Princess Cruises announces its biggest-ever Asia deployment for 2027–2028.

With the announcement of its largest Asia deployment to date, Princess Cruises has combined its 2027 and 2028 Southeast Asia program with its 2028 Japan season. Bookings for the season’s 96 departures across 61 itineraries, which will visit 55 locations across nine countries, are already being accepted.

The cruise line’s biggest-ever Japan season, which has both Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess homeporting in Tokyo for the first time, is a major highlight of the schedule. With 85 departures over 52 itineraries that span seven to 29 days, the deployment provides access to 41 locations around Japan and its surrounding areas.

Jim Berra, Chief Commercial Officer at Princess Cruises stated, “This is the most immersive Japan season we’ve ever introduced and one that reflects how our guests want to experience the destination today. We’re providing unparalleled access to the culture, food, and customs that characterize Japan with Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess homeporting in Tokyo for the first time, late-night stays timed to Japan’s most popular summer festivals, and sailings that visit all four major islands during cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons.” This program delivers a depth, scope, and authenticity that is unmatched in the region when combined with lengthier, destination-rich Southeast Asian journeys that link several nations in one trip.

Key cultural events, such as the Aomori Nebuta Festival, Kochi Yosakoi Dance Festival, Tokushima Awa Odori Festival, and Osaka Bon Odori Festival, are the focus of the Japan itinerary. Several late-night calls allow for longer involvement. Additionally, the sailings offer access to 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Mount Fuji, and Himeji Castle.

Princess Cruises has added an enhanced Southeast Asia offering with 11 departures across nine itineraries to complement the Japan program. With round-trip sailings from Singapore and repositioning cruises between Japan and Singapore, these extended trips, which can last up to 28 days, will connect several locations, including Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia.

Highlights of the Southeast Asia itineraries include late-night calls in Hong Kong and Osaka and overnight stays in Laem Chabang (for Bangkok). The itineraries will include 29 locations in nine countries. Visits to the Mekong Delta, Batu Caves, and the Cu Chi Tunnels are just a few of the natural wonders, historical places, and cultural landmarks that visitors will encounter.

With chances to sample local cuisines both onshore and aboard, culinary experiences are an important part of the program. In addition to carefully chosen eating experiences like Chef Makoto Okuwa’s Edomae-style sushi at the Makoto Ocean specialty restaurant onboard, guests may savor regional cuisine including sushi, ramen, Pad Thai, Banh Mi, and Nasi Lemak.

Regional influences will also be reflected in onboard experiences, which will be enhanced by destination-inspired entertainment, enrichment programs, and amenities like the Izumi Japanese Bath on Diamond Princess.

Additionally, the program offers seasonal and holiday sailings, such as a 14-day celebratory journey in Southeast Asia that combines warm-weather festivities with cultural research.