Island Princess, the first cruise ship ever to be christened in Vancouver in July 2003, follows in the wake - literally - of her sister ship Coral Princess, offering the same vast array of public room space as Princess's renowned larger "Grand-class" ships but, in a twist, spread over two decks and with fewer passengers aboard.

The 1,970-passenger superliner combines all the options of Princess's other ships, plus more staterooms with private balconies than any other ship in its fleet, while still possessing the ability to pass through the Panama Canal, ensuring flexibility in deployment.

Among the ground-breaking features aboard Island Princess, passengers will find the Bayou Cafe, the first New Orleans-style restaurant at sea, featuring traditional Cajun and Creole specialties and live jazz; as well as the Universe Lounge, a dramatic two-deck performance venue equipped with the latest lighting and digital sound and video systems.

Additional unique features include

• the Churchill Lounge, a haven for cigar aficionados
• Crooners, a 1960s-era martini bar
• A Paris-themed casino
• Full Lotus Spa
• Wedding chapel
• Nine-hole putting course
• 24-hour Internet Cafe
• Extensive children's center