends diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes.

Key Features of the Program

The 2026-2027 season offers a range of features that make Princess Cruises an ideal choice for luxury travel enthusiasts:

Flexible cruise durations (10 to 42 nights) to suit all preferences
Late-night port stays for in-depth exploration
Access to rare UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Departures from major Asian ports
Rich cultural experiences including onboard performances and local cuisine
The option to combine multiple voyages for an extended, diverse journey

About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is one of the world’s leading cruise lines, with a rich history spanning over 50 years of delivering luxurious voyages to destinations across the globe.

Company Overview:

Founded: 1965
Headquarters: California, USA
Fleet: Over 15 premium ships
Destinations: More than 330 ports in 100 countries
Target audience: Travelers seeking luxury, comfort, and cultural immersion

The company is renowned for its exceptional service, diverse entertainment programs, world-class dining experiences, and strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

Expansion into South America

Alongside its expansion in Asia, Princess Cruises also announced that the Majestic Princess will operate its first full season in South America during the 2026-2027 winter, taking over the itineraries previously assigned to the Sapphire Princess in that region.

These cruises include:

Visits to Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile
Scenic cruising through Antarctica, the Beagle Channel, and Glacier Alley
A unique experience for nature lovers and polar landscape enthusiasts

An Unforgettable Asian Experience

By deploying two sister ships in Asia, Princess Cruises offers travelers the opportunity to explore the Far East in luxury and comfort, with the chance to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, savor local cuisines, and visit unforgettable historical and natural landmarks.

The timing of these cruises during the winter season makes them ideal for escaping the cold and enjoying warm, tropical destinations in Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

With the Sapphire Princess joining the Diamond Princess for the 2026-2027 winter season, Princess Cruises reaffirms its commitment to delivering world-class cruise experiences in the heart of Asia.

It’s a promising season that blends luxury, diversity, and culture, giving travelers a new perspective on Asia aboard one of the most sophisticated and comfortable fleets at sea.

Book your voyage today and prepare for an Asian adventure that will captivate your senses and enrich your soul.