Princess Cruises announced on May 4 that the Star Princess has arrived in Seattle, marking the ship’s debut and the start of its first Alaska season. The vessel will operate from May 3 through September 13, offering 20 weekly roundtrip voyages from Pier 91 through Alaska’s Inside Passage.
The event included a traditional maritime plaque exchange between representatives from the Port of Seattle and senior officers of Star Princess, including Captain Gennaro Arma and Princess Cruises President Gus Antorcha. A drone show themed around Alaska was held at Seattle Center on May 1 to celebrate the ship’s arrival.
“It’s especially meaningful for the officers and crew of Star Princess to be here in Seattle, a port with a proud maritime heritage and long-standing connection to Alaska,” said Gennaro Arma. “Designed for these journeys, Star Princess brings together advanced technology, comfort, and elegance as we continue Princess Cruises’ legacy in Alaska. We’re grateful to the Port of Seattle and our port partners for their warm welcome and continued collaboration.”
The Star Princess will visit destinations such as Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Endicott Arm, and Dawes Glacier during its weekly itineraries. Royal Princess will also sail similar routes during the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
As part of its inaugural celebrations in Alaska communities, Princess Cruises made several charitable contributions: $100,000 to Ketchikan’s Joseph T. Craig American Legion Post 3; $25,000 each to Juneau Flukes for whale research and marine conservation efforts as well as Skagway Childcare Council; and $10,000 to Sitka Trail Works.
The company stated that it is operating its largest-ever Alaska program in 2026 with eight ships covering over 180 departures across nineteen destinations. The North to Alaska program will provide guests with local experiences such as seafood menus curated by Alaskan chefs and educational commentary by Glacier Bay Park Rangers.
