princess cruise ships alaska

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise news
• Cruise Industry
• Princess Cruises deployes 7 ships in Alaska in 2023 (14...

Princess Cruises deployes 7 ships in Alaska in 2023 (14 itineraries & 25 cruisetours)

Princess Cruises announced updates for the upcoming 2023 cruise and cruisetour season in Alaska. As the leading cruise line in Alaska, Princess is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, immersive programming, and unparalleled guest experiences.

The company sails 7 ships throughout The Great Land across 14 itineraries and 25 land-sea vacations, including the newest ship Discovery Princess along with Royal , Ruby , Majestic , Grand , Crown , and Sapphire Princess .

One of the highlights of the 2023 season is the expanded Wild for Alaska Seafood menu, available to all guests sailing with Princess in Alaska. This industry-first initiative, introduced in 2022, features a rotation of fresh Alaska seafood dishes, along with destination-inspired cocktails made from local spirits. Princess Cruises has partnered with Pacific Seafood, Alaska Seafood, and Alaska Leader Seafood, all known for their environmentally responsible practices and sustainable fishing methods, to develop this unique dining experience. Guests can indulge in a variety of Alaska seafood, including multiple varieties of salmon, wild Alaska cod, halibut, rockfish, Dungeness crabs, spot prawns, and razor clams, highlighting the freshest ingredients from the region.

In addition to the Wild for Alaska Seafood menu, Princess Cruises is also introducing a new Garden-to-Table menu for cruisetour guests staying at the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge. Guests can stroll through the lodge's large garden, filled with Alaska-grown vegetables and flowers thriving in the summer sunshine, and enjoy the chefs' menu creations using the fresh produce harvested throughout the season.

The beverage program for the 2023 season is also getting a makeover, with decadent coffee and hot chocolate-based creations, themed frozen drinks, Alaska wines, and flights of Alaska beer and cocktails being introduced. Guests can warm up with delicious drinks like Spiced Rum Hot Chocolate and Gingerbread Breakfast, sample Alaska beers through tastings or order beer flights, indulge in themed frozen drinks like Ketchikan Strawberry Shortcake and Alaskan Polar Bear, enjoy Alaska cocktails made from local spirits, and even participate in the Alaska Wine Experience with wine pairings featuring Alaska salmon.

The brand's commitment to showcasing the beauty of Alaska goes beyond dining and beverages. Every cruise itinerary includes at least one glacier-viewing experience, with Princess taking more guests to Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. Cruises also visit marquee ports like Juneau , Ketchikan , and Skagway , with late-night calls in Juneau on select itineraries. Guests can choose from over 150 shore excursions, including unique experiences like lumberjack shows, dog sledding on glaciers, flightseeing adventures, and wildlife viewing tours to spot whales, bears, and more. Exclusive to Princess Cruises, Cook My Catch allows guests to reel in a fish during a fishing excursion and have it cooked for their dinner that night, creating unforgettable culinary memories.

For those looking to explore more of Alaska's interior, Princess Cruises offers cruisetours that seamlessly combine a cruise with land tour options, including visits to Denali National Park and Princess' five signature Wilderness Lodges. The 17-night Princess Connoisseur Cruisetour is back by popular demand, featuring 10 nights on land with stays at each of the five Princess Wilderness Lodges and visits to five national parks.

Princess Cruises also takes care of guests' transportation with their Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service, which takes guests from the ship through the heart of Alaska with breathtaking scenery to the Denali-based wilderness lodges, providing more time to explore the vast interior of this stunning state.

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

• Pre-Cruise FAQ
• Onboard FAQ
• Post-Cruise FAQ
• Cruisetours FAQ
• Special Offers Sign Up
• Cruise Deals

You have been logged out

Your window will update in 5 secs

Alaska Glaciers

Carved by the hands of mother nature, meet alaska masterpieces.

Alaska’s glaciers have shaped the surrounding landscapes for millions of years. Mountains, valleys and fjords all come from the slow march these monuments make every day. Today, the glaciers of the Great Land — once only accessible to the adventurous few — are ready for you to explore. With over 50 years of experience cruising to Alaska, we look forward to showing you these unique wonders. All Princess Alaska cruises include at least one glacier-viewing experience.

Glacier Bay National Park

Known as Alaska’s crown jewel, Glacier Bay National Park is otherworldly in its beauty and breadth. This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers millions of acres and contains seven tidewater glaciers as well as mountains and deep fjords. Its waters are even home to whales, seals and otters. Cruise to Glacier Bay National Park and let the landscapes and wildlife show you what makes it so worthy of the utmost protection.

Endicott Arm

Cut from age-old glacial movements, Endicott Arm is a narrow fjord over thirty miles long. Sailing down it gives you a view into some of the most dramatic vistas in the north. See the Alaska glaciers of Endicott Arm, including Dawes Glacier, and revel in the walls of ice that stretch stories above the waterline. Or delight in the cliffsides that are decorated with forests and wildlife.

College Fjord

College Fjord is the meeting place where many of Alaska’s glaciers congregate and flow to the ocean. At the water’s edge are massive valley glaciers and dozens of smaller monuments that dot the mountainous region. Thanks to the professors who first settled here in 1899, many of these glaciers are named after the country’s best institutions of higher learning, such as Harvard Glacier.

Hubbard glacier

Hubbard Glacier is an unforgettable sight. Alaska’s largest tidewater glacier rises hundreds of feet from the ocean floor and towers above the waves, radiating a brilliant blue in the daylight. Thanks to its exceptional movement speed — for a massive river of ice — the face of this Alaska glacier calves at an incredible rate, providing a breathtaking show for the lucky onlookers.

Mendenhall glacier

Tucked in the coastal mountains around Juneau, this nearly 14-mile-long glacier cuts through the landscape and ends in a freshwater lake. Mendenhall is the best of Alaska’s ecosystems. It’s home to wildlife, and its rivers are brimming with salmon and trout. Not to mention, its forests burst from every inch of terrain, creating a true wonderland of nature.

Matanuska glacier

With ice colored in vibrant blues and bright whites, Matanuska is a sight to be seen on an Alaska Copper River cruisetour. Considered an "ice flow", it floats through valleys under its own weight. This structure measures 24 miles in length and is responsible for creating a "weather hole" — a pocket of sunny skies and enjoyable climates that occurs due to warm valley air being pushed into the atmosphere.

You May Also Like

Alaska cruises.

See the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife, and national parks.

Alaska Cruisetours

Combine a cruise + train + lodge + Denali for an in-depth Alaska experience.

UNESCO World Heritage Site and Cruise wonder of the world.

5 reasons why Princess® is the #1 cruise line in Alaska

Incredible shore excursions, unique local culture, stunning glaciers, and so much more.

Have you ever dreamed about dog sledding through the Great Land? Catching and eating your own salmon? Or exploring breathtaking glaciers? Whatever you love to do on vacation, a Princess® cruise to Alaska has something for you. From ship to shore, they make the experience more authentic and memorable, so it’s no surprise they’ve been named the #1 cruise line in Alaska.

Read on for five compelling reasons why you should set sail to Alaska with Princess®.

1. Exclusive excursions that unlock a world of adventure

Princess Cruises® has an exclusive partnership with Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ called Discovery at SEA™ , which immerses you in Alaska expeditions that cannot be booked independently. Discover what life is like aboard a Deadliest Catch crab boat, dog sled through beautiful snowy terrains, or canoe past the majestic Mendenhall Glacier. These are just some of the small-group tours that offer once-in-a-lifetime ways to experience the best Alaska has to offer.

But the fun doesn’t stop there, as there are so many other Princess® excursions to enjoy. Zipline over 100 feet in the air as you take in breath-taking views of glacier-fed waterfalls, bald eagles and the ocean. Relive the Gold Rush by touring mining camps, meeting experienced miners, and panning for gold like the many treasure hunters before you. Or step back in time to watch craftsmen carve totem poles at a Native Alaskan village.

