STAR PRINCESS vs Other Princess Ships: Alaska Cruise Comparison
Why This Comparison Matters
- Star Princess (debuting 2026): Sphere-class ship with panoramic viewing, advanced technology, and spacious design.
- Discovery Princess & Majestic Princess: Royal-class ships offering diverse dining, entertainment, and family-friendly amenities.
- Key Differences: Ship layout, lounge space, tech features, and suitability for different passenger types (families, couples, etc.).
- Itineraries in 2026: All three ships sail similar Alaska routes, including ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, BC.
Choosing the right ship for your Alaska cruise is crucial. In 2026, over 60 unique ships will make over 4,000 port calls in Alaska, and the specific amenities and layout of your chosen vessel can significantly impact your experience. This comparison focuses on the Star Princess, Princess Cruises' newest ship for the region, against the existing Discovery Princess and Majestic Princess, helping you make an informed decision for your cruise between April 19th and October 11th, 2026.
While all three ships visit key destinations like Juneau, Skagway, and Endicott Arm, the onboard experience and viewing opportunities vary considerably. This guide highlights the distinctions in design, dining, and technology, enabling you to select the ship that best aligns with your priorities and preferences.
Onboard Atmosphere & Design
The Star Princess, as a Sphere-class ship, boasts a design prioritizing panoramic views. The Dome, an indoor-outdoor, glass-enclosed lounge, offers 270-degree views, a significant advantage on colder days or during scenic cruising. The aft-facing Wake View Terrace provides a quieter alternative to the main pool deck for glacier viewing. In contrast, the Discovery Princess and Majestic Princess, while modern Royal-class ships, have a more traditional layout.
The Discovery Princess features elegant interiors and a focus on culinary experiences, while the Majestic Princess offers expansive family-friendly amenities. However, neither ship offers the same level of dedicated viewing space as the Star Princess.
Who benefits? Passengers who prioritize unobstructed views and comfortable indoor viewing spaces, especially during colder weather or scenic cruising days, will find the Star Princess particularly appealing. Families seeking a blend of activities and dedicated kids' areas may find the Majestic Princess a better fit.
Dining Experiences
All three ships offer a variety of dining options, from casual buffets to specialty restaurants. The Star Princess features a redesigned dining layout, spreading venues throughout the ship to minimize crowding and maximize scenic views while dining. The Discovery Princess is known for its extensive specialty dining options, including seafood, Italian, and steakhouse venues. The Majestic Princess also offers diverse culinary experiences, with a focus on family-friendly fare.
While specific menu items and pricing vary, expect to pay typically $30-75 per person for specialty dining experiences on any of these ships. Buffet options are included in the base cruise fare.
Who benefits? Foodies who enjoy exploring diverse culinary options will appreciate the Discovery Princess' specialty dining scene. Passengers seeking a more relaxed and less crowded dining experience might prefer the Star Princess's layout. Families looking for kid-friendly options will find ample choices on the Majestic Princess.
Technology & Connectivity
All three ships feature Princess Cruises' MedallionClass technology, enabling keyless stateroom entry, contactless payments, and enhanced onboard navigation. The MedallionClass app also facilitates easy dining reservations and activity bookings. However, the Star Princess incorporates the latest iteration of this technology, offering potentially faster Wi-Fi speeds and more seamless integration with onboard services.
Wi-Fi packages typically cost $15-25 per day per device. While all three ships offer reliable connectivity, the Star Princess' updated system may provide a slightly improved experience, particularly for streaming or video conferencing.
Who benefits? Tech-savvy travelers who value seamless connectivity and convenient onboard services will appreciate the MedallionClass technology on all three ships. Those who require faster Wi-Fi speeds for work or entertainment might prefer the Star Princess.
Itinerary & Ports of Call
In 2026, the Star Princess, Discovery Princess, and Majestic Princess will all sail similar Alaska itineraries, typically ranging from 7 to 14 nights. Common ports of call include Seattle, Victoria, Juneau, Skagway, and scenic cruising through Endicott Arm. While the destinations are largely the same, the specific timing in each port and the scenic cruising routes may vary slightly.
For example, one ship might arrive in Juneau earlier in the day, allowing for more time for excursions, while another might depart later, providing more opportunities for evening activities. Check the specific itineraries for each ship to determine which best suits your schedule and interests.
Who benefits? Passengers with specific excursion preferences or timing requirements should carefully review the itineraries for each ship. Those who prioritize certain ports of call or scenic cruising routes can choose the ship that best aligns with their priorities.
Family Friendliness & Entertainment
While all three ships cater to families, the Majestic Princess stands out for its dedicated kids' clubs and family-friendly entertainment options. The Discovery Princess offers a mix of adult-oriented and family-friendly activities, while the Star Princess, with its emphasis on viewing lounges and spacious design, provides a more relaxed atmosphere for families to enjoy together.
Expect to find kids' clubs for various age groups on all three ships, with activities ranging from arts and crafts to games and movies. Onboard entertainment includes Broadway-style shows, live music, and casino games.
Who benefits? Families with young children who value dedicated kids' clubs and structured activities will find the Majestic Princess particularly appealing. Families seeking a more relaxed and scenic cruise experience might prefer the Star Princess or Discovery Princess.
The Bottom Line
- Choose Star Princess if... you prioritize panoramic views, spacious lounges, and the latest technology. Ideal for couples or travelers seeking a relaxed and scenic cruise experience.
- Choose Discovery Princess if... you are a foodie who enjoys diverse culinary options and elegant interiors. A good choice for couples and families alike.
- Choose Majestic Princess if... you are traveling with young children and value dedicated kids' clubs and family-friendly entertainment.
- Choose any of these ships if... you are a first-time Alaska cruiser seeking a comfortable and well-appointed vessel with access to key destinations and scenic cruising routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to cruise to Alaska in 2026?
The Alaska cruise season runs from late April to early October. The best time to cruise depends on your priorities. May and June offer milder weather and fewer crowds, while July and August provide the warmest temperatures and the best chance of seeing wildlife. September offers beautiful fall foliage and potentially lower prices.
What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?
Pack layers of clothing, including waterproof outerwear, warm sweaters, and comfortable walking shoes. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. Formal attire is recommended for some onboard dining venues.
Are shore excursions included in the cruise fare?
No, shore excursions are typically not included in the base cruise fare and must be purchased separately. Prices for excursions vary depending on the activity and duration. Consider booking excursions in advance, especially for popular activities like helicopter tours or whale watching.
What is the currency used in Alaska?
The currency used in Alaska is the US dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or tips.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on an Alaska cruise?
You can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including whales, seals, sea lions, eagles, bears, and moose. The specific wildlife you encounter will depend on the location and time of year. Bring binoculars and a camera to capture these memorable sightings.
More Star Princess Articles
- Best Alaska Cruise Ports on STAR PRINCESS: Excursions & Insider Tips
- Alaska Cruise Packing List for STAR PRINCESS: What to Bring
- Alaska Cruise Packing List 2026
- Best Alaska Cruise Ports 2026
- Best Alaska Cruise Itineraries 2026
Explore Alaska Cruise Port Guides
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- Ketchikan Cruise Port Guide
- Skagway Cruise Port Guide
- Glacier Bay Cruise Port Guide
- Sitka Cruise Port Guide
- Alaska Cruises 2026: All Ports & Ships
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