Star Princess Alaska: What Surprised Me Most, and Was It Worth It?
Looking for a fresh take on the Star Princess Alaska cruise? After a week exploring breathtaking glaciers, trying out delicious onboard restaurants, and testing some of the top excursions, I’ve got plenty of honest surprises to share. If you’re wondering what really stands out about Princess Cruises’ newest ship sailing Alaska, you’re in the right place. Let’s dig into the highlights, must-try experiences, and those little details that can make (or break) your next adventure.
In this review, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the Star Princess Alaska cruise experience–from spacious balcony life and memorable dining to incredible excursions, show-stopping entertainment, packing strategies, and tips for your pre- and post-cruise Seattle and Victoria stops. I’ll share what worked best (and what could have been smoother), using real details from my sailing so you know what to expect if you book your own Star Princess Alaska adventure.
Star Princess Alaska Cruise Experience
If you’re all about stunning views and relaxing comforts, the Star Princess Alaska cruise balcony cabins are a standout. Let’s start with what surprised me most: deck 10’s balcony was seriously spacious—so roomy, it almost felt like an extension of our living space, with plenty of space for two people to lounge and enjoy the passing scenery. That oversized balcony made glacier viewing, sunset sipping, and just soaking up the Alaska vibe extra special. If you’re curious whether a balcony’s worth it on a short cruise or want a full list of balcony benefits, we cover this in detail in our guide to help you decide.
Balcony Cabin Features
The layout of our cabin felt so thoughtfully designed. Storage was a breeze thanks to a giant closet (truly, I could have brought double the stuff!). Those Princess beds lived up to the hype—every night ended with a fluffy “ahhhh.” And no sticky shower curtains here! The bathrooms had a glass-enclosed shower—just one of those touches that makes daily life smoother at sea. Our cabin was forward on the ship, so it was a longer walk to many venues, but it was quieter and remarkably serene. Just a heads up: if you’re motion sensitive, you might want to go midship, since forward cabins can feel a bit more motion.
Dining Adventures
One thing Star Princess Alaska nails is variety—especially when it comes to food. We kicked things off at Catch by Rudi, where seafood lovers (and even steak fans!) are in for a treat. The caponata dip is a must, but don’t pass up the surf and turf either. For lunch, the pop-up Crab Shack in the Catch restaurant was a memorable highlight—think generous portions of shrimp, hush puppies, chowder, and, of course, endless crab. My best tip? Keep breakfast light before Crab Shack—it’s a feast. Meat lovers shouldn’t miss the Butcher Block by Dario, known on board as the “meat place.” Warm service and a bottle of Chianti at your table add to the fun atmosphere. Want something extra special? Try Love by Britto for a romantic, multi-course dinner—if possible, book during daylight or sail away for the best views. Pro tip: save space for dessert!
From cozy balcony mornings to lively dinners with glacier views, Star Princess Alaska is a foodie’s dream at sea. There are elegant classics like Crown Grill, inventive new venues like Makoto Ocean sushi, and the fun, interactive Umai Hot Pot for hands-on shabu shabu action. There’s truly something for every craving—whether you want quiet ocean-gazing or to join the action in the vibrant teppanyaki space next door.
What Are the Best Star Princess Excursions?
The best Star Princess Alaska excursions include the George Inlet Lodge Crab Feast and Wilderness in Ketchikan for crab lovers (they offer vegetarian and chicken options too!), and the Grizzly Falls ziplining adventure in Skagway for thrill-seekers. Both offer unforgettable moments, efficient organization, and a true taste of Alaska’s wild side.
Alaska shore days are where magic happens, and the Star Princess Alaska itinerary delivers some real gems. Choosing the right excursion can be overwhelming, but I found a few that stand out and make the most of your time in port. If you want help building your port days wisely, check out our excursion planning tips—you don’t want FOMO or an exhausting pace!
Ketchikan Crab Feast
When it comes to local flavor, the George Inlet Lodge Crab Feast in Ketchikan is a home run. After a scenic, comfortable ride on a heated boat (heated boats are a win in rainy Ketchikan!), we pulled up crab pots, learned about the wildlife, and were treated to unexpected eagle sightings—so memorable for all ages, especially the little ones. But the star of the show? Unlimited fresh Alaska crab legs at the lodge. There’s a salad, blueberry cheesecake, and plenty of time to savor every buttery bite. Plus, this excursion is incredibly efficient, leaving you time to explore Creek Street and do a little local shopping afterward. If you’re a crab lover, this is heaven!
