New to Princess

[syr101]

We are experience cruisers but never on Princess. Which ship and itinerary should we choose for Alaska.

[reedprincess]

30 minutes ago, syr101 said:

We are experience cruisers but never on Princess. Which ship and itinerary should we choose for Alaska.

One that goes to Glacier Bay. Must see if it's your one and only shot at Alaska cruise..

 

What ships are you choosing between? 

Personally, it would be Sapphire, then Ruby, then Crown, then Majestic, Royal, Discovery.

 

Of course, depends what's important to you.

Ruby, Sapphire as they're a little smaller, larger balconies, full wraparound promenade deck, etc. 

 

They're all great, wouldn't hesitate on any of them really.. 

Enjoy 

[Jeter02]

Alaska is absolutely gorgeous! Totally agree you do need one that has an itinerary that stops at Glacier Bay. It is a magical site to experience, especially if this is a one and done type of itinerary. But I will Even if you could get a stop at hubard glacier / college fjord, I found that to be absolutely amazing as well.

[nini]

Great suggestions, however, IMHO Hubbard Glacier is our favorite and a well kept secret. Princess does a fabulous job in Alaska with nature lecturers onboard. You can see that we have been 5 times. Yikes!

[antsp]

Just avoid the Royal class sips for Alaska, the Sapphire would be my 1st choice

[skynight]

agree with post #2.

[Sarnia 432]

Another vote for Glacier Bay.  Also try to pick an itinerary that sails between Vancouver Island and the mainland.  Better views, calmer seas, the bigger ships go round the outside.

[mreasier]

I would avoid any of the Royal Class ships.  As Sarnia 432 said, because of their size, they must sail on the open Pacific side of Vancouver Island rather than in the more scenic and calmer inside.  Also the Royal class ships lack as many good viewing areas as the smaller ships.  For example, there is no place, inside or outside, to get a forward view except for the extra cost Sanctuary.

[mtnesterz]

A smaller ship is generally better in Alaska. Goes for small ports anywhere.

Which sailing, you ask? Inside passage or cruise-tour? If a Cruise-Tour, buy the Connoisseur package with the cruise after the land portion. (Meals and tours included and the bus/train travel wears you out, so rest up on the ship.) Yes, extra money, but just do it, you won't regret it.

If just the inside passage, an 10 or 11 day RT from any west coast port. There have been sales on these lately, and a 7 day cruise just isn't enough, IMHO.

Edited May 11, 2023 by mtnesterz

[nasa1974]

I agree with some of the other posters about the smaller ships for Alaska. Or first was on the Diamond and second on the Ruby. We have been on the Royal ships in the Caribbean and loved them. Stay with the smaller ships for Alaska.

[Shippy]

 We will be on the Crown in 2 weeks.

We chose it because it is a 10 say cruise out of Vancouver.