food on princess alaska cruise

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Princess Alaska cruise dinner food menu on my cruise ⚓ cruise food ⚓ cruise tips

So will there be Alaska-specific food on your Princess cruise to Alaska?!

Yes, as part of the Alaska cruise experience, Alaska-specialty food is served.

If you don’t like seafood, will there be anything for you to eat?!

While Alaska’s specialty food is seafood, the cruise food during an Alaska cruise won’t be only Alaska food.

There will be normal western/American food too. There is almost always some sort of pasta. There is almost always Indian food as well.

So even if you don’t like seafood, you won’t starve on a cruise to Alaska.

In general on a cruise, you will get free food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

There are “ specialty restaurants ” on Princess cruise ships for which there is an added fee.

There is a “ juice bar ” for extra health and wellness drinks for which there is an added fee.

But there are always free food options for every meal, plus snacks in between meals.

You can get pizza any time , and you can get ice cream any time during the day for free.

There are “ premium desserts ” on Princess cruise ships for which there is an added fee, but there are always free dessert options, both in the main dining room and the buffet.

There are also many other food choices that you can get almost any time throughout the day too.

There’s the buffet that you can eat at during your cruise for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is free.

You can also go to one of the main dining rooms for dinner. This is free. (There are some “specialty” items in the dining room as well for which there is a fee, but it’s not necessary to pay for regular dinner food.)

You can also go to at least one of the dining rooms for breakfast and lunch. This is free. (Lunch in dining room might only be available on sea days.)

As far as I could tell, the Alaska specific food items were served at dinner.

I never saw any buffet food labeled specifically as “Alaskan” but there were usually (always?) seafood choices, so I’m guessing there was almost always some sort of food that was Alaska-inspired that was served as part of the dinner buffet, even if it’s not noted in that way.

But if you want the best Alaska dinner experience, you want to go to a main dining room!

See below for a day-by-day dinner menu from an Alaska cruise!

Also below is how to see the dinner menu once you are on your cruise.

Cruise food during an Alaska cruise on a Princess cruise ship

Food on your Alaska cruise may vary, but just to give you an idea, here is the dinner menu from the main dining room dinner on my cruise, day by day!

I did an Alaska cruise on a Princess cruise ship May 2023. I was on the Sapphire Princess. The cruise started at the end of April.

When you go to the dining room for dinner and receive the menu, local Alaska cuisine is also marked as “local eats Alaska flavors” so look for a special symbol for that too!

Below are screenshots from the Princess app, and the Alaska food is not specifically marked.

Some do say it’s “Alaskan” but there is also other Alaska-inspired food that’s not necessarily called “Alaskan” in its name. (And there are some menu items that if it’s not listed as “Alaskan” I’m not sure if it is Alaskan-inspired! Some are more obvious than others.)

Day 1: Vancouver embarkation day menu, April 29

Alaska-inspired dinner food on a Princess cruise to Alaska includes house-made gravlax of wild Alaskan salmon, pan-fried Alaskan cod, Bering seafood stew, Alaskan ale-braised short ribs, and seared wild Alaskan sockeye salmon.

Alaska-inspired desserts on a Princess cruise to Alaska includes warm Alaskan blueberry cobbler and gelato baked Alaska.

Day 2: Sea day, formal night menu, April 30

Alaska-inspired dinner food on a Princess cruise to Alaska includes Alaskan crab cake, Alaskan-caught halibut with prosciutto, and seared wild Alaskan sockeye salmon with cold water shrimp.

Day 3: Sea day menu, May 1

Alaska-inspired dinner cruise on a Princess cruise to Alaska includes wild coho Alaskan salmon and seared wild Alaskan sockeye salmon with cold water shrimp.

Day 4: Hubbard Glacier scenic cruising sea day menu, May 2

Alaska-inspired dinner food on a Princess cruise to Alaska includes hot smoked Alaskan steelhead salmon cocktail, warm Alaskan shrimp and spinach dip, fishermans clam chowder, parmesan and panko baked cod, vermouth-steamed clams with shrimp, and seared wild Alaskan sockeye salmon orange dill gremolata.

Day 5: Icy Strait Point port day menu, May 3

Alaska-inspired dinner food on a Princess cruise to Alaska includes cream of wild Alaskan mushroom soup, seared flounder with Alaskan cold water shrimp, and seared wild Alaskan sockeye salmon with red wine reduction.

Day 6: Juneau port day menu, May 4

Alaska-inspired dinner food on a Princess cruise to Alaska includes wild Alaskan spot prawn cocktail, Alaskan-style fish stew, and seared wild Alaskan sockeye salmon orange dill gremolata.

Read more for doing an Alaska cruise port on your own: Bus to Mendenhall Glacier

Day 7: Skagway port day, May 5

The menu never showed up on the app for me so I didn’t get any screenshots.

I went down to see the paper version of the menu and it had “local eats Hawaii flavors” printed down at the bottom.

But I did see seared wild Alaskan sockeye salmon on the menu.

Read more for doing an Alaska cruise port on your own: Yakutania Point

Day 8: Glacier Bay scenic cruising sea day, “dress to impress” night aka formal night menu, May 6

Although I didn’t get a screenshot of it, I am assuming that filet mignon and lobster tail was available for an additional fee on this formal night as well.

Day 9: Sitka port day menu, May 7

Read more for your Alaska cruise: Things to do in Sitka

Day 10: Ketchikan port day menu, May 8

Read more for doing an Alaska cruise port on your own: Bus to Totem Bight State Park

Day 11: Sea day menu, last dinner of the cruise menu, May 9

How to see the dinner menu on your cruise

You’ll be able to see the dinner menu once you are on your cruise.

You can use the Princess app to see the menu for that evening.

👆 Next screen: Go to “explore dining options”

The Princess app is how you will choose your cruise boarding time and look for cruise entertainment, including Alaska-specific cruise activities.

The Princess app is also how you can make reservations in one of the main dining rooms.

You can make reservations before you get on the cruise ship.

👆 You will choose the dining room that you want to make a dinner reservation for. You will have the option of choosing a private table or a shared table, if available. There are limited spots available for each time slot.

👆 When you go to “dine my way” you may also see an option to do a quick booking for the same time every night, instead of having to individually make a reservation for each day.

If you’re making dining reservations far in advance, you’ll want to check back once it gets closer to your cruise (and once you are on your cruise) to see that your dining time hasn’t changed.

Sometimes they will change it on you, and you won’t be notified about the change.

You can also go to the main dining room without a reservation.

You might need to wait for a table to open up.

How long you need to wait will just depend on how many people are having dinner at the time you go.

You can think of it as though you are going to a regular restaurant.

I went to the main dining room twice during my Alaska cruise.

Both times were after 8pm and without reservations.

I was hoping it would be less busy at that time.

The first dining room dinner was on the first day of the cruise.

While I was seated relatively quickly, I feel like it took a bit of time for my order to be taken, and it seemed like food took a little longer to come out.

The second dining room dinner was in the middle of the cruise, not a formal night.

I was seated relatively quickly, my order was taken relatively quickly, and the food came out relatively quickly.

I would also imagine formal nights would be more busy.

Once you are on the cruise ship, you can also use the TV in your room to see the dinner menu.

Once you are on your cruise ship, you can also go down to the dining room and see the menu for that evening posted out in front.

And that’s to give you an idea of what type of food might be on your Alaska cruise!

I was on a Princess cruise to Alaska in April and May 2023. Your experience may vary!

HAPPY EATING ALASKA FOOD ON YOUR PRINCESS CRUISE!

• cruise luggage tags
• no-surge power strip
• basic binoculars for wildlife watching on glacier sea days
• cocktail dress for formal night
• What is embarkation day like? Sample: Vancouver embarkation day
• What is disembarkation like? Sample: Vancouver disembarkation and Whittier disembarkation
• Dinner food menu on my Alaska cruise
• Best whale watching in Alaska
• Best dog sledding in Alaska (on a glacier, on snow, in summer!)
• Snorkeling in Alaska 😂
• Deadliest Catch tour (as seen on TV!)
• Juneau icefield seaplane + Taku Glacier Lodge salmon bake
• Nugget Falls in Tongass National Forest (Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area)
• Helicopter + glacier walk to see blue ice
• Klondike Highway to Fraser BC + White Pass summit train
• What I did on another Skagway cruise ship arrival: Dog sledding and Yakutania Point
• Totem Bight State Historical Park
• Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness seaplane + wilderness landing
• Creek Street
• Icy Strait Point to Hoonah
• Sitka National Historical Park totem poles
• Things to do in Sitka
• What is it like: Glacier Bay National Park from a cruise ship
• This was not available on my early season cruise: Hubbard Glacier excursion (yes, you can get off the ship on a sea day! available until early September... if it's not already sold out!)
• Tips for first Princess cruise (getting familiar with Princess food + more!)
• Ideas for your first Alaska cruise

Princess cruise food: The ultimate guide to restaurants and dining on board

Booked on a Princess cruise ? Then it's time to start figuring out your dining strategy. With everything from casual seafood shacks and barbecue joints to refined steakhouses, sushi bars and even experiential, sensory dining, the food on Princess Cruises has something to pique everyone's palate, from those looking to indulge to guests who want to stick to a healthy diet at sea .

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Alfredo's/Gigi's Pizzeria by Alfredo/Alfredo's Pizzeria

Fixed price or a la carte

If one pizzeria isn't enough, Princess has another option. Alfredo's and Gigi's are sit-down pizzerias with decor inspired by the colors and vibe of Amalfi Coast. The venues serve authentic Neapolitan pizza made from scratch.

Available on: Coral, Diamond, Discovery, Enchanted, Grand, Island, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Sapphire, Sky, Sun Princess

Related: Which line has the best cruise pizza? I tasted slices from 7 brands

Burger & Hot Dog Grill

Included, but a la carte pricing applies for a few menu items on select ships

This poolside American grill serves up hamburgers, hot dogs and french fries.

Available on: Coral, Diamond, Island, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Sapphire

Chopsticks Noodle Bar

Chopsticks is a casual spot with a rotating menu of cooked-to-order Asian fare. Options include wonton noodle soup and wok-fried dishes like Sichuan dan-dan noodles.

Available on: Majestic Princess

Horizon Court/World Fresh Marketplace

All Princess cruise ships feature a buffet restaurant, called World Fresh Marketplace on some ships and Horizon Court on others. Either way, the buffet is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The ever-changing options include regional specialties, comfort food, fresh fruit, salads, vegetables and desserts.

