Dreaming of an Alaskan cruise? I recently returned from an incredible journey aboard the Princess Cruises Coral Princess, and I’m excited to share my experiences to help you plan your own unforgettable Alaskan adventure. This guide will cover everything from onboard amenities to shore excursions, ensuring you get the most out of your Princess Cruises Coral Princess Alaska voyage.
Exploring the Coral Princess
This section details the ship’s amenities, dining options, and overall atmosphere, helping you envision your cruise experience. We’ll delve into the specifics of what makes the Coral Princess stand out among other Alaska cruise ships.
Cabin Options and Amenities
- Interior Staterooms: These offer comfortable accommodations at a more affordable price point. They are perfect for budget-conscious travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring Alaska. Expect standard amenities like a comfortable bed, TV, and private bathroom.
- Oceanview Staterooms: These staterooms provide a window with a view of the ocean, enhancing your cruise experience with stunning scenery, especially during sailing days. The additional cost is often considered worthwhile for the beautiful views.
- Balcony Staterooms: For the ultimate luxury, balcony staterooms offer a private balcony where you can enjoy breathtaking Alaskan views in privacy. Many guests find the extra space and ocean access invaluable.
Dining Experiences on Board
- Main Dining Room: The Coral Princess boasts a sophisticated main dining room with multiple seating times, offering a wide variety of delicious dishes. The menu changes daily, providing diverse culinary experiences.
- Casual Dining: Several casual dining options are available throughout the ship, allowing for flexible and relaxed mealtimes. You might find casual buffets, cafes, or grills serving everything from burgers to pizza.
- Specialty Dining: For a special treat, consider booking a reservation at one of the ship’s specialty restaurants. These usually offer a more upscale dining experience with unique menus and curated dishes.
Onboard Activities and Entertainment
The Coral Princess offers a variety of activities and entertainment to ensure there is something for everyone. From live music and theatre productions to trivia nights and dance classes, boredom is not an option.
- Live Shows: Evening entertainment often includes Broadway-style shows and musical performances. This is a popular way to unwind after a day of Alaskan exploration.
- Casino: For those who enjoy a bit of gambling, the ship features a casino with a variety of slot machines and table games. Remember to gamble responsibly.
- Pools and Spas: Relax and rejuvenate at the ship’s pools and spas. Treatments, including massages and facials, are available for an additional fee.
Cruising the Alaskan Inside Passage
This section highlights the stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and unique experiences of cruising through the Alaskan Inside Passage aboard the Coral Princess. We’ll explore what makes this route so special.
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
- Whales: The Alaskan Inside Passage is known for its whale populations. Look out for humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales.
- Sea Otters: These playful creatures are often seen floating on their backs, enjoying the abundant seafood. Observe them from a respectful distance.
- Sea Lions and Seals: These marine mammals frequently haul out on rocks and ice floes, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Glacier Viewing Experiences
Witnessing majestic glaciers is a highlight of any Alaskan cruise. The Coral Princess often takes routes that provide stunning glacier views.
- Glacier Bay National Park: This park boasts incredible glaciers, including the massive Grand Pacific Glacier. The scenery here is truly awe-inspiring.
- Hubbard Glacier: This glacier is known for its active calving, where large chunks of ice break off and crash into the water, creating a spectacular sight.
- Tracy Arm Fjord: A narrow fjord with towering cliffs and stunning waterfalls, Tracy Arm provides breathtaking views and exceptional wildlife viewing.
Shore Excursions in Alaska
Princess Cruises offers a wide variety of shore excursions tailored to different interests. Choose from guided tours to independent exploration.
- Helicopter Tours: Soar above the Alaskan wilderness for breathtaking aerial views of glaciers, mountains, and forests.
- Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of a traditional dog sled ride through snowy landscapes. Many excursions are offered in winter months.
- Hiking and Trekking: Explore Alaska’s vast wilderness on foot, with tours ranging from easy nature walks to challenging hikes.
Choosing Your Princess Cruises Coral Princess Alaska Itinerary
This section will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect itinerary for your Alaskan adventure with the Coral Princess. Different itineraries offer different experiences.
