Emerald Princess completes refit ahead of 2016 ex-UK sailings

Princess Cruises’ Emerald Princess has undergone a multi-million pound refit ahead of its ex-UK sailings next year.

The 3,092-passenger vessel, which will sail from Southampton on a series of cruises to southern and northern Europe next spring and summer, has had several new features added on board.

Included are a new restaurant, Share by Curtis Stone, which is created by the Australian celebrity chef. It his first restaurant at sea, and encourages connecting and sharing over food with family, friends and other cruisers, according to the line.

Also introduced on is the Salty Dog Gastropub, a new dining venue that pairs gourmet small dishes inspired by pub favourites such as a rib-eye burger, beef ribs and pork cheeks with craft beers, cocktails and wines.

Other additions from the refurbishment are the fitting of 200 interconnecting doors to 100 staterooms for those families who book rooms next to each other; a luxury mattress on every bed as part of Princess Cruises’ recently introduced ‘Sleep’ programme; and the onboard gymnasium has new equipment and weights.

The refit took place in Freeport, Bahamas and lasted two weeks. You can see time-lapse videos above and below.

Tony Roberts, vice president of Princess Cruises UK and Europe, said: “Emerald Princess’ refit is a real coup for us in the UK, as when the ship arrives here in April our guests sailing from Southampton will be among the first to experience all the enhancements.

“Share by Curtis Stone will be the perfect place to connect with family and friends, whilst enjoying delicious and fresh cuisine, while the Salty Dog Gastropub will be a home-from-home premium dining experience.

“When you add in the other improvements we’ve made along with our unbeatable onboard service and the fact we travel to more destinations than any other cruise line, it’s clear that there’s more reasons than ever to travel with Princess Cruises next year.”

Click below to read Cruise Adviser’s Preview guide 2016.