Choosing the Perfect Princess Cruise Ship for Your Alaskan Adventure: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to cruising in Alaska, Princess Cruises is a leading name, well-known for its extensive experience and range of cruise options in the region, alongside its network of land lodges that enhance the travel experience. The cruise line currently operates nine ships for its Alaskan deployments, including Coral Princess, Crown Princess, Discovery Princess, Emerald Princess, Grand Princess, Island Princess, Royal Princess, Ruby Princess, and Star Princess.

Overview of Each Ship

Coral Princess

• Homeports: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Vancouver, Whittier
• Best For: Small-ship fans, retirees, balcony lovers
  Coral Princess is a smaller ship that accommodates 2,000 guests. With 700 balcony staterooms, it provides an intimate experience with a high level of service. Cruises start around $100 per night for itineraries ranging from six to 17 nights.

Crown Princess

• Homeports: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Vancouver, Whittier
• Best For: Mid-size traditional cruising, value seekers
  This 3,100-guest ship features recent renovations, including new dining options and improved areas. It offers itineraries from about $144 per night, with stops at popular Alaskan destinations.

Discovery Princess

• Homeports: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Vancouver, Whittier
• Best For: New-ship fans, couples
  Launched in 2022, Discovery Princess can hold 3,660 guests and is noted for its luxury and scenic views. Itineraries start at $112 per night.

Emerald Princess

• Homeport: Los Angeles
• Best For: Scenery lovers, sea-day fans
  With a capacity of 3,090 guests, Emerald Princess balances being well-maintained while offering scenic views. Unique itineraries concentrate on sea days, starting at $104 per night.

Grand Princess

• Homeports: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Vancouver, Whittier
• Best For: Budget cruisers, port-intensive itineraries
  The oldest ship in the fleet, accommodating 2,610 guests, Grand Princess offers a budget-friendly cruise experience, starting at $92 per night.

Island Princess

• Homeports: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Vancouver, Whittier
• Best For: Small-ship, low-stress cruising
  Accommodating 2,210 guests, Island Princess emphasizes a stress-free experience, with itineraries starting around $90.

Royal Princess

• Homeports: Seattle
• Best For: Amenity-focused travelers
  This ship can hold over 3,500 guests and includes numerous dining and entertainment options, with itineraries starting at $107 per night.

Ruby Princess

• Homeports: San Francisco
• Best For: Promenade-view fans
  With a capacity of just over 3,000 guests, Ruby Princess received recent upgrades, although concerns about its overall condition persist. Cruises start at under $100.

Star Princess

• Homeports: Seattle
• Best For: Those seeking modern luxury
  The newest in the fleet, Star Princess, commenced operations in late 2025, can accommodate 4,300 passengers, and features extensive dining and entertainment options. Fares start at $129 per night for its limited available itineraries.

Conclusion

Choosing the right ship for an Alaskan cruise with Princess Cruises largely depends on personal preferences regarding size, amenities, and pricing. Whether one prefers a smaller, intimate experience or a larger ship with more options, there is a suitable choice within this lineup for the 2026-2028 season.

For more detailed information on planning your Alaskan cruise, you can explore the various itineraries offered by these ships.

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