We Took a Baby on the Star Princess Inaugural Cruise and Here’s What Happened

Ever wondered whether taking a baby on an inaugural cruise is a brilliant idea or pure chaos? We’ve just sailed on the Star Princess maiden voyage with our baby and our 3-year-old, and I’m here to say: yes, you absolutely can - as long as you know what you’re signing up for.

Because while everything on board was brand new, from the cabins to the crew’s name badges, there are some quirks you’ll only discover if you sail her for the very first time. Here’s what it was really like, what to expect, and why I’d do it again. And, don’t worry, there’s plenty more to follow which covers this wonderful ship – I’m stuck on my laptop and editing as we speak!

🍼 Everything Is Brand New (Literally)

I don’t just mean the ship itself. I mean everything. My baby must have christened at least ten high chairs, we peeled plastic off the changing tables, and our travel cot still had that satisfying “new” smell.

It’s a slightly surreal feeling when your child is among the very first tiny humans to ever nap in a cabin or drop half a breadstick on the carpet. We were terrified of getting anything dirty and watched them like a hawk when the snacks came out!

💡 Tip: Bring extra basics (nappies, snacks, wipes) just in case certain items haven’t been stocked in the shops yet. We got lucky as everything essential was ready, but better safe than sorry.

⚙️ Expect a Few “First Cruise” Teething Issues

Every inaugural (or maiden) cruise comes with a learning curve. The crew are still finding their rhythm, systems are being tested, and small surprises pop up. On our sailing, there was no orange juice - minor in the grand scheme, but imagine if that had been travel cots not in stock? Where would he have slept?!

In some cases, it also means there’s limited facilities too – for example, a pool or splash zone might still be undergoing final checks. Definitely something to be wary of!

💡 Tip: Go in with realistic expectations. Staff are often extra keen to make things right, and we found their enthusiasm completely outweighed any little blips.

👶 The Crew Will Adore Your Children

Because there are usually fewer children onboard on maiden sailings, the crew are delighted to see them. Our two were practically celebrities, waved at by waiters, cuddled by entertainers, and greeted by name in most venues.

After months of training with no passengers, the crew seemed genuinely thrilled to have families onboard again.

💡 Tip: Take advantage of quieter areas like the piazza or observation lounge for tummy time or a nap - you’ll get the space (and the smiles).

🧸 Fewer Kids, Quieter Ship

Our sailing had around 50 children in total, which is very low for a ship of that size. For us, it was bliss: no queues for high chairs, quiet pool decks, and calm mealtimes. But it might not suit everyone. If you’ve got an older toddler or a sociable child who loves playmates, the limited number of kids could feel lonely.

💡 Tip: Check your sailing dates. Inaugural cruises often fall outside school holidays, so if you want a busier family vibe, aim for a later voyage instead.

🚼 Facilities: Sparkling, but Still Settling

Everything in the nursery and baby facilities was spotless, but staff were still finding their way around. It’s easy to forget that this is their first cruise too, so a little patience goes a long way.

It also means that the designs are new and it can result in some issues. On our ship, there was an issue with the safety netting in the kids’ club play area which wasn’t weaved close enough, so smaller children could slip through. The kids club manager said this was going to be fixed within a few cruises.

The bonus, though? You get to use everything in its best condition. No scratched portholes, no tired toys, no mysterious stains on the highchair straps.

🎉 Special Moments You Won’t Get Elsewhere

Inaugural cruises come with a bit of fanfare like sailaway celebrations, meet-and-greets with the Captain and officers, extra photo opportunities. For little ones, it’s a sensory dream (music, lights, flags) and for parents, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime family memory.

💡 Tip: Bring a simple autograph book or postcard for your child to collect crew signatures or stamps. It’s a lovely keepsake from their first sailing. Our eldest also brought stickers to hand out.

🧭 Standard Cruise Considerations Still Apply

• 🧳 Choose the right cabin for your space needs.
• 🌍 Check the itinerary (and flight times if travelling abroad).
• 🍽 Review the dining set-up and confirm they can provide cots or highchairs in advance.
• 🛳 Think about ship size and layout as bigger isn’t always better with babies.

The “inaugural” label is exciting, but it’s still a cruise, so make sure it fits your family before you hit book.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Would I take a baby or toddler on another inaugural or maiden voyage? Absolutely. It’s not the kind of sailing where you expect perfection, but that’s part of its charm. The excitement is infectious, the ship feels fresh and special, and you’re part of a tiny group of people writing its very first memories.

If you can embrace the unexpected (and pack an emergency snack pouch or two), I’d say it’s a wonderful experience both for you and your little cruiser.

📸 Next Reads & Watches

• 🍼 Travelling with Babies and Toddlers on a Cruise
• 🚢 Full Star Princess Review (coming soon!)

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