Whether you prefer to traverse by land, sea or air, Princess® offers unique excursions in Alaska that will take you on a wild ride.

2. Onboard experiences that bring the best of Alaska to you

With the award-winning North to Alaska program , you can enjoy local cuisine and culture without even leaving your Princess® world-class ship. Not only can you sit down for destination-themed dinners and taste unique Alaska seafood items, you can actually catch your own salmon or halibut with the help of a local expert. In the evening, talented chefs will prepare your fish for dinner--a Princess® exclusive.

While onboard, you’ll be introduced to local personalities who love to share what makes their state unique. Listen to harrowing tales from Deadliest Catch anglers, learn tips and tricks on how to take frameable Alaska snapshots from award-winning photographers, and hear Iditarod sled dog race stories from a retired dog musher.

Dog lovers can even snuggle up and snap a picture with Skagway’s youngest sled dogs in training during Puppies in the Piazza. And put your skills to the test in an axe-throwing competition overseen by an actual Alaskan lumberjack.

3. At least one glacier-viewing experience

The beauty of Alaska’s glaciers are a must-see, so it’s a huge plus that all Princess® Alaska cruises take you up close and personal to at least one glacier during your voyage. Depending on your itinerary, you can see Glacier Bay National Park* , known as Alaska’s crown jewel. Covering millions of acres and seven tidewater glaciers, it’s home to whales, seals and otters. Another true wonderland of nature is the nearly 14-mile-long Mendenhall Glacier , tucked into the coastal mountains around Juneau and ending in a freshwater lake.

To maximize your glacier viewing, spend seven days traveling from Vancouver, B.C. to Anchorage (Whittier) on the Voyage of the Glaciers cruise , and enjoy two glacier-viewing experiences on every itinerary.

4. Access to some of the most amazing animals on the planet

Alaska is a dream destination for those who appreciate nature. On a Princess® cruise, you’ll be surrounded by wildlife. Depending on when you visit, you can see humpback whales feeding, killer whales hunting, and harbor seals lounging on floating ice. Step on land for sightings of grizzlies, black bears, and moose that stand at over six feet tall. Keep your eyes peeled for migrating caribou, and horned Dall sheep in Denali National Park . You may even spot a bald eagle along the coast or near rivers teaming with spawning salmon.

5. All-encompassing sea and land packages

If you want to see Denali, a Princess® Alaska Cruisetour is the way to go. A Cruisetour enables you to experience the breathtaking waterways of southeast Alaska as well as the most beautiful parts of its interior – helping you adventure further and traverse more of this great state.

Start your journey with the top-rated Voyage of the Glaciers cruise , then enjoy scenic rail travel on their exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service that takes you directly from the ship to one of the pristine Princess® Wilderness Lodges in the Denali-area. Located riverside next to some of the most renowned national parks, these custom-built lodges feature comforting amenities and breathtaking scenery.

Whether you want a fully pre-planned itinerary or a more affordable option, a Princess® Alaska Cruisetour lets you explore the heart of Alaska like no one else.

*Princess Cruises® is an authorized concessioner of Glacier Bay National Park.

7 Best Cruises to Alaska, According to Travel Experts

Book a once-in-a-lifetime trip to see glaciers, national parks and wildlife!

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

While some travelers dream of lounging on a beach in the Caribbean, others might be itching to put on hiking shoes and explore the great outdoors. If glaciers, wildlife and picturesque coastline have long been on your bucket list, consider booking a cruise to Alaska. The northernmost American state offers an activity for everyone's interest and level of adventure. You can take a thrilling helicopter flight to explore a glacier on foot or observe miles of Alaska’s lush scenery and spy whales from a comfortable seat on a boat.

Princess Cruises

A top choice for multi-generational families and larger groups seeking on-board experiences for a wide age range, Princess will sail seven ships to Alaska in 2024 — more than any other line. Princess also offers the most departure cities , potentially saving you money on airfare. Alaska sailings range from 4 to 22 days, though a week is the sweet spot. The line is also only one of seven permitted to enter the magnificent Glacier Bay National Park (shown); check out the tips at the end of the story for details.

Good Housekeeping Contributing Travel Editor Karen Cicero and her daughter recently sailed on Majestic Princess, a Family Travel Awards Winner , and raved about the ship's amenities, especially the Hollywood Pool Club. She described it as “an indoor space with a heated pool, plush loungers, and cabana-like spots that are free for all guests to use.” Cicero was also impressed with the entertainment and activities suitable for all ages, the excellent dining options and a supervised kids’ club for ages 3 to 12. "We saw grandparents and grandkids on the dance floor, at the shows, on the excursions — bonding moments were everywhere," Cicero said.

In 2024, Majestic Princess and Discovery Princess, the line's newest Alaska ship, will both sail roundtrip from Seattle. "You can't beat Princess if you're looking for an experience that will please all ages," said Cicero.

Departure Cities: Los Angeles; San Francisco; Seattle; Vancouver; Whittier, Alaska Cruise Ships: Crown Princess (2024 only); Grand Princess, Caribbean Princess (2025 only), Royal Princess, Sapphire Princess, Discovery Princess, Majestic Princess (2024 only), Crown Princess, Coral Princess (2025 only)

Norwegian Cruise Line

Passengers are loyal to Norwegian for its beautiful ships, top-notch service and innovative amenities. The cruise line pioneered the concept of “freestyle cruising," which includes a flexible dining time. Flexible cruising continues to be a major selling point , according to our testers who recently sailed roundtrip from Seattle to Alaska on the Norwegian Encore (pictured). "We enjoyed not having to rush back to the ship after an excursion because we had a dinner reservation," said our tester who sailed with her spouse.

They also frequented the Encore’s Observation Lounge, where they were able to cozy up and spend hours searching for marine life from floor-to-ceiling windows. Activities and entertainment, like go-karting, slides and laser tag, are abundant. For a premium experience, consider booking a stateroom in The Haven. The Encore's most luxurious accommodations feature spacious rooms — the bathrooms are nearly double the size of those in standard staterooms — a private sundeck and a concierge.

The variety of sailings to Alaska is also another reason to choose Norwegian. "If Hawaii is also on your bucket list, Norwegian is one of the only cruise lines to offer a 16-day cruise departing from Honolulu that sails through both Hawaii and Alaska so you explore two dreamy destinations on one vacation," said Cicero. She added that Norwegian sails to Alaska until late October — about a month longer than most cruise lines.

Departure Cities: Honolulu; Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver; Whittier, Alaska (2025) Cruise Ships: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Jewel (only in 2024), Norwegian Spirit (only in May 2024), Norwegian Sun, Norwegian Jade (only in 2025), Norwegian Joy (only in 2025)

EXPLORE NOW

Disney Cruise Line

Disney lovers will have the time of their lives sailing roundtrip from Vancouver to Alaska aboard the Disney Wonder. "It was the best experience ever," said a mom of two young adults who sailed on the ship in May 2023. "We felt like it was a great combination of Disney and Alaska."

On-board experiences brilliantly align with the destination. For instance, Disney characters are dressed in special outfits for Alaska and are on deck during the days at sea. "We were able to get incredible photos with the glaciers behind the characters," said the mom, who also noted that you can order Mickey Mouse ice cream bars from room service. Cicero added, "Disney has the best kids' and teen clubs of any cruise line. They're enormous, filled with epic activities like superhero training and are a great place for kids and teens to make friends."

If you want an equal dose of Disney and Alaska, this is the cruise for your crew. Sailings range from five to nine nights. All routes head to Stikine Icecap so guests can observe stunning glaciers, cliffs, waterfalls and wildlife.

Departure City: Vancouver Cruise Ship: Disney Wonder

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean doesn’t only sail to the Caribbean. This global cruise line whisks passengers to Alaska from popular ports such as Seattle and Vancouver. You can choose a classic seven-night itinerary or a 13-night land-and-sea getaway.

