Aboard Discovery Princess: A Modern Love Boat Adventure Down Under
If the lyrics "Love, exciting and new. Come aboard, we’re expecting you" ring a bell, you likely remember the iconic 1970s and 1980s TV show The Love Boat. That legendary series, set aboard the Pacific Princess, has left a lasting legacy. Today, as Discovery Princess sets sail from Sydney Harbour, the familiar theme song plays over the ship's horn, blending nostalgia with modern luxury.
Setting Sail on an Inaugural Journey
I embarked on an eight-night cruise from Sydney to Christchurch, part of Discovery Princess' inaugural Down Under season. This special voyage celebrates Princess Cruises' 50th anniversary in Australia. Upon arriving at the overseas passenger terminal, I was greeted by a lively atmosphere, with the massive ship looming large. Ironically, my last visit to this area involved complaining about a cruise ship blocking my waterfront view. Now, I was aboard one, toasting the departure with a hot dog, chips, and a strawberry daiquiri mocktail from the Salty Dog Grill.
Innovative Technology and Inclusive Design
Princess Cruises utilizes MedallionClass technology, where a small medallion worn around the neck enables keyless room entry and personalized service at bars and cafes. This sailing hosted 3,812 passengers, including 2,410 Australians, with 304 under 21 years old. The ship's heart is the Italian-inspired Piazza, a hub for activities like line dancing, haka lessons, and quiz sessions.
Notably, Discovery Princess adopts an inclusive approach, with wheelchair-accessible dining tables, wider outdoor showers, and hoist chairs at all pools and hot tubs. As someone prone to motion sickness, I prepared with a combination of patches, wrist bands, and medications, successfully avoiding any visits to the medical center.
Luxurious Amenities and Entertainment
After unpacking into a spacious balcony stateroom on Sun Deck 17, I explored the ship's offerings. Activities ranged from musicals and comedy magic shows to a massive gymnasium. The adults-only Sanctuary, priced at $30 for a half-day pass, features cabanas, a hot tub, and afternoon tea trolleys. Meanwhile, the Lotus Spa offers treatments at land-comparable prices, and The Enclave provides access to steam rooms, saunas, and a mineral hydrotherapy pool for $49 a day.
With 25 food and beverage venues, three pools, and 10 hot tubs, there was no shortage of options. I enjoyed live TV from ABC Australia, BBC World, and CNN, but with shore excursions in Auckland, Picton, and Canterbury, there was little time to lounge.
Why Seniors Love Cruising
It's easy to see why many seniors adore cruising. They dance late into the night in the Piazza, living their best lives without worrying about taxis. One couple I met laughed about staying up until 5 a.m. chatting with friends. For those who get lost on the 19-deck, 330-meter floating hotel, electronic wayfinding boards near lifts and stairs, linked to the medallion, provide easy navigation.
Future Sailings and Fleet Expansion
Discovery Princess, the newest of six Royal Class ships, made her maiden voyage in 2022. Her sister ship, Royal Princess, will follow a similar 14-day New Zealand itinerary in January, with interior staterooms starting from $3,699 per person twin share. In the 2026-2027 season, one-third of the Princess fleet will be based in the Asia Pacific, with Sapphire and Grand offering multiple sailings from Fremantle in 2027-2028.
This journey combined the charm of The Love Boat with contemporary comforts, making it a memorable adventure on the high seas.
