The symbolic christening took place at the Pasadena facilities of Artistic Entertainment Services (AES), the company
responsible for the float’s floral craftsmanship and signature design. In
keeping with maritime tradition, the ceremony featured the breaking of a bottle
of Pantalones Organic Tequila, linking the cruise line’s nautical heritage with
one of the world’s most watched festive events.
Princess Cruises’ Celebration Ambassador Jill Whelan officiated
the ceremony, declaring: “I name this float Star
Princess – may God bless her and all who cruise down Colorado Boulevard on
her.”
The float showcases the design vision of Princess Cruises’ newest ship, Star Princess, reflecting its Sphere Class architecture. Key design elements include The Dome, a next-generation relaxation and entertainment space located atop the ship, and the sphere-shaped Piazza, the architectural centerpiece defined by sweeping curves and open sightlines.
Designed to evoke the experience of sailing through Alaska’s Inside
Passage, the float also celebrates the upcoming 2026 inaugural Alaska season
for Star Princess. As the leading cruise operator in Alaska, Princess Cruises
uses the float to visually interpret the destination’s natural grandeur, with
towering glaciers in icy blue tones, bald eagles in flight, spouting humpback
whales, and bears fishing for salmon. The scenes are constructed using
thousands of fresh flowers, seeds, bark, and natural materials, reflecting the
landscapes and wildlife that characterize Alaska itineraries.
The Tournament of Roses Parade, held annually on New Year’s Day, attracts
approximately 800,000 spectators along its 5.5-mile route and reaches more than
28 million television viewers in the United States, with additional global
audiences. Known for its elaborate floral floats, marching bands, and
equestrian units, the parade remains one of the most visible platforms for
destination and brand storytelling in North America.
The Princess Cruises float measures approximately 55 feet in length and 21
feet in height. Once completed, it will feature more than 300,000 flowers and
natural elements, underscoring the scale and craftsmanship involved in Rose
Parade float production.
Tags: Jill Whelan Princess Cruises
