In anticipation of the 2026 Alaska season, Princess Cruises, one of the highest-rated cruise line in Alaska, is debuting four new North to Alaska experiences alongside returning guest favorites. All eight Princess ships sailing in Alaska this season will feature the new programming: Star Princess, Coral Princess, Royal Princess, Ruby Princess, Grand Princess, Emerald Princess, Discovery Princess, and Island Princess.
First introduced in 2015, Princess’ award-winning, immersive North to Alaska program brings local personalities, culture and food, connecting guests with Alaska’s rich heritage, awe-inspiring scenery and natural wonders through authentic offerings, educational events and engaging entertainment both onboard and ashore.
Princess Cruises will sail its largest Alaska season ever in 2026, highlighted by the debut of its newest ship in the fleet, Star Princess. The expanded program features eight ships, 180 departures and visits to 19 destinations, giving travelers an unparalleled range of Alaska adventures by sea or through combined land-and-sea cruisetours.
“Our North to Alaska program is designed to bring guests closer to the spirit, culture and natural beauty of Alaska in ways only Princess can deliver,” said John-Paul Lamb, Princess Cruises Vice President of Entertainment. “From encounters with local experts and native storytellers to immersive entertainment and scenic glacier viewing, these experiences allow our guests to connect with Alaska along every step of their journey.”
New Signature North to Alaska Experiences for 2026
The Glacier Experience: A Signature Princess Day: Spectacular scenic cruises that offer close-up glacier views, expert narration, Park Ranger commentary from the bridge and on deck offered on select Glacier Bay sailings, and access to VIP viewing areas. They can also visit Ranger information desks, attend presentations in the Princess Theater or Princess Arena, participate in Junior and Teen Ranger programs, and warm up on the open decks with hot chocolate and consommé stations. Glacier Bay North to Alaska Activations Include:
- What to Expect: Ice & Awe
- Park Voices: Glacier Bay – Ranger and partner presentations onboard.
- Live Glacier Commentary – Scenic, real-time narration during glacier viewing.
- The Icefront Opens – Access to bowfront viewing areas for unparalleled glacier perspectives.
Welcome to Alaska: A not-to-be-missed presentation designed to help guests get the most from their experience in ways that are most meaningful to them. Offered once per voyage and hosted by the Cruise Director, guests can meet a Naturalist, enrichment presenters and learn about the North to Alaska program.
Après Sea: Elevated Post-Adventure Experience: After a day exploring, guests are invited to unwind in a chic, après-ski inspired lounge, enjoying an elevated happy hour with warm drinks and panoramic views; extending the magic of the day. Star Princess will host Après Sea in The Dome, located at the top of the ship with magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes.
Candlelight Concert Series: Fire & Ice: An extension of Princess’ current Candlelight Concert Series, Fire & Ice adds Alaskan flare with performances by Alaska singer-songwriters, creating an intimate setting of warmth and wonder, illuminated by live music, glowing candles and the magic of The Great Land, offered only twice per voyage.
A Taste of The Great Land
Guests sailing through the majestic landscapes of Alaska can now savor an equally inspiring culinary journey with new featured à la carte offerings available at the specialty restaurants onboard, featuring sustainably sourced, wild-caught Alaskan seafood curated by Princess’ culinary team in collaboration with regional suppliers, bringing flavors from glacier-fed waters to plates.
At Crown Grill, each plate artfully presents thoughtfully prepared dishes to highlight bold, fresh flavors expertly crafted to showcase the finest seafood, including Wild King Salmon, Alaskan Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, and Jumbo Lump Crab paired with Butter-Broiled Lobster Tail. Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria complements the experience with Halibut alla Mediterranea, a vibrant dish that brings together delicate, flaky halibut with bright Mediterranean accents.
Together, these elevated selections celebrate the spirit of Alaska while delivering the refined dining experience guests have come to expect at sea.
North to Alaska – Familiar Favorites
Immersive Alaskan Experiences that Bring Alaska to Life
- Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show – Showcased through select axe-throwing recruits, engaging trivia, and an insightful presentation on Timbersports and the port of Ketchikan.
- Puppies in the Piazza – Featured on all ships visiting Skagway, this enrichment program allows guests to learn about the history, story and culture of Alaskan Huskies and features Iditarod Champion Ryan Redington and puppies that are sled dogs in training.
- Deadliest Catch – Select sailings offer a special presentation by captains and crew Members from the popular TV show share their adventures and wild tales working in the Bering Sea as crab fishermen.
Curated Speaker Series: History & Cultural Practices Shared by Native Alaskans
A curated feature series of some of the most dynamic and enriching speakers whose experiences speak to the legacy and history of Alaska, some of which include:
- Rachel Moreno, a member of the Tlingit tribe and former Vice Chair of her tribe, who shares her culture with guests.
- Patricia Adkisson, born and raised in Juneau, an Alaska Native of Tlingit and Alutiiq heritage focused on indigenous cultural education.
- Nick Jans, best-selling author and one of Alaska’s most recognized writers.
- Daryl Pederson, an Anchorage-based photographer known for capturing northern lights images for over thirty years.
- And many more!
Campfire Movies Under the Stars
Cozy up under the stars to enjoy a unique movie experience with Campfire Movies Under the Stars, set against Alaska’s stunning natural backdrop. Families gather under blankets with popcorn to watch family classics and Alaska-themed movies.
Stargazing Nights
Outdoor stargazing is offered on select vessels when skies are dark. Guests are guided to a designated open deck area where lights are dimmed to create the perfect ambiance, followed by a presentation about visible constellations.
The Great Big Adventure – Alaska Edition
This experience challenges nine survivalists to navigate the rugged Alaskan wilderness in pursuit of food, shelter, and water.
Officers vs Guests: Alaska Edition
- Tongass Bullseye (axe-throwing soft set)
- Tumbling Timbers / Tundra Tower (giant Jenga)
- Kodiak Catch
- Lumberjack Tug of War
- Sailor Knot Tying Games
- Fly Like an Eagle Challenge
Youth & Teen Centers
Special activities for younger cruisers include:
- Glacier Bay Junior Rangers – Youth complete activities, attend presentations, and earn a badge and certificate in partnership with the National Park Service.
- Gold Rush Adventures – Families participate in a ship-wide treasure hunt inspired by the Klondike Gold Rush.
- Great Alaskan Expedition – A three-hour immersive team experience exploring land, sea, and air adventures.
With more than 55 years of experience sailing Alaska, Princess Cruises continues to deliver immersive journeys that connect guests with the people, landscapes, and stories of The Great Land, offering multiple departure ports, flexible itineraries, and seamless travel experiences.
