Why Princess Cruises is the Pinnacle for Alaska

Princess didn’t just join the Alaska market; they helped build it. With over 50 years of experience in the region, they offer a level of integration that other lines simply cannot match.  

1. Exclusive Wilderness Lodges

Princess is one of the only cruise lines that owns and operates its own riverside lodges. If you book a Cruisetour (a land + sea package), you’ll stay at custom-built properties like the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge or the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, which offer direct views of the mountain that most travelers never see.  

2. Direct-to-the-Wilderness Rail Service

Logistics in Alaska can be a headache, but Princess simplifies it with their exclusive glass-domed rail cars. They are the only line that whisks you from the ship’s pier in Whittier directly to the Denali area on the same day, maximizing your time in the national park rather than in transit.  

3. "North to Alaska" Programming

The immersion continues onboard with their award-winning enrichment program:  

• Puppies in the Piazza: Sled dog puppies are brought onboard in Skagway for guests to meet.  

  
  

• Wild for Alaska Seafood: Menus feature fresh-caught sustainable seafood, from Copper River salmon to Alaskan halibut.  

  
  

• Local Experts: Expect onboard naturalists, National Park Rangers, and even "Deadliest Catch" captains to share their stories.  

  
  

4. Preferential Docking & Access

Because of their long-standing presence, Princess often secures the most coveted docking spots in ports like Juneau and Ketchikan, meaning you are steps away from the action rather than a shuttle ride away.

The Best Itineraries: Which One to Choose?

For 2026 and 2027, Princess is deploying its most impressive fleet yet, including the debut of the Star Princess—the largest ship to ever sail Alaskan waters.  

The "Voyage of the Glaciers" (One-Way)

• Route: Between Vancouver and Anchorage (Whittier).  

  
  

• Why it’s best: This is the quintessential Alaskan experience. It includes two glacier-viewing days (typically Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier).  

  
  

• Best for: Travelers who want to add a 3–7 day land tour to Denali or the Kenai Peninsula.  

  
  

The "Inside Passage" (Roundtrip)

• Route: Roundtrip from Seattle or Vancouver.  

  
  

• Why it’s best: It offers the ultimate convenience of roundtrip flights. You’ll still see the stunning fjords and hit the major ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.
  

• Best for: Families or those with limited time who want a seamless 7-day vacation.
  

When is the Best Time to Book?

Alaska has a short season (May through September) and high demand, which dictates a very specific booking strategy.  

The "12-Month Rule"

The best time to book an Alaskan cruise is 6 to 12 months in advance. Unlike Caribbean cruises where last-minute deals occasionally pop up, Alaska frequently sells out—especially for Balcony staterooms, which are essential for glacier viewing.  

Look for "Wave Season" and Early Incentives

• January – March: This is known as "Wave Season," where Princess typically offers their best "Princess Plus" or "Princess Premier" packages, including drinks, Wi-Fi, and crew appreciation at a significant discount.
  

• The 2027 Advantage: If you are looking at 2027, booking now (as soon as itineraries are released) secures the lowest "opening" prices and the best cabin locations.
  

Selecting Your Sailing Month

• May & September (Shoulder Season): Best for lower prices and fewer crowds. In May, you’ll see more snow-capped peaks; in September, you have a better chance of spotting the Northern Lights.  

  
  

• July & August (Peak Season): Best for wildlife viewing and warmer weather. This is when the salmon run, attracting bears and eagles.