After a 2-week drydock in Portland, Oregon USA, the ship Sapphire Princess has resumed service featuring several upgrades and the introduction of two specialty dining venues—Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill—set to open to guests from November 16th, 2025.
The 2700-passenger vessel underwent general refurbishments during the drydock, which included the transformation of existing spaces into new dining venues.
Following its debut aboard Sun Princess and Star Princess, Makoto Ocean has been introduced to Sapphire Princess in place of the former Internet Cafe on Deck 7. The restaurant showcases the Edomae-style sushi of Chef Makoto Okuwa, offering dishes such as truffle salmon, snow crab temaki, and toro tartare, alongside craft cocktails like the Genmai Negroni and Kodai No Hana.
The Crown Grill Steakhouse, now occupying the former Savoy Dining Room on Deck 5, joins the ship’s culinary lineup as another highlight of the refurbishment. Known for serving premium cuts of beef, chops, and fresh seafood, Crown Grill has earned a reputation as one of the finest steakhouses at sea, combining elegant décor with attentive service.
Both specialty venues will be available at a dining charge of US$60 per person and are included for guests who purchase the Princess Premier package.
Following its revitalization, Sapphire Princess will sail to Mexico before repositioning for a South America and Antarctica season, followed by Mediterranean and Northern Europe itineraries in spring and summer 2026. The ship is scheduled to operate Canada and New England voyages in autumn 2026.
In March 2027, Sapphire Princess will join the sistership Diamond Princess in Japan for the first time in the company's history. Both Japan-built vessels will operate from Yokohama-Tokyo during Princess Cruises’ most extensive Japan season to date, running from March through December 2027.
Princess Cruises indicated that the new dining additions reflect its continued focus on culinary excellence and enhance the onboard experience as Sapphire Princess enters a series of high-profile deployments across global waters.