Royal Princess Alaska Cruise Guide 2026

🚢 140 port calls in 2026

📍 8 ports visited

📅 May - September 2026

Quick Reference

Label	Value
Cruise Line	Princess Cruises
Ship Class	Royal
Gross Tonnage	142,714 GT
Passenger Capacity	3,560 (double occupancy)
Crew Size	1,346
Year Built / Last Refurbished	2013 / Ongoing maintenance
Number of Decks	19
Homeport (Alaska)	Seattle
Typical Itinerary Length	7 nights
2026 Alaska Port Calls	123

Why Choose Royal Princess for Alaska

Royal Princess offers a fantastic blend of classic cruising comfort and modern amenities, making it an excellent choice for an Alaska adventure in 2026. As a Royal-class ship, she's one of the larger vessels sailing the Inside Passage, but her design thoughtfully incorporates features that truly enhance the Alaska experience. The ship feels spacious without being overwhelming, providing ample public areas and quiet nooks for relaxation and prime viewing. Having sailed Alaska multiple times, I can attest that Royal Princess strikes a great balance for those who want a premium, feature-rich cruise without venturing into ultra-luxury territory.

What truly sets Royal Princess apart for Alaska are her signature features. The iconic SeaWalk, a glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the ship's edge, offers unparalleled, thrilling views of the waters below – perfect for spotting marine life or simply marveling at the sheer scale of the Alaskan landscape. The ship is also fully MedallionClass enabled, meaning seamless, personalized service from expedited boarding to touchless stateroom entry and even food and drink delivery anywhere on board. This technology significantly smooths out the cruising experience, allowing you to focus more on the stunning scenery and less on logistics. Compared to older ships in the Princess fleet, Royal Princess provides a more contemporary feel with advanced technology, while still retaining the "big ship" amenities that many cruisers love.

Built in 2013, Royal Princess is a well-maintained vessel that feels fresh and inviting. While she hasn't undergone a major "bow-to-stern" refurbishment recently, Princess Cruises is diligent about continuous maintenance and upgrades, ensuring the ship remains in excellent condition. This ship is best for a wide range of travelers: families will appreciate the diverse activities and kids' clubs, couples will enjoy the adults-only Sanctuary and specialty dining, and multi-generational groups will find something for everyone. It's an ideal choice for first-time Alaska cruisers who want a comfortable, enriching, and memorable journey without sacrificing modern conveniences.

2026 Alaska Itineraries

For the 2026 Alaska season, the Royal Princess will primarily sail 7-night roundtrip itineraries from Seattle, offering a convenient and popular option for many cruisers. These voyages are meticulously designed to showcase the best of Alaska's Inside Passage, combining vibrant port calls with breathtaking scenic cruising. With 123 port calls scheduled for 2026, Royal Princess will be a consistent presence in the Alaskan waters, offering numerous opportunities to experience this incredible destination.

A typical 7-night "Alaska Inside Passage" itinerary on Royal Princess from Seattle generally follows this pattern:

Day 1: Seattle, Washington (Embarkation, Depart Late Afternoon) - Boarding typically begins around noon, with the ship setting sail in the late afternoon.
Day 2: At Sea - Enjoy the ship's amenities as you cruise north along the Pacific coast.
Day 3: Juneau, Alaska (Arrive Morning, Depart Evening) - Alaska's capital city, famous for Mendenhall Glacier and whale watching.
Day 4: Skagway, Alaska (Arrive Morning, Depart Afternoon) - Gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush, offering historic train rides and scenic drives.
Day 5: Glacier Bay National Park (Scenic Cruising, All Day) - A full day dedicated to cruising through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering stunning glacier views and ranger narration.
Day 6: Ketchikan, Alaska (Arrive Morning, Depart Afternoon) - Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World" and for its rich Native Alaskan culture and totem poles.
Day 7: Victoria, British Columbia (Arrive Evening, Depart Late Night) - A charming Canadian city, typically a late afternoon/evening call, perfect for exploring gardens or historic sites.
Day 8: Seattle, Washington (Arrive Morning) - Disembarkation.

