How to Get Best Deal on Alaska Princess Cruise

Learn how to score the best deal on an Alaska Princess Cruise with proven strategies like booking early, using travel agents, and monitoring price drops. Save hundreds while enjoying breathtaking glaciers, wildlife, and luxury onboard.

Key Takeaways

• Book 6–12 months in advance: Early bookings often come with lower prices, free upgrades, and better cabin selection.
• Use a trusted travel agent: Agents have access to exclusive group rates, onboard credits, and unadvertised promotions.
• Monitor price drops and last-minute deals: Prices can fall closer to departure—set alerts and act fast when they do.
• Travel during shoulder seasons: May and September offer fewer crowds, better weather, and lower fares than peak summer months.
• Bundle airfare and cruise packages: Princess Cruises often offers discounts when you book flights and cruise together.
• Join the Captain’s Circle loyalty program: Earn points for discounts, priority boarding, and complimentary perks on future cruises.
• Watch for special promotions: Look for “Kids Sail Free,” “Third Guest Free,” or “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” deals during sales events.

How to Get the Best Deal on an Alaska Princess Cruise

Dreaming of cruising through icy fjords, spotting whales, and watching glaciers calve into the sea? An Alaska Princess Cruise offers one of the most scenic and luxurious ways to experience the Last Frontier. But let’s be honest—cruises can be expensive. The good news? With the right strategy, you can enjoy this bucket-list adventure without breaking the bank.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to get the best deal on an Alaska Princess Cruise—from timing your booking perfectly to uncovering hidden discounts and perks. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, these tips will help you save money while maximizing your experience.

We’ll walk you through step-by-step strategies, share real-life examples, and reveal insider secrets that even some travel agents don’t advertise. By the end, you’ll feel confident booking your Alaska cruise at the lowest possible price—without sacrificing comfort or adventure.

Step 1: Understand the Alaska Cruise Season

Before you start searching for deals, it’s important to understand when Alaska cruises operate and how pricing fluctuates throughout the season.

Alaska cruise season typically runs from mid-May to mid-September. This window offers the best weather, longest daylight hours, and most active wildlife. However, not all months are created equal when it comes to pricing and crowds.

Peak Season: June to August

These are the most popular months for Alaska cruises. Schools are out, families are traveling, and the weather is warmest. Unfortunately, this also means:
– Higher cruise fares
– More crowded ports and excursions
– Limited cabin availability

If you’re looking for the best deal, avoid booking during peak summer months unless you find a rare promotion.

Shoulder Seasons: May and September

These months offer a sweet spot between price, weather, and crowd levels.

– **May**: Cooler temperatures, but fewer tourists. Wildlife is active, and glaciers are still impressive. Cruise lines often offer discounts to fill ships early in the season.
– **September**: Crisp air, fall colors, and fewer families. It’s a great time for photographers and nature lovers. Prices tend to drop after Labor Day.

Tip: Cruises in late September can be significantly cheaper—sometimes 30–40% less than July fares. Just pack layers and check the weather forecast.

Weather Considerations

While Alaska is known for its rugged beauty, weather can vary. May and September may have rain or cooler temps, but they also offer clearer skies and fewer delays. Summer months are warmer but can be foggy or overcast.

Step 2: Book Early—But Not Too Early

One of the most effective ways to get a great deal is to book your Alaska Princess Cruise 6 to 12 months in advance.

When Princess Cruises releases its Alaska itineraries (usually 12–18 months ahead), early bookings often come with:
– Lower introductory pricing
– Free or discounted cabin upgrades
– Onboard credit offers
– Better selection of cabins (including oceanview and balcony)

Why Early Booking Pays Off

Cruise lines want to fill their ships early to secure revenue. To incentivize early birds, they offer promotions like:
– “Book Now, Save More” discounts
– Complimentary gratuities
– Free specialty dining
– Kids sail free deals

For example, in 2023, Princess Cruises offered a “Third Guest Free” promotion for bookings made before December 31st. Families saved over $1,500 by booking early.

But Don’t Book Too Early

While booking early is smart, avoid booking more than 18 months in advance. Cruise lines often adjust pricing and promotions, and you might miss out on better deals released later.

Best Practice: Set a calendar reminder to check for new Alaska itineraries in September or October. That’s when Princess typically announces its next year’s schedule.

