Alaska Cruise Fans Will Love Princess Cruises 4 New Experiences

Princess Cruises is making its 2026 Alaska season its biggest one yet. Here’s what’s new for cruisers heading north.

Princess Cruises Unveils Four New Alaska Experiences for 2026

Princess Cruises has announced four brand-new onboard experiences for its 2026 Alaska season. These additions are part of the cruise line’s expanded North to Alaska program.

The program includes 180 departures and visits to 19 destinations. Travelers can explore Alaska by sea or combine a cruise with a land tour for an even deeper experience.

The Biggest Alaska Season Ever

Eight Princess ships will sail Alaska routes in 2026. The fleet includes the Star Princess, Coral Princess, Royal Princess, Ruby Princess, Grand Princess, Emerald Princess, Discovery Princess, and Island Princess.

The highlight of the season is the debut of the Star Princess, the newest ship in the fleet. Princess is calling this its largest Alaska season ever.

“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.”

The Four New Onboard Experiences

1. The Glacier Experience: A Signature Princess Day

This experience is all about getting up close with Alaska’s stunning glaciers. On select Glacier Bay sailings, guests get expert narration and live commentary from park rangers — both from the bridge and out on deck.

Guests also get access to VIP viewing areas and ranger information desks. Families will love the junior and teen ranger programs. And when the cold sets in, hot chocolate and consommé stations are ready on the open decks.

2. Welcome to Alaska

This presentation kicks off the Alaska experience right at the start of the voyage. The cruise director hosts it once per sailing, and it’s designed to help guests get the most out of their trip.

Guests can meet onboard naturalists and enrichment speakers. They’ll also get a full introduction to the North to Alaska program so they know what to expect ahead.

3. Après Sea: Elevated Post-Adventure Experience

After a big day of exploring, Après Sea gives guests a stylish place to relax. Think après-ski vibes — but at sea. The lounge offers warm drinks, happy hour specials, and sweeping panoramic views.

On the Star Princess, Après Sea takes place in The Dome. Located at the very top of the ship, The Dome offers what Princess calls “magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes.”

4. Candlelight Concert Series: Fire & Ice

This is a special spin-off of Princess’s popular Candlelight Concert Series. Local Alaskan singer-songwriters perform by candlelight in an intimate setting. The experience is offered just twice per voyage, making it a rare treat worth planning around.

New Alaska-Inspired Menu Items

The new experiences don’t stop at entertainment. Princess is also adding Alaska-inspired dishes to its specialty restaurants.

At Crown Grill, guests can try Wild King Salmon, Alaskan Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, and Jumbo Lump Crab paired with Butter-Broiled Lobster Tail. Over at Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, Halibut alla Mediterranea joins the menu as a nod to Alaska’s incredible seafood.