WHY IT RATES: The cruise line continues to appeal to travelers of all ages, especially with the introduction of a new moose character.-Donald Wood, Breaking News Senior Writer.
In celebration of Princess Cruises 50 years of sailing to the Great Land of Alaska, the cruise line is introducing McKinley the moose, a plush character friend of Stanley, who was first introduced in 2017 as the official bear plush for the cruise line, named after the company's founder Stanley B. McDonald. McKinley, in reference to Mt McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge or "Denali" the highest mountain peak in North America, was named by Princess Cruises Facebook fans in the cruise line's "Name Stanley's Friend Contest," receiving more than 2,400 entries.
Stanley's new buddy McKinley, or "Mac" to those who know him well - is always ready for adventure and has spent hours exploring his home in Denali National Park but even six million acres of wilderness isn't enough to satisfy this adventurous moose. So when Stanley stopped by on a Princess Alaska cruisetour, McKinley asked if he could join his friend at sea. Now the pair will be celebrating the upcoming Alaska season, sailing together and bringing joy to guests from around the world.
"In recognition of sailing 50 years to Alaska, we've chosen a moose to be Stanley's new friend, bringing to life the wildlife and wonderment of this one-of-a-kind destination," said Kelli Coleman, Princess Cruises vice president onboard retail. "The winning name, 'Mac,' is very fitting with its connection to our Alaska cruisetour offerings and we look forward to introducing him to our guests who will enjoy meeting him on their cruise vacations."
Stanley will be joined by Mac onboard Princess Cruises 2019 Alaska sailings starting in May. Life-size characters will make special appearances for photo opportunities with guests and during entertainment events. Plush Stanley and Mac will be available for purchase on board in The Shops of Princess for $24.95, with a portion of the proceeds from sales supporting PAWS: Princess Animal Welfare Sponsor.
For this 50th anniversary year, specially-themed offerings are being added to the award-winning "North to Alaska" onboard lineup that brings unique Alaska experiences to life through local seafood and real Alaskans coming aboard to share their stories.
Northern Lights Planetarium - Gazing up at the Northern Lights is an unforgettable natural phenomenon. Now, guests have the opportunity to enter the indoor planetarium in the Princess Theater and look up at this aurora, a natural and colorful light display.
Adventures Ashore - A number of new shore excursions in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Icy Strait Point will be available for guests to truly connect with the local nature, culture and adventures only found in Alaska, including:
-Hubbard Glacier & Wilderness Exploration - Hubbard Glacier
-Luxury Whale Watch by Yacht - Juneau
-Interactive Self-Guided Jeep Adventure - Juneau
-Ketchikan Pub Walk - Ketchikan
-Rainforest Trail Bike & Hike Adventure - Ketchikan
-Seafood Feast & Tribal Dance Show - Icy Strait Point
-Tree Top Adventure Park & Zipline - Icy Strait Point
-Adventure Park & ZipRider Combo - Icy Strait Point
-Wilderness Hike & Kayak Adventure - Icy Strait Point
-Discovering the Birds of Hoonah - Icy Strait Point
Local Guest Speakers - From naturalists, to a "Deadliest Catch" fisherman captain, to a world champion lumberjack and the first female winner of the Iditarod, guests will meet with local experts and hear first-hand how Alaska's unique environment has fueled their lifestyles, passions and professions.
A Taste of Alaska - With fresh menu offerings in the main dining rooms, guests will delight in seafood, such as salmon and crab, and locally inspired dishes.
"Glacier Tea" & Beer Tastings - A new celebratory cocktail will also be served up - a take on a Long Island Ice Tea, topped off with Blue Curacao, similar to the brilliant glacier blue color found in Alaska. For beer lovers, a special Alaska beer tasting flight will be offered, featuring blends from Juneau-based Alaskan Brewing Company.
Historical Alaska Display in the Piazza - Guests will enjoy a mini museum exhibit featuring notable images throughout the 50 years Princess Cruises has sailed to Alaska.
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