Princess Cruises invites Seattle locals and visitors alike to look to the skies for a one-night-only Alaska-themed drone show set to illuminate downtown Seattle. Taking place on May 1 at 8:30 p.m., the free public spectacle will be best viewed from Seattle Center’s International Fountain Mall at 305 Harrison Street, where guests can gather to enjoy a choreographed aerial display celebrating the beauty and spirit of Alaska.

The drone show serves as the official kickoff to the arrival of the cruise line’s newest ship, Star Princess, which begins her inaugural Alaska season from Seattle on May 3. The celebration marks a major milestone for the cruise line and its continued investment in the Pacific Northwest as a premier gateway to Alaska.

“Seattle has always played a vital role in our Alaska program, and we’re excited to celebrate with the local community and visitors in such a memorable way,” said Marie Lee, Princess Cruises Chief Marketing Officer. “This drone show is a tribute not only to the natural wonder of Alaska, but also to the city of Seattle, whose residents help bring our Alaska season to life year after year.”

Star Princess in Seattle

Following the May 1 celebration, Star Princess will set sail on her inaugural voyage to Alaska on May 3 from Pier 91, launching the first of 20 roundtrip sailings through September 13, 2026. Throughout the season, the ship is expected to carry approximately 90,000 guests through Alaska’s Inside Passage, offering immersive experiences in iconic ports such as Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, along with glacier viewing at Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier.

Star Princess joins a robust Alaska lineup for 2026, as Princess Cruises sails its largest season ever in the region, featuring eight ships, 180 departures and 19 destinations. Alongside Star Princess, Royal Princess also homeports in Seattle, sailing seven-day Inside Passage voyages from Pier 91. Princess also offers guests the opportunity to pair a cruise with a land tour that includes custom itineraries featuring custom-built wilderness lodges or visit four national parks on a single cruisetour, among others great options.

Both Star Princess and Royal Princess return to Seattle for the 2027 Alaska season, also on sale now.