The Sky Princess cruise ship offers a luxurious gateway to exploring London’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Recent sky princess reviews highlight its modern amenities and strategic positioning as an ideal vessel for travelers looking to experience both the comforts of cruise life and the vibrant culture of London during pre- or post-cruise stays.
Key Takeaways
- Sky Princess mini-suites feature spacious 323 sq. ft. accommodations with separate lounge areas and walk-in wardrobes
- Consider booking midship cabins to minimize motion and avoid areas near the atrium for better sleep quality
- Strategic hotel choices like the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge offer easy access to both London attractions and Southampton transit options
- Thames River cruises provide unique perspectives of London’s landmarks without the crowds
- Pre-booking specialty dining packages can save up to 30% compared to onboard prices
Sky Princess Cruise Experience: What to Expect Onboard
The Sky Princess experience begins with its impressive cabin options. Mini-Suites spanning 323 square feet offer a luxurious retreat with separate lounge areas, walk-in wardrobes, and full bathtubs – a rare find on cruise ships. For those seeking ultimate luxury, the Sky Suite boasts 1,873 square feet with 270-degree ocean views and a wrap-around deck that’s perfect for entertaining or private relaxation.
When it comes to dining packages, two main options exist. The Plus Package at $60 per day covers drinks up to $15, while the Premier Package at $90 daily includes premium beverages up to $20 and unlimited specialty dining. This represents significant value for foodies planning to experience Crown Grill steakhouse and Sabatini’s Italian restaurant during their voyage.
I’ve found that planning ahead is essential for entertainment. The theater tends to fill quickly, so arriving 45 minutes early for popular shows is necessary to secure good seats. Regarding cabin selection, avoid rooms near the atrium (especially on Emerald Deck #8) as music from central lounges can continue late into the evening.
Strategic London Accommodations for Cruise Travelers
Selecting the right London accommodation can make a significant difference in your cruise experience. For luxury travelers, the London Marriott Hotel County Hall offers stunning Thames views from £400 per night, while Corinthia London provides opulent suites near Trafalgar Square starting from £650 nightly.
Mid-range options like Park Plaza Westminster Bridge (£200/night) balance comfort with convenient transport links to Southampton. Budget-conscious travelers should consider The Z Hotel Tottenham Court Road (£120/night) in Soho, which trades room size for an excellent central location.
Getting to Southampton is straightforward with direct train services from London Waterloo taking just 1 hour 20 minutes at £25 one-way. Alternatively, National Express buses offer a budget-friendly option at £10-£15, though the journey extends to 2 hours 30 minutes.
Must-See London Landmarks for Cruise Travelers
The Tower of London should top your London itinerary, with pre-booked tickets (£33) granting access to the Crown Jewels and fascinating guided tours. Westminster Abbey opens daily from 9:30 AM (£27), allowing visitors to explore the historic Coronation Chair and royal tombs.
For spectacular views, The Shard’s 72nd-floor viewing platform offers panoramic vistas at sunset for £37. Consider a London Pass (£94/day) if planning to visit multiple attractions, as it offers approximately 30% savings versus individual tickets.
Theater enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the opportunity to catch a West End show. Matinee tickets range from £40-£100 for productions like The Lion King or Hamilton, making them perfect additions to your London stay before boarding the Sky Princess.
Thames River Cruise Experiences: The Best Water-Based Views
The London Eye River Cruise provides a 40-minute tour from Westminster or London Eye Pier for £27, offering unique perspectives of London’s architectural marvels. For a more indulgent experience, consider 3-course dinner cruises (£85-£120) or afternoon tea cruises (£45-£60) that combine sightseeing with fine dining along the Thames.
Based on recent reviews, I suggest avoiding City Cruises due to aggressive tip solicitations and sometimes inaccurate commentary. Instead, opt for Thames Clippers or London Eye River Cruises for reliable service and authentic information. Travelers with hearing impairments can enjoy BSL-interpreted tours on select dates (April 12, May 10, June 21, July 13).
Recommended Excursions from London for Cruise Travelers
Princess Cruises offers curated excursions including Stonehenge and Bath full-day tours (£125) and Windsor Castle half-day explorations (£75). Harry Potter enthusiasts will enjoy studio tours combined with Thames cruises (£110), featuring iconic filming locations.
Self-guided options include drives to the Cotswolds Villages, located just 2 hours from London, where charming towns like Bourton-on-the-Water showcase quintessential English countryside. Evening activities such as Jack the Ripper walking tours (£20) departing from Tower Hill offer fascinating historical insights.
For a well-rounded London experience, consider pairing popular sightseeing tours with cultural experiences like West End shows and pre-theater dining cruises. This combination provides both daytime exploration and evening entertainment during your stay.
Ultimate Sky Princess Dining and Beverage Guide
When comparing the Plus Package ($60/day) with the Premier Package ($90/day), consider your drinking habits and dining preferences. The Premier Package adds significant value through unlimited specialty dining and priority reservations, particularly for longer cruises.
Specialty dining venues like Crown Grill and Sabatini’s offer elevated experiences compared to the included dining options, though the latter still provide excellent quality. The Ultimate Balcony Experience represents a highlight for honeymooners or those celebrating special occasions, featuring champagne and personalized service.
For wine enthusiasts, the Premier Package covers most premium selections by the glass. However, those who enjoy only 2-3 drinks daily might find better value with individual purchases rather than daily packages.
Practical Tips for Maximizing Your Sky Princess London Experience
Post-pandemic cruising has evolved with Sky Princess now operating at over 100% capacity. This means strategic planning is essential for popular onboard activities. The OceanMedallion technology has significantly improved the cruise experience, particularly for check-in processes and tender operations.
When exploring London attractions, arriving early (before 10 AM) or late (after 3 PM) helps avoid the largest crowds. Pack layers for UK weather, which can change rapidly, and remember that Sky Princess evening dress codes tend to be smart-casual with one or two formal nights per week.
International travelers should note that while credit cards are widely accepted, having some British pounds is useful for small purchases. The UK uses 3-pin plugs, so adapters are necessary. Consider purchasing a UK SIM card for affordable data while exploring London, as onboard internet packages can be costly.
Sources
cruisecritic.com – Sky Princess Review
kelseyinlondon.com – Sky Princess Review
londoneye.com – London Eye River Cruise
allcruisehotels.com – Top 10 Hotels in London for Cruise Passengers
fullsuitcase.com – London Best Things to Do