In a spectacular debut, the cutting-edge cruise ship Sun Princess made its grand arrival at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife yesterday (Monday.) A true marvel of modern engineering, the Sun Princess, powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), is a giant of the seas, displacing a massive 177,882 tons and measuring an impressive 345 metres in length and 48 metres in width.
This exciting arrival highlights Tenerife’s growing status as a top destination for next-generation cruise ships. In a meticulously coordinated operation, the Sun Princess was refuelled with 1,000 tons of LNG by the Coral Methane, a barge flying the Dutch flag. The same barge had recently refuelled the cruise ship IONA, further cementing the port's reputation as a reliable hub for clean fuel supply.
Upon its arrival, with 3,000 passengers on board, the ship received the traditional commemorative plaque from the Tenerife Port Authority, an honour given to ships visiting for the first time.
This floating city truly lives up to its name as a "giant of the seas," ushering in a new era of eco-friendly, luxurious cruising to the Canary Islands. The excitement is palpable as Tenerife welcomes the Sun Princess and its passengers, marking another milestone in the island’s maritime legacy.
The Sun Princess is a state-of-the-art cruise ship that has quickly gained attention as one of the most modern and environmentally friendly vessels on the seas. Here’s an in-depth look at the impressive facts and figures behind this remarkable cruise liner:
- Gross Tonnage: 177,882 tons. This figure reflects the total internal volume of the ship and highlights its massive size, making it one of the largest cruise ships in operation today.
- Length: 345 metres (1,132 feet). This length is nearly equivalent to three football fields, showcasing its vast scale.
- Beam (Width): 48 metres (157 feet). The wide beam ensures stability and provides spacious decks for passengers.
- Passenger Capacity: 4,300 passengers. With its expansive layout, the Sun Princess offers accommodations and entertainment for thousands of guests.
- Crew Capacity: Approximately 1,500 crew members are onboard to cater to the passengers' needs, ensuring world-class service throughout the cruise.
- Fuel Type: Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). The Sun Princess is powered by LNG, a cleaner alternative to traditional marine fuels. This reduces the ship's emissions, making it more eco-friendly and sustainable.
- Green Technology: As one of the first cruise ships in its class to adopt LNG technology, the Sun Princess helps reduce sulphur oxide and particulate emissions, aligning with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of cruising.
- Owner: The Sun Princess is operated by Princess Cruises, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, one of the largest cruise operators in the world.
- Flag: The ship sails under the Bermuda flag, a common practice in the maritime industry for regulatory and legal reasons.
The Sun Princess offers a variety of luxurious amenities designed for both relaxation and entertainment:
- Multiple Dining Options: From gourmet restaurants to casual eateries, the ship offers diverse cuisines for its passengers.
- State-of-the-Art Entertainment: The Sun Princess is equipped with theatres, live performance venues, and movie screens, ensuring there’s always something exciting for guests to enjoy.
- Recreational Facilities: Fitness centres, swimming pools, and spas are available, along with activities such as sports courts and games.
- Accommodations: The ship features a wide range of staterooms and suites, from interior cabins to luxurious balcony suites, offering options for every type of traveller.
- First Visit to Tenerife: On September 30th, 2024, the Sun Princess made its maiden call to the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, bringing more than 3,000 passengers to the island.
- Route: The ship often sails to popular destinations across the Mediterranean and beyond, making stops at vibrant cities and serene islands, offering passengers a mix of cultural and scenic experiences.
The Sun Princess symbolises the next generation of cruising. With its eco-conscious design, massive capacity, and luxury accommodations, it represents the future of responsible, large-scale sea travel.
Its debut at ports like Santa Cruz de Tenerife marks the arrival of a maritime giant, poised to set new standards for comfort, sustainability, and unforgettable travel experiences.