Cruise enthusiasts at the Good Housekeeping Institute are fans of Royal Caribbean for its state-of-the-art ships, exceptional service and high-quality entertainment. "Royal Caribbean had the first rock-climbing wall and ice-skating rink on a cruise ship," said Cicero. "Since then, they've brought so many other epic activities to sea." For instance, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class, which includes Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, offers skydiving, a surf simulator and a robot bar. "This line is an especially good fit for families with tweens, teens and young adults ," said Cicero, who sailed on Royal Caribbean with her teen daughter.

Departure Cities: Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver Cruise Ships: Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas (only in 2024), Ovation of the Seas (only in 2024), Serenade of the Seas (only in 2025)

National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions

For an incredible small-ship experience, look no further than the Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic team-up. The largest of its ships that sail to Alaska can accommodate no more than 138 passengers — just a sliver of the 4,900 or so that Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas can hold. " Being on a smaller vessel means that you’ll be able to sail right up to less frequented glaciers, waterfalls and fjords, " said Cicero.

Of course, an intimate experience comes at a higher price tag — its eight-day Alaskan adventure starts at about $6,200 per person, though you won't need to pay extra for excursions. "Voyages tend to be themed and stress the educational component," said Cicero. For instance, one focuses on coastal wildlife while another explores native cultures. A Good Housekeeping staff member who sailed the line to the Galápagos Islands (a providence of Ecuador) raved, "The ship was beautiful! I was super impressed with the staff and the service felt above and beyond.”

Departure Cities: Juneau, Alaska; Ketchikan, Alaska; Seattle; Sitka, Alaska Cruise Ships: National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture, National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion, National Geographic Resolution

Holland America Line

Holland America has a well-earned reputation for bringing guests to new destinations for more than 150 years. Its ships tend to be mid-sized — larger than Lindblad's offerings but smaller than the Quantum ships from Royal Caribbean. While Holland attracts an older demographic, its Alaskan cruises are often filled with multi-generational families.

One of the cruise line’s most popular itineraries is the Seven-Day Inside Passage, which takes you through Glacier Bay National Park, the Inside Passage, Tracy Arm Inlet and several must-visit port towns. But for adventure seekers curious to see as much of Alaska as possible, you’ll find tons of extended itineraries including a robust 28-day voyage that crosses the Arctic Circle.

Holland America is the only cruise line permitted to serve glacier ice, using it for cocktails like the Blue Iceberg and Juneau Gin & Tonic. The line also launched a new Alaskan-themed brunch menu offered once per cruise.

Departure Cities: Anchorage, Alaska (for land-sea tours only); Fairbanks, Alaska; Seattle; Vancouver, Whittier, Alaska Cruise Ships: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is popular with adults and couples looking for a premium onboard experience, including delicious cuisine, luxurious staterooms and a high-end spa . We can’t imagine a better way to rest and relax after spending a day exploring the Alaskan wilderness. Our travel experts suggest choosing one of Celebrity's many Alaska itineraries that sail through the Inside Passage and up to Dawes Glacier or Hubbard Glacier, two of the state’s gems.

Of the three Celebrity ships that sail to Alaska, we recommend the Celebrity Edge for those new to cruising or seeking a more contemporary experience. Launched in 2018, the ship features standout innovations like Eden, a multi-level bar with panoramic views, and the Magic Carpet, a multi-purpose floating space suspended directly above the sea.

Departure Cities: Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver Cruise Ships: Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Summit, Celebrity Edge

Tips for booking your cruise to Alaska

✔️ Check your itinerary. The itinerary you choose is key on an Alaskan cruise. If you have your heart set on visiting Glacier Bay National Park, make sure that your cruise line has it listed on the schedule. "Only seven lines were awarded the Glacier Bay contract by the National Park Service ," Cicero said. If you're not sure whether the cruise you have in mind will go through Glacier Bay, double-check with the cruise line or your travel agent.

✔️ Book shore excursions well in advance. Alaskan cruises generally sail from April to October. Because of the shorter season, your ship will likely be close to capacity and several ships may overlap in ports. Excursions will book up quickly. To secure your spot, book excursions well in advance or as soon as they're available.

✔️ Focus on family. Alaskan cruises are best for kids who are at least 5 years old. "Keep in mind that cruise lines don't allow kids who aren't potty-trained to be in pools, even if they're wearing a swim diaper," Cicero said. It's also worth noting that most cruise lines don't permit babies under 6 months or pregnant passengers who are 24 or more weeks along. Cicero advises families with school-age children to look for on-ship amenities, such as an indoor heated pool, a supervised kids' club and a variety of family-friendly nighttime entertainment. "Before you sail, you should also find out which non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary," Cicero said. "Many cruise lines charge extra for soft drinks, but milk and juice are usually included." Free room service is another big perk for families, she notes, so see if that's offered on the line you're considering.

✔️ Check your passport. Even if your cruise starts and stops in a U.S. port like Seattle, there's a high chance your ship will dock in Canada at some point throughout your trip. Also, " some of the excursions in Alaskan ports venture into Canada and will require a passport," explained Cicero. For instance, you may take the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway from Skagway into Yukon, a Canadian territory. Your passport will need to be valid for at least 6 months following the cruise.

✔️ Pack layers. This is especially crucial if you're traveling in Alaska's shoulder season — May and September. While May tends to be drier, temperatures remain relatively chilly. Likewise, September marks the end of the summer season and welcomes cooler temperatures and more rainfall. Because you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors, it's important to prepare for all weather scenarios, including windy conditions common to sailing cruise ships.

✔️ Book next summer's cruise soon. To get the best staterooms and excursions, start looking for a 2025 cruise in 2024, Cicero said, noting that many ships start to fill up at least 6 months in advance. And don't forget about major sale days. "Last year, cruise lines had fantastic Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals," she said.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Good Housekeeping Institute Writer and Product Analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from tech to travel, fitness, outdoor, home and more. Not only does she have years of product review experience under her belt, but she’s also a travel enthusiast who has been on more than 20 cruises (and counting)!

The former travel editor at Parents magazine, Karen Cicero specializes in travel, children's book, lifestyle and food coverage. She manages the experience portion of the Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards. She has sailed on four cruise lines with her family and toured several others. She recently was a featured speaker at several travel industry conferences, including PRSA, Mid-Atlantic Tourism Alliance and the Family Travel Association.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Travel

25 Fun Girls' Weekend Getaway Destinations

Inside Vrbo's Vacation Rentals of the Year 2024

20 Best Places to Visit in April

20 Surprising Disneyland Freebies

The Best Family Vacation Ideas

The Best Bachelorette Party Destinations

Romantic Weekend Getaways

The Best Destinations to Visit This March

What It's Really Like to Sail the Icon of the Seas

10 Inspiring Places to Learn About Black History

The Mattel Adventure Park Is Coming to Arizona!

Home » Cruise » Princess Cruises » Princess Cruises to Alaska: The Pros and Cons

Princess Cruises to Alaska: The Pros and Cons

If you are considering a cruise to the Last Frontier, we detail the pros and cons of sailing Princess Cruises to Alaska.

Share this post:

If you are considering a cruise to Alaska , the first cruise line that may come to mind is Princess Cruises. You’ve seen the advertisements and marketing campaigns, but are they really the best cruise line in Alaska? Well, we’ve just returned from our 5th Alaska cruise, 2nd with Princess, and want to share our thoughts with you. In this post, we detail the pros and cons of sailing Princess Cruises to Alaska.

It’s true that Princess Cruises has earned quite the reputation when it comes to cruising in Alaska. And for good reason, as there are several pros of sailing Princess Cruises to Alaska.

WATCH OUR LATEST VIDEO OF THE PROS AND CONS OF PRINCESS CRUISES!