This itinerary provides a comprehensive taste of Southeast Alaska, featuring three classic Alaskan ports and the unparalleled scenic beauty of Glacier Bay. The roundtrip nature from Seattle simplifies travel logistics for many guests, eliminating the need for one-way flights. The Glacier Bay scenic cruising day is a true highlight, providing hours of awe-inspiring views from the comfort of the ship, often accompanied by National Park Rangers offering educational commentary. It's an unforgettable experience that truly defines an Alaska cruise.

Stateroom Guide for Alaska

Best Stateroom Categories for Alaska

When sailing to Alaska on the Royal Princess, your stateroom choice can significantly impact your experience, especially when it comes to viewing the incredible scenery. For Alaska, the undisputed king of stateroom categories is the balcony. Having your own private outdoor space to witness glaciers calving, spot wildlife, or simply breathe in the crisp Alaskan air is priceless. You can step out in your pajamas with a hot cup of coffee to catch an early morning glacier approach or enjoy a quiet evening watching the coastline drift by.

For glacier viewing, particularly in Glacier Bay, the captain will typically rotate the ship 360 degrees to ensure both port and starboard sides get excellent views. Therefore, obsessing over one side versus the other for that specific day isn't necessary. However, for general scenic cruising through the Inside Passage, the starboard side (right side of the ship when facing forward) often offers views of the mainland coastline and its numerous islands when sailing northbound from Seattle, while the port side (left side) will face open water or smaller islands. Southbound, these views reverse. My advice? Don't stress too much about the side; focus on securing a balcony. If you want consistently great views without obstruction, aim for balconies on higher decks (e.g., Aloha Deck 12 and above) that are not directly above public areas that might generate noise or have obstructed views from lifeboats (typically found on lower decks like Baja 6 or Caribe 7). Aft-facing balconies can also offer spectacular, expansive wake views, though they are less common and often book quickly.

Stateroom Types & Pricing

Stateroom pricing on Royal Princess for Alaska cruises in 2026 will vary significantly based on the sailing date, demand, and specific cabin location. The prices below are approximate starting points and are subject to change. Booking early generally secures the best choice of cabin location and often better rates.

Interior Staterooms: These cabins offer the most budget-friendly option, typically starting from around $700-$1,000 per person.
- Pros for Alaska: Excellent value, allowing you to allocate more budget to shore excursions or specialty dining. They provide a dark, quiet space for sleeping.
- Cons for Alaska: No natural light or direct access to the outside. You'll need to head to public decks for any scenic viewing, which can be a drawback on glacier viewing days or for spontaneous wildlife sightings.
Ocean View Staterooms: Featuring a fixed window, these rooms typically start from $900-$1,300 per person.
- Pros for Alaska: Provide natural light and a view of the outside world, which is a nice upgrade from an interior cabin. Still more affordable than a balcony.
- Cons for Alaska: The window doesn't open, so you can't step out for fresh air or an unobstructed view. Views can sometimes be partially obstructed by lifeboats on lower decks.
Balcony Staterooms: The most popular choice for Alaska, these cabins feature a private veranda, typically starting from $1,200-$2,000 per person.
- Pros for Alaska: This is the top pick for Alaska. Your private balcony is your personal viewing platform for glaciers, fjords, and wildlife. It offers fresh air and the ability to enjoy the scenery in privacy and comfort, often with a warm drink.
- Cons for Alaska: Higher price point. Some balconies can be partially obstructed by the ship's structure or lifeboats, so pay attention to the deck plan when booking.
Mini-Suites: Larger than standard balcony cabins, often with a separate sitting area and upgraded amenities, starting from $1,800-$2,800 per person.
- Pros for Alaska: More space and comfort, a larger balcony, and often include perks like a welcome glass of sparkling wine, priority embarkation/disembarkation, and upgraded bathroom amenities. Great for those who appreciate extra room.
- Cons for Alaska: Significantly higher price. While luxurious, the primary benefit for Alaska (the balcony) is similar to a standard balcony, just larger.
Suites: The most luxurious option, offering expansive living spaces, larger balconies, and a host of exclusive perks, starting from $3,000+ per person.
- Pros for Alaska: Unmatched comfort, space, and a comprehensive suite of benefits including concierge service, priority bookings, full in-suite dining, and access to exclusive areas. Ideal for those seeking a truly indulgent experience.
- Cons for Alaska: The highest price point, often a significant investment.

Remember, these are approximate price ranges and can fluctuate wildly based on how early you book, the specific sailing date (peak season vs. shoulder season), and promotional offers. Always check with Princess Cruises for current pricing and availability.