Skagway Ziplining
For a totally different vibe, try the Grizzly Falls ziplining adventure in Skagway. I had no idea Skagway even offered such a rush! After a 35-minute drive and a fun Unimog ride, you’ll zip through the forest on a course that’s focused on actual ziplining—not exhausting hikes to platforms. My best tip: dress for warmth under a raincoat, as Skagway can be unexpectedly chilly and windy. And one bonus? This tour lets you go upside down and even bring your camera along. The guides make everyone feel at ease, so even nervous zippers have a blast.
Every Alaskan port brings different adventures, but these two stood out for their “wow” factor and smooth operation. Don’t forget—some excursions (like the helicopter tour in Juneau) can be canceled due to weather, so always have a backup plan, just in case. There’s so much to explore on your Star Princess Alaska cruise, and with a little planning, you’ll bring home some unforgettable stories.
Entertainment Highlights on Star Princess
Star Princess Alaska features cutting-edge entertainment, from the high-tech Illuminate production show to fun and unique activities like axe throwing. There’s something onboard for everyone—whether you want energetic performances or casual fun between ports.
Princess Cruises really stepped up the game with Star Princess Alaska’s entertainment lineup. In the main theater, the signature production show Illuminate is not your grandma’s cruise revue! Think circus-style music, dance, stunning visuals, and modern tech that keeps all ages engaged. It was clearly a highlight of our week—something you’ll want to arrive early for, since the theater fills up quickly.
Shows and Performances
I’ve been to a lot of cruise ship shows, but Illuminate on Star Princess Alaska brought a fresh feel. The talent, combined with jaw-dropping production values and familiar music, made it a true event. Family groups, couples, and solo travelers alike will find themselves drawn in. Later in the week, don’t miss the candlelight concert in The Dome—my only tip is that it’s extra magical if you can catch it a little later when the sky finally darkens (this is Alaska; it stays light late!).
Unique Onboard Activities
If interactive fun is your jam, try axe throwing on board—it’s like darts but with (mini) axes! This was unexpectedly hilarious and quickly became a favorite with my son. The Sanctuary Club offers an adults-focused retreat, with a private pool, comfy loungers, and a relaxed, upscale poolside lounge vibe. We also enjoyed the lively piazza events and music scattered across the ship. Theme nights, like the energetic White Party, bring everyone together, but there’s no pressure to dress up if you don’t feel like it.
Princess’s variety makes it easy to find the right balance for your cruise mood. Whether it’s sophisticated entertainment, live music, hands-on activities, or just enjoying the show from your own cozy spot on deck, you’ll find what works for you on your Star Princess Alaska adventure.
How to Prepare for Star Princess in Alaska?
To prepare for a Star Princess Alaska cruise, bring warm, waterproof layers, seasickness remedies, and comfortable shoes. Pack smart for changing weather, and if you’re sensitive to motion, consider booking a midship cabin where ship movement is less pronounced.
Packing Tips
Packing for Alaska is an adventure in itself! Northern ports can swing from sunny and warm to chilly and rainy, so layers are your best friend. Here’s what worked for me on Star Princess Alaska: a waterproof rain jacket, warm fleece or sweater layers, comfortable walking shoes for excursions, and a hat or scarf for glacier viewing. If you plan to zipline or hike, toss a base layer under your rain gear—Skagway is known for being especially brisk. And yes, formal night on Star Princess in Alaska is much more casual than you might expect. Jeans (even on formal night!) were totally fine, and I wish I’d left my fancy shoes at home to save suitcase space. Bringing a white or light outfit is fun for the White Night, but you won’t feel out of place if you skip it.
Seasickness Prevention
This one surprised me! Alaska’s Inside Passage is usually smooth, but we hit some rare rough seas on our sea day. If you’re at all prone to motion sickness, bring remedies just in case. For those prone to motion sickness, using Dramamine Less Drowsy can ensure a comfortable journey. I found that midship cabins are best if you want to minimize the sensation of motion—and trust me, avoiding forward cabins if you get queasy makes a real difference. For even more advice, we’ve got a deep dive on how to prevent seasickness.
Don’t forget a couple other helpful items: binoculars for wildlife and glacier spotting, a small daypack for excursions, and a power strip or USB hub to keep all your devices charged. Most importantly, give yourself flexibility—Alaska’s weather and port times can change, so a go-with-the-flow attitude is key for the best experience on Star Princess Alaska.
Seattle and Victoria Cruise Stops
A pre-cruise stay in Seattle sets the stage for your Star Princess Alaska adventure, with lots of must-see sights and super convenient accommodations. Victoria’s evening stop offers enchanting sights like Butchart Gardens—even after dark.
