Alaska's Glaciers & Gold: A Princess Cruise Review You MUST Read

There are moments in travel that transcend mere sightseeing. They are profound, sensory experiences that imprint themselves on your soul. Hearing the thunderous crack of a ten-story wall of ice calving into a turquoise sea is one. Feeling the crisp, ancient air fill your lungs as a bald eagle soars overhead is another. This is Alaska. And for over 50 years, no one has unveiled its majesty with more grace and expertise than Princess Cruises.

As a travel journalist, I've been fortunate to sail the world's oceans, but my recent voyage to Anchorage aboard a Princess ship was a poignant reminder of why we travel: to be humbled, to be awestruck, and to connect with a world far wilder than our own. This isn't just a review; it's an invitation to experience the sublime grandeur of the Last Frontier. If you've ever dreamt of glaciers, gold rush towns, and untamed wilderness, settle in. We're about to set sail.

Why Princess Cruises for Your Alaskan Dream?

Choosing a cruise line for Alaska is paramount. You're not just booking a hotel; you're selecting your vessel for navigating one of the planet's most dramatic landscapes. Princess Cruises doesn't just visit Alaska; they are an integral part of its story. Their deep-rooted history here affords them access and insights that others simply cannot match.

The MedallionClass Experience: Effortless Elegance

Before we even discuss the scenery, let's talk about the onboard experience. Modern travel should be seamless, and Princess has perfected this with their MedallionClass technology. Imagine boarding a ship without fumbling for a keycard. Picture a cocktail delivered to your lounge chair before you even ask. This is the reality. The small, wearable Medallion disc simplifies everything, from unlocking your stateroom door to making purchases and locating your family members on the ship. It’s an unobtrusive layer of convenience that allows you to focus on what truly matters: the breathtaking views unfolding outside your window.

A Legacy in the Last Frontier

Princess Cruises has been sailing these waters longer than Alaska has been a popular tourist destination. This legacy translates into tangible benefits for you, the guest.

• Premier Docking: In ports like Skagway and Juneau, Princess ships often secure the most convenient docking locations, meaning less time transferring and more time exploring.
• Expert Guidance: Onboard naturalists and Alaska experts provide fascinating commentary, pointing out wildlife and explaining the geological wonders of places like Glacier Bay National Park. You're not just seeing a glacier; you're understanding its life story.
• Exclusive Cruisetours: Princess owns and operates its own wilderness lodges and rail services, allowing for unparalleled pre- and post-cruise land tours that take you deep into the heart of Alaska, from Denali National Park to the Kenai Peninsula, starting or ending your journey in Anchorage.

Feeling the pull of the wild? Our dedicated Alaska specialists can walk you through the unique advantages of a Princess voyage. Give them a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for a no-obligation chat about your dream trip.

The Voyage North: A Glimpse into the Itinerary

A "Voyage of the Glaciers" itinerary with Princess is more than a series of stops; it's a narrative that builds to a stunning crescendo. While itineraries vary, the classic northbound journey to Anchorage (or Whittier, its port) is a masterclass in scenic cruising.

Sailing the Inside Passage: A Corridor of Wonders

Your journey begins by weaving through the Inside Passage, a tranquil labyrinth of islands, fjords, and lush temperate rainforest. Days at sea here are not for the casino; they are for the balcony. With a warm blanket and a cup of coffee, you'll watch a silent, emerald world drift by. Keep your binoculars handy—it's not uncommon to spot humpback whales breaching or pods of orcas slicing through the calm waters.

Port of Call: Ketchikan - The Salmon Capital

Your first taste of Alaska is often Ketchikan, a vibrant town clinging to the shores of the Tongass Narrows. Famous for its towering collection of totem poles and the salmon that fight their way up the town's central creek, it's a charming introduction to Alaskan culture. Don't miss a stroll down historic Creek Street, a former red-light district whose colorful wooden buildings now house quaint shops and galleries.

Port of Call: Juneau - Glaciers and Government

Accessible only by air or sea, Alaska's capital city feels both remote and cosmopolitan. The star attraction here is the Mendenhall Glacier, a breathtaking river of ice just a short drive from downtown. For the adventurous, a helicopter tour that lands directly on the glacier is an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. For a different perspective, take the Mount Roberts Tramway for a panoramic view of the Gastineau Channel and the surrounding peaks.

Port of Call: Skagway - Echoes of the Gold Rush

Stepping off the ship in Skagway is like stepping back in time. The town's wooden boardwalks and meticulously restored frontier-era buildings are a living museum of the Klondike Gold Rush. The must-do excursion is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, a vintage train that chugs up steep mountain passes, offering jaw-dropping views and a tangible connection to the hardships and hopes of the stampeders who carved this path by hand.

The sheer number of shore excursion options can be overwhelming. This is where our expertise shines. We can help you choose between a whale-watching tour in Juneau or a dog-sledding adventure in Skagway based on your personal travel style. Why not Get a Custom Quote and let us tailor the perfect Alaskan shore experience for you?

The Crown Jewel: Glacier Bay National Park

This is the day that will redefine your concept of "epic." Princess is one of the few cruise lines granted privileged access to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the ship glides into the bay, the world goes quiet. The engines slow to a whisper. Onboard National Park Rangers join the vessel, their voices broadcast over the ship's speakers, narrating the spectacle before you.

