Top reasons to experience Alaska from the brand-new Star Princess

Author: Calum Brown

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With the debut of Star Princess and an array of new adventures, Princess Cruises promises an Alaska 2026 season like never before

There’s a new ship on the horizon, and excitement has hit the stratosphere. Princess Cruises never falls short in delivering an unforgettable journey, and with a new era of travel emerging through time’s onward march, the incoming Star Princess signals an amplified blueprint for finely tuned global cruising.

Regardless of which region the Princess fleet explores, there’s always an element of majesty. From the exotic tastes of Asia to the wonders of Panama’s iconic canal, the cruise line takes great pride in showcasing the world’s finest destinations – in trademark Princess style; lashings of delectable fare, sumptuous comfort, splendid aesthetics, and first-rate service.

With each new addition to the fleet, these attributes are ultimately enhanced for a new standard in cruise holidays.

Any fresh Princess ship sets the scene ablaze with state-of-the-art features and practice, neatly demonstrated by the feverish anticipation for Star Princess – setting sail next year.

Of course, it takes great local knowledge to exhibit a region that compliments a new cruise liner, and Alaska remains the ultimate location to display Princess’ commitment to localised mastery and respect.

Pairing Star Princess with an inaugural Alaska itinerary is not only a once-in-a-lifetime sailing, but also your chance to witness history unfold.

Star Princess is set to debut in August 2025. Credit: Princess Cruises

Majestic debut of Star Princess in Alaska
It's time to prepare for a shining new star. With the unveiling of Star Princess, there’s a fresh set of Alaska voyages for the 2026 cruise season, and it’s shaping up to be an incredible maiden opportunity.

The contemporary Star Princess embodies everything that has made Princess Cruises a beloved name across Alaska, bringing together luxuriously personalised innovation and the natural beauty of the Last Frontier.

You’ll be the first to experience an all-new elevated approach to Alaska’s shimmering coastlines. How’s that for a bragging right?

Designed with the region's cinematic landscapes in mind, Star Princess offers sharp floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive decks that permit stunning views at every turn.

From immersive onboard experiences to cutting-edge amenities, Star Princess is sure to elevate the journey, getting cruise goers as close to the region’s untamed wilderness as possible.

Immerse yourself in Native Alaska culture at Ketchikan's Totem Bight State Park. Credit: Shutterstock

Princess Cruises: Number one in Alaska
For over half a century, Princess Cruises has reigned supreme as the most popular cruise line in Alaska.

This accolade hasn’t been gained over inconsequential aspects, instead stemming from impeccable service and a genuine connection to the 49th state of America.

The 2026 season aims to flaunt this mantra, with Princess deploying eight ships to the region – each itinerary crafted to provide passengers with an unparalleled journey through Alaska’s iconic landscapes and cultural heritage.

With Star Princess spearheading the lineup, Princess Cruises can offer more ways than ever to absorb the country’s impressive vibes.

The cruise line’s unique programming, knowledgeable guides, and local partnerships revolve around the shared admiration between ship and shore, creating a seamless bridge for guests and ensuring an intimate voyage of discovery.

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Excursions and pre/post-cruise tours
For those seeking a deeper connection to Alaska’s spirit, Princess offers optional tours that bookend your cruise.

Fancy exploring Denali National Park at your leisure, before tracing the original Gold Rush route? Then these tours will undoubtedly satisfy your inner explorer.

As the ultimate pick ‘n’ mix, your journey could start with a panoramic train ride through stunning mountains on Princess’ Direct-to-the-Wilderness service, and end with a quiet evening under the eternal midnight sun.

Each tour adds an extra layer to your adventure, turning your cruise experience into the ultimate personal statement.

After all, why limit yourself to the coast when you can also journey inland for a fully authentic encounter off the beaten tourist path?

Then there’s the shore excursions that can be enjoyed throughout the cruise. If you feel that it’s about time you kayaked across those serene bays enclosed by winking glaciers or visited local towns where long-forgotten traditions still thrive, then Princess can provide just such an opportunity.

Denali National Park is home to some of the finest scenery in North America. Credit: Shutterstock

North to Alaska’ programme
Central to the Princess experience is their unique ‘North to Alaska’ programme designed to connect guests with Alaska’s people, cuisine, and culture in unforgettable ways.

Just imagine the smell of freshly caught salmon as local chefs prepare delicate meals, and being enchanted by Alaskan storytellers as clouds carve soul-stirring matte paintings across the mountains. You won’t have to imagine the scene when this immersive programme takes you there.

The ’North to Alaska’ motif provides the foundation for understanding the country’s rooted traditions, summoned by live presentations from those who have conquered Denali or interactions with sled dog teams that ooze with the spirit of resilience.

By engaging with ‘North to Alaska’, your evening will provide accolade for the next day spent exploring the Alaska wilds, crafting a full-circle engrossment, unlike the usual standard sightseeing.

Nothing is ‘standard’ with Princess Cruises. Certainly not when it comes to Alaska, and certainly not when a new ship brings a fresh outlook over a beautifully unique section of the world. A maiden opportunity like this comes round only once in a blue moon – seize the moment.

The animal on everyone’s radar is the bear. Not just any old bear, but the Alaska brown bear. Credit: Adobe
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About Calum Brown

Calum holds a deep interest in all things heritage and remains one of Britain’s most enthusiastic historians.

As a seasoned journalist, he has spent considerable time abroad and relishes all forms of transport. Shipping is in the blood, with a family connection to Stena Line embedded in his DNA. He also refuses to admit that 21st Century music exists.

Calum has developed a skill for bringing history alive, and always insists on making heritage accessible for everyone.