Available on: All ships

Related: Cruise ship buffet taboos: 10 things you should never do at mealtime

Sushi and sashimi specialties, appetizers, nigiri and maki rolls including tempura shrimp, spicy tuna and hamachi scallion are available separately or in a set menu or combination at Kai Sushi.

Available on: Diamond Princess, Sun Princess

Main dining room

Princess Cruises' main dining rooms offer a waiter-served, sit-down dining experience. Multicourse menus of global cuisine are offered for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Some options change daily, but a selection of "Princess Favorites" signature dishes is always available.

Ocean Terrace Sushi/Seafood Bar

Overlooking the Piazza, this sushi and sashimi bar was inspired by the view of the ocean. Starters, sushi, sashimi, raw, cooked and torched rolls are available a la carte.

Available on: Discovery, Enchanted, Regal, Royal, Sky Princess

O'Malley's Irish Pub

A contemporary Irish pub with traditional tunes and interactive entertainment, O'Malley's serves pub fare like pan-fried Guinness chicken, ribeye burgers, Scotch eggs and fried pickles.

Available on: Enchanted Princess, Sun Princess

This casual, rustic eatery serves ample portions of barbecued meats, including pulled pork, tri-top, smoked sausage, smoked chicken and pork ribs, along with sides, sauces, salads and more.

Available on: Caribbean Princess, Emerald Princess

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Reserve Collection dining

Included for guests in Reserve Collection cabins

Passengers booked in Reserve Collection cabins can access an exclusive area of the main dining room with a private entrance, expedited seating, no reservations required and a dedicated waitstaff. On Star Princess and Sun Princess, Reserve Collection Dining also includes access to a private restaurant.

Salty Dog Gastropub

The Salty Dog Gastropub features handhelds like burgers, chicken sandwiches and grilled cheese, as well as elevated takes on comfort food including lobster mac and cheese and stout-braised short ribs. It's located inside the Wheelhouse Bar on certain days.

Available on: Crown, Discovery, Emerald, Ruby Princess, Sapphire, Grand, Coral, Island Princess

Salty Dog Grille/Cafe

The famous Hilton Head, South Carolina eatery takes to the seas on Princess Cruises. This casual poolside restaurant is a great pitstop between dips. Order from their menu of craft burgers (including a veggie burger), sandwiches, chicken strips, street tacos, loaded fries and hot dogs.

Available on: Caribbean, Crown, Discovery, Emerald, Enchanted, Grand, Ruby, Sky Princess

Related: Which line has the best cruise burger? Here are TPG's top picks

This poolside pizzeria has plenty of pie options, including thin crust and deep dish, as well as stromboli and avocado and caprese toasts.

Steamers Seafood

At this casual eatery, you can satisfy your seafood craving with steamed shellfish pots with mussels, scallops, kielbasa and corn on the cob. The most popular pot arrives with broiled scallops, shrimp and crab-stuffed flounder; lobster and crab can be added to any dish.

Vines Wine Bar

Located in the Atrium, with an extensive list of wines and Champagnes, Vines Wine Bar serves light bites, including antipasti and tapas.

Available on: Caribbean, Crown, Emerald, Grand, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Ruby, Sapphire, Sky Princess

Bayou Cafe & Steakhouse

Fixed price

Prime steaks and seafood are served in a laid-back, New Orleans-inspired setting, with live music on select nights. Highlights include Chilean sea bass with king prawns, New York strip and New Zealand rosemary double lamb chops.

Available on: Coral Princess, Island Princess

Related: The best cruise ship steakhouses and steak-serving restaurants

The Catch by Rudi

Seafood-focused collaboration with renowned Austrian chef Rudi Sodamin featuring playful takes on sustainable seafood like Asian-fried calamari, lobster with garlic butter crust and tiered shellfish towers. Order the Salzburger Nockerl for dessert; it's a can't-miss Austrian souffle baked over tangy fruit jam.

Available on: Discovery, Enchanted, Majestic, Sky, Sun Princess

Churrascaria Brazilian Grill

Servers carve grilled meats including picanha, sirloin, lamb, linguica and sausage tableside at this South American-inspired steakhouse. Round out your meal with options from the teeming salad bar.

Available on: Diamond Princess

A rustic seafood pop-up, Crab Shack will serve casual starters including popcorn shrimp and Manhattan clam chowder, as well as steamed and boiled pots of shellfish, potatoes, corn and herbs.

Available on: Forthcoming, ships to be announced

Crown Grill

Princess' signature steak and seafood house with a theater-style open kitchen is a perennial favorite with guests. On the menu are aged and hand-cut steaks and chops, seafood and a selection of salts curated from around the world to sprinkle on dishes.

Available on: Caribbean, Crown, Discovery, Emerald, Enchanted, Grand, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Ruby, Sky, Sun Princess

Related: 7 reasons you should treat yourself to a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Harmony is a contemporary Chinese restaurant with a five-course menu of dishes. Highlights include Peking duck salad, braised pork belly ribs with star anise and fried rice with scallops.

Sabatini's Italian Trattoria

At the cruise line's signature Italian restaurant, traditional flavors meld with regional influences. Handmade pastas like pappardelle alla Bolognese are joined by ossobuco Milanese, heirloom cheeses and air-cured salume.

Available on: Caribbean, Coral, Crown, Diamond, Discovery, Emerald, Enchanted, Grand, Island, Regal, Royal, Ruby, Sapphire, Sky, Sun Princess

Sterling Steakhouse

This premium chophouse features high-quality cuts of meat from corn-fed beef, including Kansas City strip, filet mignon, Madeira-glazed veal and surf and turf, served with shareable sides like loaded baked potatoes and sauteed wild mushrooms. (Sterling Steakhouse is similar to the Crown Grill, but the two steakhouses have different menus.)

Available on: Sapphire Princess

Love by Britto

Princess Cruises has collaborated with Romero Britto, the Brazilian artist known for his bold and joyful style, to create a seven-course, prix fixe artistic-inspired dining experience on its newest ship. Standout dishes include oysters with Champagne pearls, Wagyu Chateaubriand Rossini and hot chocolate souffle with hot Bing cherries.

Available on: Sun Princess

Umai Teppanyaki

Your meal at Umai Teppanyaki is a three-act show of Japanese cuisine prepared on an iron teppan grill. Starters include pork belly yakitori and spicy tuna on the rocks, followed by dishes like black cod in soy reduction and filet mignon with Champagne Cognac flambe and a chocolate bento box.

Related: 12 dining mistakes you must fix on your next cruise

The Butcher's Block by Dario

The Butcher's Block is another collaboration, this time a partnership with renowned eighth-generation butcher Dario Cecchini, who owns a butcher shop and restaurants in the Tuscan village of Panzano, Italy. Enjoy a meal of his signature cuts of meat at one large shared table with friends old and new.

360: An Extraordinary Experience

This seven-course, wine-paired dinner is enhanced by immersive technology, including a 360-degree projection screen displaying scenes of the Mediterranean and additional images projected onto the tabletop. You'll find yourself as captivated by the food as the music and storytelling that will virtually transport you to Santorini, the Amalfi Coast, Barcelona and Provence. The dining experience is invite-only, so if you're not some kind of VIP (suite guest, top-tier loyalty program member, casino high roller and the like), don't expect you will be able to dine here.

Available on: Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess

Chef's Table/Chef's Table Lumiere

Fixed price (with or without wine)

The Chef's Table is a unique culinary experience that kicks off with Champagne and hors d'oeuvres and a stroll through the kitchen to meet the executive chef, followed by a multicourse dinner paired with wines. For Chef's Table Lumiere, the table is surrounded by a curtain of lights after guests are seated.

Available on: Caribbean, Coral, Crown, Diamond, Emerald, Grand, Island, Ruby, Sapphire Princess (Chef's Table); Discovery, Enchanted, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Sky Princess (Chef's Table Lumiere)

Balcony Breakfast/Dinner

Start or end the day with an intimate, romantic meal for two served on your cabin balcony. Dinner is a four-course affair including hors d'oeuvres, lobster and steak and your choice of beverages.

Caymus Winemaker's Dinner

During this intimate dining event, a five-course dinner is paired with wines from Chuck Wagner's Napa Valley winery, Caymus Vineyards. This recently launched experience for just 12 guests is offered two to three times per sailing.

Silverado Winemaker's Dinner

A collaboration with winemaker Jon Emmerich of Silverado Vineyards, this dinner pairs five courses (not including a palate cleanser) with the Napa Valley winery's sauvignon blanc and cabernet sauvignon.

Available on: Discovery, Enchanted, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Sky Princess

Princess cruise dining FAQ

Is food on Princess Cruises included?

Sit-down meals in the main dining room, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, are always included on a Princess cruise, and the menu varies somewhat daily. Also included is a buffet, either called World Fresh Marketplace or Horizon Court, depending on the ship, as well as fast casual and grab-and-go spots on board that serve pizza, tacos, burgers, pastries and ice cream.

Specialty restaurants including Crown Grill, Princess's steak and seafood house, and Sabatini's, the signature Italian restaurant, require a surcharge that's priced at a flat rate per adult or child; some menu items also require an additional surcharge no matter the age of the guest.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships and itineraries

Are drinks included on Princess cruise ships?

Select beverages are always included: iced tea, hot tea, brewed coffee, hot chocolate, milk, fruit juice, lemonade and tap water. Everything else, including soft drinks, wine, beer, cocktails, spirits and specialty coffees, must either be purchased a la carte or through one of the cruise line's beverage packages .

Do I need reservations?

Reservations are encouraged for the main dining room and the specialty restaurants, and it's best to make them as early as possible ; walk-in parties will be accommodated on a space-available basis. Guests can make reservations via the Princess MedallionClass app or at guest services once you're on board. If you wish to eat at the same time every night, you can do so by reserving your tables in advance.

Platinum and Elite Captain's Circle members have early access to reservations. Passengers booked in a Full Suite or Reserve Collection Mini-Suite don't need to make dining reservations as they will always be accommodated; they also have access to a dedicated space in the main dining room with expedited seating and an expanded menu.

Does Princess Cruises have an evening dress code?

"Smart casual" attire will be appropriate for the main dining room, buffet and fast-casual restaurants. You might want to pack something dressier for the specialty restaurants or one of the more upscale dining experiences like Chef's Table, 360 or a winemaker dinner.

