Princess Cruises Celebrates Star Princess's Inaugural Alaska Season with Ceremony in Seattle

Princess Cruises has announced that its new ship, the 'Star Princess,' which debuted in October 2025, has arrived in Seattle, commencing its inaugural Alaska sailing season. From Sunday, May 3, 2026, to Sunday, September 13, 2026, the next-generation Sphere-class vessel, Star Princess, will operate 20 departure cruises exploring Alaska's iconic Inside Passage, departing from and returning to Pier 91 in Seattle.

On Sunday, May 3, 2026, when the Star Princess called at Seattle, a commemorative plaque exchange ceremony was held between the Port of Seattle and senior officers of the Star Princess. The ceremony was attended by Captain Gennaro Arma of the Star Princess, Princess Cruises President Gus Antorcha, as well as representatives from local maritime officials, port operations, labor organizations, and public safety partners. Prior to this ceremony, on Friday, May 1, a spectacular Alaska-themed drone show (video/images) was held at Seattle Center to welcome the arrival of the Star Princess and celebrate the beauty of Alaska against the Seattle skyline.

Captain Gennaro Arma of Princess Cruises stated:

"Seattle has a long history and a deep, long-standing connection with Alaska. It is a great pleasure for the crew of the Star Princess to be present here. Designed for these voyages, the Star Princess combines advanced technology, comfort, and grandeur, further advancing Princess Cruises' tradition in Alaska. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Port of Seattle and our port partners for their warm welcome and continued cooperation."

Alaska Cruises with Star Princess

The Star Princess will operate 8-day cruises roundtrip from Seattle, exploring the Inside Passage and visiting major ports of call such as Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka. Guests can also enjoy breathtaking glacier viewing at Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. For the 2026 and 2027 Alaska seasons, the Royal Princess will join, operating 8-day Inside Passage cruises roundtrip from Seattle.

Engagement with Ports of Call and Social Contribution Activities

To commemorate the Star Princess's maiden voyage to Alaska, Princess Cruises is committed to continuously supporting the communities of Southeast Alaska, cherishing its historical ties with Alaskan communities that have played a crucial role in cruise operations for many years.

Ketchikan: Princess Cruises, along with Holland America Line, donated $100,000 to American Legion Post 3 (Joseph T. Craig Post), Alaska's oldest veteran support organization, as part of efforts to rebuild the facility after it was destroyed by fire. This support aims to assist veterans, their families, and the entire Ketchikan community.

Juneau: A donation of $25,000 was made to Juneau Flukes, an organization conducting whale research, to promote important whale research and marine conservation activities.

Skagway: A donation of $25,000 was made to the Skagway Childcare Council to help local families access high-quality childcare services.

Sitka: A donation of $10,000 was made to Sitka Trail Works, an organization maintaining local trails, to support the maintenance and preservation of the regional trail system.

Star Princess

At 177,800 tons and with a capacity for 4,300 passengers, the Star Princess embodies the new evolution of Princess Cruises, integrating enhanced dining and world-class entertainment with the brand's iconic guest experience.

Alaska's No. 1 Cruise Line

In 2026, Princess Cruises will launch its largest-ever Alaska season, with the Star Princess making its inaugural voyage, meticulously designed to immerse guests in Alaska's majestic natural beauty. With a fleet of 8 ships, 180 departures, and visits to 19 ports of call, the Alaska season offers an unprecedented range of Alaskan experiences, from cruises to cruise tours combined with land stays.

Award-winning "North to Alaska"