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Get Deals on Princess Cruises to Alaska!

Pros of Sailing Princess Cruises to Alaska

Number of ships.

If you look at the sheer number of vessels cruising in the region, Princess Cruises comes out on top with seven ships. This number is matched only by Holland America Line which comes in a close second place with six ships in Alaska this season.

Even within the Princess fleet, there is variety in the ship’s cruising to Alaska in terms of size, age, and amenities. If you enjoy mega-ships, there’s a ship for you. If you’d prefer a smaller, more intimate experience, there’s also a ship for you. Perhaps, you love that new ship smell. Lucky for you, the cruise line’s new Discovery Princess is cruising Alaska as well.

Cruisers have the choice between Discovery Princess, Majestic Princess, Crown Princess, Sapphire Princess, Royal Princess, Grand Princess, and Ruby Princess in 2023 and 2024.

Discovery, Majestic, and Royal all belong to Princess Cruises’ largest class of ships to date, the Royal Class. At over 140K gross tons, these are some of the largest vessels that cruise the region. Crown, Sapphire, and Ruby Princess are similar in size at around 113-115K. Grand is the smallest Princess ship cruising to Alaska at around 107K; yet all four of these ships belong to the same class, the Grand Class.

The ranking of these Princess ships in Alaska from newest to oldest is: Discovery, Majestic, Royal, Ruby Crown, Sapphire, Grand. Discovery Princess launched in 2022, while Grand Princess debuted in 1998.

Variety of Itineraries

Given the number of Princess Cruises ships sailing to Alaska, this allows the cruise line to offer a variety of itineraries. Princess Cruises offers roundtrip sailings that depart from Seattle , Vancouver , and even San Francisco . The cruise line also features one-way sailings from Anchorage (Whittier) to Vancouver and vice versa.

While most of our cruises have been roundtrip from Seattle or Vancouver, our recent Majestic Princess cruise was our first one-way sailing. We really enjoyed getting to experience a bit more of the region with this itinerary.

Given the number of ships and departure points, this allows the cruise line to offer a variety of cruise lengths as well beyond the traditional 7-day cruise. Guests even have the option to extend the cruise with a land tour, but more on that in a bit.

The good news is that no matter which ship or itinerary you choose, all Princess Cruises to Alaska include at least one day of glacier viewing. Many of these itineraries include scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park , which we highly recommend. Select sailings even include a visit to both Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay.

New Alaska Food and Beverage Offerings

One of the reasons we couldn’t wait to hop onboard Princess Cruises to Alaska this year was to check out the new Alaska food and beverage offerings.

New for 2023, Princess is offering an expanded Wild for Alaska Seafood menu. Guests can expect a rotation of fresh Alaska seafood dishes in the main dining room as well as the World Fresh Marketplace. Some of the dishes on the MDR menus included Wild Alaskan Salmon, Bering Seafood Stew, Alaskan Ale-Braised Short Ribs, Alaska Crab Cake or Salmon Cake, Alaskan-Caught Halibut, Cod, or Tuna, and more.

Along with all the locally sourced food selections, Princess Cruises plans to feature destination-inspired cocktails. While promotional materials indicate there will be special hot chocolate-based creations, themed frozen drinks, and cocktails made with local spirits, they were not yet available on Majestic Princess. However, there were Alaska wines, Alaska beer, and a few spirits sourced from local distilleries like an Anchorage whiskey.

Not to mention, Majestic Princess is now home to a brand new specialty restaurant. Replacing Bistro Sur La Mer, The Catch by Rudi is the first Princess restaurant primarily devoted to seafood. The creative dishes and attractive price of $39 per person will lure you in.

We had a chance to dine at The Catch during our sailing and really enjoyed it. While not much has changed in terms of theming in the venue, the food selections were certainly a step above the former Bistro Sur La Mer.

MedallionClass Experience

Another pro of sailing with Princess Cruises to Alaska is the MedallionClass experience that its ships offer. This technology is aimed at making your vacation more personalized and contactless.

One of the highlights of MedallionClass is OceanNow where you can order food and drinks anywhere on the ship. Whether you want to order a latte or cappuccino to your stateroom while you are scouting wildlife from your balcony or a pina colada while lounging in the solarium, you can do so through the app.

Other benefits are the wearable technology and keyless stateroom entry. We love the fact that we don’t have to carry around a room keycard. Your Princess Medallion can be worn in a watch band, a belt clip, a bracelet, or a necklace for added convenience. As you approach your stateroom, there is no need to fumble for your keycard as the technology will sense your Medallion and unlock your door for you.

Your Medallion can even be used to pay ashore in select destinations. Further, you can locate your friends and family onboard the ship, watch your digital muster drill, and much more. How’s that for convenience?

Extended Time in Port

Regardless of the cruise line or itinerary, you can expect a pretty typical line-up of Southeastern Alaska ports of call on most contemporary ships. These ports include Juneau , Ketchikan , and Skagway , with Icy Strait Point or Sitka sometimes replacing one of the options. Roundtrip sailings will usually include a call into Victoria, B.C. as well.

What does differentiate Princess from some of the competition is its extended time in port and preferential docking locations. For instance, NCL docks at Ward Cove in Ketchikan which requires transportation to get to the Downtown area unlike other cruise lines who dock closer.

On our recent Majestic Princess sailing, we were literally in port ALL DAY. In Icy Strait Point, we were docked from 6 AM to 7 PM. We were in Juneau from 6:30 AM to 5 PM and in Ketchikan from 10 AM to 6 PM. This is in contrast to other ships that may only dock from 7 AM to 1 PM in Juneau or Ketchikan or for 4-5 hours in Victoria in the evening.

While ashore, Princess also offers cruisers a variety of shore excursions for all types of travelers. Some of these activities are created in partnership with Animal Planet and/or Discovery. Some may also boast small groups or local connections to get you closer to your destinations.

SCORE DEALS ON YOUR PRINCESS CRUISE TO ALASKA!

North to Alaska Programming

While most cruise lines do offer onboard enrichment opportunities when cruising to Alaska, Princess Cruises features an entire North to Alaska program of specially curated activities. These opportunities usually include talks by locals and experts on topics such as history, Alaskan culture, and wildlife of the region.

Some exclusives include Alaskan lumberjacks, Deadliest Catch, and Libby Riddles who is a retired dog musher. We had the opportunity to listen to Libby Riddles share her story and road to victory in the Iditarod race.

Other onboard events include “Puppies in the Piazza” during your visit to Skagway (which we did not get to experience as our ship did not call into this port), a Night at the Klondike, the Midnight Sun Experience, and more.

Further, during the scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park, a park ranger will come onboard the ship to provide real time narration, Additionally, they will offer a formal presentation in the main theater with more in-depth information. This should not be missed during your Princess cruise to Alaska.

Traditional Cruise Experience

When sailing Princess Cruises to Alaska, your cruise ship will provide the perfect backdrop to your majestic destinations. In general, Alaska cruises are more relaxed. But, on Princess Cruises, you won’t feel overwhelmed by trying to do everything on the ship as well as while ashore.

That’s not to say that you will be bored on the ship though. You will still find all the traditional elements of a cruise vacation like pools, bars and lounges, restaurants, and entertainment spaces to keep you occupied between ports of call.

All the usual cruise activities like nightly production shows in the main theater, trivia, game shows, Bingo, Movies Under the Stars, and live music will still occur. You can also find a spa, fitness center, and casino onboard Princess ships. Though, you won’t find all the flashy bells and whistles found on some other cruise lines. In a sense, Princess Cruises provides a more classic cruise experience.

Further, Princess does still offer kids programming to ensure Alaska cruises are fun and engaging for multi-generational families as well.

Best Pizza at Sea

What Princess Cruises lacks when it comes to racetracks and virtual reality arcades, it makes up for with pizza!