Dining on Royal Princess

Dining on Royal Princess is a highlight for many cruisers, offering a diverse array of options from elegant main dining rooms to specialty restaurants and casual grab-and-go spots. Princess Cruises is known for its quality cuisine, and Royal Princess delivers on that reputation.

The ship features three main dining rooms: Allegro, Symphony, and Concerto. These are open for breakfast, lunch (on sea days), and dinner. For dinner, you have the choice of "Anytime Dining," allowing you to dine at your leisure, or "Traditional Dining," where you're assigned a fixed table time and dining companions for the duration of your cruise. The dress code is typically "smart casual" for most evenings, meaning slacks and collared shirts for men, and dresses, skirts, or pants for women. There are usually one or two "optional formal" nights on a 7-night cruise, where guests can choose to dress up in cocktail attire or suits, though it's never mandatory.

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, Royal Princess offers several excellent specialty restaurants, available for an additional cover charge:

Crown Grill: A classic Princess steakhouse experience, offering premium cuts of beef, chops, and fresh seafood. Expect a sophisticated atmosphere and impeccable service. Approximate cover charge: $29-$39 per person.
Sabatini's Italian Trattoria: Princess's signature Italian restaurant, serving up handmade pasta, authentic regional dishes, and fresh seafood in a refined setting. Approximate cover charge: $25-$35 per person.
Ocean Terrace Seafood Bar: Located in the Piazza, this spot offers fresh sushi, sashimi, caviar, and a selection of seafood for individual purchase. It's perfect for a lighter, upscale bite. A la carte pricing.

Casual dining options are plentiful and included in your cruise fare:

Horizon Court Buffet: The ship's main buffet, offering a vast selection of international cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It's a convenient option for quick meals and has excellent views.
Alfredo's Pizzeria: Widely considered one of the best pizzerias at sea, offering delicious, hand-tossed pizzas made to order. It's a sit-down, complimentary venue in the Piazza.
International Cafe: Also in the Piazza, this 24-hour cafe serves complimentary pastries, sandwiches, salads, and desserts, along with specialty coffees (for an extra charge). It's a favorite for a quick bite anytime.
Slice Pizzeria / Prego Pizzeria: Located poolside, these offer quick, casual pizza slices.
Trident Grill: Also poolside, serving burgers, hot dogs, and fries.

Two "don't miss" dining experiences on Royal Princess for a special occasion are the Crown Grill for its exceptional steaks and the immersive Chef's Table Lumiere. The Chef's Table Lumiere is an extraordinary multi-course dining experience hosted by the Executive Chef, often featuring a curtain of light that surrounds your table, creating an intimate and magical atmosphere. It's an exclusive experience and requires advance booking and an additional fee.

For Alaska cruises, you'll often find Alaska-specific dining touches. Keep an eye out for fresh local seafood specials in the main dining rooms and specialty restaurants, such as Alaskan salmon, halibut, or king crab. There might also be Alaska-themed nights or dishes incorporated into the buffet or main dining room menus, celebrating the region's culinary heritage.

Room service is available 24 hours a day. A continental breakfast is complimentary, while other meal items from the regular room service menu may incur a small delivery charge, especially for hot items. For those with dietary accommodations, Princess Cruises is generally very good. It's always best to notify Princess of any specific dietary needs (allergies, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) when booking your cruise and to speak with the Maitre d' once onboard to ensure your needs are met throughout your journey.

Entertainment & Activities

Royal Princess offers a vibrant array of entertainment and activities designed to keep every guest engaged, whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment.

Signature Experiences

The Royal Princess boasts several standout features that truly define the ship and enhance your cruise, especially in a destination like Alaska.

