Grand Princess cruise ship returns to service

The Grand Princess has returned to service after an extensive stay in dry dock

She returned to service last week without her iconic Skywalker’s nightclub, in its place is a new nightclub on her top deck called One5 which is due to open on May 21st

Princess Cruises said in February that the removal of the Skywalkers nightclub from the ship's 18th deck would significantly improve the fuel efficiency of the ship by reducing its weight. The nightclub has given many Princess ships their distinctive profile since the debut of the Grand Princess in 1998.

The ship was given several other features from the line's newest ships, such as the Piazza-style atrium and Crown Grill steakhouse, as well as some spaces that are new to Princess, like a tea lounge and library called Leaves, and Alfredo's, a full-service pizzeria.

"This drydock has been a monumental effort, and we're very proud of the teamwork by everyone involved to create this sparkling 'new' ship ready to start a season of Europe sailings," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president, in a statement. "We know our passengers will appreciate the updated décor, fresh new feel, and especially all the wonderful added features."