Step 3: Use a Travel Agent (Yes, Really!)

You might think booking directly with Princess Cruises is the cheapest option—but that’s not always true.

Travel agents often have access to exclusive deals that aren’t available to the public. Here’s why using one can save you money:

Access to Group Rates

Travel agents frequently book group cruises for clubs, alumni associations, or religious groups. These groups negotiate special rates, and agents can add individual travelers to these bookings—sometimes at no extra cost.

Onboard Credit and Perks

Many agents offer onboard credit ($50–$200), free drink packages, or cabin upgrades as part of their service. These perks can add up to hundreds in savings.

Personalized Service

A good agent will help you compare itineraries, explain cancellation policies, and recommend the best cabins based on your budget and preferences.

Tip: Look for agents who specialize in Alaska cruises or are certified by Princess Cruises (like “Princess Vacation Planners”). They’re more likely to know the ins and outs of the ships and routes.

How to Find a Reputable Agent

– Ask for referrals from friends or family
– Check reviews on sites like Trustpilot or the Better Business Bureau
– Look for agents with CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) certification

Step 4: Monitor Price Drops and Last-Minute Deals

If you’re flexible with dates and cabins, you can score huge savings by watching for price drops.

Cruise lines often reduce fares as departure dates approach—especially if cabins aren’t filling up. This is known as “last-minute pricing.”

How to Track Price Changes

– Use fare tracking tools like CruiseCritic’s Price Watch or Kayak’s fare alerts
– Set up Google Alerts for “Alaska Princess Cruise deals”
– Follow Princess Cruises on social media for flash sales

When to Book Last-Minute

The best time to book a last-minute deal is 60 to 90 days before departure. At this point, cruise lines are eager to fill remaining cabins and may offer:
– Up to 50% off brochure prices
– Free airfare (on select itineraries)
– Complimentary Wi-Fi or drink packages

Example: In 2022, a 7-day Alaska cruise from Seattle dropped from $1,299 to $699 per person just 45 days before sailing. That’s a $600 savings per person!

Risks of Last-Minute Booking

– Limited cabin choices (often interior or obstructed views)
– Fewer excursion options (popular tours sell out early)
– Less time to plan flights and travel insurance

Only go this route if you’re flexible and don’t mind smaller cabins or fewer activity options.

Step 5: Travel During Shoulder Seasons

As mentioned earlier, May and September offer the best value for Alaska cruises.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

May Cruises

– **Pros:** Lower prices, fewer crowds, active wildlife (bears, whales), blooming wildflowers
– **Cons:** Cooler temps (40s–50s°F), possible rain, some excursions may have limited availability

September Cruises

– **Pros:** Stunning fall colors, fewer families, great wildlife viewing (salmon runs, bears), lower fares
– **Cons:** Cooler weather, shorter days, some ports may close after Labor Day

Tip: If you’re concerned about weather, aim for late May or early September. These weeks often have the best balance of mild temps and low prices.

Step 6: Bundle Airfare and Cruise Packages

Princess Cruises often offers discounts when you book your cruise and flights together.

Fly&Cruise Packages

These packages include:
– Round-trip airfare from major U.S. cities
– Cruise fare
– Transfers between airport and ship
– Sometimes hotel nights in Seattle or Vancouver

Benefits of Bundling

– Save $100–$300 per person compared to booking separately
– Simplified planning (one booking, one confirmation)
– Often includes travel protection

Example: A Fly&Cruise package from Los Angeles to Alaska might cost $1,499 per person, while booking the same cruise and flights separately could total $1,750.

How to Find These Deals

– Visit the “Deals” section on the Princess Cruises website
– Search for “Fly&Cruise” or “Air&Cruise” promotions
– Ask your travel agent about bundled options

Step 7: Join the Captain’s Circle Loyalty Program

If you’ve ever sailed with Princess before—or even if you haven’t—joining the Captain’s Circle program is free and full of perks.

Benefits by Tier

– **Gold (1–6 cruise days):** 5% off future cruises, priority check-in
– **Platinum (7–19 days):** 10% off, complimentary laundry, priority tendering
– **Elite (20+ days):** 15% off, free internet, exclusive events

Even as a Gold member, you’ll get discounts on your next cruise—perfect if you plan to return to Alaska or try another destination.

