Passengers can cheer for their favorite film at poolside Oscar parties as they find out whether "The Aviator" will fly away with the top prize or "Million Dollar Baby" will knock out the competition. Astute passenger film critics who pick the winners can win one of many shipboard prizes awarded throughout the evening.

"If you can't be in the Kodak Theater itself, what better way to enjoy this Hollywood tradition than under the balmy Caribbean sky," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service and sales. "Our giant screens and dramatic poolside settings make for a glamorous backdrop to the excitement of the awards."

Princess was the first cruise line to broadcast the Academy Awards four years ago and has made the event an annual tradition with festive seagoing Oscar parties for viewers in the main lounges on most ships. Passengers get a taste of a star's life as they stroll down Princess' own 'red carpet' in their formal best, posing for "paparazzi" photographers who will capture the evening's fashion statements. Party-goers can indulge with special cocktails and appetizers, and may take home one of the many prizes that will be awarded throughout the evening as the winners are announced. Celebrity look-alikes may have a moment of fame, and even shipboard fashion critics will have their say as they determine the best- and worst-dressed passengers.

The Academy Awards is one of many special events and features shown daily on Princess' two giant Times Square-style LED screens. The unique, 300-square-foot screens are currently featured aboard Caribbean Princess and Grand Princess and show up to seven movies or events daily, including family films and first run hits, as well as concert footage and other special programming, such as the popular "Sing-A-Long Wizard of Oz." In the evenings, lounge chairs are covered with special cushions and blankets and Princess' hallmark poolside service is available to enhance the viewing experience with free popcorn plus a variety of drink specials and movie nibbles.

"Movies Under the Stars" screen will debut aboard Sea Princess when that ship returns to the Princess fleet on April 28 and aboard Crown Princess which debuts next year.

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

By: Yahoo news