Princess Cruises has been consistently voted as having the best pizza at sea, and we agree. On many ships in the fleet, Alfredo’s or Gigi’s serves up delicious handmade pies in a sit-down restaurant setting that is completely complimentary. There’s also a poolside pizzeria on most ships serving up quick grab and go slices.

When devouring your pizza, be sure to save some room for dessert. Princess Cruises now features premium desserts, with and without alcohol. These desserts are included in the Princess Plus and Princess Premier fares or can be purchased a la carte otherwise. These Italian-inspired gelato treats are definitely instagram-worthy.

New Inclusive Fare Options

Like most contemporary cruise lines, Princess Cruises’ standard fare  includes most onboard amenities . Still, there are additional services and amenities not covered in this cruise price. To offer more “all-inclusive” cruise vacations, Princess Cruises has rolled out its Princess Plus and Princess Premier pricing options. These options might make sailing with Princess Cruises to Alaska a bit more attractive for those worried about “nickel and diming” on a cruise.

Guests can upgrade from the Princess Standard fare to the Princess Plus package for $60 per person, per day. This package includes the crew incentive ( also known as gratuities ), WiFi for one device per guest, and the  Plus Beverage package . New in 2023, the Princess Plus package also features two premium desserts per cruise, two fitness classes per cruise, and an unlimited juice bar.

Princess Cruises has also added a third pricing option, Princess Premier. The Princess Premier package is the most inclusive offering and is $80 per person, per day to upgrade. This package includes the Premier Beverage Package, WiFi for 4 devices per guest, Crew Appreciation, and two specialty dining meals per guest. 

With this fare, guests also get a photo package, unlimited premium desserts, unlimited fitness classes, unlimited juice bar, a Medallion accessory, reserved seating in the theater, and entries to win Princess Prizes.

Cruisetours and Lodges in Alaska

In conjunction with your Alaska cruise vacation, Princess Cruises also offers cruisetours and lodges to extend your stay in the Last Frontier. In fact, another differentiating factor is that Princess owns and operates five wilderness lodge properties and several luxury railcars. This makes Princess an easy choice if you are considering adding a land-portion to your Alaska cruise.

These unique cruisetours combine a 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise with scenic rail travel from the ship to the lodge via exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service. During the land portion of these cruisetours, travelers can visit some of the state’s most popular areas that are not accessible by cruise ship, spending three or more nights on land at Princess Wilderness Lodges. Further, every cruisetour visits Denali National Park.

The five Princess Lodges include: Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge, Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge, Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, and Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge.

Cons of Sailing Princess Cruises to Alaska

While there are many pros of sailing Princess Cruises to Alaska, there are also some cons of which to be aware.

Fewer Bells and Whistles

If you usually cruise newer ships in the Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line fleet but were considering Princess for your Alaska cruise, you may be disappointed in the onboard offerings. While Princess cruise ships do feature all the cruise staples, you won’t find any bells and whistles on its ships.

This means that you won’t find sky diving simulators or bumper cars like on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas . You also won’t find a race track, laser tag, or a VR complex like on NCL’s Norwegian Encore. If these types of signature attractions are a must for your kids and teens, you should probably consider another cruise line.

Along the same lines, you won’t find Broadway shows on Princess ships either. While some Royal Caribbean and NCL ships feature signature entertainment venues and shows, Princess productions are more akin to traditional cruise ship revue shows.

Further, you won’t find any over-the-top theming at the bars and lounges or any high energy nightlife. In fact, most bars close by 11 PM.

Of course, Alaska cruises are more about the destination than they are the ship anyway.

Lackluster Entry Level Staterooms

Personally, one of our biggest cons of sailing with Princess Cruises to Alaska is the lackluster entry level staterooms. After 65 cruises with various cruise lines, there are some things that we have come to expect in our usual balcony cabins. Yet, they are missing with Princess. This means that you might need to upgrade your accommodations which can increase your Alaska cruise costs . We upgraded to a premium deluxe balcony cabin.

In particular, a sofa or loveseat which comes standard in many competitor cruise lines’ cabins does not with Princess Cruises. Specifically, cruisers will need to upgrade to a deluxe balcony or mini-suite in order to get a sitting area in their stateroom. With more and more travelers never fully disconnecting on vacation and even working remotely, we think the extra seating area is essential.

Further, cruisers who have sailed with other lines might be surprised that even the newer ships in the Princess fleet still feature shower curtains in the bathroom. Yes, that means the dreaded clingy shower curtain while you are trying to bathe. While showering on a cruise ship is never ideal, this makes the situation even worse.

Thankfully, Princess has finally listened, and the new Sun Princess debuting next year will fix both of these issues!

Fewer Dining Options

Compared to some other ships cruising the region, Princess ships tend to have fewer dining options. Of course, Princess Cruises has main dining rooms that offer multi-course meals each evening with some featured “Local Eats Alaska Flavors”.

There’s also the World Fresh Marketplace/Horizon Court. This buffet serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner everyday; however, the venue is not well laid-out in our experience. This made it rather congested at peak meal times during our recent Majestic Princess sailing.

In terms of other casual dining, there’s a sit-down pizza venue on some ships (which we love) and the International Café serving some quick grab and go items. Outdoors, there’s a grill and a pizzeria (or Noodle Bar on Majestic Princess). Though, we were not impressed with the quality or preparation of the grill items during our visits.

In terms of specialty restaurants, there are also fewer options than many mega-ships from competitor brands. On most of the Princess ships sailing Alaska, you will only find a Sabatini’s Trattoria and a Crown Grill steakhouse. Majestic Princess does feature a brand new seafood restaurant, The Catch, which is also coming to Discovery Princess soon. However, you will not find a hibachi restaurant, a sports pub, a Mexican restaurant, etc.

BOOK NOW : Exclusive Rates on Alaska Cruises!

More Alaska Cruise Tips

If you are planning your Alaska cruise and need more tips, we have you covered. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

• Best time of year to take an Alaska cruise
• Our expert Alaska cruise tips
• Alaska cruise packing guide

Have you sailed with Princess Cruises to Alaska? What are some of your pros and cons for sailing with this cruise line? Drop us an anchor below to share your recent Alaska cruise reviews.

Related Posts

Cruiseline module – Remove Title

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign up to our newsletter!

Even though we cruise Princess we do agree with your assessment. Your comments on food and rooms were spot on. We are always very impressed with their service and hospitality but the buffet, which really could be a blast, becomes quite routine, in particular the breakfast. Lots of positives with Princess and you covered them well.

DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

What’s Trending

Contact Us: [email protected]

Alaska Cruise Excursions

Experience true adventure in alaska.

Feel like a local with our unique land and shore excursions that give you a taste of true Alaska life. From the historical fortunes of the Klondike Gold Rush to the glacial treasures of the Inside Passage, get up close to the Great Land’s famous riches and best kept secrets.

Find Shore Excursions

Discovery & Animal Planet Excursions

Unlock a world of adventure with Discovery at SEA™, our exclusive partnership with Discovery™ and Animal Planet™. Immerse yourself in Alaska and see the best the region has to offer with "Recommended" tours or choose "Exclusive" Alaska cruise excursions that you can only experience with Princess – like fishing for king salmon, dogsledding through beautiful terrains and canoeing past Mendenhall Glacier.

Alaska is teeming with wildlife. See the Great Land’s most famous animals — like humpback whales — on our Alaska shore excursions. Marvel at bald eagles in their natural habitats while in Ketchikan. See humpbacks play alongside sea lions in Juneau. Or keep a lookout for Denali National Park’s Big Five — including moose, caribou, grizzly bears, wolves and Dall sheep — while on a bus tour in the park.

Learn more about Alaska wildlife

The Great Land was built on a strong culture. On our Alaska shore excursions, step back in time to learn how these traditions came to fruition and how they're practiced today. Attend a lumberjack axe-throwing competition, watch a Native dance performance and excite your taste buds at a salmon bake with locals. Or watch a craftsmen thoughtfully carve totem poles at a Native Alaskan village.

