Skip to main content

Despite protests, Princess Cruises announces largest ever Alaska schedule for 2026

Princess Cruises announces 2026 Alaska Schedule

Princess cruise ship in Alaska
Princess Cruises

This week, Princess Cruises announced its biggest-ever Alaska season for 2026. The cruise line’s newest ship, Star Princess, leads the eight-strong fleet, and the schedule includes 180 departures to 19 destinations. The announcement comes despite the tension in Juneau, Alaska, where locals — worn out from tourism — campaign for “Ship-free Saturdays.”

The 2026 Princess Cruises Alaska itinerary immerses guests in America’s last frontier, whether viewing the stars from on deck or taking part in on-shore adventures. That’s especially true on the Star Princess, a Sphere Class ship with leading-edge details, discussed below.

Recommended Videos

Princess Cruises Alaska 2026: Luxury among the glaciers

Princess Cruises Alaska glaciers
Princess Cruises

Alaska comprises expansive, open country, with so much to explore. In 2026, Princess Cruises will offer next-level experiences in The Last Frontier. Whether sailing through Glacier Bay National Park or taking a helicopter trip through the mountains, passengers get to experience the unspoiled, natural wonder of AK, while living in luxury.

The Star Princess — the second Sphere Class ship by Princess — features The Dome, a geodesic roof structure, and The Sphere, a suspended glass piazza. World-class culinary options include more than 29 bars and restaurants for a world of flavor at sea. 

John Padgett, Princess Cruises President, stated, “2026 will reinforce Princess’ leadership in Alaska vacations. 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.”

“Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, Princess is the ultimate choice for luxury and adventure, with awe-inspiring glaciers, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the freshest seafood imaginable.”

Mark Reif
Mark Reif is a writer from Stowe, Vermont. During the winter, he works as a snowboard coach and rides more than 100 days. The…
Hurricane Milton forces major cruise itinerary changes across Caribbean
Several of Florida's major cruise ship ports close ahead of the storm.
Luxury cruise ship sailing to port on sunrise

As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, cruise lines are urgently adjusting their itineraries to prioritize the safety of passengers and crew members. With several key ports now closed or preparing to shut down, travelers can expect significant changes to their planned voyages. The following ports have announced closures:

Port of Key West
Port Canaveral
Port St. Pete
Port Tampa Bay
JaxPort
SeaPort Manatee

Read more
The best time to visit Alaska: Tips for every season from summer cruises to winter auroras
When should you visit The Last Frontier?
The state sign for alaska with a car behind it

Alaska is home to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world, with 17 of North America’s tallest mountains, over 100 volcanoes, and more coastline than the rest of the U.S. combined. But when is the best time to visit Alaska? It all depends on what you want to experience! While May to September is the most popular window for travelers, each month offers something unique. Let’s break down the best time to visit Alaska based on your adventure goals.
The best time to enjoy warm weather in Alaska
Juneau, Alaska Kathrine Coonjohn / Unsplash

If you’re looking to enjoy warm weather in Alaska, June through August is your sweet spot. By mid-June, Alaska reaches its peak temperatures – though ‘hot’ here typically means 60s. The long, sunny days and short nights make this a fantastic time to explore the great outdoors. 

Read more
Luxury cruise line to open the ‘southernmost hotel on Earth’
The 150-room property provides a place to rest your head before traveling to Antarctica.
Silversea Hotel

Silversea, a leading luxury cruise line, announced on Wednesday its plans to open a groundbreaking hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, the southernmost city in the world. The 150-room property is set to become the ‘southernmost hotel on Earth,’ offering travelers a premium stopover before embarking on once-in-a-lifetime voyages to Antarctica.

“As we continue to push the boundaries on the ultimate vacation experience for our guests, this new hotel allows us to offer an unmatched Antarctic expedition that further enhances our diverse portfolio of world-class vacations across our brands,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea’s parent company. “We are providing guests with a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s most breathtaking and remote destinations that advances our promise to deliver a lifetime of vacations.”
Silversea hotel: the details

Read more