On sailings that are five nights or longer, there will be one or more formal nights, which do require adhering to a dress code in the dining venues . Cocktail dresses, evening gowns or dressy pantsuits are appropriate for women, while dark suits, tuxedos or dinner jackets and slacks are required for men , along with dressy footwear. If you don't want to dress up or forgot appropriate attire, you're welcome to dine at the buffet or any of the other casual dining options on board during formal night.

Is there assigned seating in the main dining room?

There is currently no assigned seating at any dining venues on board Princess ships; however, that is changing for cruises departing on or after September 14. For those sailings, guests can choose between traditional seating (with assigned dining times, tables, tablemates and waiters in the main dining room) or flexible seating. Within flexible seating, passengers can either make reservations to dine at a specific time on any given night or walk in when they're hungry to access the first available table.

Until September, Princess will not offer assigned seating, and guests can choose to make reservations or not for the main dining room. If you are a solo diner or part of a couple or small group, your host might ask if you would like to sit with another party of a similar size in the main dining room; the choice is up to you.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

You can use the Cruise Personalizer to indicate your dietary preferences, including requests for low-sodium, low-fat, low-sugar and vegetarian diets. Kosher meals and baby food are available with advanced written requests. If you have allergies or medical needs related to food, you must inform Princess in writing — check the line's website for more details. Princess Cruises also recently introduced a series of vegan menus for dinner in the main dining room, including starters, soups, salads, pastas and main dishes.

Where can I get snacks on board?

You'll find lots of spots to grab a quick bite, dessert or coffee, including Coffee & Cones, Patisserie, Swirls Ice Cream Bar, The Pastry Shop, International Cafe and Gelateria — options vary depending on the ship. Food at these venues is included, but there is a charge for specialty coffees and teas unless you have a beverage package.

Is room service included on Princess Cruises?

Guests can use the designated button on their cabin's phone to order room service 24 hours a day; each order incurs a $5 delivery fee, which is waived for those with Princess Plus or Princess Premier status.

You can also use the OceanNow feature in the Princess Medallion Class app to order food to be delivered to your cabin or anywhere else on the ship, like the pool deck. This feature is included with Princess Plus and Princess Premium; otherwise, there is a one-time access fee of $14.99 per person per voyage and a $5 delivery fee per order. Food and beverage surcharges may apply for some items ordered via room service.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• Alaska / Food and Drink

Where to Eat at Every Port on your Cruise to Alaska

by Prof. Cruise · Published December 29, 2023 · Updated December 29, 2023

Introduction

The idea for this post came from Paul Thornton (who refers to me as “Professor Alaska”) during an interview I did with him for his popular cruising podcast, The Joy of Cruising . He was right to notice that none of my dozens of Alaska posts and guides focus on where to eat at port. There’s a reason for that (obvious to those who know me well) – I’m too cheap to eat at port very often, usually opting to partake of the included meals on the ship for which I’ve already paid through my cruise fare. However, I understand that experiencing local food is an essential part of the cruising experience for many, especially in Alaska, so I’ve spent the last few months researching, reading reviews, reaching out to locals at each port, polling my followers, and reflecting back on my 12 years of cruising dozens and dozens of times to Alaska in order to compile this list. So while I haven’t experienced every location or dish firsthand, I’m confident it will guide you toward some delicious local specialties. Of course, if you have others to recommend, please feel free to do so in the comments so we can all learn from each other. Bon appétit!

INDEX (skip to):

Icy Strait Point Juneau Ketchikan Seward Sitka Skagway

Where to eat in Icy Strait Point on your cruise to Alaska

Both of the restaurants I’m recommending for Icy Strait Point are actually located in the nearby village of Hoonah, known for being the largest Tlingit village in Alaska. Getting to Hoonah involves either a long (gorgeous) walk or an inexpensive shuttle ride (last time I checked it was $5 roundtrip). While I wouldn’t recommend the “touristy” restaurants located near the cruise ship docks (Duck Point Smokehouse, The Crab House, and The Cookhouse Restaurant), if you’d rather stay close to your ship and eat at one, know that they are all owned and operated by the local Tlingit tribe with all profits directly supporting the community. So with all that in mind, here are my two recommended dining experiences in Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)…

HOONAH BEACH HOUSE

Hoonah Beach House 155 Front St, Hoonah, AK 99829 (907) 723-3986 www.hoonahbeachhouse.com

Located in a stunning location right on the bay with outdoor deck seating, Hoonah Beach House offers some of the freshest seafood you will ever eat. Why? Because it’s caught the same day (you may be surprised to know that much of the seafood served in Alaska is frozen) and prepared by the owners, Todd and Srisa! Note that the menu varies depending on what they’ve caught (crab, salmon, halibut, etc) and that dungeness crab season starts in mid June. Another thing that makes this restaurant unique is Srisa’s background as a Thai chef. Be sure to order the Thai iced tea and try your crab with some Thai dipping sauce (butter is also available for the less adventurous among us).

OSO GORDITO

Oso Cordito 335 Harbor Dr., Hoonah, AK 99829 (907) 723-6228 www.osogordito.com/

My second recommendation for Hoonah, Oso Gordito, is a food truck with “A Taste of Texas” painted on the side and may seem an odd choice for Alaska, but hear me out. Owned and operated by local residents Brayden (who grew up in Alaska) and Sarah (who grew up in Texas), this local gem offers a small menu of Mexican cuisine featuring fresh Alaskan seafood. They source all their seafood from Silver Tip Seafoods, a family-owned business that has been operating in the waters of Southeast Alaska for over 30 years. All seafood is certified as well-managed and sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council. Here’s the menu (check their website for the most up-to-date pricing):

There is plenty of outdoor seating and I recommend ordering the halibut tacos .

Where to eat in Juneau on your cruise to Alaska

From pub fare with an Alaskan flare to king crab, that I have four recommendations for Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, all located right downtown near the cruise piers. First up, a favorite among locals and tourists alike, Deckhand Dave’s.

DECKHAND DAVE’S

Deckhand Dave’s 139 South Franklin St., Juneau, AK 99801 (907) 957-2005 www.deckhanddaves.com/

Deckhand Dave’s, known for wild Alaskan fish tacos, is owned and operated by a former deckhand and cook in Alaska’s commercial fishing industry. The permanent food truck offers outdoor dining and is located near several other food trucks you can also hit for dessert and drinks (I recommend Alaskan Crepe Escape or Captains S’more & Brew ). At Dave’s I recommend the 3 fish sampler tacos (so you can taste each of the different fish options) and the dirty fries .

Here’s the menu (prices change, so double check the menu when you arrive):

HANGER ON THE WHARF

Hanger on the Wharf 2 Marine Way, Suite 106, Juneau, AK 99801 (907) 586-5018 www.hangaronthewharf.com/

Located inside Historic Merchants Wharf, Hanger on the Wharf originally served as an aircraft hangar for washing, fueling, and repairing float planes flying in and out of downtown Juneau and continues to honor Southeast Alaska’s aviation history. It offers an extensive menu featuring wild Alaskan seafood, hand-cut steaks, burgers, pastas, soups and salads, and king crab. A full-service bar serves up over 125 beers with a selection of locally and regionally brewed Alaskan beers.  I’d recommend the chowder in a sourdough bread bowl and the king crab legs . Go HERE for the full menu.

RED DOG SALOON

Red Dog Saloon 278 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801 (907) 463-3658 www.reddogsaloon.com

Upon entering through the swinging doors, you’ll instantly feel like you’ve been transported back to Juneau’s mining era – sawdust floors, stuffed animals mounted on the wooden walls, live country music, and waitresses in authentic saloon dresses. This well-know spot enjoys a rich history described on the restaurant’s website as follows:

This world famous saloon has provided hospitality and fellowship to weary travelers and local patrons alike. Early day proprietors, Earl and Thelma (Pederson) Forsythe provided dancing and long time entertainer “Ragtime Hattie” played the piano in her white gloves and silver dollar halter top. During territorial days, during his tenure of over twenty years as owner, Gordie Kanouse would meet tour boats with his mule that wore a sign saying “follow my ass to the Red Dog Saloon”. In the early seventies the Harris family bought the saloon and continued to grow and protect the priceless collection of furs, guns and antiques. The Red Dog Saloon has had several different locations here in town. Originally the saloon was located about 2 blocks up Franklin street and later across the street next to the Alaskan Hotel. In 1988 the saloon was moved, intact, to this site. Great care was given to replacing most everything to its original place within the room. The Kanouse family, back in the late 40’s began luring the tourist customers from the arriving steamships.  Some old timers tell us the Red Dog Saloon used to be just a tent on the beach during the mining heydays. In 2008, the saloon was purchased by a group of local Juneauites who continue the tradition of providing hospitality, fellowship and entertainment to weary travelers and local patrons alike. In 2012 the saloon was expanded slightly and connected to the new larger Red Dog Mercantile which carries a wide variety of Red Dog souvenirs and apparel. Today the local owners of the Red Dog Saloon continue to work to improve and enhance the experience behind those swinging doors and above those sawdust floors and hope to see you soon at the world famous Red Dog Saloon! https://www.reddogsaloon.com/about-us/

The Red Dog Saloon is actually best known for their “duck fart” shot (Irish cream, coffee liqueur, and Canadian whiskey). Try at least one so you can text your kids or grandkids: “Guess what? I just tried a duck fart!” If you’re looking for food to go with your duck fart, I’d recommend the gold rush nachos with beef brisket or the Nunivak reindeer sausage sandwich . Check the website for the current menu (it changes seasonally).

TRACY’S KING CRAB SHACK

Tracy’s King Crab Shack 432 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801 (907) 790-2722 kingcrabshack.com/

Since opening in 2006, Tracy’s King Crab Shack, located along the downtown waterfront, has been among the most popular tourist destinations in Juneau. If you want to splurge on one Alaskan dining experience, make it this one. Charge a bucket of red king crab legs to your credit card and worry about paying it off later! The crab is delicious and that photo you post to social media will make your friends and family back home crabby with envy (see what I did there).

Here’s the menu (double check current pricing on the website ):

Where to eat in Ketchikan on your cruise to Alaska

Ketchikan is a quaint town full of interesting history and many sights and restaurants within walking distance of the downtown cruise piers (note that if you’re on an NCL ship, you will dock at Ward Cove and will need to take a free shuttle bus into downtown Ketchikan to eat at any of my suggested restaurants). If you like chowder, crab, or fish and chips, you’ll definitely want to stop at one of my three recommendations in Ketchikan.