SeaWalk: This isn't just a walkway; it's an experience. Extending 28 feet beyond the ship's edge on the starboard side of Deck 16, the glass-bottomed SeaWalk offers a thrilling, unobstructed view of the ocean 128 feet below. Imagine walking over the icy Alaskan waters, scanning for whales or seals! It's an absolute must-do for photo opportunities and a unique perspective. Practical tip: Go during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
Princess MedallionClass: Royal Princess is fully MedallionClass enabled, powered by the OceanMedallion wearable device. This technology revolutionizes the cruise experience by offering touchless stateroom entry, expedited embarkation/disembarkation, easy navigation via OceanCompass, and even food and drink delivery anywhere on the ship. For Alaska, this means less time waiting in lines and more time enjoying the scenery, knowing your preferences are recognized. Download the MedallionClass app before you sail to get OceanReady.
The Piazza: This multi-story atrium is the vibrant heart of the Royal Princess, spanning decks 5, 6, and 7. Inspired by European town squares, it's a hub of activity with live entertainment, street performers, musical acts, and various shops and cafes, including the International Cafe and Alfredo's Pizzeria. It's a fantastic spot to grab a coffee, people-watch, and soak in the lively atmosphere, especially on a chilly Alaska sea day.
Movies Under the Stars (MUTS): Located on the Lido Deck (Deck 16), MUTS is a giant LED screen showing first-run movies, concerts, and sporting events throughout the day and evening. For Alaska, imagine snuggling under a complimentary fleece blanket with a bag of popcorn, watching a movie with glaciers or stunning coastlines as your backdrop. It's a uniquely Princess experience that's particularly charming on cooler Alaska evenings.

Onboard Activities

Beyond the signature features, Royal Princess offers a comprehensive range of activities to fill your sea days and evenings.

Pools, Hot Tubs, Spa: The main Lido Deck (Deck 16) features the freshwater main pool and several hot tubs. For a more tranquil experience, head to the adults-only Retreat Pool, also on Deck 16. The Lotus Spa (Deck 5) offers a thermal suite, hydrotherapy pool, and a full menu of treatments, perfect for relaxation after a long day of exploring.
Fitness Center, Sports Courts: The state-of-the-art Fitness Center (Deck 17) offers ocean views while you work out. Above it, the Sports Court (Deck 19) is available for basketball, volleyball, and other games, along with a jogging track.
Casino, Games, Trivia: The Grand Casino (Deck 6) offers a variety of slot machines and table games. Throughout the day, you'll find organized activities like trivia contests, board games, and various classes in lounges like Princess Live! or the Vista Lounge.
Kids/Teens Programs: Princess's Camp Discovery program (Deck 17) caters to different age groups:
- The Treehouse (Ages 3-7): Engaging activities, themed parties, and creative play.
- The Lodge (Ages 8-12): Sports tournaments, video games, theme nights, and educational activities.
- The Beach House (Ages 13-17): A teen-only lounge with music, movies, gaming consoles, and supervised parties.
Alaska Enrichment: During Alaska sailings, Princess Cruises often brings onboard naturalists to give talks on local wildlife, geology, and history. In Glacier Bay, National Park Rangers board the ship to provide fascinating narration about the glaciers and ecosystem. Keep an eye on your Princess Patter daily program for wildlife spotting competitions and educational presentations that truly enhance your understanding of Alaska.

Evening Entertainment

As the sun sets over the Alaskan wilderness, Royal Princess comes alive with a variety of evening entertainment options.

Shows, Theater Productions: The multi-deck Princess Theater (Decks 6 & 7 forward) hosts elaborate production shows featuring talented singers and dancers, as well as guest entertainers like comedians and magicians.
Live Music Venues: You'll find live music throughout the ship. Crooners (Deck 5) is a classic martini bar with a pianist. Bellini's (Deck 6) offers a chic atmosphere for pre-dinner drinks and live music. The Wheelhouse Bar (Deck 7) provides a more traditional pub-like setting with live piano or guitar music.
Bars and Lounges: In addition to the aforementioned, explore Club 6 (Deck 6) for dancing and a DJ, Vines Wine Bar (Deck 5) for wine and sushi pairings, and the Seaview Bar (Deck 16 aft) for drinks with a view.
Late-Night Options: For those who want to extend the evening, Club 6 turns into a nightclub, and the Grand Casino remains open late.

Best Spots for Alaska Viewing

Maximizing your viewing opportunities is key to an unforgettable Alaska cruise on Royal Princess. While a balcony stateroom is ideal, there are numerous fantastic public spaces that offer incredible vistas, even on a rainy day.

