15 Vacation tips for a relaxing Alaska cruise with kids

For the young adventurers on board, Princess transforms every day into a world of exploration and creativity. With Princess Youth & Teen Clubs, engaging new programming, and wonder-filled activity centers, kids and teens can dive into onboard experiences designed just for them. Whether they're unleashing their creativity, tackling exciting challenges, or making new friends, they'll be having so much fun, they won’t even realize they’re learning!

Teens have their own dedicated spaces too, where they can enjoy dance classes, competitive game nights, and movie screenings under the stars. Every program is tailored to different age groups, giving kids a variety of opportunities for fun while parents enjoy a little relaxation.

Alaska offers so many ways to explore — from thrilling glacier views to cozy coastal towns — that picking the right itinerary can make all the difference for your family. Look for options with kid-approved shore excursions like treasure hunting, whale watching, or scenic tram rides through breathtaking landscapes. Princess offers a variety of family-friendly itineraries, each crafted to capture the beauty of Alaska in a way everyone can enjoy.

When cruising with kids, a little extra room can make all the difference in comfort. Choosing a cabin with added space, like a family suite or balcony stateroom, gives everyone a bit of breathing room to unwind after a day of exploring Alaska’s wonders. Many Princess ships offer cabins designed with families in mind, making it easy to relax together — or catch some quiet time when needed. Take a look at the various cabin options available on Princess cruise ships to find the perfect fit for your crew.

Alaska’s shore excursions are a family’s dream playground — where else can you pan for gold like an old-time prospector in Skagway or meet sled dogs at a local kennel? Planning these adventures in advance ensures you get the best options for your family’s interests, whether they’re thrill-seekers, animal lovers, or both. Princess excursions make it easy for the whole family to find something they enjoy, but they fill up fast. Make sure you check out your options and plan ahead to get the most out of your time at port.

Do your kids love Shrek? Well, tell them they need to channel their inner ogre (or onion) when it comes to packing — layers, layers, layers. After all, Alaska’s weather is as adventurous as its scenery, sunny one moment and chilly the next. Bring along cozy sweaters, waterproof jackets, and comfy shoes for exploring the trails or strolling through port towns. Don’t forget essentials like binoculars for wildlife spotting, too. For a full list of family-friendly packing tips, check out this helpful Alaska cruise packing list.

Every Alaskan port offers something unique. Think lumberjack shows, historic gold rush towns, and some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste. To make the most of each stop, it’s helpful to know what’s available and plan a few “must-see” spots in advance. Check out family-friendly activities at each port and consider the time you’ll have ashore so you can fit in a mix of adventure and downtime. Having a game plan means more fun for everyone and fewer surprises along the way.

You can expect to go off the beaten path when you visit Alaska, so having an outdoor-capable stroller is essential when cruising with little ones. Choose one that’s sturdy enough to handle gravel trails, boardwalks, and even a bit of snow if you’re exploring glacier areas. This way, your child stays cozy, and you can enjoy the adventure without getting stuck every two minutes in the rough terrain. A durable stroller also makes those scenic port visits and long excursions easier, giving everyone more freedom to take in the sights at each stop.

Once you hit the sea, there will be too much excitement for the kiddos to pay attention while you lay down the ground rules. Keeping everyone safe and happy on a family cruise can be easier with a few clear rules set ahead of time. Talk with your kids about expectations for safety on board, like staying close during excursions and following directions from guides. With some simple ground rules in place, you’ll enjoy more peace of mind and make sure everyone stays on the same page for a fun and relaxed trip.

Need a way to slow down while still keeping the kids busy? After a day of adventure, there’s nothing like gathering the crew for some top-notch entertainment. Princess brings the excitement with Broadway-style productions, comedy acts, and even magic shows that’ll have the kids wide-eyed with wonder. And with family-friendly amenities like Movies Under the Stars — an outdoor movie experience where you can snuggle up with blankets and popcorn — there’s always something fun for everyone. Settle in, relax, and let the evening’s performance be the cherry on top of your day.

No matter how cute they are, even the little ones can get hangry from time to time. Avoid the dinner rush and keep them smiling by booking your family’s dining reservations ahead of time. Many families find that eating a bit earlier not only gives everyone a chance to recharge but also keeps the evening open for shows and other activities. Princess offers various dining options, so you can choose the perfect spot for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed family meal or a fun specialty restaurant. Planning ahead means less waiting and more time to savor each bite — and each moment — together.

If you find yourself tired of making all the decisions while planning your Alaska cruise, take the pressure off and make the trip feel even more special by letting the kids have a say in the plans. Whether it’s picking out a shore excursion they’re excited about or choosing an activity on board, involving them in the planning can build their excitement and help everyone look forward to each day’s adventures. Give them a few options to choose from, like a whale-watching tour or a glacier float trip, so they feel a sense of ownership while you keep everything manageable. 

Kids have their own sense of time, which sometimes means you end up running a bit late. Giving yourself a buffer — whether it’s for getting to a shore excursion, settling into a family meal, or making it to a show — keeps the vibe relaxed and avoids any last-minute scrambling. Plus, with a little extra time, you’ll be able to fully savor each sight and activity without the rush. Remember, this is a family adventure: enjoy each moment together at your own pace.

While having a plan is great, sometimes the best moments come from going with the flow. Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, and kids’ energy levels can change quickly, so staying flexible helps keep everyone happy. If an excursion gets delayed or a show is rescheduled, see it as an opportunity to explore something new on board or enjoy a bit of downtime together. Embracing a flexible mindset ensures you’re ready for whatever adventures (or surprises) the day brings.

Even with so much to see and do, kids might need a little downtime between activities. Pack some favorite books, travel games, or tablets loaded with movies to keep them entertained during quieter moments. You never know when you’ll need a relaxing afternoon on deck or a bit of downtime in the cabin. A little familiar fun can go a long way in keeping everyone recharged and ready for the next adventure.

An Alaska cruise with kids is filled with unforgettable moments — watching their eyes widen at their first glacier sighting, or the thrill of spotting a humpback whale together. Be sure to bring a camera to capture these one-of-a-kind memories. Kids love looking back at their own adventures (who doesn’t?), and letting older kids snap a few photos can make them feel even more connected to the experience. These snapshots will become cherished keepsakes, bringing the magic of Alaska home with you.

Why not make this trip a chance to explore something new together? An Alaska cruise offers endless ways for the whole family to step out of their comfort zones, from trying fresh Alaska seafood to learning about native cultures or spotting incredible wildlife from the deck. Encouraging kids to embrace these unique experiences adds a whole new level of excitement, creating memories that make every moment unforgettable.