Itinerary Length and Destination
Princess Cruises offers a variety of itineraries, ranging from shorter getaways to longer, more in-depth explorations of Alaska. Consider how much time you want to spend on the ship and in port.
- 7-Day Alaska Cruise: A popular choice, these itineraries often include calls at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.
- 10-Day Alaska Cruise: These longer cruises provide more time in port, allowing for more in-depth exploration of each location.
- Cruisetours: Combine your cruise with land-based tours to expand your Alaskan experience. You may include options like Denali National Park or the Yukon Territory.
Booking Your Cruise
Booking your Princess Cruises Coral Princess Alaska cruise involves several steps. Research itineraries, choose your cabin, and book your excursions in advance.
- Research Itineraries: Use the Princess Cruises website to browse available itineraries and choose one that suits your preferences and budget.
- Select Your Cabin: Decide on the type of cabin you prefer (interior, oceanview, or balcony) based on your budget and desired amenities.
- Book Your Excursions: Many shore excursions book up quickly, so it’s recommended to book them early to avoid disappointment.
Understanding Cruise Costs and Pricing
The cost of your Princess Cruises Coral Princess Alaska cruise can vary significantly depending on the itinerary, cabin type, and time of year. Budget accordingly.
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Itinerary Length | Longer itineraries generally cost more. |
| Cabin Type | Balcony staterooms are the most expensive, followed by oceanview and then interior staterooms. |
| Travel Season | Cruises during peak season (summer) tend to be more expensive. |
Tips for Planning Your Princess Cruises Coral Princess Alaska Trip
This section offers practical advice to make your trip seamless and memorable.
Packing Essentials
- Layers of clothing: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers to adapt to changing conditions. Include rain gear and warm layers for cooler days.
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking during shore excursions, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Sunscreen and hat: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong in Alaska. Protect yourself from sunburn.
Debunking Common Myths about Alaskan Cruises
Myth 1: Alaskan cruises are only for older people.
False! While Alaskan cruises are enjoyed by people of all ages, many families with children take these cruises. Princess Cruises offers various activities catering to children of all ages.
Myth 2: Alaskan cruises are extremely expensive.
False! While they can be pricey, various cruise options and packages can help manage costs. You can choose less expensive cabins, itineraries, and shore excursions to fit your budget.
Myth 3: You need to be a seasoned traveler to enjoy an Alaskan cruise.
False! Princess Cruises provides a smooth, comfortable experience for both first-time and seasoned travelers. The crew is well-trained and helpful in ensuring a fantastic journey.
FAQ
What is the best time to take a Princess Cruises Coral Princess Alaska cruise?
The best time to visit Alaska is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warmest and there’s more daylight. However, shoulder seasons (May and September) offer fewer crowds and often better deals.
What are the most popular shore excursions in Alaska?
Popular excursions include glacier viewing tours, wildlife watching cruises, dog sledding (winter), and visits to historic towns like Skagway and Juneau.
How much does an Alaskan cruise on the Coral Princess cost?
The price varies greatly depending on the time of year, length of the cruise, and the type of cabin chosen. Check the Princess Cruises website for current pricing.
What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise?
Pack layers of clothing, including rain gear, waterproof outerwear, and warm sweaters. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are essential.
Are there any age restrictions on Princess Cruises?
Generally, no. Princess Cruises welcomes guests of all ages. Family-friendly activities and options exist for different age groups.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Princess Cruises caters to various dietary needs. Notify them in advance of any allergies or dietary restrictions when booking your cruise.
Is it necessary to book excursions in advance?
It is highly recommended to book popular shore excursions well in advance, as they often sell out quickly, particularly during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Planning a cruise on the Princess Cruises Coral Princess to Alaska promises an unforgettable experience. By considering the various aspects outlined in this guide, including itinerary selection, onboard activities, and shore excursion planning, you can tailor your trip to your preferences and budget. Remember to book in advance and enjoy the stunning beauty of Alaska. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions – happy cruising!