Your Balcony Stateroom: If you have one, this is your private sanctuary for viewing. Step out anytime, day or night, for unobstructed views. It's perfect for early morning glacier approaches with a hot cup of coffee, or for quietly scanning the water for marine life.
The SeaWalk (Deck 16, Starboard): For a truly unique perspective, the SeaWalk offers unparalleled views directly down to the water and out to the horizon. It's thrilling and provides fantastic photo opportunities, especially when the ship is cruising close to land or glaciers.
Forward Decks (Decks 16 & 17, near the Fitness Center): Head to the very front of the ship on these upper decks for some of the most unobstructed forward-facing views. The areas around the Fitness Center and above the bridge are often excellent, allowing you to see exactly where the ship is headed. These spots are great for glacier viewing and spotting wildlife directly ahead.
Lido Deck (Deck 16, Main Pool Area and Aft): The main pool deck offers expansive open-air views. There's plenty of seating, and you're close to casual dining options like the Trident Grill. For a slightly quieter experience, head to the aft of the Lido Deck, particularly near the Horizon Court buffet, which has large windows and outdoor seating areas with great wake views.
Horizon Court Buffet (Deck 16, Aft): On colder or rainy days, the Horizon Court buffet provides excellent panoramic views from its many windows. Grab a hot drink and find a window seat; it's a comfortable indoor alternative to still enjoy the scenery.
Vista Lounge (Deck 7, Aft): While primarily an entertainment venue, the Vista Lounge offers large windows at the aft of the ship, providing a comfortable indoor space with good views, especially if you're looking for a relaxed spot away from the main crowds.

Early Morning Strategy: On scenic cruising days (like Glacier Bay or Endicott Arm), many passengers will flock to the prime viewing spots. To beat the crowds, set your alarm early and head out to your chosen spot before breakfast. You'll often find more tranquility and better photo opportunities. Remember, the captain will make announcements over the PA system as the ship approaches glaciers or significant wildlife sightings, often rotating the ship to give everyone a chance at the best views. Dress in layers, as it can be quite chilly on deck, even on a sunny day.

What to Pack for Royal Princess Alaska Cruise

Packing for an Alaska cruise on Royal Princess requires a strategic approach to layers and versatility, as the weather can change dramatically throughout the day, and even within an hour.

Layers, Layers, Layers: This is the golden rule for Alaska.
- Base Layer: Moisture-wicking long-sleeve shirts are excellent for warmth without bulk. A long-sleeve shirt works well for layering on deck under a vest or jacket.
- Mid-Layer: Fleece jackets, sweaters, or down vests are perfect for warmth.
- Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket is an absolute must-have. Even if it's not raining, it will protect against the wind chill, especially on deck or during glacier viewing. A good Alaska cruise jacket will serve you well.
- Bottoms: Jeans, comfortable pants, or quick-drying travel pants are ideal. Consider waterproof pants for wet excursions.
Formal Nights: Princess Cruises has an "optional formal" dress code. On a 7-night cruise, you'll typically have 1-2 formal nights. For these, men usually wear slacks and a collared shirt (jacket optional), or a suit. Women often wear cocktail dresses, pant suits, or elegant separates. Most nights are "smart casual."
Shore Excursion Gear:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring ports.
- Hiking Boots: If you plan on hiking or more active excursions, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended.
- Small Backpack: To carry water, snacks, extra layers, and souvenirs during port days.
- Rain Gear: Beyond your jacket, a small umbrella or waterproof hat can be useful.
Glacier Viewing Essentials:
- Binoculars: Crucial for spotting distant wildlife and intricate glacier details.
- Warm Hat, Gloves, Scarf: Even on sunny days, the air near glaciers can be very cold.
- Camera: With extra batteries/memory cards, to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments.
- Alaska cruise hoodie or Alaska cruise sweatshirt: A must-have for early morning glacier viewing, providing warmth and comfort.
Casual Wear: For sea days and relaxed evenings, pack comfortable clothes. Many passengers pack Alaska cruise t-shirts or funny Alaska cruise shirts as casual port day wear and easy souvenir alternatives.
Swimsuit: For the hot tubs or the indoor pool area in the Lotus Spa.
Medication & Toiletries: Bring any prescription medications in your carry-on. While the ship's shops have essentials, prices are higher.
What NOT to Bring: Items like clothing irons, candles, illegal substances, and weapons are prohibited. Check Princess Cruises' specific list of prohibited items before packing. The ship provides basic toiletries, hair dryers, and towels.

