Star Princess Alaskan Cruise Review

The Star Princess from a tender on the way to shore
The Star Princess from a tender on the way to shore
Princess cruises is the most reputable cruise line for its Alaskan cruise itinerary. The Grand-class Star Princess was christened in 2002 and underwent a major refurbishment in 2006 after a fire. The Star Princess offers the same exceptional service that is offered on all of the ships in the Princess fleet. Passengers will also revel in gourmet food and have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities. With so much to do on the Star Princess, passengers couldn't ask for a better ship to visit Alaska.
Insider Tips

Splurge for a balcony stateroom. While the interior and ocean view staterooms are comfortable, the balcony staterooms offer passengers a private view of Alaska and offers Ultimate Balcony Dining where you can have a wonderful dinner on your balcony as you look out onto the beauty of Alaska. It is definitely worth the extra money.
Take advantage of the shore excursions, especially in Skagway and Prince Rupert. The ports can be pretty boring if you don't take a shore excursion or tour.
Sterling Steakhouse at Tequila's is a phenomenal restaurant. It's worth the $25 per person cover charge. The steaks are tender and delicious, the portions are large, and you can order whatever you want. Be sure to make reservations at this popular restaurant as soon as you get to your room.

Pros and Cons

The Star Princess can hold up to 2,600 passengers, but it never feels crowded. There is plenty of space in the public rooms, restaurants and by the pool.
Passengers who would rather not do the traditional dining times can dine whenever they want in the Portofino or Capri dining rooms. There are set hours that the dining rooms are open, but passengers can come and go as they please during these hours.
The food on the Star Princess is outstanding. The portions are large, there are several courses at dinner, there is a large selection on the nightly menu, and the food tastes excellent. It is very fresh, regardless of what restaurant or buffet you go to.
A cruise on the Star Princess to Alaska is pricey--more so than most other cruises with an Alaskan itinerary. The rooms, food and activities on the Star Princess make the cost worth it. Those looking to be thrifty, however, should look to another cruise line.
The Star Princess "nickels and dimes" its passengers. There are charges for everything: soft drinks, alcohol, some classes and some activities. Consult your daily schedule to find out what is complementary before heading to the location.

Bottom Line

Princess is the best cruise line for an Alaska itinerary. The staff is attentive and accommodating. The crew are permitted only to speak English on the ship. This makes for much easier communication than on other cruise ships. The shore excursions offered are terrific, although pricey. The activities on board are fantastic. The youth program, designed for ages 2 - 17, is outstanding. The Star Princess is clean and in excellent condition. The rooms are well-appointed and comfortable. Overall, the Star Princess is an excellent ship for an Alaskan cruise--maybe even the best.

Resources
Candice "Candy" Cain began writing professionally in 1994. She is star of the developmental reality series, "Wedding Lane with Candy Cain." She has been published in several magazines and writes her own blog covering destination weddings. Cain has a Bachelor of Arts in dramatic literature from the George Washington University.
Miguel Inostroza