ANNABELLE’S FAMOUS KEG AND CHOWDER HOUSE

Annabelle’s Famous Keg and Chowder House 326 Front St, Ketchikan, AK 99901 (907) 225-6009 www.annabellesketchikan.com

While the service at Annabelle’s can be a little spotty at peak hours during the height of the cruise season and I wouldn’t recommend it for crab (because I have a better spot, which we’ll get to next), it’s worth a visit for the Three Chowder Sampler (clam, smoked salmon, and seafood) and some local Alaskan beer or a Bloody Mary . Annabelle’s is also a good choice if your group has diverse food preferences (there are many non-seafood items as well as gluten free and vegetarian options). Annabelle’s is conveniently located a short walk from where the cruise ships dock downtown (or where the shuttle buses drop off NCL passengers coming from Ward Cove). Check the website for the current menu (it changes seasonally).

KETCHIKAN CRAB & GO

Ketchikan Crab & Go 5 Salmon Landing, Ketchikan, AK 99901 ketchikancrabandgo.com

Ketchikan Crab and Go is owned by husband and wife team, Gerry and Madison. They met when Gerry, a South African native who was working in the yachting industry, docked in Ketchikan with his crew and hit a local bar where Madison was working as a bar tender. Five years later they were married in South Africa with a dream to return to Ketchikan to open a king crab restaurant (Madison’s family owns the “Aleutian Ballad,” a king crab fishing boat featured in Season 2 of “The Deadliest Catch” and they operate the “Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour.”). And the rest they say is…Ketchikan Crab & Go! You’ll spend less time standing in line for a table here than at the Alaska Fish House located next door (which I’ll discuss next) and the king crab and halibut fish and chips are outstanding .

ALASKA FISH HOUSE

Alaska Fish House 3 Salmon Landing, Ketchikan, AK 99901 (907) 247-4055 exclusivealaska.com/fish-house

The Alaska Fish House is among the most popular dining spots in Ketchikan for cruise ship passengers and will have a line to prove it (so pad your schedule with an extra 30 minutes or so if you plan to eat there). It’s conveniently located across from the downtown cruise ship piers and near the Lumberjack show. You will order at the counter from a modest menu before finding a seat either inside or outside depending on availability. Must tries include the smoked salmon chowder and the fish and chips (go with the sampler if you want to try all three varieties). There isn’t much there for non-seafood lovers, but there’s a decent burger and a green salad or you can steal some coleslaw and fries (both excellent) from a travel companion who orders the fish and chips.

Where to eat in Seward on your cruise to Alaska

While most cruisers to Alaska won’t stop in Seward, those lucky enough to be on a one-way itinerary that embarks or debarks in Seward are in for a treat. This small coastal town, set on an inlet on the Kenai Peninsula, is breathtaking beautiful and features some outstanding local restaurants. Here are my three recommendations:

SEWARD BREWING COMPANY

Seward Brewing Company 139 4th Ave, Seward, AK 99664 (907) 422-0337 www.sewardbrewery.com

Come for the views (try to snag a spot upstairs) and stay for a burger or hot chicken sandwich (note that sides aren’t included, so you’ll have to pay extra for fries, a salad, or the side of the day) and some beer, brewed onsite (there’s also a house-made root beer, if you don’t like beer beer or don’t drink).

THE COOKERY

The Cookery 209 5th Ave, Seward, AK 99664 (907) 422-7459 www.cookeryseward.com

The Cookery is a highly rated farm-to-table restaurant located in an old saloon. Their philosophy is, “if there is anything in-house we can do, we do it, from house-cured bacon to creamy homemade ice cream and tangy smoked salmon filets.” They even forage their own mushrooms and fiddleheads. Must-try menu items include the mushroom toast, salmon, and oysters.

THE PORTHOLE

The Porthole 1400 4th Ave, Seward, AK 99664 (907) 422-7335 www.theporthole907.com

This woman-owned food truck was born from a need for early morning breakfast options in Seward Harbor. Since 2020 Captains, deckhands, tourists, and locals have been devouring hearty breakfast burritos, biscuits and gravy, and breakfast sandwiches , among other regular breakfast, brunch, and lunch options and daily specials.

Check their website for the current menu and hours of operation as they seem to change frequently.

Where to eat in Sitka on your cruise to Alaska

Sitka, located on Baranof Island, was originally a Tlingit Indian village. In 1804 Russian explorers and traders took control of Sitka following a battle with the Tlingit and then in 1867 Russia sold Alaska to the United States – the transfer ceremony taking place in Sitka, which served as the territorial capital until 1906. Visitor’s to Sitka today can visit both Tlingit and Russian cultural sights and can sample Russian dumplings at one of my two recommended local restaurants. We’ll get to that in a minute, but first, Beak…

Beak 2 Lincoln St #1A, Sitka, AK 99835 (907) 966-2326 beakrestaurant.com

There are several noteworthy things about Beak in Sitka. First, the owner and chef, Chef Renée, was named one of only twenty semifinalists for the 2023 “James Beard Best Chef Award”   for the Pacific Northwest region. Second, Beak was featured on an episode of David Moscow’s “From Scratch.” And third, the restaurant is gratuity-free and committed to providing a fair and living wage to employees. Any tips received are donated to local charities. The restaurant receives rave reviews from both locals and tourists. Recommended items include the salmon chowder, Sitka salmon slab, rockfish tacos, and the Alaskan reindeer sausage. There are also vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options available.

PEL’MENI

Pel’Meni 303 Lincoln St ste 1, Sitka, AK 99835 (907) 623-0773 No website

As promised, you can visit Pel’Meni to sample Russian dumplings, available with two different filling options: potato or beef. They come topped with butter, Sriracha vinaigrette, curry powder, and cilantro and include a side of sour cream and bread. This is a great option if you want to taste some local food, but don’t want to spend a week’s salary to do it and want to save room for the dinner you’ve already paid for on your ship.

Where to eat in Skagway on your cruise to Alaska

Skagway is home to just over 1,000 permanent residents, but welcomes over 1 million tourists, mostly arriving via cruise ships, every year. It is best known as a former Gold Rush town, restored to offer a glimpse back to an earlier time, but with the requisite diamonds, fudge, and novelty t-shirts to make it quickly come into focus as a popular cruise port. The most well-known place to eat in Skagway is the Red Onion Saloon, but if dining in a loud, crowded saloon isn’t your vibe, I’ll offer two alternatives as well.

RED ONION SALOON

Red Onion Saloon 201 Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840 (907) 983-2414 www.redonion1898.com

The Red Onion Saloon was opened in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush as a bordello for miners. Today it doubles as a restaurant and bar on the ground floor and a brothel museum upstairs. While the restaurant is known more for it’s history and ambiance than the quality of the food, you can get a good bowl of chili and some decent pizza here (skip the nachos).

SKAGWAY BREWING COMPANY

Skagway Brewing Company 204 4th Ave, Skagway, AK 99840 (907) 983-2739 www.skagwaybrewing.com

For higher quality pub fare, hit the Skagway Brewing Company for the s almon sandwich, fish and chips, or reindeer chili dog . There are some great vegetarian/vegan and gluten free options too. And if you’re a beer drinker, be sure to order the spruce tip ale.

SKAGWAY FISH COMPANY

Skagway Fish Company 201 Congress Way, Skagway, AK 99840 (907) 983-3474 www.facebook.com/SkagwayFishCo

Conveniently located right near the cruise ship piers, visit the Skagway Fish Company for some halibut fish and chips, Alaskan king crab legs, or king crab bisque . Get there early if you can as it gets crowded later in the afternoon.

Whether you’re feasting on king crab legs at port (which is how my husband likes to cruise to Alaska) or surviving for a solid week on nothing but complimentary soft serve (which is how my son prefers to cruise to Alaska and, everywhere, for that matter), I wish you a beautiful, enriching, and, most of all, delicious cruise to Alaska! And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Have questions about cruising to Alaska? Get all of them answered here:

First Time Cruisers to Alaska: Answers to 10 Common Questions

Today’s Bonus Cruising Tip

I ALWAYS buy  travel insurance  (especially during these uncertain times) to cover my cruises, but I  NEVER purchase it through a cruise line. It costs more and usually covers less than policies you purchase on your own. I go through sites like  travelinsurance.com  to compare plans and prices and get the best deal for the coverage I want.  Spend less on insurance  and spend more on excursions, special onboard cruise experiences and…future cruises!

Homework (10 points):  Share to the comments any questions you have about dining on your cruise to Alaska or if you’ve cruised there before, share your favorite meals.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the blog to receive new Cruising 101 content direct to your e-mail (scroll up to the top right if on a computer or keep scrolling down if on a mobile device) and follow Prof. Cruise on your favorite social media sites:

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Dining on authentic Alaska food in the Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska can be an unforgettable experience. On your next Alaskan cruise , discover these classic restaurants that are beloved by locals.

The Rookery Cafe : Classy Fare with a Cozy Atmosphere in Downtown Juneau

When you're busy in historic downtown Juneau, the Rookery Cafe always feeds the need for a little pick-me-up coffee and croissant. Their burgers are mouthwatering, especially with a side of the must-have mac and cheese or the beet salad with whipped goat cheese. They make their Alaska food with seasonal ingredients that are locally sourced whenever possible (pretty remarkable, considering Juneau's remoteness). They're open from breakfast through dinner.

Location : Rookery Cafe is close to the intersection of Seward and Front Streets (111 Seward St., Juneau, AK 99801).

Tracy's King Crab Shack : Authentic Alaskan Seafood Just Off the Port in Juneau

Everyone has heard of Alaskan king crab, but where can you find some of the best, most mouthwatering seafood in Alaska? Local favorite Tracy's King Crab Shack offers a whole bucket of crab legs served with melted butter. This little no-frills eatery also delights customers with its delicious, creamy crab bisque. It might just be the best seafood you'll eat on your trip to the Inside Passage .

Location : Find Tracy's King Crab Shack near the cruise ship docks (432 S. Franklin St., Juneau, AK 99801).

Bar Harbor Restaurant : A Quaint Dinner Spot That Highlights Local Flavors in the Coastal Town of Ketchikan

Make sure you make reservations if you want to experience this intimate dining experience, where pot roast and vegetarian entrees compete for the hearts of guests. The service is outstanding here, and they work very hard to make you feel at home here at one of our favorite restaurants in Alaska.

Location : You'll find Bar Harbor Restaurant on Tongass Avenue, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue (2813 Tongass Ave., Ketchikan, AK 99901).

