Whale Watching, Gourmet Dining, and Glacial Views: My Dream Alaska Cruise with Princess

There are moments in travel that imprint themselves on your soul. The first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, the scent of spices in a Marrakech souk, the humbling silence of the Grand Canyon. For me, one of those indelible moments was the sound. A deep, resonant crack that echoed across the water, followed by a thunderous roar as a skyscraper-sized slab of ancient ice calved from a glacier and crashed into the turquoise fjord below. This is Alaska. It’s a land that speaks not in whispers, but in powerful, primal pronouncements. And there is no better way to listen to its story than from the deck of a Princess cruise ship.

For decades, I’ve traversed the globe, but I find myself returning to the wild majesty of the 49th state time and again. It’s a destination that demands a guide with experience, grace, and an intimate knowledge of its hidden wonders. That is precisely what Princess Cruises delivers. They don’t just visit Alaska; they reveal it. This isn’t just a trip; it’s an immersion into a world of soaring eagles, breaching humpback whales, and rivers of ice that have sculpted the very earth.

As you read through my experiences and insights, I invite you to picture yourself there. Feel the crisp air on your face, taste the wild-caught salmon, and see the brilliant blue of a glacial crevasse. You can easily check sailing dates and current pricing for these incredible voyages using the interactive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. Your adventure begins now.

Why Princess Cruises is Alaska’s Reigning Monarch

Navigating the intricate waterways of the Inside Passage requires more than just a map; it requires a legacy. Princess Cruises has been sailing these waters for over 50 years, earning them the unofficial title of Alaska’s foremost expert. This isn’t just marketing speak; it’s a tangible advantage you feel from the moment you step aboard. Their itineraries are meticulously crafted to maximize glacier viewing times, their relationships with local tour operators in each port are unparalleled, and their onboard programming is designed to deepen your connection to the destination.

This deep-rooted expertise is now paired with cutting-edge technology. The revolutionary MedallionClass experience transforms your vacation. Your personal Medallion, a small, wearable device, unlocks your stateroom door as you approach, allows you to order food and drinks to wherever you are on the ship, and provides a seamless, personalized service that anticipates your needs. It’s effortless luxury that lets you focus on the breathtaking scenery, not the logistics.

Furthermore, their exclusive Discovery at SEA program brings the destination to life onboard. Imagine listening to a presentation by a naturalist who has spent years studying Glacier Bay's ecosystem, or your children participating in activities inspired by the Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch.” Princess ensures that the journey is as enriching as the destinations themselves.

Your Floating Sanctuary: The Onboard Experience

While Alaska is undoubtedly the star of the show, your Princess ship is far more than just a mode of transport. It is a destination in its own right—a luxurious basecamp offering world-class dining, captivating entertainment, and serene spaces to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

A Stateroom with a View (and Why It Matters)

I will say this unequivocally: if you can, book a balcony stateroom for your Alaska cruise. There is nothing quite like waking up, stepping outside in your robe with a hot cup of coffee, and watching the mist rise over a forest-lined fjord. It’s your own private, front-row seat to the greatest show on Earth. I’ve spotted breaching whales, soaring eagles, and even bears foraging on the shoreline, all without leaving my room. It transforms your cabin from a place to sleep into an integral part of the experience.

Choosing the perfect stateroom can feel overwhelming with options ranging from interior cabins to lavish suites. If you'd like to discuss the unique benefits of each category for an Alaskan sailing, our dedicated cruise specialists are experts in matching travelers to their ideal accommodations. Give them a call for personalized advice at 1 (888) 883‑0460.

A Culinary Journey Through the Last Frontier

Princess Cruises has long been celebrated for its culinary excellence, and on their Alaska itineraries, this is elevated with a distinct local flavor. The main dining rooms offer a rotating menu of exquisite dishes, but you’ll also find fresh, locally sourced seafood specials. There’s nothing better than enjoying perfectly prepared Alaskan salmon while sailing past the very waters it came from.

For a truly memorable evening, consider one of the specialty restaurants:

• The Crown Grill: A classic steakhouse experience with premium aged beef and fresh seafood, consistently voted one of the "Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses."
• Sabatini's Italian Trattoria: Indulge in authentic, handmade pasta and sophisticated Italian fare in a rustic, elegant setting.

From the casual buffet at the World Fresh Marketplace to the delectable pizza at Alfredo's Pizzeria, every meal is an event. Have a quick question about onboard dining packages or making reservations? Our team is ready to help. Just click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner for an instant answer.

Entertainment and Enrichment at Sea

Your days at sea are as engaging as your days in port. You can take in a dazzling Broadway-style production in the Princess Theater, try your luck in the casino, or enjoy live music in one of the many lounges. One of my favorite Princess traditions is Movies Under the Stars, where you can cuddle up under a warm blanket on the top deck and watch a blockbuster film on a giant screen, with the dramatic Alaskan sky as your backdrop.