How to Earn Points

You earn one point for every night sailed. So a 7-day cruise = 7 points. Points never expire as long as you sail at least once every three years.

Tip: Sign up before your cruise—you’ll start earning points immediately and may qualify for onboard perks like welcome drinks or discounts.

Step 8: Watch for Special Promotions

Princess Cruises runs seasonal sales and limited-time offers throughout the year. Timing your booking around these can lead to major savings.

Common Promotions

– **Kids Sail Free:** Children 17 and under sail free when sharing a cabin with two paying adults.
– **Third Guest Free:** The third person in a cabin sails for free (great for families or friends traveling together).
– **Buy One, Get One 50% Off:** Perfect for couples—pay full price for one, half for the second.
– **Military, Senior, or Resident Discounts:** Active-duty military, veterans, seniors (55+), and residents of certain states (like Alaska) may qualify for reduced fares.

When Do These Deals Happen?

– **Wave Season (January–March):** The biggest cruise sale period of the year. Expect deep discounts and bonus perks.
– **Black Friday/Cyber Monday:** Limited-time offers, often with free upgrades or onboard credit.
– **Anniversary Sales:** Princess sometimes celebrates milestones with special promotions.

Tip: Sign up for Princess Cruises’ email newsletter to get alerts about upcoming sales. They often send exclusive promo codes to subscribers.

Step 9: Choose the Right Cabin Type

Your cabin choice can significantly impact your total cost—and your experience.

Cabin Categories on Alaska Princess Cruises

– **Interior:** Least expensive, no window. Best for budget travelers who plan to spend most time exploring.
– **Oceanview:** Window or porthole. Great for natural light and views.
– **Balcony:** Private outdoor space. Ideal for enjoying Alaska’s scenery in comfort.
– **Mini-Suite/Suite:** Spacious with extra amenities. Best for special occasions.

How to Save on Cabin Upgrades

– Book an interior cabin and hope for a free upgrade (possible during promotions)
– Use onboard credit to pay for a balcony upgrade at check-in
– Travel during off-peak times when balcony cabins are more affordable

Tip: If you’re sensitive to motion, avoid lower decks and midship cabins—they tend to rock more in rough seas.

Step 10: Book Excursions Early (But Compare Prices)

Shore excursions can double your cruise cost if you’re not careful.

Princess vs. Independent Tours

– **Princess Excursions:** Convenient, reliable, and covered by travel insurance. But often 20–50% more expensive.
– **Independent Tours:** Booked through local companies. Cheaper and sometimes more unique, but not covered by cruise line insurance.

How to Save on Excursions

– Book popular tours (like whale watching or glacier hikes) through Princess early—they sell out fast
– Compare prices on sites like Viator or GetYourGuide
– Look for combo tours (e.g., whale watching + wildlife cruise) for better value

Example: A whale watching tour with Princess might cost $150, while an independent operator offers the same trip for $99.

Troubleshooting Common Booking Issues

Even with the best planning, you might run into problems. Here’s how to handle them:

Problem: Prices Keep Changing

Cruise fares fluctuate based on demand. If you see a price drop after booking, contact Princess or your agent immediately. They may honor the lower rate or offer onboard credit.

Problem: No Availability on Preferred Dates

Try adjusting your departure city (e.g., Seattle vs. Vancouver) or sailing duration (7-day vs. 10-day). Longer cruises sometimes have better availability.

Problem: Flight Delays or Cancellations

Always book travel insurance that covers missed departures. Princess offers “Cruise Protection” plans, or you can use third-party providers like Allianz or Travel Guard.

Conclusion

Getting the best deal on an Alaska Princess Cruise doesn’t require luck—it takes strategy. By booking at the right time, using a travel agent, traveling during shoulder seasons, and taking advantage of promotions, you can save hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.

Remember: The cheapest cruise isn’t always the best value. Focus on getting the right itinerary, cabin, and perks for your budget. With the tips in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable Alaskan adventure—without the sticker shock.

Start planning today, and soon you’ll be sipping hot cocoa on your private balcony, watching a glacier calve into the sea. That’s the magic of Alaska—and with the right deal, it’s more affordable than you think.