Princess Cruises Updates Crew Performance Program

Close up of the logo on a Princess cruise ship
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Princess Cruises is preparing to introduce changes to how crew performance is assessed and developed onboard, according to a recent update from Chief Human Resources Officer Luba Pelikhova.

Through both an internal message and a supporting video, the company outlined enhancements to its “Performance Partnership” program, which guides how crew performance is evaluated across the fleet.

Princess Cruises said it is now in the final phase of redesigning its performance evaluation system. Some crew members may have already noticed initial adjustments, particularly in how ratings are given.

The company stressed that these changes are deliberate and are intended to improve consistency and transparency, rather than indicate declining performance or increased expectations.

The updated approach focuses on:

  • Establishing clearer standards across departments
  • Promoting fairness in evaluations
  • Supporting continuous development and improvement

In the accompanying video, Pelikhova explained that the revised system is not solely focused on ratings. Instead, it aims to strengthen leadership, coaching, and career progression.

The updated framework is designed to:

  • Encourage more meaningful and constructive feedback
  • Align performance assessments with the company’s leadership values
  • Help crew better understand their development opportunities

This reflects a shift away from purely numbers-based evaluations toward a more balanced and people-centered approach.

Princess Cruises acknowledged that changes to performance processes can raise concerns among crew members. The company noted that further details will be shared closer to the official rollout.

In the meantime, crew are encouraged to:

  • Speak with their managers or onboard HR teams
  • Ask questions about their performance and development
  • Stay actively engaged with the updated process

Both the written communication and video message highlighted the importance of teamwork. Princess Cruises emphasized that collaboration across departments and roles remains key to delivering a strong guest experience.

The updated Performance Partnership program is intended to support this by creating clearer pathways for growth while strengthening cooperation onboard.

While full details of the revised system are still to be released, Princess Cruises has made clear that the goal is to create a more structured, transparent, and supportive environment for crew development.

As the rollout approaches, the company plans to continue refining the program and working closely with onboard teams to ensure a smooth transition.