For quieter moments, the Lotus Spa offers a sanctuary of tranquility with a full menu of treatments. Or, find a comfortable chair in the library and simply watch the world of fjords and forests drift by.

An Itinerary Forged by Ice: The Voyage of the Glaciers

While Princess offers several fantastic Alaska itineraries, the 7-day “Voyage of the Glaciers” is, in my opinion, the quintessential Alaskan experience. It typically sails between Vancouver and Anchorage (Whittier), combining the iconic Inside Passage with two distinct glacier-viewing experiences.

Ketchikan: The Soul of the Tongass

Your first port of call is often the charming town of Ketchikan, the "Salmon Capital of the World." Stroll along the historic Creek Street, a boardwalk built on stilts over the water, where salmon fight their way upstream. The true cultural heartbeat of Ketchikan lies in its rich Native heritage. A visit to the Totem Heritage Center or Saxman Native Village offers a profound look at the artistry and history of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.

Juneau: Where Glaciers Meet the Sea

Alaska’s capital city is unique in that it’s inaccessible by road. Here, the main attractions are dictated by nature. A short trip takes you to the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile-long river of ice that terminates in a serene, iceberg-dotted lake. But the real thrill in Juneau is a whale-watching excursion. The nutrient-rich waters are a summer feeding ground for humpback whales, and the experience of seeing these gentle giants breach the surface is something you will never forget.

Skagway: Echoes of the Gold Rush

Walking into Skagway is like stepping back in time. The town’s false-front buildings and wooden sidewalks are meticulously preserved, transporting you to the frenzied days of the Klondike Gold Rush. The must-do excursion here is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This narrow-gauge railway, a marvel of engineering, climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, offering breathtaking views of mountains, gorges, and waterfalls as you trace the path of the gold-seeking stampeders.

The Grand Finale: Glacier Bay National Park

This is the day your camera’s memory card will be put to the test. Glacier Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. As the ship glides silently through the pristine waters, you are surrounded by a 360-degree panorama of raw, untamed nature. National Park Rangers board the ship to provide expert commentary, pointing out wildlife and explaining the geology of majestic glaciers like Margerie and Johns Hopkins. You’ll spend hours on deck, mesmerized by the sights and sounds of this active, ice-sculpted wilderness. It is, without exaggeration, a life-changing day.

Reading about it is one thing, but to truly understand its scale and beauty, you must witness it for yourself. Are you ready to see these glaciers with your own eyes? Plan Your Alaska Adventure and let our experts craft a personalized, no-obligation quote just for you.

Extending Your Adventure: Denali Cruisetours

For those with more time, the magic doesn't have to end at the coast. Princess is one of the few cruise lines that owns and operates its own custom lodges and rail cars in the Alaskan interior. A Denali Cruisetour seamlessly combines your 7-day cruise with a multi-day land tour into the heart of Alaska. You’ll travel by scenic rail to the exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges near the entrance to Denali National Park, home to North America’s tallest peak. This gives you the chance to explore the vast tundra and search for the "Denali Big 5": grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves.

Your Alaskan Dream Awaits

An Alaska cruise with Princess is more than a vacation; it's a journey to a place that reminds us of the raw power and delicate beauty of our planet. It’s about the thrill of discovery, the luxury of impeccable service, and the creation of memories that will warm you for a lifetime. From the gourmet meal you enjoy as an eagle soars past your window to the thunderous applause of a calving glacier, every moment is curated to be extraordinary.

The wild is calling. Your Alaskan dream is closer than you think, and our team is here to handle every detail, ensuring your journey is as seamless as it is spectacular. Get a Custom Quote from our travel experts today and take the first step towards an unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cruising to Alaska

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 typically drier weather. July and August are the warmest months and the peak season for salmon runs and bear sightings. September brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the chance to see the stunning colors of autumn.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Layering is key! Even in summer, weather can change quickly. Pack a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts, sweaters or fleece jackets, a waterproof and windproof outer layer, comfortable walking shoes, and of course, a hat, gloves, and scarf. Don't forget binoculars for wildlife spotting and a camera with plenty of memory!

Is a balcony cabin worth it in Alaska?

In our expert opinion, absolutely. The scenery in Alaska is the main attraction, and having a private space to watch for whales, view glaciers, and enjoy room service with a view is an invaluable part of the experience. It allows you to be fully immersed in the destination, even during your downtime.

What kind of wildlife will I see?

Wildlife sightings are common but never guaranteed. You have a very good chance of seeing humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles, and sea otters. On land excursions and from the ship, you might also spot bears (grizzly and black), moose, and Dall sheep.

How do I book my shore excursions?

You can pre-book shore excursions through the cruise line's website after you've made your reservation. We highly recommend booking popular tours like the White Pass Railroad or whale watching in advance as they sell out quickly. Our travel advisors can also help you select and book the best excursions for your interests when you inquire about this sailing.