Skip to main content

Despite protests, Princess Cruises announces largest ever Alaska schedule for 2026

Princess Cruises announces 2026 Alaska Schedule

Princess cruise ship in Alaska
Princess Cruises

This week, Princess Cruises announced its biggest-ever Alaska season for 2026. The cruise line’s newest ship, Star Princess, leads the eight-strong fleet, and the schedule includes 180 departures to 19 destinations. The announcement comes despite the tension in Juneau, Alaska, where locals — worn out from tourism — campaign for “Ship-free Saturdays.”

The 2026 Princess Cruises Alaska itinerary immerses guests in America’s last frontier, whether viewing the stars from on deck or taking part in on-shore adventures. That’s especially true on the Star Princess, a Sphere Class ship with leading-edge details, discussed below.

Recommended Videos

Princess Cruises Alaska 2026: Luxury among the glaciers

Princess Cruises Alaska glaciers
Princess Cruises / Princess Cruises

Alaska comprises expansive, open country, with so much to explore. In 2026, Princess Cruises will offer next-level experiences in The Last Frontier. Whether sailing through Glacier Bay National Park or taking a helicopter trip through the mountains, passengers get to experience the unspoiled, natural wonder of AK, while living in luxury.

The Star Princess — the second Sphere Class ship by Princess — features The Dome, a geodesic roof structure, and The Sphere, a suspended glass piazza. World-class culinary options include more than 29 bars and restaurants for a world of flavor at sea. 

John Padgett, Princess Cruises President, stated, “2026 will reinforce Princess’ leadership in Alaska vacations. The deployment of the magnificent Star Princess to Alaska for the first time will offer guests unprecedented views, luxurious accommodations, and the finest food, beverages and entertainment ever seen in the Great Land. Our guests will experience Alaska like never before aboard our innovative Sphere Class ship.”

“Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, Princess is the ultimate choice for luxury and adventure, with awe-inspiring glaciers, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the freshest seafood imaginable.”

Mark Reif
Mark Reif is a writer from Stowe, Vermont. During the winter, he works as a snowboard coach and rides more than 100 days. The…
American Airlines announces largest-ever Italy schedule for summer 2025
American Airlines expands flights to Italy for summer 2025
Shoreline of Naples, Italy

In the summer of 2025, travelers can explore Italy like never before, with American Airlines adding flights to Naples, Venice, and Rome. Beginning November 4, customers can purchase tickets and begin planning a trip to Italy’s renowned culture, cuisine, and historical sites.
Italy 2025: American Airlines expands schedule and adds non-stop flights
Colosseum, Rome, Italy Jude Wilson via Unsplash

Besides increasing its Italian schedule, American adds nonstop routes for the summer of 2025. That includes an industry-exclusive direct flight from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Naples-Capodichino International Airport (NAP), which provides more seats to Naples than any other carrier. Additionally, a nonstop route begins June 5 from Dallas Forth Worth International Airport (DFW) to Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE). That complements current service from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).

Read more
Famous cruise line unveils new Alaska itinerary launching in 2026
The new Alaskan cruise will set sail in May of 2026.
MSC Poesia

MSC Cruises will be venturing to Alaska for the first time in 2026. The cruise line announced on Monday that its MSC Poesia ship will sail from Seattle, Washington, offering travelers an opportunity to experience Alaska's rugged landscapes and natural beauty.

“Guests from all over the world tell us they want to see Alaska’s beauty firsthand, which makes these itineraries the perfect addition to MSC Cruises’ global portfolio of bucket-list destinations,” Lynn Torrent, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of MSC Cruises USA said in a news release.
When do MSC’s Alaska cruises set sail?

Read more
Universal announces opening date for Epic Universe theme park
The park will open on May 22, just in time for Memorial Day weekend.
Epic Universe

Universal Orlando Resort announced Thursday morning that its new theme park, Epic Universe, will open on May 22, 2025, just in time for Memorial Day weekend. The announcement has ignited excitement among theme park enthusiasts, marking a significant addition to the resort’s offerings.

Epic Universe will feature five immersive “worlds,” including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park. As the largest of Universal’s three theme parks, Epic Universe is set to play a pivotal role in a vast 750-acre development that will more than double the resort’s current space in Orlando.

Read more