Gold Rush History

Strike it rich on any of our cruise excursions in Alaska where you can pan for gold like the many treasure hunters before you. Tour mining camps and meet experienced miners. Visit a restored saloon to craft cocktails from age-old recipes. Or board a gold rush-era train that takes you through Yukon territory and brings you up close to some of Alaska's most historical sites.

With waters as prosperous as the treasures on land, discover what lies below the surface on our Alaska cruise excursions that take you out to sea. Hear thrilling tales from members of the award-winning TV series Deadliest Catch . Or learn to fly fish from an expert guide. As a part of our unique culinary experience, Cook My Catch, bring your fresh-caught fish on board and have our chefs prepare it for your dinner.

Glaciers are the epitome of Alaska. Sailing past them is a sensory experience that inspires both the mind and heart. Watch as Hubbard Glacier calves into the water and listen for the rumble of “white thunder” that it leaves in its path. Land by helicopter on top of Mendenhall Glacier, and feel its strong roots beneath you. Or navigate its rugged terrain by way of flightseeing or dogsled with our Alaska shore excursions.

Learn more about glaciers

Sightseeing

There’s a world of sights to be seen in the Great Land and our Alaska cruise excursions give you a front-row seat to it all. Bring history books to life when you tour Skagway, the former gateway to the gold rush, and visit Gold Dredge 8 in Fairbanks to learn even more about mining. Travel along the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, or aboard a riverboat sternwheeler for sweeping views of Alaska’s greatest treasures.

Outdoor Adventures

There’s a reason it’s called the Great Land — including its great outdoors. Get up close to renowned glaciers on a flightseeing tour, zipline through Tongass National Forest and hike along the mountainside of Ketchikan’s Deer Mountain Trail which takes you 3,000 feet above sea level. Whether you prefer to traverse by land, sea or air, our cruise excursions in Alaska will bring you on a wild ride.

Denali National Park Tours

Home to the highest mountain in North America, Denali National Park is brimming with magnificence. Search for the Big Five — grizzly bears, Dall sheep, wolves, caribou and moose — while on a bus tour in the park. Most Princess Alaska cruisetours include a tour into Denali National Park.

Learn more about Denali National Park

Why Book Excursions with Princess?

Award Winning Excursions: Discover age-old traditions, relive mining history and make local connections with the people lucky enough to call the Great Land home. Experience the very best of Alaska with Princess.

Exceptional Value: Book shore excursions with confidence! We offer competitive pricing, friendly service and unmatched destination expertise.

Guaranteed Return to Ship: Take full advantage of your Alaska cruise activities when you book a shore excursion through Princess. Rest assured that we won’t leave without you, so you can focus more on the moment and less on the clock.

#PrincessCruises Alaska Connection

Alaska cruise articles and videos.

Read about Alaska’s must-see attractions, signature cuisine, and how to prepare for a wild adventure into the heart of The Great Land.

Discover Alaska with Princess in 2023-2024

The best cruise line in Alaska just keeps getting better! From top-rated cruises that visit Glacier Bay National Park to scenic rail travel and exclusive Princess lodges, you will find a seamless Alaska experience with Princess.

Best Dishes to Try on Your Alaska Cruise

No one does seafood quite like Alaska—which is why we brought the best of the Great Land on board, so you can experience it all with Princess.

Top Alaska Cruise Destinations

From exploring Denali National Park to fishing for salmon in Anchorage, discover the top Alaska destinations on a Princess cruise.

Inside Passage Alaska Cruise

From exploring historic gold mines to venturing in the footsteps of early explorers, learn about Alaska’s Inside Passage and discover the wonders awaiting you.

Alaska Ports of Call

From the sweeping mountains of Juneau to the fish-bearing seas of Ketchikan, discover our Alaska cruise ports and set sail into the adventures that await you.

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Check out our helpful checklist so that you know exactly what to pack for an Alaska cruise with Princess.

See all Alaska cruise articles and videos

You May Also Like

Alaska Cruises

See the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife, and national parks.

Alaska Cruisetours

Combine a cruise + train + lodge + Denali for an in-depth Alaska experience.

North to Alaska

Immerse yourself in all things Alaska with our onboard program.

Princess Cruises to Sitka

We found you 15 cruise s

.css-3ekbvf{-webkit-animation:none;animation:none;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-base);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-sm);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);line-height:24px;text-transform:uppercase;}@media screen and (min-width: 576px){.css-3ekbvf{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-sm);}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-3ekbvf{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);}} 16 Night .css-dfa557{-webkit-animation:none;animation:none;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;color:black;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-lg);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);line-height:22px;}@media screen and (min-width: 576px){.css-dfa557{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-lg);line-height:22px;}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-dfa557{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-xl);line-height:28px;}} Alaska Cruise .css-1sc0dsj{-webkit-appearance:none;-moz-appearance:none;-ms-appearance:none;appearance:none;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;-webkit-user-select:none;-moz-user-select:none;-ms-user-select:none;user-select:none;position:relative;white-space:nowrap;vertical-align:middle;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;line-height:1.2;transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-normal);height:auto;min-width:var(--chakra-sizes-10);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);background:none;border-bottom:1px dotted;border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-radius:0!important;border-bottom-left-radius:0!important;border-bottom-right-radius:0!important;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);margin:0px;padding:0!important;font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-Roboto);font-weight:500;padding-top:0.625rem;padding-bottom:0.625rem;-webkit-padding-start:1rem;padding-inline-start:1rem;-webkit-padding-end:1rem;padding-inline-end:1rem;-webkit-align-self:flex-end;-ms-flex-item-align:flex-end;align-self:flex-end;margin-left:var(--chakra-space-1);}.css-1sc0dsj:focus-visible,.css-1sc0dsj[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-1sc0dsj:disabled,.css-1sc0dsj[disabled],.css-1sc0dsj[aria-disabled=true],.css-1sc0dsj[data-disabled]{opacity:0.4;cursor:not-allowed;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);}@media screen and (min-width: 576px){.css-1sc0dsj{margin-left:var(--chakra-space-1);}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-1sc0dsj{display:none;margin-left:var(--chakra-space-2);}}.css-1sc0dsj:active,.css-1sc0dsj[data-active]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);background:none;}.css-1sc0dsj:hover,.css-1sc0dsj[data-hover]{border-bottom:1px solid;background:none;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1sc0dsj:focus,.css-1sc0dsj[data-focus]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);} Details

• Fare Insight

10 Night Alaska Cruise Details

11 Night Alaska Cruise Details

22 Night Far East Cruise Details

17 night alaska cruise details, 5 night alaska cruise details, 7 night alaska cruise details, 8 night alaska cruise details, 22 night alaska cruise details, related cruises.

Princess Cruises to Cozumel

Princess Cruises to Ocho Rios

Princess Cruises to Vancouver

Princess Cruises to San Francisco

Princess Cruises to Barcelona

Princess Cruises to Naples

Princess Cruises to Rome (Civitavecchia)

Princess Cruises to Norfolk

Princess Cruises to Athens

Princess Cruises to Montevideo

Princess Cruises to Buenos Aires

Princess Cruises to Dubai

Princess Cruises to Brisbane

Princess Cruises to Ho Chi Minh City

Princess Cruises to Trinidad

Princess Cruises to Holyhead

Princess Cruises to Lerwick (Shetland Islands)

Princess Cruises to Phuket

Princess Cruises to Bordeaux

Princess Cruises to Geraldton

Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. Our partners who list cruise pricing on Cruise Critic are required to provide prices for cruise only or cruise packages , per person, double occupancy, and are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates, and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings. Taxes, fees and port expenses not included. Rates are in USD and valid for US and Canadian residents only. Fuel supplement may apply. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. In addition, average cruise prices are updated nightly.

