Carnival Expands 180-Day Mexico Cadet Program, Star Princess Joins 2026 Hot List
Carnival expanded its Mexico maritime cadet apprenticeship with Princess Cruises and Maritime & Port University of Mexico to provide 180-day onboard training to final-year students beginning this fall. The new 177,800-ton Star Princess, carrying 4,300 guests, joins the 2026 Hot List and will lead an Alaska season with eight ships.
1. Expansion of Mexico Maritime Cadet Apprenticeship Program
Carnival Corporation & plc has broadened its partnership with Maritime & Port University of Mexico and Princess Cruises to offer eligible final-year maritime students a mandatory 180-day onboard apprenticeship beginning this fall. Since launching in May 2024, the majority of participants have transitioned into full cadet roles, reinforcing Carnival’s future crew pipeline and operational capacity.
2. Star Princess Named to 2026 Hot List
Princess Cruises’ newest Sphere Class vessel, the 177,800-ton, 4,300-guest Star Princess, earned placement on the 2026 Hot List in recognition of its design and service excellence. The ship will spearhead Carnival’s largest Alaska season yet, sailing with eight vessels and 180 departures to 19 destinations, potentially boosting summer bookings.