Skagway Brewing Company : Great Food + Great Beer = A Great Time

There are few things that Alaskans love more than fish and chips and craft beer. Skagway Brewing Company succeeds at both great seafood and tasty microbrews. Definitely try their beer sampler with the fish and chips combo or dig into one of their seven specialty burgers served with a side of hand-cut fries in order to sample real Alaskan food.

Location : Skagway Brewing Company is one block from the Skagway Museum (7th Ave. and Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840).

Bonanza Bar and Grill

Seafood chowder, live music, karaoke, stand-up, even bingo: the Bonanza Bar and Grill has cold beer on draft, hot food, and plenty of fun with activities that rotate depending on the season. Delicious food and drink, great service and a casual atmosphere make this a great spot to kick back and relax after a day of sightseeing.

Location : Bonanza Bar & Grill is at 3rd, Skagway, AK 99840

Alaska Fish House

If you're in Ketchikan , a visit to the Alaska Fish House is a must. The Alaska Fish House offers freshly prepared seafood including fish and chips, fish burgers, fish tacos, and more. The restaurant's location along on the docks offersviews of the sea from your table. Rest easy knowing you couldn't get a fresher meal unless you caught it yourself!

The Alaska Fish House is located at 3 Salmon Landing, just minutes away from the cruise ship docks.

Can't decide which Inside Passage restaurant you'd like to go to? Try them all! Prepare your taste buds for an Alaska food adventure .

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Alaska , North America , Western US & Canada · June 4, 2023

What to Expect on a Royal Princess Alaska Cruise

An Alaskan cruise is unlike any cruise you’ve ever experienced. The joy is definitely in the journey as much as it is in the destination.

From breathtaking views from your own cruise ship balcony to exciting onboard entertainment, you will love every moment of your trip!

This cruise has been on our bucket list for years now and it lived up to every expectation. 

My great aunt and uncle lived in Juneau for years and always talked about how the views in Alaska would take your breath away. I was so excited for the chance to finally see those views in person!

Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about taking a Royal Princess Alaska cruise!

*Disclosure: This post has been written in partnership with Princess Cruises. All opinions are our own.

Table of Contents

Princess medallion, princess medallionclass app, what are the staterooms like on the royal princess cruise ship, what is the food like on the royal princess cruise ship, sabatini’s italian trattoria, crown grill, ocean terrace, chef’s table lumiere, gelato shop, evening shows and entertainment, “north to alaska” events, swimming pools, spa, and other amenities, is an alaskan cruise good for families, which princess alaska cruise is the best, frequently asked questions:, what is the princess medallionclass.

The Princess MedallionClass is a free tool for all guests to help enhance your experience while on board.

After booking your cruise, you’ll want to download the Princess MedallionClass app onto your mobile device.

You can get started right away by uploading your travel documents and filling in your personal information to help streamline the embarkation process. It saved us so much time when boarding the ship!

Once you complete the Travel Checklist provided on the app, you will be OceanReady and can order your free Medallion to be sent to your home prior to your departure.

You also have the option to pick up the Medallion at the cruise port, but check-in will be expedited if you already have it before you arrive.

Once you arrive at the cruise terminal, you can proceed to the Green Lane if you are OceanReady. This will allow you to get onboard faster and start your vacation!

The Princess Medallion is a quarter-sized device that has truly revolutionized the cruising experience.

It is unique to Princess Cruises and you won’t find anything like it on other ships.

The Medallion comes with a free lanyard, or you can choose to purchase a wearable accessory once you are on board.

Some of the options include a necklace, bracelet, clip, or sports band. We loved the sports band!

All of your information is stored in this little device that is waterproof, sand-proof, and sun-proof.

This is what you will scan when you are getting on and off the ship. It also has several other unique and helpful features.

Your Medallion is what you’ll use to unlock your stateroom door. It is completely touchless and will unlock your door as soon as you approach your room.

Your Medallion also has a location-based feature that acts as a tracker.

If you order a drink or a bite to eat from OceanNow on the Princess app, your server will be able to find you anywhere on the ship to deliver it to you.

We were up on the top deck and ordered a drink but decided to go down to the library to play Scrabble. 

Instead of having to wait for our drink to get delivered, the server was able to find us 9 floors down in the library!

There are also interactive screens, called ship portals, on each level by the elevators.

You can scan your Medallion at the portal and it will pull up a customized screen.

Here you can track your travel companions to see where they are hanging out at on the ship.

Our kids are older and enjoyed having some independence on the ship, so it gave me peace of mind to know where they were.

You can also play a variety of games on the portal with PlayOcean. There is even a digital scavenger hunt around the ship.

PlayOcean is linked to your Medallion so that it keeps track of your score. It even shows the high scores on the ship so that you can compete with others.

The MedallionClass app is also very helpful throughout your cruise.

Here you will find the JourneyView that lists all of the activities offered throughout each day.

It allows you to bookmark the ones you would like to attend so that you don’t miss a single event.

The OceanCompass can be found on the app and will help you find your way around the ship. It also allows you to message or locate friends or family that you are traveling with.

You can even make dining reservations, order food, book excursions, and much more through the app.

Each ship has several room options, including interior rooms, balcony rooms, deluxe balconies, mini-suites, and full-suites.

We booked the mini suite on board the Royal Princess , and it was so spacious and beautiful.

The 323-square-foot suite features a queen bed, or two twin beds, and a sitting area with a couch that converts to a sofa bed.

The bathroom is quite roomy with a full-sized bath and a massage shower head. It also has generous closet space, a desk, a mini fridge, and two flat-screen televisions.

Our favorite feature, however, is the balcony. My number one tip when taking a Princess Alaska cruise is to splurge for a room with a balcony.

There is nothing quite like waking up to the view of a glacier right outside your bedroom or enjoying a peaceful sunset all to yourself.

Each room on the Royal Princess cruise ship also features the Princess Luxury Bed.

These beds were designed with the help of a board-certified sleep expert and offer the ultimate comfort.

The scientifically engineered mattresses are topped with a two-inch pillow top, Jacquard-woven linens, fluffy duvets, and the most comfortable pillow you’ll ever sleep on.

I guarantee that you’ll get a good night’s sleep and wake up feeling refreshed every morning of your cruise!

The rooms are cleaned daily by the attentive staff, and the beds are turned down every evening. They will even set up the sofa bed and take it down each morning.

If you book a suite with the Reserve Collection, you’ll receive additional perks like access to the concierge lounge, premier dining benefits, priority embarking and disembarking, and so much more.

We were so impressed with the food on the Royal Princess! There are so many dining options to choose from, and all the food we tried was so fresh and delicious. 

The Horizon Court buffet features an endless array of fresh dishes from around the world. There are endless options that cater to all tastes. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The dining room is also lined with windows offering great ocean views.

If you want a quick meal on the outdoor deck, head to the Trident Grill for a burger.

Or grab a quick slice of pizza from Prego Pizzeria and a piña colada from the Mermaid’s Tail bar to enjoy poolside.

Our boys also made sure to get a soft-serve ice cream cone from Swirls Ice Cream Bar every day!

Alfredo’s is a cozy pizzeria that serves mouthwatering hand-tossed pizza.

It was even voted “Best Pizza at Sea” by USA Today .

The Royal Princess cruise ship has three main dining rooms, the Symphony, Allegro, and Concerto.

Each evening you will find an extensive menu featuring a wide variety of international dishes made fresh daily. Everything we ordered was absolutely delicious!

Reservations are recommended for the main dining rooms and can be done on the MedallionClass app.

There will be two evenings at sea that are designated as formal nights and it’s a fun excuse to dress up for dinner.

I loved seeing our boys all dressed up, even if they complained about wearing a tie!

Afternoon tea is also held one of the days at sea.

You can order room service 24 hours a day at no extra charge. You can also have food delivered to you wherever you are on the ship through the MedallionClass app.

Is the specialty dining worth it on the Royal Princess?

In addition to the included dining options, there are also specialty restaurants that guests can choose to experience for an additional cover charge.

I would highly recommend making reservations for at least one of the specialty restaurants while at sea.

The elevated dining experience is sure to make your cruise even more memorable.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just looking to make memories together as a family, a specialty dining experience is the perfect way to share that special love!

A few of our favorites include Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, Crown Grill steakhouse, Ocean Terrace seafood bar, and the Chef’s Table Lumiere dinner.

Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria is a family-style restaurant that serves up the freshest authentic Italian cuisine.

It was even voted as one of the “Best Cruise Ship Specialty Restaurants” at sea by USA Today .

Each dish is bursting with flavor, and the presentation is impeccable.

Try one of their signature handmade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, or filet mignon. Be sure to save room for the dessert- the tiramisu will melt in your mouth!

If you are seated by a window, you may even see a whale!

We saw a whale twice during our dinner and it added an extra element of magic to our already memorable night.

Another perk of booking a suite is that suite guests get the privilege of enjoying breakfast at Sabatini’s.

You have to order the Apple Cinnamon Brioche French Toast! The toast was perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside.

Crown Grill is a gourmet American steakhouse specializing in tender steaks right off the grill.

They are also part of Princess Cruise’s award-winning “North to Alaska” program that brings unique Alaskan experiences and fresh Alaskan seafood on board.

The menu features special dishes only found on the Princess Alaska cruises, such as Alaskan Crab Cakes and King Salmon.

I also highly recommend the Surf & Turf with an 8 oz filet mignon and 6-7 oz lobster tail.

If you’re craving even more seafood, head to the sophisticated Ocean Terrace seafood bar.

Here you will find the tastiest fresh sushi and sashimi.

The menu is priced a la carte so you can order your favorite sushi rolls to enjoy while listening to the live music at the adjacent Crooner’s Bar.

If you are celebrating a special event while at sea, I highly recommend reserving a seat at the Chef’s Table Lumiere.

It truly is a memorable dining experience. We enjoyed a nice date night onboard while our youngest had a great time hanging out at Camp Discovery.

The evening will start with champagne and hor d’oeuvres at the Wheelhouse Bar led by the Executive Sous Chef and the Director of Restaurant Operations.

You’ll then proceed to the kitchen where you’ll get an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the galley.

It is fascinating to see what it takes for this amazing staff to prepare and serve over 15,000 dishes per day on the cruise ship!

Then comes the main event. You’ll be escorted to a special table for an intimate culinary experience.

The multi-course tasting dinner is specially created by the Executive Chef and is exclusive to this dining experience.

