Sarah Bretz, ContributorPrincess Cruises has announced its biggest-ever Alaska season for 2026, highlighted by the debut of the newest ship in its fleet, Star Princess. The expanded Alaska program features eight ships, 180 departures, and 19 destinations.
For the first time, guests will have the opportunity to explore Alaska aboard a Sphere class ship as Star Princess sails her first summer season in Alaska, offering beautiful wildlife and glacier views. Star Princess will be the second ship in the Sphere class after Sun Princess, and is set to launch in fall 2025.
Bookings open on August 1st with the “Better Than Best Price Guarantee,” offering the best rates and 120 percent of the price difference as onboard credit if a lower rate is found before final payment. This promotion ends on September 2nd.
Highlights for Princess’ 2026 Alaska season include:
Eight Ships Sailing in Alaska
In 2026, travelers will be able to choose from 180 departures from five ports aboard eight ships. Options include:
Voyage of the Glaciers
Discovery, Grand, Coral, and Island Princess will offer seven-day journeys to view two Alaska glaciers, and Princess takes more guests to Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. These itineraries are combinable for guests to indulge in a 14-day Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure.
Inside Passage
Guests can enjoy seven to 20-day cruises and up to four glacier-viewing experiences when they sail the Inside Passage and visit the highest-rated Alaska destinations and lesser-known gems from convenient homeports, including weekend departures from Seattle (Ruby and Star Princess), San Francisco (Ruby Princess), Vancouver (Emerald Princess), and Los Angeles (Emerald Princess).
Longer Sailings
Guests who want to spend more time with Princess this Alaska season can opt for a 20-day Ultimate Alaska Solstice on Ruby Princess sailing roundtrip from San Francisco, and a 16-day Inside Passage on Emerald Princess roundtrip from Los Angeles.
Adventures Ashore
Princess gives guests the chance to expand their cruise experience with shore excursions. From “Cook My Catch” fishing for dinner, flying on a helicopter through mountainous views, watching breaching whales, and more, guests have a plethora of excursions to choose from.
‘North to Alaska With Princess’ Program
The award-winning “North to Alaska with Princess’ program enriches each Alaska cruise with cultural and educational activities including naturalist talks, a planetarium Northern Lights experience, and a fresh local Alaska seafood menu. In addition, the popular Junior Ranger program for young cruisers ensures guests of all ages enjoy their Alaska cruise as they explore the state’s rich history.
Cruisetours
Combining a cruise with a land tour is a great way to maximize an Alaska vacation, including the chance to visit Denali National Park and beyond. The 2026 season includes over 20 cruisetour options.
One highlight is the 15-night National Parks Tour, perfect for those who want to seamlessly get their National Parks Passport stamped. Guests will adventure to five of Alaska’s parks including Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway. The experience combines a seven-day cruise, scenic rail travel, and eight nights ashore, including stays at four Princess-owned wilderness lodges.
Comments
Have you ever taken a voyage with Princess Cruises to Alaska? Does the line’s 2026 Alaska season appeal to you and if so, do you think you’ll book? Drop us an anchor below and let us know!