Seattle Pre-Cruise Stay
Starting your Star Princess Alaska journey in Seattle? I highly recommend a pre-cruise night downtown. We stayed at the Sheraton Grand—centrally located, spacious, and within walking distance to Pike Place Market and the iconic fish-tossers, with a Starbucks right in the lobby. You can enjoy the bustling market, sample fresh flowers, and wander along the waterfront. If you’re flying out after your cruise, don’t miss Seattle’s Port Valet service: the cruise line coordinates with the airport to check in your luggage and send it straight to your final destination—such a stress-saver on debarkation day.
Victoria Sightseeing
Star Princess Alaska’s Victoria port call might be brief, but it’s magical. Even though the ship docks around [7:30]–8:00 p.m., don’t let the late hour keep you onboard! The Butchart Gardens excursion combines butterfly encounters (yes, real flamingos!) with a stroll through lush, illuminated gardens that feel truly otherworldly after dark. Grab a coffee at the garden’s café, peruse the lovely gift shop, and bundle up for the chilly walk back to the ship around midnight—layers are essential. If you want to make the most of every moment in port, don’t forget to nap before your excursion. We cover more handy Alaska port tips in our quick guide.
Between the city energy of Seattle and the enchanting evening in Victoria, these bookend stops really round out the Star Princess Alaska experience. And the best part? Thoughtful planning makes even the shortest stops feel relaxed and memorable—all while you savor every moment in the Great Land and beyond.
Recommended Gear for Your Trip
Before you head out, here are a few items that can make your travel experience even better:
- a great sunscreen for cruises — This sunscreen is perfect for cruise travelers, offering high SPF protection that’s water-resistant and ideal for a day at sea or during port excursions. Keep your skin safe while enjoying the sun.
- non-drowsy motion sickness relief — Bonine’s chewable tablets are perfect for cruise travelers, providing 24-hour non-drowsy relief from nausea, so you can fully enjoy your cruise adventure. They’re easy to pack and use on the go, ensuring a smooth trip.
- sunscreen stick for cruise travel — This lightweight sunscreen stick provides powerful SPF 50 protection EVEN in Alaska, making it ideal for cruise travelers looking to enjoy sun-filled beach days without worry.
Conclusion: Is Star Princess Alaska Right For You?
If you crave modern comfort, top-notch dining, and a lineup of truly unique excursions, Star Princess Alaska is a fantastic way to see the best of this legendary region. My sailing was filled with pleasant surprises—from that massive balcony to the smooth, efficient excursions and exciting onboard entertainment. A few bumps (rare rough seas, a canceled helicopter tour due to weather) didn’t take away from the wonderful adventure; in fact, they reminded me that flexibility is the secret ingredient to a perfect Alaskan cruise.
Whether it’s your first time to Alaska or your tenth, Star Princess Alaska brings something fresh to the table. From expertly heated pools for chilly glacier days to food and drink options to excite every taste bud, and even bonus tips for city stops on both ends—you’re in for a memorable trip. I hope these tips and surprises help you feel confident about what to expect and excited about the possibilities ahead. Happy cruising, friends!
What dining options are available on Star Princess?
In addition to complimentary offerings like the main dining room, poolside eats, and the Eatery (the buffet), there are plenty of specialty options! Star Princess offers a wide variety of dining, from specialty restaurants like Catch by Rudi (seafood), the Butcher Block by Daario (steak), Makoto Ocean (sushi), Umai Hot Pot, and elegant venues like Crown Grill and Sabatini’s to casual pop-ups like the Crab Shack.
Are there entertainment options for families?
Yes! Star Princess Alaska features family-friendly shows such as Illuminate (circus inspired), unique activities like axe throwing, and a lively atmosphere with events and concerts in the Dome and throughout the ship’s lounges and piazza.
How should I pack for an Alaska cruise?
Bring warm layers, a rain jacket, comfortable, water resistant walking shoes, and seasickness prevention remedies. Temperatures and conditions can change quickly from port to port, so being prepared is key.
What excursions are best in Alaska?
Top Star Princess Alaska excursions include the George Inlet Lodge Crab Feast in Ketchikan for seafood lovers and the Grizzly Falls ziplining adventure in Skagway for thrill-seekers. Both provide memorable, authentic Alaska experiences.
Is motion sickness common on Alaska cruises?
While Alaska’s Inside Passage is usually calm, patchy weather can bring rough seas. Having seasickness remedies on hand is wise, especially if you’re sensitive. Midship cabins can help minimize motion.
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