Royal Princess, the newest ship to join the Princess fleet, welcomed its first passengers today, as it set sail on its maiden voyage from Barcelona, Spain under the command of the line’s senior master, the recently appointed Commodore Michael Fatchen.

The intimate 710-passenger vessel, which takes the name of a much-beloved former Princess ship, debuts with a series of unique Elite Mediterranean cruises that feature a variety of new itineraries and unique ports. Royal Princess’ first “Mediterranean Interlude” voyage features calls in Marseille, Florence, Pisa, Elba, Palermo, and Mallorca.

Upcoming voyages include a number of interesting new “explorer” destinations, including four ports appearing for the first time in Princess routes: Ravenna, Italy, Split Croatia, Kotor, Montenegro, and Canakkale (for Troy), Turkey, All UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Royal Princess itineraries will also take travelers to such intriguing places as the Crimean coast, Egypt and the Holy Land.

A sister ship to the line’s popular Tahitian Princess and Pacific Princess, the 30,200-ton Royal Princess offers passengers a boutique version of Princess acclaimed onboard options, including a variety of dining and entertainment choices and a large number of cabins with private balconies. All offered in intimate surroundings.

Royal Princess guests will enjoy the line’s new culinary enhancements set to debut on the ship, including the innovative Chef’s Table exclusive dinner experience, all new dining room menus, enhanced buffet service, and a number of special treats such as an afternoon “cookies and milk break” featuring fresh-from-the-oven soft-baked cookies, and in-cabin delivery of Princess renowned homemade pizza.