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Princess Cruises, the leading cruise line in Alaska, today unveiled its biggest-ever Alaska season for 2026, highlighted by the debut of the newest ship in its fleet, Star Princess. The exciting, expanded Alaska programme for 2026 features eight ships, 180 departures, and 19 destinations, providing travellers with an unparalleled selection of Alaska adventures by sea, or by both land and sea.
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 the Great Land, offering unparalleled views of glaciers and wildlife. As the second ship in the Sphere Class following Sun Princess, Star Princess launches in autumn 2025 and promises an elevated cruising experience. A true engineering marvel and a global citizen, this ship features innovative architectural spectacles like The Dome, the industry's first geodesic structure, and The Sphere, a suspended glass Piazza. Additionally, it is celebrated, along with sister ship Sun Princess, as the greatest foodie destination at sea, promising to tantalise taste buds with world-class culinary offerings.
Bookings open August 1 with the "Best Price Guarantee" offering the best rates and 120% of the price difference as onboard credit if a lower rate is found before final payment. This promotion ends September 30, 2024 with full details here.
“2026 will reinforce Princess’ leadership in Alaska cruises. The deployment of the magnificent Star Princess to Alaska for the first time will offer guests unprecedented views, luxurious accommodations, and the finest food, beverages and entertainment ever seen in the Great Land. Our guests will experience Alaska like never before aboard our innovative Sphere Class ship,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveller, Princess is the ultimate choice for luxury and adventure, with awe-inspiring glaciers, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the freshest seafood imaginable.”
Highlights for Alaska in 2026 include:
Eight Ships Sailing Alaska in 2026
For 2026, guests can choose from 180 departures from five convenient ports aboard eight incredible ships, including the new Star Princess. Options include:
· Voyage of the Glaciers: Discovery Princess, Grand Princess, Coral Princess, and Island Princess will offer seven-night journeys to experience the breathtaking views of two Alaska glaciers—and Princess has more visits to Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. Can’t get enough? These itineraries are combinable for adventure-seekers, nature enjoyers and Alaska lovers to indulge in a 14-night Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure.
· Inside Passage: Guests can enjoy seven- to 20-night 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 (Royal Princess and Star Princess), San Francisco (Ruby Princess), Vancouver, B.C. (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-night Ultimate Alaska Solstice on Ruby Princess sailing roundtrip from San Francisco, and a 16-night Inside Passage on Emerald Princess roundtrip from Los Angeles.
Adventures Ashore
Princess gives guests the chance to expand their cruise experience with exciting and authentic shore excursions at their ports of call. From “Cook My Catch” fishing for dinner, flying on a helicopter through mountainous views, watching breaching whales, and more, guests have a plethora of exciting excursions to choose from.
Award-Winning, Onboard Activities with “North to Alaska with Princess” Programme
The award-winning “North to Alaska with Princess” programme enriches each Alaska cruise with cultural and educational activities, including naturalist talks, a planetarium Northern Lights experience, and a deliciously fresh local Alaska seafood menu. In addition, the popular Junior Ranger programme for young cruisers, ensures guests of all ages enjoy their Alaska cruise as they explore the Great Land’s rich history.
Cruisetours – Cruise, Rail and Lodge in Interior of Alaska
Combining a cruise with a land tour is a great way to maximise an Alaska cruise, including the chance to visit Denali National Park and beyond. The 2026 season includes more than 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 most breathtaking parks including Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway. This experience combines a seven-night cruise, scenic rail travel, with eight nights ashore, including stays at four Princess-owned wilderness lodges.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 0344 338 8663 or by visiting the company's website at princess.com.