Sapphire Princess Returns from Drydock with New Specialty Restaurants
by Dori Saltzman
Photo: Princess Cruises
Following a two-week drydock in Portland, Ore., Sapphire Princess has set sail with new enhancements onboard including two new specialty restaurants: Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill, both of which open to guests on Nov. 16, 2025.
The addition of Makoto Ocean marks the first non-Sphere Class ship to receive the venue created by Chef Makoto Okuwa. Taking over the space on Deck 7 formerly occupied by the Internet Café, the Edomae-style sushi restaurant offers specialties such as truffle salmon, snow crab temaki, and toro tartare, alongside handcrafted cocktails.
Crown Grill, Princess’ signature steakhouse, occupies the former Savoy Dining room on Deck 5. It is a longtime Princess guest favorite.
Both dining venues are priced at $60 per person and are included as a specialty dining option for clients who book the Princess Premier package.
“With the addition of Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill, our guests aboard Sapphire Princesswill enjoy two of our most popular dining experiences, elevating the culinary journey across her itineraries,” said Sami Kohen, Princess Cruises vice president of food and beverage. “We’re especially proud to bring these enhancements as Sapphire Princess prepares for remarkable seasons ahead, including our historic dual-ship deployment in Japan in 2027.”
Sapphire Princess is currently sailing a Mexico itinerary but will reposition for a season of South America/Antarctica cruises, followed by Mediterranean and Northern Europe voyages in spring and summer 2026. In fall 2026, it will sail a series of Canada/New England cruises.
In March 2027, Sapphire Princess will reunite with sister ship Diamond Princess for the line’s most expansive Japan season ever. Both ships were built in Japan for Japanese cruising.





