Redesigned Gatsby’s Casino anchors wider onboard upgrades ahead of Australia deployment and 2026 World Cruise
Princess Cruises has confirmed that Crown Princess has officially returned to service after completing a scheduled drydock in Singapore, unveiling a series of onboard enhancements that place renewed emphasis on modernised entertainment spaces, including a newly redesigned casino. The refurbishment forms part of a broader upgrade programme as the vessel prepares for its upcoming deployment in Australia and a high-profile 2026 World Cruise.
One of the most notable changes is the reconfiguration of Gatsby’s Casino, a central entertainment venue onboard Crown Princess. The casino has been updated with a revised layout aimed at improving guest flow and comfort, alongside upgraded gaming equipment and a redesigned casino bar. According to Princess Cruises, the refreshed environment retains the breadth of gaming options traditionally offered while delivering a more contemporary and accessible experience.
The casino overhaul includes enhancements to the cashier area and the introduction of new slot machine themes, reflecting evolving player preferences and current industry trends. Guests can continue to enjoy classic table games such as blackjack and roulette, complemented by a diverse portfolio of slot machines. Casino gaming remains a core pillar of onboard entertainment across the Princess Cruises fleet, and the company views the updates as an investment in one of its highest-traffic venues.
Beyond the casino, Crown Princess underwent a range of general refurbishment works during the drydock period. Among the most visible additions is O’Malley’s Irish Pub, which replaces the former Wheelhouse Bar and introduces a lively social space inspired by traditional Irish hospitality. The ship has also welcomed the EFFY Lounge, a new venue showcasing jewellery from the New York-based brand, further expanding retail and lifestyle options for guests.
Princess Cruises positioned the casino refresh as part of a wider strategy to modernise key onboard spaces while maintaining the character and amenities long associated with the ship. Crown Princess, which has a gross tonnage of 113,561 and can accommodate up to 3,080 guests, continues to be a flagship vessel within the fleet.
Lorna Warren, Vice President of Hotel Operations and Guest Experience at Princess Cruises, said that each drydock presents an opportunity to elevate the onboard experience. She noted that the latest enhancements reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to evolving its offerings in line with guest expectations, highlighting both the refreshed casino and the introduction of popular new venues.
Following its return to service, Crown Princess is scheduled to arrive in Sydney on 4 January 2026, where it will operate a series of Australia-based itineraries through May. On 10 May 2026, the ship will embark on a 114-day World Cruise, sailing roundtrip from Sydney.
The focus on casino and gaming upgrades mirrors a broader trend across the cruise industry. In September 2025, MSC Cruises expanded its onboard betting capabilities through a partnership with Playtech, introducing sports betting terminals and mobile wagering technology across its fleet, underscoring the growing role of gaming as a revenue and entertainment driver at sea.
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