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Princess Cruises Elevates Onboard Experience with Partnership to World-Renowned Speakeasy

November 16, 2025

Summary

Princess Cruises, a major player in the cruise industry, is partnering with Handshake Speakeasy, consistently recognized as North America’s best bar, to bring a unique and sophisticated nightlife experience to its ships. This collaboration signifies a move by Princess to enhance the onboard ambiance and cater to a more discerning traveler seeking elevated entertainment options beyond traditional cruise offerings. Handshake Speakeasy is renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails, intimate atmosphere, and focus on premium spirits. By integrating this bar concept, Princess aims to create a more upscale and memorable experience for guests, particularly appealing to those looking for a refined evening out at sea. This isn't just about adding a new bar; it’s about curating a specific mood and atmosphere, aligning with a broader trend in the travel industry towards personalized and experiential offerings. This partnership allows Princess to leverage Handshake’s established reputation and expertise in creating a premium bar environment, adding a touch of exclusivity and sophistication to its cruise itineraries. It reflects a recognition that onboard entertainment is becoming an increasingly important factor in passenger satisfaction and booking decisions.

Key Details

  • Partners: Princess Cruises and Handshake Speakeasy
  • Handshake Speakeasy Recognition: Consistently ranked as North America's best bar.
  • Focus: Upscale cocktails, premium spirits, and an intimate atmosphere.
  • Integration: Handshake Speakeasy concept will be implemented on select Princess Cruises ships.
  • Goal: To enhance the onboard nightlife experience and attract a more discerning traveler.
  • Timing: Implementation is starting with select ships, with plans for broader rollout. Specific ship names were not mentioned in the article.

Geographical Information

Location Name Country/Region Key Details
Princess Cruises Ships Global (various itineraries) The partnership will be rolled out across select Princess Cruises vessels operating on various global itineraries. Specific ships were not mentioned.
Handshake Speakeasy (Original Location) Chicago, Illinois, USA Handshake Speakeasy originated and gained its reputation in Chicago, known for its craft cocktail scene and sophisticated ambiance.

Impact & Implications

  • For Travelers: Offers a more sophisticated and premium nightlife option onboard Princess Cruises, potentially increasing the overall cruise experience value. Appeals to those seeking higher-quality cocktails and a more intimate atmosphere.
  • Travel Restrictions/Requirements: No direct travel restrictions or requirements are mentioned in the article related to this partnership. Standard cruise requirements apply (passport, vaccination status, etc.).
  • Safety Considerations: Standard safety protocols for bars and onboard entertainment will apply. Princess Cruises will likely maintain its existing health and safety measures.

Additional Context

The cruise industry is increasingly focused on offering experiences beyond just transportation and accommodation. Passengers are seeking more immersive and personalized activities. This partnership with Handshake Speakeasy is a direct response to that trend, aiming to elevate the onboard entertainment offerings and attract a wider range of travelers. The rise of craft cocktails and the popularity of speakeasies in urban areas have created a demand for more refined and intimate bar experiences, which Princess is now bringing to its ships.

Original Source

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Handshake Speakeasy so notable?

Handshake Speakeasy is consistently ranked as North America's best bar by World's 50 Best Bars, known for its inventive cocktails and premium spirit focus.

What kind of cocktails will be available on Princess Cruises?

Princess Cruises will offer five exclusive, bespoke cocktails meticulously crafted by Handshake Speakeasy's award-winning mixologists.

Where can I find these new cocktails?

The Handshake Speakeasy concept will be implemented on select Princess Cruises ships, with a broader rollout planned.

Will this partnership affect cruise prices?

The article doesn't mention price changes, but the addition of a premium bar experience may enhance the overall value of the cruise.

Are there any special requirements to access this bar?

No specific requirements are mentioned beyond standard cruise regulations (passport, vaccination status, etc.).

About the Author
Author avatar
Rebecca Hayes
Senior Travel Analyst & Industry Expert
Cruise travel specialist and maritime journalist.
Experience: 8+ years in travel journalism
Expertise: Global travel trends & industry analysis
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Airline Industry Hotel & Hospitality Cruise Lines Tourism Trends Travel Technology Destination Analysis
Key Achievements:
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