Each dish is a show-stopper, both in flavor and presentation.

The Executive Chef will even come out between courses to share a little bit about his culinary creations.

Seating is limited for this event, so be sure to make a reservation as soon as you get on board if this is something you are interested in doing.

The Gelato Shop is located near the Piazza and is the best place to go for a sweet treat.

There is a nominal fee for their hand-scooped authentic Italian gelato.

However, if you upgrade to the Princess Plus package, you receive special perks like two free specialty desserts a day.

This includes the gourmet milkshakes from the Gelato Shop that are to die for! Of course, they are best enjoyed with a sunset view from your balcony.

Other perks with the Princess Plus Package include WiFi, fitness classes, a beverage package, and more.

What kind of activities and entertainment are on board the Royal Princess cruise ship?

There is never a shortage of things to do on board the Royal Princess Alaska cruise!

We were especially impressed with the evening shows.

They featured comedians, magicians, and spectacular musical productions in the Princess Theater. Our family’s favorite was the comedian!

The smaller Princess Live Theater hosts trivia and game shows in the evenings and throughout the day.

And if you love karaoke, then head to the Vista Lounge!

The Vista Lounge is also where they hold auditions for The Voice of the Ocean for those that would like to compete on the last night of the cruise.

In the evenings, head up to the top deck for the Movie Under the Stars event.

Here you can cuddle up under a blanket and enjoy popcorn and a movie on the big screen.

There are board games available at the library, or you can also cozy up with a good book.

For those 18 years and older, you can try your luck in a game of Black Jack or a Texas Hold ’em tournament at the Vegas-style casino.

The Royal Princess features entertainment and events that are unique to Alaska.

This includes having naturalists, park rangers, and even lumberjacks on board to give presentations.

One of our favorite Alaska-themed events was Puppies in the Piazza.

During the event, guests learn more about the history of dog sledding and even cuddle Alaskan Husky puppies!

There are a variety of other classes and events that are offered throughout the day. Check JourneyView on the app for a calendar of events.

If it’s a nice day, take a dip in the heated Fountain Pool or Plunge Pool found on the Lido Deck.

There are also several hot tubs to enjoy in the evenings or when it’s a little chilly outside.

Adults will enjoy relaxing in luxury at the exclusive Sanctuary where you can purchase a half or full-day pass.

The Retreat Pool & Bar on the Sun Deck is also a beautiful adults-only space with a heated pool, hot tubs, and poolside cabanas available to rent.

Consider booking a spa treatment from the Lotus Spa while you are at sea. I booked a 75-minute deep tissue massage and it was absolutely heavenly!

For the ultimate in relaxation, purchase a day pass for the Enclave at the Lotus Spa.

This thermal suite features a heated hydro-therapy pool with a rain shower. There is also a Turkish-style steam bath, an aroma steam chamber, and a dry sauna.

Relax and take a nap on the heated stone bed or heated water bed. It will feel so nice after spending a cold day in Alaska!

If you enjoy staying active while on vacation, then you’ll appreciate the fitness center where you’ll find treadmills, weight-lifting machines, a walking track, and other exercise equipment.

Sports enthusiasts will enjoy playing basketball and pickleball on the sports deck. There are also ping pong tables, a golf driving net, and bocce ball.

Check the JourneyView calendar for a list of sports competitions held throughout the day.

The answer to this question is a resounding YES! A cruise is the perfect family vacation.

We have traveled all over the world as a family and my kids said that this was one of their favorite trips ever. It is the perfect way to create lasting memories together as a family!

It is such a great value, considering it includes all of your accommodations, food, entertainment, childcare, and transportation to a different port every day.

There is so much on board to keep everyone of all ages entertained.

Older kids will especially appreciate the freedom to roam around and enjoy the extra independence you won’t find on other vacations.

An Alaskan cruise will also give your kids the opportunity to experience nature and culture with so many amazing excursions available at the ports.

Camp Discovery is the designated kid and teen center onboard the Royal Princess cruise ship. You’ll find spaces geared for 3 different age groups.

The Treehouse is for kids ages 3-7 years.

The Lodge is for kids 8-12.

And the Beach House is a teen hang-out for youth ages 13-17 years.

They are packed with everything kids love including an air hockey table, Skee-ball, foosball, video and computer games, board games, movies, crafts, and more.

The centers are run by the friendly staff and they have so many fun activities planned throughout the day.

Older kids sign themselves in and out with a parent’s permission, but younger kids will need to be signed in and out by a parent for safety reasons.

Parents will especially love being able to enjoy a date night with a quiet dinner and evening show while the kids are having fun at the center.

I will say that an Alaskan cruise is often considered to be geared more toward the older generation.

It is true that you won’t see as many kids onboard, but we also appreciated that there wasn’t the spring break party vibe that you find on many Caribbean cruises.

We still felt like there were plenty of things to do for families and our Alaskan cruise quickly became one of our most memorable family vacations!

There are several different Princess Alaska Cruises to choose from so it may be hard to decide which one is best.

However, there are a few things you need to consider. Including, what port the cruise leaves from, the length of the cruise, and what ports the ship will stop at along the way.

The Princess Alaska cruises generally depart from either Seattle or Vancouver, BC so you’ll need to consider the cost of flights to either cruise terminal when choosing your trip.

You can also choose between a roundtrip cruise or a one-way southbound or northbound cruise.

If you book a one-way cruise, you will be able to experience more of Alaska as you cruise to Anchorage. However, you will also need to get a plane ticket in or out of Anchorage.

The length of the cruise varies from a short 4-day Sampler to a 14-day Grand Adventure. I would recommend a 7-day cruise, especially if it is your first time.

This will give you enough time to fully experience what Alaska has to offer, but it isn’t too long if you are worried about your sea legs.

When considering what ports you would like to visit, the must-see stops (especially on your first trip) are Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.

I would also highly recommend booking a cruise that spends a day cruising through Glacier Bay National Park.

This is one of the most remote national parks that can only be accessed by plane or boat.

Princess Cruises is one of the only cruise lines that has a concession contract to visit the park, and you do not want to miss it!

For recommended things to do at each port, see our guide The Best Alaska Cruise Excursions at Each Port.

We booked the 7-Day Inside Passage (with Glacier Bay National Park) cruise on board the Royal Princess . Click the link to book your unforgettable Alaskan cruise!

• What is the best month to go on an Alaskan cruise? The Alaskan cruise season is relatively short from April-October. However, the best time to go is Mid-May to Mid-September when the weather is warmer and the whales start migrating back to Alaska. Just keep in mind that the weather is better in the summer months, but the rates and crowds are better in the spring and fall.
• Do I need a passport for an Alaskan cruise? Yes. Even if you are a US citizen, you will still need a passport as every Alaskan cruise makes a stop in either Vancouver or Victoria, BC.
• What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise? Even if you are visiting in the summer, you will want to dress in layers. I would recommend a lightweight puffer jacket that is easy to roll up and pack, as well as layers to wear underneath. You’ll want warm yet comfortable clothes to wear on the excursions. For the cruise ship, don’t forget a swimsuit and flip-flops if you plan to go in the pool or hot tub. You’ll also want to pack a few nice dresses or suits for the formal nights.
• What is the average temperature on an Alaskan cruise? The average temperature in Alaska during late spring and early fall is in the 50s. During the summer months, the temperatures are generally in the 60s, so dress accordingly. Keep in mind that Alaska also experiences between 17-20 hours of daylight in the summer months.
• When is the best time to see whales on an Alaskan cruise? Whales begin migrating back from Hawaii as early as April and stay in Alaska until as late as November. However, you will have the best chance of seeing whales from May-September.
• Can you see the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise? Winter is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. However, it is possible to see the aurora borealis on a late September cruise if the conditions are right.

I hope this guide will help you to know what to expect on an Alaskan cruise onboard the Royal Princess. It is sure to be one of your most memorable experiences!

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• Princess Cruises

Meals on Alaskan cruisetour (land portion)

By Moonstruck1115 , April 2, 2019 in Princess Cruises

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Moonstruck1115

Hi all!  I am wondering what everyone does for their meals on the land portion of the Alaskan cruisetour?  I was very surprised to find out that meals were not included!  My husband is freaking out because he LOVES to eat and he's worried about the expense of having to pay for our meals on land.  We were thinking about buying the meal plan for an additional $500 (covers both of us).  Has anyone done this before and if so, yay or nay?  Thank you so much for all the info!  My little Alaskan notebook is quickly getting filled up with pointers  😊

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WisCruiser2

While some on our tour did buy the meal plan, we opted not to and were happy with our choice. We did a 7-day "off the beaten path," with stays at Copper River (2 nights), Fairbanks (2 nights), Denali, and Mt McKinley lodges. In Fairbanks we only ate breakfast at the lodge as lunch was included in the Riverboat/Gold Dredge excursion and we ate dinners at the Pump House and Chena Resort. At the other lodges, we mostly ate in the "bar & grill" venues, and felt it worked well for us. Note that you have to pay for your lunches while on the bus, even with the meal plan, I think.

You can view the menus at the various lodges to get an idea of the meal costs.

FineAsFrogsHair

WisCruiser2, thank you for your comments.  We're going in August for a CruiseTour southbound on the Coral.

I also budgeted "generously" for meals but we spent less.

We cheat. We book the connoisseur cruised tours where "most" meals are included.

Did a 5 day land tour and turned down the meal package.  We spent less than that on our meals. At that time it was only $300.00. And I think it is per person, at least it was then.

reedprincess

We too loved not having the meal plan or meals included. We ate and drank all we wanted at local restaurants or at the venues on-site and didn't come close to what the meal plan would have cost. 

Depending on where you're staying, local eateries are easy walking distance to a shuttle ride away.  Food costs weren't any more than a mid-range restaurant in a big city. And we ate really well! 

We also did the connoisseur class with meals included.  We were happy with our choice.

Micahs Grandad

1 hour ago, margob111 said: We also did the connoisseur class with meals included.  We were happy with our choice.

Thanks for the info. We are doing the same thing in September.

5 hours ago, margob111 said: We also did the connoisseur class with meals included.  We were happy with our choice.

3 hours ago, Micah's Grandad said: Thanks for the info. We are doing the same thing in September.