You'll spend hours navigating deep into the fjord, coming face-to-face with tidewater glaciers like the Margerie and Grand Pacific. The air grows colder. You'll see seals lounging on floating ice floes. And then you'll hear it—the deep, guttural groan of the ice, a sound that reverberates through your chest just before a massive shard shears off and crashes into the sea with a deafening roar. It is nature at its most raw and powerful. This single day is worth the price of admission alone.

Life Aboard Your Floating Resort: The Princess Experience

While Alaska is the star, your time on the ship is an essential part of the vacation. Princess excels at creating an atmosphere of relaxed luxury, a comfortable and engaging home base for your adventure.

Staterooms: Your Private Sanctuary with a View

I cannot overstate this: book a balcony stateroom for an Alaska cruise. Waking up, drawing the curtains, and stepping out into the crisp morning air to see a waterfall cascading down a mountainside is an experience you will never forget. Princess staterooms are thoughtfully designed, comfortable, and offer ample storage. The service from your room steward is impeccable, always attentive yet never intrusive.

Culinary Delights: From Casual Bites to Fine Dining

The food on a Princess cruise is a journey in itself. From the vast selection at the World Fresh Marketplace buffet to the elegant multi-course meals in the main dining rooms, the quality is consistently high. For a special treat, indulge in one of the specialty restaurants. Sabatini's Italian Trattoria offers exquisite handmade pasta, while the Crown Grill is a paradise for steak and seafood lovers. And of course, you'll find locally inspired dishes, including fresh Alaskan salmon.

Onboard Activities & Entertainment

Whether you want to relax or stay active, there's something for everyone.

• The Sanctuary: An adults-only retreat offering plush lounge chairs, attentive service, and serene quiet.
• Movies Under the Stars: A signature Princess experience. Cuddle up with a blanket and popcorn to watch a blockbuster film on a giant poolside screen.
*Enrichment Programs: Attend lectures on Alaskan wildlife, photography workshops, or cooking demonstrations.
• Theaters and Lounges: Enjoy Broadway-style production shows, live music, and comedy acts each evening.

Have a quick question about stateroom categories or dining packages? Our team is waiting to help. Just click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner of your screen for an instant response.

Arrival in Anchorage: The Gateway to the Great Land

Your cruise culminates as you sail into College Fjord or past the Hubbard Glacier, final spectacular displays of ice before you disembark near Anchorage. But your adventure doesn't have to end here. Anchorage is not just a port; it's the launching point for exploring Alaska's vast interior.

This is where a Princess Cruisetour becomes an invaluable option. Seamlessly transition from your ship to a glass-domed railcar on the Denali Express, journeying north into the heart of Denali National Park. Stay at exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges, strategically located to offer comfort and incredible views. A Cruisetour allows you to combine the best of the coast with the untamed beauty of the interior, searching for grizzly bears, moose, and caribou with North America's tallest peak, Denali, as your backdrop.

Planning a land and sea vacation requires careful coordination. Let us handle the logistics. We can build the perfect pre- or post-cruise package to complete your Alaskan saga. It's time to Plan Your Anchorage Adventure with the help of our seasoned experts.

Is a Princess Cruise to Anchorage Right for You?

A Princess cruise to Alaska appeals to a wide range of travelers, but it's particularly perfect for those who appreciate a blend of classic elegance, enriching experiences, and breathtaking scenery. The vibe is sophisticated yet relaxed. You'll find multigenerational families creating lifelong memories, couples celebrating milestones, and solo travelers captivated by the majesty of it all. It's for the traveler who wants to see the wild without sacrificing comfort, who values learning and enrichment as much as entertainment.

If you're looking for a journey that will move you, that will offer both quiet moments of reflection on your balcony and thrilling adventures on shore, then the answer is a resounding yes. This is more than a vacation; it's an expedition to the edge of the world, guided by the steady, expert hand of Princess Cruises.

You can explore sailings and see real-time pricing right now using the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. When you're ready for personalized service and expert advice that you can't get online, call us at 1 (888) 883‑0460 or Inquire About This Sailing through our simple online form.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time of year to cruise to Alaska?

The Alaska cruise season runs from May to September. May and June offer longer daylight hours and fewer crowds. July and August are the warmest months and the peak season for wildlife viewing. September brings beautiful autumn colors and a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights, though with cooler temperatures.

What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise?

Layers are key! Even in summer, weather can change rapidly. Pack waterproof outerwear, a warm fleece or sweater, comfortable walking shoes, and dressier outfits for evenings on the ship. Don't forget binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, sunglasses, and insect repellent.

Are shore excursions included with my Princess cruise?

Shore excursions are not typically included in the base cruise fare. This allows you the flexibility to choose the activities that most interest you. We highly recommend booking excursions in advance, as popular tours can sell out quickly. Our travel advisors can help you select and book the perfect excursions for your trip.

What is Princess MedallionClass?

Princess MedallionClass is an innovative technology that enhances your cruise experience. A small, wearable device called the Medallion replaces your traditional cruise card. It enables keyless stateroom entry, contactless payment, simplified embarkation, on-demand service (like ordering food and drinks to your location), and helps you stay connected with your travel companions.