Furthermore, Cruise Critic makes no guarantees for availability of prices advertised on our site. Listed prices may have blackout dates, qualifications or restrictions.

Cruise Critic is not responsible for content on external web sites.

Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of April 3rd, 2024 .

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Which Princess Cruise Ship Is The Best For Alaska

Don't miss, where do cruise ships dock in mykonos, where can i watch the jungle cruise, royal caribbean cruise ships names, what cruise lines leave from boston, hotels in fort lauderdale near royal caribbean cruise port, where do cruise ships dock in boston, how much is celebrity cruise drinks package, how much does a princess cruise cost.

Princess ships are very reasonably priced. Theyre not the least expensive vessels out there. But theyre not pricey by any means. Its possible to find Princess voyages to the Caribbean, Bahamas or Mexico starting under $100 per person, per night including all taxes and fees at least in the offseason.

As of the date of this storys posting, for instance, seven-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale to the Eastern Caribbean in May were starting at just $571 per person, not including taxes and fees of $140. That works out to just $102 per night, per person with taxes and fees for a package that includes your lodging, transportation and meals.

As you might expect, pricing for ships generally will be lower during offseason periods such as September, October, November and parts of December.

The timing of when you book also can matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels, and many cruisers will tell you that the best pricing for any given sailing often is available when cruises first go on sale . Booking far in advance also will give you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board a Princess ship, youll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet service and a few other things unless youve bought a package for some of these items in advance. Most onboard activities such as theater shows are included in the fare.

Why To Book An Alaska Cruise

Published: · · About 10 minutes to read this article.

Cruising to Alaska with Princess Cruises is one of our top vacation picks for adventure lovers – with programs packed with things to do, gorgeous locations, and tons of relaxation! Why to Book an Alaska Cruise? Book With Princess Cruises, and you’ll have the vacation of a lifetime!

This post is sponsored by Princess Cruises. All opinions are 100% my own.

I was recently invited to cruise with Princess Cruises, to celebrate the return to Alaska for the 2021 season.

We cruised at the end of August, closing out the restart of the cruise season to Alaska after the shutdown – and I’m here to say that cruising is back, and better than ever.

With upgraded safety protocols, enhanced sanitation, and full CDC compliance, Princess has ensured guests are safe and cruising can return.

Not only were we thrilled to be back with Princess Cruises – but I was thrilled to mark a huge bucket list item off my travel list this trip – as it marked 50 states for me!

I’ve been to all 50 United States of America now, as I was saving Alaska for last. There was absolutely no better way to take in Alaska for the first time than stepping off the Majestic Princess – Princess made everything easy, relaxing, and adventurous – even in still a bit chaotic times for travel. They made us feel at ease and welcome like we hadn’t felt in a long, long time – and brought back the joy of a true vacation.

How To Pick The Best Alaska Cruise For You

Youll see from our chart below that dozens of ships are sailing Alaska in 2020. And this just includes the mass-market and luxury ships. There are even more if you count all of the small ship and expedition vessels. Thats a lot of information to parse as you determine which ship is right for you, so consider a cruise line that caters to your specific needs or interests. Consult this list, and then check the chart to find a vessel that might fit your own preferences, from ships with the fewest passengers to those with the least expensive cruise fares to the ones offering exactly the itinerary you want.

Read Also: Celebrity Cruises Concierge Class Reviews

Which Ship Is Right For Your Alaska Cruise

Update: royal caribbean is committed to delivering vacations that are as safe as they are memorable. we are thrilled to welcome our guests to experience the memorable vacations we are known for once again, starting summer 2021. as you plan your next trip with your loved ones, well be here with inspiration in all forms whenever you need it..

Royal Caribbean visits top spots in Alaska each summer, including the Inside Passage, Juneau, Icy Strait Point and Skagway.

There is a lot of ground to cover when visiting Alaska , from its vast, rugged terrain to the many animals that call it home. Planning a vacation to the 49th state may seem like a daunting task. But with two Royal Caribbean ships sailing to the Last Frontier in 2021 and departing from convenient cities in the Pacific Northwestthis must-see destination has never been more within reach. Your big decision is choosing which ship is right for you!

Whether youre in it for the views, activities, destinations or an extended experience, every ship offers a bit of everything, but each has its perks:

Quantum of the Seas is packed with family adventures for the young and young at heart.

Cruises From San Diego Diamond Princess

From September 2022 through February 2023, cruising in California expands with a return to San Diego. Diamond Princess will be joining the fleet of west coast-based ships with a series of brand-new cruise itineraries ranging from five to 16 days and calling at ports along the Mexican Riviera, California Coast, and the Hawaiian Islands. In addition, the ship will sail a unique 20-day cruise to Central America, roundtrip from San Diego in November 2022. The on-sale date for these cruises is March 24, 2022.

Don’t Miss: Cruise Line With Best Food

Haines Shore Excursions & Tours

Note: Some ships that dock in Haines offer tours to Skagway. Unless youre a serious history buff, we dont recommend it. Instead, take advantage of having the town of Haines to yourself. You can enjoy any of the four tours mentioned above: rafting, jetboat, kayaking, and nature tours are also offered from Skagway. Or try one of our recommended tours below.

Travelers to Alaska often wonder what its like to live in a small Alaskan town year-round. This tour is designed to show you. Your fun and informative local guide will take you to out-of-the-way places, like Svensons Extreme Dreams Art Studio. Youll also visit the Hammer Museum the worlds only museum dedicated to mans first tool.

The Princess Cruises Fleet

Princess has downsized the size of its fleet considerably over the past year with the removal of five vessels. But its still the worlds fifth-biggest cruise line by passenger capacity, with 14 ships that together offer more than 42,000 berths.

In general, Princess operates big ships. But theyre not quite as big as the vessels operated by Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and MSC Cruises the three lines best known for giant ships. The biggest Princess vessels, the lines five Royal Class ships, measure around 145,000 tons. Thats about 35% smaller than the biggest ships operated by Royal Caribbean.

The Royal Class ships are the belles of the ball in the Princess fleet. Newer and more amenity-filled than the lines 9 other ships, they began rolling out in 2013 and carry about 3,600 passengers a piece at double occupancy. .

One more Royal Class ship Discovery Princess is on order from a shipyard in Italy for delivery in 2022.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Still, at the core of the Princess fleet are its seven Grand Class vessels. Unveiled between 1998 and 2008, the ships are smaller than the Royal Class vessels at around 107,000 to 116,000 tons in size. This smaller size allows them to operate a wider range of itineraries than the Royal Class ships. But theyre still big enough to have a lot of onboard venues. The Grand Class ships carry between 2,600 to 3,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Related: TPG goes on board the new Sky Princess

You May Like: Best Time For Hawaii Cruise

Our Experiences On The First Sailing To Alaska With Princess Cruises

It is true, We Are Back! Princess Cruises is delivering a memorable Alaska cruise experience. We are happy to report that cruising with Princess Cruises has not changed much since the pandemic. With a few extra health and safety protocols, that mainly go unnoticed, the cruise line is able to offer the same great cruise experience.

While this is our first Princess Cruises sailing, we can see why the cruise line has become so popular, especially in regions like Alaska. Providing a contemporary cruise atmosphere, with plenty of enrichment and onboard fun, travelers have the flexibility to customize their voyage.

With everyone fully vaccinated, in addition to some enhanced health and safety measures, we feel completely safe on this cruise. Like other cruise lines, all staff members are required to wear masks in all public areas. When compared to our other sailing from the U.S., we have noticed more fellow passengers also wearing masks during this trip even though they are not required.

If you are looking to cruise to Alaska, now might be the perfect time to do so!

