by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 2:00 PM ET, Thu March 19, 2026
Princess Cruises is rolling out new onboard experiences in Alaska this year.
The four new “North to Alaska” offerings will be available on all eight Princess ships sailing in Alaska this season will feature the new programming: Star Princess, Coral Princess, Royal Princess, Ruby Princess, Grand Princess, Emerald Princess, Discovery Princess and Island Princess.
First introduced in 2015, the North to Alaska program shines the spotlight on local personalities, culture and food both onboard and ashore.
Princess Cruises will offer its largest Alaska season ever in 2026, highlighted by the debut Star Princess. The expanded lineup features 180 departures and visits to 19 destinations. Against this backdrop, the brand created new signature North to Alaska experiences for 2026.
Guests can also enjoy new, Alaska-inspired à la carte offerings at the specialty restaurants onboard, such as wild king salmon, jump lump crab cakes and butter-broiled lobster tails.
The new offerings are:
- The Glacier Experience: Scenic cruises that offer close‑up glacier views, expert narration, park ranger commentary from the bridge and on deck offered on select Glacier Bay sailings, and access to VIP viewing areas. Travelers can also visit ranger information desks, enjoy presentations, participate in junior and teen ranger programs and warm up on the open decks with hot chocolate and consommé stations.
- Welcome to Alaska: A presentation offered once per voyage and hosted by the cruise director, designed to help guests get the most from their experience. Guests can meet naturalists and enrichment presenters and learn about the North to Alaska program.
- Après Sea: After a day exploring, guests are invited to unwind in a chic, après-ski inspired lounge, enjoying an elevated happy hour with warm drinks and panoramic views; extending the magic of the day. Star Princess will host Après Sea in The Dome, located at the top of the ship with magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Candlelight Concert Series: Fire & Ice: An extension of Princess’ current Candlelight Concert Series, Fire & Ice adds Alaskan flare with performances by Alaska singer-songwriters, creating an intimate setting of warmth and wonder, illuminated by live music, glowing candles and the magic of The Great Land, offered only twice per voyage.
“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,” says John-Paul Lamb, vice president of entertainment for Princess Cruises. “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.”
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