The following info is given by this issues by the Gibraltar Post.
The GRAND PRINCESS is a large cruise ship owned by Princess Cruises.
Built by Fincantieri Cantieri Navali Italiana in Monfalcona, Italy, at a cost of approximately US$450 million, she was the largest and most expensive ship ever built at the time, a distinction now carried by Royal Caribbean International’s FREEDOM OF THE SEAS.
GRAND PRINCESS primarily operates in Europe during the summer to early autumn, and then operates in the Caribbean during the winter to late spring.
Built as a cruise vessel under yard No 5956 by Fincantiere Italiana, Monfalcone, Italy for Fairline Shipping (Princess Cruises), Monrovia, Liberia.
22 May 1997 launched under the name GRAND PRINCESS, two sisters GOLDEN PRINCESS and STAR PRINCESS.
Tonnage 108.806 grt, 6.750 dwt., dim. 289.51 x 36.00 x 8.00m. (draught).
Powered by six Sulzer-Grandi Motori 16ZA40/S diesel engines, 42.000 kW., speed 22.5 knots.
Accommodation for 3.300 passengers.
December 1997 made her first trial.
03 May 1998 delivered to Princess Cruises.
Her maiden voyage from Southampton to Istanbul was cancelled she was not ready for service.
19 May 1998 ready for service.
19 May 1998 maiden voyage from Istanbul to Barcelona.
24 September 1998 arrived at New York.
29 September 1998 christened by the famous movie star Olivia de Havilland (Gone with the Wind and many more).
Thereafter used for world wide cruises.
May 2000 under Bermuda flag with homeport Hamilton.
2008 In service IMO No 9104005. Owner given as Blue Sapphire Marine, Liberia.
She is on Gibraltar 2008 42p.
Source: Marine News. http://www.faktaomfartyg.se/grand_princess_1998.htm