Tips for First-Time Royal Princess Cruisers

As a seasoned cruiser who has sailed Alaska multiple times, here are some specific, actionable tips to make your Royal Princess Alaska cruise in 2026 truly exceptional:

Book Early for Choice: While last-minute deals can pop up, for Alaska in 2026, booking 9-12 months out gives you the best selection of staterooms (especially balconies and suites) and itinerary dates. This is crucial if you have specific cabin preferences or are traveling with a group.
Download the MedallionClass App (and Use It!): Before you even leave home, download the Princess MedallionClass app. Complete your OceanReady steps, upload your photo, and link your payment. This will make embarkation a breeze and allow you to use features like OceanCompass for ship navigation, ordering food/drinks, and keyless stateroom entry.
Pre-Book Specialty Dining: If you plan to dine at Crown Grill or Sabatini's, make reservations online before your cruise. These popular venues fill up quickly, especially for prime dinner times.
Do the Drink Package Math: Princess offers various drink packages (e.g., Plus and Premier). Calculate if the daily cost outweighs what you'd typically spend on individual drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water. If you enjoy a few alcoholic beverages, sodas, and lattes daily, it's often worth it.
Strategize Shore Excursions: While Princess offers excellent excursions, you can often save money or find more unique experiences by booking independently in port. Research options for Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan in advance. However, for Glacier Bay, stick with the ship's offerings (or lack thereof, as it's scenic cruising).
Embarkation Day Hacks: Arrive at the port early to beat the crowds. Pack a carry-on with essentials like medications, a swimsuit, a change of clothes, and your Medallion. Your luggage might not arrive at your stateroom until later in the afternoon. Head to the Lido Deck for lunch, then explore the ship before the masses. Many passengers will wear Alaska cruise t-shirts or funny Alaska cruise shirts as casual port day wear and easy souvenir alternatives. For groups, matching cruise shirts or Alaska cruise family shirts are popular for embarkation day photos.
Consider MedallionNet Wi-Fi: If staying connected is important, Princess's MedallionNet offers some of the best Wi-Fi at sea. Purchase a package pre-cruise for potential savings. It's generally reliable enough for streaming and video calls, but speed can fluctuate.
Understand Gratuities: Princess has an automatic daily gratuity charge per person. This covers your stateroom steward, dining staff, and other service personnel. You can adjust this amount at Guest Services, but it's customary to leave it as is or increase it for exceptional service.
Join Captain's Circle: If you've cruised with Princess before, ensure your Captain's Circle loyalty number is applied to your booking. You'll accrue points for future cruises and enjoy perks like exclusive events, discounts, and priority services based on your loyalty tier.
Money-Saving Hacks: Bring a refillable water bottle; there are water stations on board. You can bring a bottle of wine or champagne per adult (21+) onboard for consumption in your stateroom (a corkage fee usually applies if consumed in public dining areas). Look for daily specials in the Princess Patter (the ship's daily newsletter) for drinks or spa treatments.

Who Is Royal Princess Best For?

Royal Princess is a versatile ship that caters to a broad spectrum of travelers heading to Alaska, offering a premium experience that balances modern amenities with classic cruising comforts.

Families with Young Kids: Absolutely! With dedicated Camp Discovery programs for various age groups, a family-friendly pool deck, Movies Under the Stars, and diverse dining options like Alfredo's Pizzeria, there's plenty to keep children and teens entertained. The MedallionClass technology also simplifies family logistics.
Couples/Honeymooners: Yes, Royal Princess offers romantic retreats like The Sanctuary (adults-only, extra charge), sophisticated specialty dining at Crown Grill and Sabatini's, and elegant bars like Crooners. The private balcony staterooms are perfect for intimate glacier viewing.
Multi-generational Groups: This ship is an excellent choice for groups with varying ages and interests. Grandparents can enjoy enrichment lectures and quiet lounges, parents can relax at the spa, and kids can participate in youth programs, all while coming together for meals and shows.
Solo Travelers: While not specifically designed with solo cabins, Royal Princess's friendly atmosphere and diverse activities make it easy to meet people. Group tables in the main dining room can be requested, and there are many social opportunities. However, solo travelers typically pay a single supplement.
Budget-Conscious Cruisers: Royal Princess provides a premium cruise experience, so it's not a budget cruise line. However, for the level of service, amenities, and itineraries offered, it represents excellent value compared to true luxury lines. Interior cabins offer the most economical way to experience the ship.
Luxury Seekers: While Royal Princess offers premium service and some luxurious touches (especially in suites), it's not a luxury cruise line in the vein of Regent or Seabourn. Those seeking ultra-inclusive, small-ship, personalized luxury might prefer a different option. However, for a large-ship premium experience, it's top-tier.

