Princess cruises Asia 2027 - 2028: the ultimate guide to Japan & southeast Asia sailings 

Princess Cruises has officially unveiled its most ambitious Asia programme to date - and it’s a game changer for travellers seeking deeper cultural immersion, iconic destinations, and once in a lifetime experiences. Covering 2027 - 2028 Southeast Asia voyages and the largest ever Japan 2028 season, this new release brings together 96 departures across 61 itineraries, visiting 55 destinations in nine countries. 

If Asia is on your travel bucket list, this is one of the most exciting cruise launches in recent years. 

A landmark Asia cruise programme 

This newly announced deployment from Princess Cruises offers more variety, more destinations and more immersive experiences than ever before. Guests can expect: 

• 96 sailings across Asia
• 61 unique itineraries
• 55 destinations in 9 countries
• Cultural experiences, festivals and extended voyages 

The highlight? A record-breaking Japan season paired with in depth Southeast Asia itineraries, giving travellers the chance to explore multiple regions in one seamless journey. 

The largest ever Japan cruise season 

For 2028, Princess Cruises is going all in on Japan - and the result is its most immersive programme ever. 

Two ships homeporting in Tokyo 

For the first time, both ships will sail from Tokyo for the full season: 

• Diamond Princess
• Sapphire Princess 

This means easier access, more departures and more flexibility when planning your trip. 

Japan season highlights 

• 85 departures across 52 itineraries
• Voyages ranging from 7 to 29 nights
• Sailings visiting all four main islands of Japan
• Up to 24 ports on longer voyages
• Access to 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites 

Cherry blossoms, fall foliage & scenic beauty 

Timing is everything - and these itineraries are perfectly aligned with Japan’s most beautiful seasons:

• Cherry blossom sailings tracking blooms from south to north
• Autumn foliage cruises showcasing vibrant landscapes
• Coastal views, mountain scenery and iconic locations like Mount Fuji 

Destinations include major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Hiroshima, alongside hidden gems such as Aomori and the Oga Peninsula. 

Festival cruises & cultural immersion 

One of the standout features of this programme is its focus on authentic Japanese festivals, with itineraries timed for maximum access - including late-night stays. 

Featured Festivals: 

• Aomori Nebuta Festival
• Tokushima Awa Odori Festival
• Kochi Yosakoi Dance Festival
• Hakodate Minato Festival
• Osaka Bon Odori Festival
• Kumano Fireworks Festival 

These aren’t quick port stops - you’ll have extended time ashore to truly experience the atmosphere. 

Cultural experiences 

• Traditional tea ceremonies
• Kabuki theatre performances
• Visits to Zen gardens and Shinto shrines
• Historic landmarks like Himeji Castle 

A culinary journey through Japan 

Food lovers are in for a treat, with both onboard and onshore dining experiences showcasing authentic flavours. 

Expect: 

• Fresh seafood in coastal cities like Shimizu
• Regional specialties such as Aomori apples
• Iconic dishes including sushi, ramen, tempura and wagyu
• Dining in izakayas, tea houses and sake breweries 

Onboard, guests can enjoy Chef Makoto Okuwa’s Edomae-style sushi at Makoto Ocean - bringing a true taste of Japan to sea. 

Southeast Asia cruises: longer, deeper, more immersive 

Alongside Japan, Princess Cruises is offering an impressive Southeast Asia programme designed for travellers who want to explore multiple countries in one trip. 

Southeast Asia Highlights: 

• 11 departures across 9 itineraries
• Voyages up to 28 nights
• Routes connecting Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia
• Roundtrip sailings from Singapore
• Japan - Singapore repositioning cruises 

Destinations span across Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and beyond 

Iconic Experiences Across Southeast Asia: 

Culture & History

• Batu Caves
• Cu Chi Tunnels
• Emerald Buddha Temple
• Nagasaki Peace Park 

Natural wonders 

• James Bond Island
• Chaweng Beach
• Rainforests, marine life and tropical islands 

Food & markets 

• Street food tours in Hanoi and Bangkok
• Cooking classes in Thailand and Vietnam
• Dishes like Pad Thai, Banh Mi and Nasi Lemak
• Visits to floating markets and night bazaars 

Seasonal & holiday cruises 

Looking for something special? The programme includes holiday sailings, such as: 

• A 14-night festive Southeast Asia cruise
• Warm-weather escapes visiting Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City
• A perfect mix of celebration and cultural discovery 

Onboard experiences inspired by Asia 

Both ships bring the destination onboard with unique features: 

• The Izumi Japanese Bath (on Diamond Princess) - the largest at sea
• Regionally inspired dining and entertainment
• Cultural enrichment programmes and lectures 

Why this Princess Cruises programme stands out 

This isn’t just another cruise launch - this is a fully immersive Asia experience designed around how travellers want to explore today. 

With: 

• Festival-focused itineraries
• Longer voyages across multiple countries
• Two ships dedicated to Japan
• Cultural, culinary and scenic depth 

Princess Cruises has created one of the most comprehensive Asia cruise programmes ever offered. 

Whether you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms in Japan, street food in Vietnam or island hopping in Thailand, this new programme delivers it all - seamlessly. 

For travellers looking to explore Asia in comfort, style and depth, Princess Cruises’ 2027 - 2028 sailings should be at the very top of your list.