Read Also: Are World Cruises Worth It

Best Modern Cruise: Celebrity

• Ship Name: Celebrity Solstice
• Itinerary: Seattle, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Alaska Inside Passage, Victoria

For an upscale Alaska cruise without the luxury price tag, Celebrity is a fantastic option. The award-winning, Celebrity Solstice is a dignified ship that focuses on modern well-being. Activities include culinary classes, silent discos, and educational lectures. Theres also a half-acre of fresh grass with hot glass demonstrations, private cabanas, and outdoor movies. The ship also has a fabulous fitness center and programs, and the Canyon Ranch Spa situated right next to the Aqua Class cabins. These cabins include access to a health-conscious restaurant as well as the relaxation room and other spa perks. This voyage includes a full day cruising Endicott Arm for fabulous views before concluding in Victoria.

Recommended Reading: Best Time Of Year For Alaskan Cruises

Most Read Business Stories

• Tech review: Samsungs folding phones keep getting better

Bhupesh Singh, 44, who was boarding the Serenade of the Seas on Monday with his wife, Hansi, and their two unvaccinated children both are under 12 said he felt comfortable with Royal Caribbeans approach, even with the extra precautions hed have to take travelling with kids. He noted that he brought his family to cruise from Seattle, where Royal Caribbean at least requires all adults to be vaccinated. In Florida, where hes from, that isnt the case .

The reduced capacity on board the Serenade of the Seas was also encouraging for Singh. Royal Caribbean declined to say exactly how many passengers it will have on board, but said it would be much lower than full capacity, which is typically almost 2,500 people. Holland America and Princess Cruises said they will be starting their Alaskan cruises at approximately 60% capacity, moving up gradually over the course of the season.

Some cruise lines will also be using technology to trace passengers location. Royal Caribbean will be using tracelets, or wristbands that passengers must wear in order to be tracked on board. Princess Cruises will be using medallions, portable devices used for various functions on board the ship, which will keep a log of who passengers come in contact with.

Recommended Reading: Do Any Cruises Go To Puerto Rico

Best Alaska Cruises For 2022

There is no better time to start planning the ultimate Alaska cruise for 2022. If you are looking to book that bucket list cruise now, we have put together our list of the Best Alaska Cruises for 2022. Put those future cruise credits to good use and book your trip of a lifetime!

Best Alaska Cruises for 2022

Discovery Princess

It is tough to pick the best Alaskan cruise for 2022 among the 6 Princess Cruises ships planned to sail in the region this year. Given that we are partial to mega-ships, the brand new Discovery Princess has to be at the top of our list.

Discovery Princess is sailing roundtrip Inside Passage cruises from Seattle in 2022. The itinerary will visit all the popular stops, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, as well as cruising through Endicott Arm and the Dawes Glacier.

The brand-new Discovery Princess is the final Royal Class ship that will debut just in time for the 2022 Alaska cruise season.

With the largest balconies at sea, this ship is perfect for cruising in Alaska. Further, you wont be able to beat the views from the SeaWalk, a 60-foot glass walkway extending 28 feet off the side of the ship.

Of course, cruisers can also indulge in a variety of culinary treats, unwind in the Sanctuary, and enjoy the cruise lines signature entertainment in the main theater and Princess Live!.

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Score Big on 2022 Alaska Cruises Now!

Norwegian Encore

Related Post: Alaska Cruise Packing Guide

Ovation of the Seas

Holland Americas Koningsdam

Also Check: 14 Day Hawaii Cruise

Shore Excursions On Princess Alaska Cruises

Princess Cruises offers shore excursions designed to match every interest, activity level and taste. By booking with Princess, you’ll be guaranteed an on-time return to the ship, and can feel safe knowing you’re being led by reputable operators with local expertise on high quality excursions. Search for excursions based on categories such as sightseeing and city tours, nature and wildlife, activities and adventures, and special interest. Excursions are tagged with descriptors like “most popular,” “off the beaten path,” and “kid-friendly” to make decision-making even easier.

Some of the shore excursions Princess Cruises offers in Alaska include:

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise – Anchorage, Alaska

Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion – Ketchikan, Alaska

Chilkoot Lake Freshwater Fishing – Skagway, Alaska

Mendenhall Glacier Whale Quest – Juneau, Alaska

Russian & Tlingit Heritage Discovery – Sitka, Alaska

In addition to traditional cruises, Princess offers several cruise + land tour options for guests who want to spend more time in port. Combine a 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise with 3 to 8 nights touring Alaska on land. Spend time at the Denali and Glacier Bay national parks and enjoy Princess’ exclusive domed-glass rail service and the comfort of Princess’ Wilderness Lodges.

Holland America Vs Princess In Alaska

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises have been sailing Alaska longer than any other cruise lines and are the undisputed leaders in this market. Both claim deep roots in the region, have contacts with local companies other cruise lines don’t have and operate their own accommodations throughout the state to best serve their cruise tour passengers. They also have the most ships in the region of any of the major cruise lines.

Holland America Line first began sailing Alaska in the 1960s and launched its land operations there in 1970 when it partially acquired local tour company Westours, which had been operating in the state since the 1940s.

Princess Cruises’ first Alaska season was in 1969, and the line began running its land-based tours in 1972.

To help you decide which cruise line is the best choice for your Alaska cruise or cruise-and-land tour, Cruise Critic has compared Holland America versus Princess in regards to the Alaska-specific onboard experience, cruise itineraries and prices, and cruise tour itineraries and prices.

Don’t Miss: Port Of Mobile Carnival

Princess Cruises Alaska Shore Excursions

Shore excursions in Alaska are a big thing with Princess Cruises, so you can expect nothing but the very best adventures both shore-side and during the lines land tours.

Typical shore excursions include: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre in Anchorage White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, Dog Sledding and a visit to the Red Onion Saloon in Skagway the Red Onion Saloon was Skagways most exclusive bordello during the Gold Rush days and is now a National Historic Building Whale watching and Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau and Totem Bight State Park in Ketchikan.

As mentioned, Princess Cruises also offer an extensive selection of land & sea vacation options, where guests can extend their cruise with 3-8 night land tours both pre and/or post-cruise.

Land tours offer wonderful trips across the Rocky Mountains and in-depth visits to Denali National Park. To give you an example, a 7-day post-cruise Denali land tour will often include accommodation in a Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, motorcoach transfers between destinations and access to one of Americas best national parks. It really is an incredible experience and one that we would highly recommend.

Guide’s Choice Photography Discovery

Serious photographers are often frustrated when they find a nice spot, set up for a shot, and the guide yells, “Time to get back on the bus!” This tour is for photographers , so there’s ample time to get your shots just right. Better still, your professional photographer guide has the flexibility to take you where the “action” is, whether it’s a field of wildflowers by the Chilkat River, brown bears feeding on salmon near Chilkoot Lake, or a juvenile bald eagle exercising its wings for its first flight.

Recommended Reading: Things To Do In Grand Turk Cruise Port

Planning A Return To Cruising In Australia

In hopes that Australian Federal and State Governments will green-light the return of cruising, Princess Cruises announced plans for Coral Princess return to service in June 2022.

Coral Princess will cruise roundtrip from Brisbane with itineraries from three- to 12-days in length. Destinations include ports in Queensland and New South Wales.

By August, Coral Princess moves to Sydney for a new 12-day voyage calling to Queensland and the Conflict Islands in Papua New Guinea. The ship will then resume the previously announced Australia & New Zealand program for the 2022/2023 season.

Finally, Majestic Princess will sail roundtrip from Sydney on a new Queensland voyage in February 2023 at the end of the cruise season.

Details of these itineraries from Australia will be announced on March 17 and then these Australia cruises will be available to book on March 23, 2022.

More articles

Alaska land and sea cruise 2022, new disney cruise ship 2021, best time of the year to cruise alaska, popular articles.

© 2021 CruisesInfoClub.com

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Popular Category

• Exclusive 329
• Must Read 323
• Editor Picks 296
• Trending 296
• Popular 293

Editor Picks

What cruise lines depart from savannah ga, what cruise ships have dialysis on board.