SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Princess Cruises’ 2018 Europe program will be open for sale on Dec. 1, featuring the cruise line’s new ‘Local Connections’ program that connect guests with authentic resident experts.

An industry first, the program includes elements like a video series of local port partners sharing their experiences and recommendations of the places they call home, local expert onboard speakers, new tours, partner port guides and walking maps, new port welcome and departure experiences, and an insider’s guide in each port.

“We’re proud to continually earn awards for the best cruise itineraries around the globe and we’re sure to live up to our reputation with the 2018 Europe season,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. “We’ve worked hard to not only showcase the famous sites of Europe to our guests but also provide them authentic local experiences to immerse themselves in the culture, food, landscape and charm of these iconic destinations.”

The 2018 Europe season features five ships sailing to 115 destinations, and 57 unique itineraries on 168 cruise departures. New offerings include Sapphire Princess’ maiden call to the British Isles, Northern Europe and the Mediterranean out of London, in addition to a 38-day maiden voyage between Singapore and London. The cruise ship will also make the cruise line’s first port call to Skagen (Denmark).

Also new are 12-day British Isles cruises sailing roundtrip from Paris/Normandy aboard the Royal Princess. And as part of the cruise line’s More Ashore program featuring more time in port, a 12-day European Capitals voyage aboard the Pacific Princess includes an overnight stay in Amsterdam and a late departure from Antwerp.

Guests can enhance their European travel with four unique Land & Sea Vacation options, which combine certain sailings with a fully-escorted land tour. Choices include Paris and the French Countryside; Ireland’s Ring of Kerry; Classic Italy, visiting popular sites in Venice, Florence and Rome; and Imperial Treasures of Budapest, Vienna, Prague and Berlin.

Princess Cruises past guests are eligible for a special promotion when they book before August 31, 2017. Captain’s Circle members booking a cruise less than seven days will receive a savings of $50 per person. For those booking a seven- to 20-day Europe cruise, a discount of $100 per guest will be applied and those booking a cruise more than 20 days will receive a $200 discount (does not apply to third and fourth berth guests).

In addition, Summer 2018 Europe guests can choose a new premium stateroom category featuring VIP amenities and exclusive dining with the new Club Class Mini-Suite. This elevated mini-suite category features select perks including new Club Class Dining, a reserved dining area with expedited seating and expanded menu options; priority embarkation and disembarkation; complimentary wine and luxurious bathrobes.

For more information go to princess.com.