In 2011, Princess Cruises' 2,600 passenger Grand Princess underwent the largest drydock in Princess Cruises history, updating and renovating the ship to offer the same onboard experience as the line's newer ships.
In addition to the Grand Princess' upgrades, the ship's 2013-14 season offers new itineraries sailing round trip from San Francisco.
Alaska- Grand Princess' first Alaska season features 10-day Inside Passage sailings. The ship will offer 13 voyages with views of Glacier Bay National Park or Tracy Arm, with calls at Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria. Cruises depart between May 10 and September 7, 2013.
Mexico- The 2013-14 season offers two sailings on a new 10-day itinerary to Mexico, featuring two new ports in Loreto and La Paz. Other ports include Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. Sailings depart on September 17, 2013 and March 5, 2014.
California Coastal- The Grand Princess will take passengers to Santa Barbara, Los Angeles (Long Beach), San Diego, and Ensenada. Four sailings are offered on September 27 and October 19, 2013 and Mar 15 and April 6, 2014.
Hawaiian Islands- Passengers can explore each of the main Hawaiian islands on the 15-day voyage to the Big Island (Hilo), Oahu (Honolulu), Kauai (Nawiliwili), Maui (Lahaina), and Ensenada. Grand Princess will offer 12 departures between October 4, 2013 and April 28, 2014.
During last year’s drydock Grand Princess added a variety of passenger amenities, including a completely new Piazza atrium, several new eateries – including Alfredo’s Pizzeria and the Crown Grill – and the line’s first specialty tea lounge called Leaves. Also included in the renovation were a remodeled casino, boutiques and art gallery; enhancements to the Horizon Court, Lotus Spa, and wedding chapel; and the addition of Crooner’s Martini Lounge and a new nightclub, The One5.