We did a 13 day connoisseur cruise tour in 2016 and fly out for a 15 day on May 17. It's more spendy but so very easy to deal with. 🙂

MainePrincess

All of the Princess Lodges have pub type dining options, along with the more formal restaurants.  There is a strip mall type place across the road from Denali Princess Lodge with several eateries.  I did not find the food very expensive.  Copper River Lodge is more remote, no place to walk to, but still two restaurants in the Lodge.  You will love the land tour, I predict.  I am doing another one this August.

We were also on a Connoisseur tour seven years ago. Mu report of that cruise includes a bit of information on meal costs.

So if you want to see what meals cost 7 years ago (I am sure prices have not gone down since then), take a look.

We also did the Conoisseur tour 2 years ago and were happy we did.  We would look at the menu and be shocked by the prices in the lodges.  My boys can eat a lot if food 😜 .  Worth it for us!

disneyochem

We’re doing a 17 day connoisseur tour this June—hubby decided to do this in part because of the included meals.  He thinks it will be nice to have that decision already made as well as having the reservations done for us.  We will have to buy some meals but probably not too much.  We have found that included meals on any trip are more than we usually eat.

helpmesailaway

We had meals included in our land tour and I was very happy with that.  The meals include an appetizer, main dish, and dessert.  Most of the food was delicious and the portions were on the large side!!!!  

There was no going hungry and it couldn't have been easier.  Just order, enjoy and sign your voucher - included the gratuities as well.

One more thing to consider - having the meals in the lodges also gave us a chance to enjoy some Alaskan specialties such as halibut and  alaskan salmon.  The dinners were expensive!!!!!

1 hour ago, helpmesailaway said: We had meals included in our land tour and I was very happy with that.  The meals include an appetizer, main dish, and dessert.  Most of the food was delicious and the portions were on the large side!!!!     There was no going hungry and it couldn't have been easier.  Just order, enjoy and sign your voucher - included the gratuities as well. One more thing to consider - having the meals in the lodges also gave us a chance to enjoy some Alaskan specialties such as halibut and  alaskan salmon.  The dinners were expensive!!!!!

Also included was a cold and hot non alcoholic drink.

Agree that dinners were pricey especially for things like the crab legs and salmon.

We have it on our cruise coming up in May. I looked at prices and thought it would be nice to not have to worry about where we will eat. 

12 hours ago, caribill said: We were also on a Connoisseur tour seven years ago. Mu report of that cruise includes a bit of information on meal costs.   So if you want to see what meals cost 7 years ago (I am sure prices have not gone down since then), take a look.    

Great review. I've pointed a number of folks to that review when they asked about the connoisseur tours. It was actually your review that helped us decide on our first connoisseur tour. We enjoyed it so much we're doing another one soon. Glad to see the pictures are back. I know that photobucket messed with them at one point. The pics are helpful. Thanks again for such a great (and helpful) review.

Where are you going for the land portion? We also have a cruisetour before the cruise (2 days in Fairbanks, 2 nights in Denali, and a travel day to the cruise ship) and we don’t have a meal plan. We’re on the On Your Own Tour though so it’s less structured. I’ve been looking up places to eat so may have some suggestions if you’d like? I don’t really have anything for Anchorage but I know the Alaska forum can make some good recommendations.

Our first cruisetour in 2016 was a 13 day connoisseur cruise tour. We had 2 nights in Fairbanks, 2 nights at Denali Lodge, and 2 nights at McKinley lodge. The one we have coming up in May is a 15 day connoisseur cruise tour. It has 2 nights in Fairbanks, 2 nights at Denali Lodge, 2 nights at Copper River lodge, and 2 nights at Kenai lodge.

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The 8 top alaska cruise lines of 2024.

Discover the best lines and itineraries for your type of travel style.

The Top Alaska Cruise Lines

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

A cruise vacation to Alaska is a profound adventure. The spectacular natural beauty, rugged wilderness, massive glaciers and endless opportunities for wildlife viewing make a trip to the 49th state a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. As an added bonus, cruise ships can reach remote parts of the state, including Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve: one of the most significant (and picturesque) marine and wildlife sanctuaries in the world.

With the ever-growing popularity of the destination and an extended cruising season (some lines now travel to Alaska between April and October), more ships are heading north to the shores of The Great Land. With these expanded itineraries, there's more than ever to think about when booking your Alaska cruise.

To assist in your decision-making process, U.S. News listed the top cruise lines to consider across five categories, including the best options for families , luxury-seekers and adventurers. U.S. News consulted data provided by Cruiseline.com and the results of our 2024 Best Cruise Lines rankings to help develop this list of the top cruise lines sailing to Alaska.

• Best Overall: Holland America Line; Princess Cruises
• Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line; Royal Caribbean International

Best for Couples: Celebrity Cruises

• Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises; Silversea Cruises

Best Small-Ship Expedition Line: UnCruise Adventures

Find your perfect cruise

Best Overall: Holland America Line and Princess Cruises

Holland america line.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Alaska cruise ships: Eurodam , Koningsdam , Nieuw Amsterdam , Noordam , Westerdam , Zaandam Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Anchorage , Fairbanks and Whittier, Alaska; Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $379 per person for seven-night Alaska Inside Passage cruise on May 1, 2024, or Sept. 22, 2024. Round-trip from Vancouver.

Holland America Line has been cruising Alaska's pristine glacial waters for more than 75 years – longer than any other cruise line. On top of that, the line features more voyages to Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve than its competitors. Seven-night round-trip sailings depart from either Seattle or Vancouver, while cruisetours – Holland America Line 's sea- and land-based packages – leave from several cities and extend each trip to nine to 18 days.

If this will be your first visit to Alaska, consider booking the comprehensive 14-day Yukon + Denali cruisetour. This Alaska adventure includes a voyage aboard Koningsdam, plus a three-night stay at Holland America's exclusive lodge in Denali National Park, where you'll have the opportunity to see Alaska's big five: moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves – and book bucket list activities like flightseeing over Denali. If it's a picture-perfect day, your pilot might even be able to land on the tallest mountain in North America, also known as "The Great One." Other excursions include meeting dog mushers from the Iditarod, landing on the Yanert Glacier, heli-hiking or embarking on a covered wagon adventure on the Alaska tundra. The Yukon Territory portion of this trip is exclusive to Holland America; while there, visit the mining town of Dawson City and learn about Northern Canada's Klondike Gold Rush of August 1896.

Another highlight of sailing Alaska with Holland America is the Alaska Up Close program, which immerses guests in an array of expert-led lectures and excursions on board and shore. When it comes to dining , Holland America is the only cruise line to achieve the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification, which means cruisers will enjoy certified sustainable wild Alaska seafood on board (think: Alaskan king crab legs and fresh salmon). You may also have access to culinary excursions in partnership with Food & Wine magazine, as well as special offerings like Alaska salmon bakes.

Cruisers should also consider one of the Holland America's new itineraries for 2024: the 28-night Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice voyage aboard Westerdam, round-trip from Seattle. This sailing, which departs on June 9, 2024, features highlights like crossing the Arctic Circle; celebrating the summer solstice in Nome, Alaska; and watching Kodiak bears – the largest bears in the world – on Kodiak Island.

Insider tip: Sample Holland America Line's famous Dutch pea soup while glacier viewing on the outside decks. The crew passes around mugs of the warm soup in this Holland America tradition that gives a nod to the line's heritage – and keeps guests warm on chilly summer days in Alaska.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Grand Princess , Sapphire Princess , Royal Princess , Ruby Princess , Majestic Princess , Discovery Princess , Crown Princess Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle; Anchorage, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; San Francisco ; Fairbanks, Alaska Starting from: $398 per person for seven-night cruise from Anchorage (Whittier, Alaska) to Vancouver on May 18, 2024

Princess Cruises has a long history in Alaska, boasting more than 50 years of sailing to the Great Land. Cruise itineraries last between seven and 14 nights, and many visit the Inside Passage. Princess Cruises also owns and operates five wilderness lodges for guests of its cruisetours, plus exclusive "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service to those properties. The line's wide selection of cruisetours includes independent adventures and off-the-beaten-path destinations, like Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, the largest national park in the U.S. For travelers seeking the highest level of service and the most time on land, the Connoisseur cruisetour is a good option, including up to 10 nights ashore following the seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise. The Connoisseur trip is hosted by a tour director and includes select sightseeing outings and most meals in the fare.

Princess' special programming, North to Alaska, offers guests unique insights into the history and culture of the region with visits from local Alaskans, photography sessions, demonstrations on lumberjacking and excursions like Cook My Catch, where guests will go fishing (with a guide), then bring their fish back for chefs to prepare for dinner at one of the designated Princess lodges.

There are two new Princess cruisetours to consider for 2024. The 15-night National Parks Tour includes a seven-day cruise, visits to five national parks, scenic rail travel and a total of eight evenings across four Princess wilderness lodges. Meanwhile, the Katmai National Park Tour is a nine-day adventure that takes guests to the famed Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park & Preserve to see bears feasting on wild salmon in Alaska's wilderness.

Insider tip: While visiting Denali National Park, be sure to check out the Princess Treehouse at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. Built by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," the treehouse offers a different perspective of Denali and features "Sappy Hour" and other fun activities.  

Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Alaska cruise ships: Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss , Norwegian Jewel , Norwegian Sun , Norwegian Spirit Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle ; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $349 per person for seven-night sailing between Seward and Vancouver (itineraries visit Hubbard Glacier and Skagway, or Glacier Bay, Skagway and Juneau). Available on Norwegian Jewel in April, May and June 2024.

Norwegian Cruise Line has one of the longest seasons in Alaska, extending from April through October. The line operates two of its larger ships in Alaska: Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore. These ships feature a plethora of onboard activities to keep kids and adults entertained, like racetracks, laser tag, mini-golf, complimentary kids and teen clubs, video arcades, themed parties, live performances and more. Families will also enjoy entertainment by Nickelodeon, character breakfasts, salmon bakes and sessions with a park ranger who comes on board to narrate the Glacier Bay passage. You'll find many spacious room options on board perfectly suited to larger families – especially in The Haven, the line's exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept. In addition, Norwegian Cruise Line offers select cruise deals where third and fourth guests sail free .

There are two new Alaska shore excursions for 2024: the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Trek and the Fly-In Norris Glacier Hike and Packraft. The first outing takes place in Juneau , where you'll paddle a 12-person canoe across Mendenhall Lake to reach the towering glacier. Prepare to be surrounded by the spectacular setting of Tongass National Park, a 400-foot waterfall and an Arctic tern nesting ground. The second excursion, also in Juneau, takes participants on a flight into the Alaska wilderness via floatplane; you'll then paddle across a pristine glacial lake and hike the surface of Norris Glacier. Unforgettable sights along the way include densely forested mountains; the mouth of the Taku Inlet, a waterway that offers access to Juneau Icefield; and plenty of wildlife, including sea lions and bald eagles.

