Following on the heels of its award-winning blog (“50 Essential Experiences”), Princess Cruises has launched a new blog called “Inspired to Cruise: A Year of Reasons to Get Away From the Everyday” (www.InspiredToCruise.com).

Throughout 2012, the blog will gradually reveal 52 passenger stories about what compelled them to take a cruise vacation.

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The blog will explore the myriad celebrations, accomplishments, family milestones and other inspired  reasons to cruise, and each week another passenger will tell their story. The posts will chronicle stories from a diverse group of contributors – from long-time cruisers to those who set sail for the first time. Readers will find that some events go as planned, while others do not, and that many cruisers have found that unforgettable surprises make the best stories of all.

“Our passengers regularly share deeply personal stories with us about why they’ve cruised, and we wanted to share some of the most remarkable ones,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “With this new blog we’re giving our passengers the starring role as storytellers, and we think their experiences will inspire others to think about the many reasons to cruise.”

The first post, revealed today, is from Nancy Chamberlain-Fox of Trabuco Canyon, California who tells the story of cruising to celebrate the second time she and her husband were married…after a span of not being together for 27 years. The love story takes an unexpected turn when they discover that their multi-generational dinner table mates each share the same anniversary date.

Also featured on the blog each week will be a short video called an “Escape Inspiration.” These 30-second onboard moments will be introduced by a Princess crew member who will explain why the scene has meaning for them. The first video, introduced by Grand Princess Captain Anthony Herriott, features the mesmerizing wake view off the ship’s fantail.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company’s website at www.princess.com.

About Princess Cruises:

One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is a global cruise and tour company operating a fleet of 16 modern ships renowned for their innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, all provided in an environment of exceptional customer service. A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess carries 1.3 million passengers each year to destinations around the globe ranging in length from seven to 107 days. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

Princess Cruises is a proud member of World’s Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America, Cunard Line, Costa Cruises and Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, World’s Leading Cruise Lines inspires people to discover their best vacation experience. Together, we offer a variety of exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world’s most desirable destinations. Visit us at www.worldsleadingcruiselines.com.