Princess Cruises has revealed the latest iteration of Spellbound by Magic Castle, a speakeasy-style illusion venue (Deck 8) conceived in partnership with the esteemed Hollywood institution, The Magic Castle®. Re-envisioned for the forthcoming Star Princess, the experience transports guests into a crafted realm of sleight-of-hand and narrative artistry while at sea.
Building upon its successful premiere aboard Sun Princess, the upgraded venue aboard Star Princess pays tribute to the golden age of magic, notably honoring Richard Valentine Pitchford—better known as Cardini—whose legacy endures through his great-nephew, Randy Pitchford, owner of The Magic Castle.
Upon entering the venue, guests pass through a whimsical ticketing booth and progress through themed spaces named the Inner Circle, Cardini Bar, Backstage enclave, and Peacock Theater. Each area has been appointed with eclectic décor, subtle illumination, and theatrical details crafted to elevate the atmosphere of wonder.
An exclusive cocktail menu is featured at the Cardini Bar, serving handcrafted drinks designed to complement the magical ambiance. Among the offerings are The Inner Circle—a jasmine-tinged milk-washed Meili vodka—and Cardini, a butter-washed rum Old Fashioned.
Princess Cruises indicated that Spellbound has swiftly become one of the most discussed attractions at sea and expressed that this reimagining aboard Star Princess was intended to bring to life the atmosphere of Hollywood’s Magic Castle in a wholly unique setting. The new format will be made available to all guests onboard, with multiple nightly showtimes. Admission is set at US$45 per guest, which covers two signature cocktails and the magic performance. Tickets may be purchased via the Princess website or onboard.
In contrast to its original version, the updated experience excludes pre-show dinner service. Guests are advised to dine earlier—approximately two hours before their reserved performance—to ensure uninterrupted enjoyment of the venue.
Produced at the Fincantieri shipyard, the Star Princess will measure 177,800 tons and accommodate approximately 4,300 guests. The vessel will offer thirty diverse dining and bar venues, enhanced entertainment and activity options, and suite-level accommodations within the Sanctuary Collection, mini-suites, and balcony staterooms.
The ship is scheduled to commence service with itineraries across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Alaska.