Also new for 2024 is the option to take the Denali Talkeetna Explorer tour after your cruise. (This cruisetour previously only took place prior to the voyage.) The 13-day sea and land package, Denali Talkeetna Explorer – Northbound Cruisetour, is available on three dates in 2024 in combination with a Norwegian Jewel sailing. The package includes a seven-night cruise; a total of six nights in Fairbanks, Denali and Talkeetna; a stop at the Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline; a riverboat cruise in Fairbanks; a visit to an Iditarod dog musher's kennel; a deluxe glass-domed Alaska Railroad journey between Fairbanks and Denali; and more. You'll also have free time to book optional shore excursions like whitewater rafting, park tours, helicopter flightseeing and other outdoor adventures.

Insider tip: If you're sailing on Norwegian Bliss or Norwegian Encore, be sure to grab a front-row seat in the Observation Lounge when sailing in Glacier Bay Park & Preserve. This expansive space on Deck 15 at the bow of the ship offers breathtaking panoramic views from the comfort of inside the ship. 

Royal Caribbean International

Alaska cruise ships: Radiance of the Seas , Quantum of the Seas , Brilliance of the Seas , Ovation of the Seas Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $439 per person for seven-night cruise on Radiance of the Seas, Seward to Vancouver on May 24, 2024

Royal Caribbean International offers seven-night cruise-only Alaska options (some featuring the Inside Passage) and extended cruisetours (lasting nine to 13 days) with land portions before or after the voyage. Cruisetours may visit Denali National Park & Preserve, among other highlights. The line also offers select "kids sail free" itineraries, which will appeal to families.

If you want nonstop entertainment while on board, choose one of Royal Caribbean International 's two larger Quantum Class vessels: Quantum of the Seas or Ovation of the Seas. Both megaships accommodate approximately 4,900 passengers. If you prefer a smaller ship, consider booking one of the Radiance Class vessels, which hold a maximum of around 2,500 guests.

Quantum Class ships have multiple outdoor attractions that provide panoramic views of the scenery. For example, the surf simulator, FlowRider, affords views of magnificent snow-capped mountains and glaciers all around the ship. If you're adept at rock climbing, this is another chance for optimal scenic viewing – at 40 feet above the deck. Additional entertainment includes free-fall skydiving at RipCord by iFly, outdoor movie nights, live performances and musical entertainment, bumper cars, an escape room, a sports court and indoor pools for those cool Alaska summer days.

Insider tip: For more awe-inspiring vistas, take a ride on North Star. Exclusive to Royal Caribbean (on Quantum and Ovation of the Seas), the glass-enclosed capsule rises 300 feet above sea level while suspended over the ocean.

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Solstice Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $397 per person for seven-night voyage on Celebrity Summit, Seward to Vancouver on May 17, 2024

Adventure-seeking couples will have many options to choose from during Celebrity Cruises ' 2024 Alaska season. The line's six- and seven-night cruise-only itineraries include up-close views of the Dawes Glacier in the Endicott Arm Fjord and the Hubbard Glacier, the world's longest tidewater glacier at 76 miles long. For an in-depth exploration of Alaska's interior, Celebrity's cruisetours extend the trip to a maximum of 13 nights and feature small-town destinations like Talkeetna, Alaska – the quirky village that inspired the 1990s television show "Northern Exposure." There are also themed tours centered on wildlife viewing and national parks, as well as culinary tours highlighting the flavors of Alaska.

Couples will also find plenty of adult-focused activities and entertainment on board, no matter which vessel they choose. Each ship offers a spa, multiple bars and lounges, and an excellent selection of complimentary and specialty restaurants. Celebrity's three Alaska-bound ships carry between 2,158 guests (Celebrity Summit) and 2,908 passengers (Celebrity Edge). Celebrity Edge, the newest of the ships, offers immersive entertainment and especially beautiful public spaces – like Grand Plaza, a three-story venue at the heart of the vessel.

For extra privacy during your couples' vacation, consider splurging on a suite or villa in The Retreat. This all-inclusive space features luxurious accommodations; a private lounge; a sundeck (unavailable on Celebrity Solstice); and a private restaurant, Luminae at The Retreat. The swanky culinary venue serves dishes curated by renowned French chef Daniel Boulud. In addition, you'll have a team of attendants, butlers and concierges to indulge every whim.

Insider tip: Book your Alaska cruise on Celebrity Edge. The outward-facing design of the ship and expansive outdoor spaces, including the Magic Carpet, offer guests excellent viewing opportunities of Alaska's vast landscapes, calving glaciers and wildlife, including humpback whales in the Inside Passage and around Juneau and Sitka.

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Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Alaska cruise ships: Seven Seas Explorer Departure cities: Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $4,699 per person (all-inclusive) for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on May 1, 2024

Regent's Seven Seas Explorer will spend the 2024 season in Alaska, with the first sailing embarking from Vancouver, British Columbia, on May 1, 2024. The line offers 20 seven-night voyages and two 14-night sailings between May and September. The 746-passenger ship provides an in-depth exploration of Alaska's wilderness, thanks to the vessel's smaller size and all-balcony suites. Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' all-inclusive fares include free unlimited shore excursions (though select tours come with a fee); complimentary fine wines and spirits; dining at specialty restaurants; 24-hour room service; unlimited Wi-Fi access; prepaid gratuities; free valet laundry service; and more. Depending on the suite category, guests may also receive a pre- and post-cruise hotel stay with their voyage.

Complimentary shore excursions are available in a number of Alaska ports. In Ketchikan, sign up for the Tongass Rainforest Expedition, the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show or the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafest. (Note: Some excursions in Ketchikan, such as the Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining option, come with an additional fee.) In Juneau, guests can take the complimentary hiking adventure through the Mendenhall Glacier National Recreation Area, home to black bears, mountain goats and other wildlife. Cruisers can also dine on wild Alaska salmon grilled over a fire at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake.

Insider tip: Take advantage of the complimentary shore excursions during your cruise. These are tours you'd normally have to pay for on a ship that's not all-inclusive – and that can add up quickly.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Silver Nova , Silver Muse , Silver Shadow Departure cities: Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $3,450 per person for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on Silver Muse on Aug. 1, 2024

Debuted in August 2023, Silversea's latest addition, Silver Nova, is the newest luxury vessel sailing Alaska for the 2024 season. Silver Nova features an asymmetrical design and advanced technologies that make it Silversea Cruises ' most environmentally friendly vessel yet. With just 728 guests, spacious suites (some affording 270-degree views) and outdoor spaces showcasing The Great Land's pristine wilderness, Silver Nova is an excellent luxury option for an Alaska adventure. Silversea offers seven-night itineraries on its three Alaska ships, plus longer voyages on Silver Muse and Silver Shadow.

Silversea's all-inclusive fares include pre- and post-cruise hotel stays; complimentary nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages; in-room minibars; gourmet dining; all gratuities; at least one excursion per port; butler service in every suite; and other upscale amenities. Complimentary Alaska excursions include a scenic railway tour aboard the White Pass and Yukon Railway in Skagway, the Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest in Sitka Sound and more. You can also visit the Iditarod dogs' summer camp in Juneau. For an additional cost, Silversea offers more exclusive experiences, like a helicopter ride to Mendenhall Glacier followed by a dogsledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies in Juneau, or a remote fly-fishing trip in Sitka.

Insider tip: Spend some time on Deck 10; you'll enjoy unobstructed views of the spectacular scenery from the comfort of the heated pool, thanks to the asymmetrical design of the pool deck.

UnCruise Adventures

Alaska cruise ships: Wilderness Discoverer, Wilderness Legacy, Safari Endeavor, Safari Explorer, Safari Quest Departure cities: Ketchikan, Juneau, Whittier, Dutch Harbor and Sitka, Alaska; Seattle Starting from: $3,600 per person for seven-night cruise, Juneau to Ketchikan (or reverse itinerary) on Wilderness Discoverer; various dates between April and September 2024

UnCruise's expedition-style small ships call on ports and remote areas in Alaska that larger ships can't access, taking guests to locales that the line coins, "UnAlaska." The five ships operating in The Great Land accommodate between 22 passengers (Safari Quest) and 86 guests (Wilderness Legacy), and there are seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries to choose from. You can also book optional land tours, including a Denali & Talkeetna Wilderness Rail Adventure. Expedition teams take guests on kayaking, skiffing, paddleboarding, bushwhacking, waterfall walks and hiking excursions close to the glaciers and visit secluded areas and waterway passages known for optimal wildlife viewing.

Cruise fares include group transfers to and from the ship; all meals; premium wine, beer and liquor; all nonalcoholic beverages; daily activities; wellness amenities; onboard heritage and expedition guides; and access to guest experts. You'll need to disconnect from your devices in remote areas, as there is no Wi-Fi access on UnCruise vessels.

For a once-in-a-lifetime trip, book the 14-night Alaska's Fjords & Glaciers Bay Adventure Cruise on Wilderness Discoverer, a 76-passenger ship. This voyage includes birding in the South Marble Islands, where you'll see puffins, cormorants, oystercatchers and other bird species. You can also search for brown bears in Corner Bay, bushwhack in old-growth forests, visit the town of Haines to sample local brews and spirits, and more.

UnCruise has introduced a few new cruises for 2024 with a renewed focus on The Great Land. One of these is the Kids in Nature, Wild Woolly & Wow with Glacier Bay cruise. The seven-night, family-focused voyage departs round-trip from Juneau aboard Wilderness Legacy and is available on three dates between June and July. One highlight of the voyage is exploring off-the-grid in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve's "Outback."

A second new option is the seven-night Prince William Sound Explorer with Cordova cruise. This adventure visits dozens of glaciers; the small fishing village of Cordova; the Harriman and College glacial fjords; the islands of Knight and Montague; and multiple places where you can see orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, seals, sea lions, puffins and other wildlife. The itinerary is offered round-trip from Whittier, Alaska, on Safari Explorer throughout the summer.

Insider tip: Depending on your itinerary, you may be able to hop in a skiff directly off the ship to watch bears along the shore hunt for salmon just 100 feet away. This is an Alaska experience you can only have when sailing on a small ship.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises
• The Top Antarctica Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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