Side-by-side cruise ship comparison · Updated February 2026
across 5 categories
Size
Based on gross tonnage and length
Capacity
Based on passengers and crew
Modernity
Based on year built
Service
Based on passenger-to-crew ratio (lower is better)
Spaciousness
Based on gross tonnage per passenger (higher is better)
Emerald Princess
Grand Princess
Gross Tonnage
Emerald Princess
113,561 GT
Grand Princess
108,806 GT
Length
Emerald Princess
290 m
Grand Princess
290 m
Beam
Emerald Princess
36 m
Grand Princess
36 m
Passengers
Emerald Princess
3,080
Grand Princess
2,600
Crew
Emerald Princess
1,100
Grand Princess
1,150
Decks
Emerald Princess
—
Grand Princess
—
Year Built
Emerald Princess
2,007
Grand Princess
1,998
Space Ratio
Emerald Princess
36.9 GT/pax
Grand Princess
41.9 GT/pax
Passenger:Crew Ratio
Emerald Princess
2.80 :1
Grand Princess
2.26 :1
| Specification | Emerald Princess | Grand Princess |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Cruise Line | Princess Cruises | Princess Cruises |
| Class | Grand Class | Grand Class |
| Status | active | active |
| Year Built | 2,007Winner | 1,998 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Gross Tonnage | 113,561 GTWinner | 108,806 GT |
| Length | 290 m | 290 m |
| Beam | 36 m | 36 m |
| Draft | 8.8 m | 8.8 m |
| Decks | — | |
| Capacity | ||
| Passengers | 3,080Winner | 2,600 |
| Crew | 1,100 | 1,150Winner |
| Key Ratios | ||
| Space Ratio | 36.9 GT/pax | 41.9 GT/paxWinner |
| Passenger:Crew Ratio | 2.80:1 | 2.26:1Winner |
| Build | ||
| Builder | Fincantieri | Fincantieri |
| Flag | Bermuda | Bermuda |
| IMO Number | 9333151 | 9158955 |
Grand Princess offers more personal space with a space ratio of 41.9 GT per passenger versus 36.9. Built in 2007, Emerald Princess is 9 years newer — an advantage for travellers seeking modern amenities and design. Grand Princess edges ahead in service with a passenger-to-crew ratio of 2.3:1, meaning more crew per guest.
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Size | Emerald Princess |
| Capacity | Emerald Princess |
| Modernity | Emerald Princess |
| Service | Grand Princess |
| Spaciousness | Grand Princess |
Bottom line: Emerald Princess wins more categories (3 vs 2), making it the stronger all-round choice based on current data.
Emerald Princess
Well-suited for cruise newcomers
Large 3,080-guest capacity offers competitive pricing
3,080 passengers means tons of activities
Comfortable atmosphere for two
Grand Princess
Well-suited for cruise newcomers
42 GT/pax means plenty of quiet space
Good value for money
Good range of onboard options
Free cancellation on most rooms
Bundle & save on your cruise trip
Medical, trip cancellation & luggage cover
We may earn a commission from partner bookings at no extra cost to you.