Princess Cruises Adds New Alaska Experiences for 2026 Season

Princess Cruises is bringing something new for travelers planning an Alaska cruise in 2026. The company has announced four fresh onboard experiences as part of its North to Alaska program, giving guests more ways to connect with the region during their trip.

The 2026 season is shaping up to be a big one. The cruise line plans 180 departures and visits to 19 destinations, giving people the choice to see Alaska by sea or go for a land and sea cruise tour.

8 Ships Set for Alaska Cruise Season

All eight Princess ships heading to Alaska will include the updated program. These ships are:

• Star Princess
• Coral Princess
• Royal Princess
• Ruby Princess
• Grand Princess
• Emerald Princess
• Discovery Princess
• Island Princess

A lot of attention is on the Star Princess, the newest ship in the fleet, which will make its Alaska debut during this season.

A Closer Look at the North to Alaska Program

The North to Alaska program focuses on real connections with the destination. Guests don’t just see Alaska from a distance, they get to hear stories, learn from local experts, and take part in activities that reflect the region’s culture and natural setting.

John Paul Lamb, Vice President of Entertainment at Princess Cruises, said the idea is simple. The program brings people closer to Alaska’s spirit, its people, and its scenery through every part of the trip.

New North to Alaska Experiences for 2026

The Glacier Experience: A Signature Princess Day

This is one of the main highlights for 2026. It’s built around scenic glacier viewing and gives guests a front-row look at Alaska’s icy landscapes.

Here’s what guests can expect:

• Close views of glaciers during select Glacier Bay cruises
• Live commentary from park rangers and onboard experts
• Access to special viewing spots
• Information desks with rangers available for questions
• Talks and sessions at onboard venues like the Princess Theater
• Programs for younger guests, including junior ranger activities
• Warm drinks served on open decks

It’s a full day focused on glaciers, learning, and being out on the deck.

Welcome to Alaska Presentation

This session takes place once on every cruise and helps guests plan their time better.

During this session:

• Guests meet naturalists and program hosts
• Learn about activities available onboard and ashore
• Get tips on how to make the most of their trip

It’s a simple way to start the journey with clear information and helpful guidance.

Après Sea: Post Adventure Lounge Experience

After a day out exploring Alaska, guests can head to this lounge experience.

It features:

• A cozy setting inspired by ski lodge-style spaces
• Warm drinks served during happy hour
• Wide views of the surrounding scenery

On Star Princess, this takes place inside The Dome, a space at the top of the ship with open views all around.

Candlelight Concert Series: Fire and Ice

This experience builds on the existing concert series onboard.

Guests can enjoy:

• Live music from Alaskan singer-songwriters
• A candlelit setting that feels more intimate
• Performances held twice during each cruise

It adds a calm and cultural touch to the evenings onboard.

New Alaska-Inspired Dining Options

Princess Cruises is also updating its food offerings to match the Alaska theme.

Crown Grill Highlights

Guests can try seafood dishes such as:

• Wild King Salmon
• Alaskan Jumbo Lump Crab Cake
• Jumbo Lump Crab served with butter broiled lobster tail

Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria

A new addition includes:

• Halibut alla Mediterranea

These dishes give travelers a taste of Alaska during their time onboard.

Why 2026 Alaska Cruises Stand Out

The 2026 season brings more than just new routes. It adds new ways to experience Alaska through onboard programs, food, and live sessions.

With a mix of scenic views, cultural sessions, and updated ship experiences, Princess Cruises is aiming to make its Alaska cruise packages 2026 more engaging for travelers.

Princess Cruises is putting a lot into its North to Alaska program for 2026. With new experiences, a larger schedule, and the debut of the Star Princess, travelers have more reasons to look at Alaska for their next trip.

For anyone planning an Alaska cruise vacation, the upcoming season offers more variety and more ways to connect with the destination from the moment the journey begins.