In summary, Royal Princess is best for those who appreciate a large, modern ship with a wide range of activities, excellent dining, and innovative technology, all delivered with Princess's signature "Love Boat" service. It's particularly well-suited for first-time Alaska cruisers who want a comprehensive and comfortable experience without sacrificing modern conveniences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Royal Princess good for an Alaska cruise?

Yes, Royal Princess is an excellent choice for an Alaska cruise. Its Royal-class design features like the SeaWalk offer unique viewing opportunities, and MedallionClass technology enhances convenience. The ship provides a great balance of modern amenities, diverse dining, and entertainment, making it suitable for families, couples, and multi-generational groups looking for a premium Alaska experience.

What deck is best for Alaska views on Royal Princess?

For the best Alaska views on Royal Princess, consider higher decks like 12 (Aloha) and above for balcony staterooms, as they offer clearer sightlines over lifeboats. Public areas such as the forward decks on 16 and 17, the SeaWalk on Deck 16, and the open-air Lido Deck (16) provide expansive, unobstructed vistas for scenic cruising and glacier viewing.

Do I need a balcony on Royal Princess for Alaska?

While not strictly "needed," a balcony stateroom is highly recommended for an Alaska cruise on Royal Princess. It provides a private, personal space to enjoy the stunning scenery, spot wildlife, and experience glacier calving in comfort and privacy. If budget allows, it significantly enhances the overall Alaska experience.

How many sea days are on a Royal Princess Alaska cruise?

A typical 7-night roundtrip Alaska cruise from Seattle on Royal Princess usually includes two to three sea days. This includes a full day of scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park (or Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier) and one or two additional days at sea for relaxation and enjoying the ship's amenities while sailing the Inside Passage.

What is the dress code on Royal Princess?

The dress code on Royal Princess is generally "smart casual" for most evenings, meaning slacks and collared shirts for men, and dresses, skirts, or pants for women. On a 7-night Alaska cruise, there are typically one or two "optional formal" nights where guests can choose to dress up in cocktail attire or suits, but it is not mandatory.

Does Royal Princess have a kids club?

Yes, Royal Princess features Princess Cruises' Camp Discovery youth program. It offers age-appropriate, supervised activities for children and teens in three distinct clubs: The Treehouse (ages 3-7), The Lodge (ages 8-12), and The Beach House (ages 13-17), ensuring fun and engagement for all young cruisers.

Is Wi-Fi included on Royal Princess?

No, Wi-Fi is not included on Royal Princess. Guests can purchase MedallionNet Wi-Fi packages for the duration of their cruise. These packages offer some of the fastest and most reliable internet at sea, suitable for streaming and video calls, but they come at an additional cost, with prices varying by package duration and speed.

What time does Royal Princess arrive in port?

Royal Princess typically arrives in Alaskan ports in the morning, often between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. Departure times vary, with some ports having afternoon departures (e.g., Skagway, Ketchikan) and others later in the evening (e.g., Juneau). Victoria, BC, is usually a late afternoon or evening call. Specific times are listed in your daily Princess Patter.

Can I book shore excursions through Princess Cruises?

Yes, you can absolutely book shore excursions through Princess Cruises. These can be reserved pre-cruise via the Princess website or MedallionClass app, or once onboard at the Shore Excursions desk. Booking through Princess offers convenience, guaranteed return to the ship, and vetted tour operators, though independent options are also available in most ports.

How old is Royal Princess and has it been refurbished?

Royal Princess was built in 2013, making it a relatively modern vessel in the Princess fleet. While it hasn't undergone a full, major refurbishment since its launch, Princess Cruises maintains its ships meticulously with ongoing maintenance, upgrades, and enhancements to ensure a high-quality experience for all guests.

Gear Up for Your Royal Princess Cruise

Sailing on the Royal Princess? Browse our collection of Alaska cruise shirts, hoodies, and outerwear — designed for cruise travelers who want comfort and style at every port of call.

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