Returning from a breathtaking Alaskan cruise adventure in late May, my mind wasn’t just filled with majestic glaciers and stunning wildlife – it was brimming with incredible flavors. As a first-time cruiser, I had mentally braced myself for a week of uninspired airplane-style meals. Little did I know, the culinary journey aboard the Island Princess would be as unforgettable as the Alaskan landscape itself. This extraordinary experience immediately ignited a mission: to gather and recreate as many Alaskan cruise-inspired recipes as possible, allowing us all to savor those memories long after we’ve disembarked.
This incredible collection of recipes is a delightful result of a sponsored trip, a privilege I shared with Princess Cruises.
Those who have experienced the magic of a cruise ship already know the delightful truth I’m about to reveal. My initial apprehensions about the food were not just wrong; they were gloriously, deliciously mistaken! The sheer quality and variety of the cuisine exceeded all expectations. If you’re nodding your head in agreement, chances are you, too, have been searching for those elusive cruise ship recipes to bring a taste of your voyage home.
I genuinely adore traveling! Each journey is an adventure, a chance to explore new destinations, and visit states and countries I’ve never encountered before. Alaska was an extraordinary addition to my travel experiences, and I was absolutely thrilled to check it off my bucket list! But let me be clear: this isn’t a “one and done” destination. I will undoubtedly return to Alaska’s majestic beauty, and of course, its incredible food.
Savoring the Flavors of an Alaskan Cruise: A Culinary Journey
Our mid-May expedition took us on the magnificent 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers aboard the grand Island Princess cruise ship. Friends had painted vivid pictures of the breathtaking sights and incredible experiences awaiting us, but surprisingly, very little had been said about the food. Traveling with a group of ten other food bloggers, however, guaranteed that every meal would be a topic of lively discussion and discerning opinions.
Behind the Scenes: Cruise Ship Culinary Craftsmanship
One of the most eye-opening experiences was our tour of the Island Princess galley. To say it was pristine would be an understatement – it was absolutely spotless, impeccably clean enough to “eat off the floors.” This level of cleanliness is clearly evident in the galley photo below. And for those skeptical minds wondering if it was specially cleaned for our visit, rest assured, it wasn’t. Online videos of the same tour on various voyages consistently show the same immaculate conditions. Witnessing the incredible creations emerging from that massive, efficient kitchen during our tour left many of us instantly inspired, already brainstorming new cruise-inspired recipes to try at home.
The sheer volume of food prepared daily is truly astounding, considering they cater to approximately 3,100 guests and crew. Over the years, the demand for Princess Cruises’ signature recipes has been so immense that they regularly republish their exquisite cookbook, Courses: A Culinary Journey. This beautiful compilation offers a glimpse into the culinary artistry found on board, allowing enthusiasts to recreate beloved cruise ship recipes in their own kitchens.
The photos above offer a glimpse of the many meticulously handcrafted chocolate decorations that crown the stunning cakes served on board. I vividly recall indulging in a slice of one of these magnificent creations at the buffet; it was nothing short of divine, a testament to the culinary excellence on the Island Princess.
Embark on a Culinary Journey: Alaskan Cruise Inspired Recipes
Upon our return from Alaska, a shared excitement pulsed through our group. Many of us couldn’t wait to dive back into our kitchens, eager to cook, bake, and create. This vibrant collection of cruise-inspired recipes is a testament to that collective enthusiasm. Some dishes were direct reinterpretations of the incredible meals we enjoyed on board, during thrilling excursions, or in picturesque ports of call. Others simply drew inspiration from the unique ingredients and rugged, beautiful way of life in Alaska.
Cruise-Worthy Appetizers & Dips: Setting Sail with Flavor
The sheer abundance and variety of food available on a cruise ship are truly staggering. With over 3,000 guests to feed, it’s a monumental task, yet what truly amazes is the consistent quality and deliciousness of every dish! Let’s begin our culinary voyage with these delightful appetizer and dip recipes, perfectly embodying the spirit of an Alaskan cruise.
April’s Gazpacho recipe was directly inspired by one of our memorable last dinners aboard the Island Princess. As April recounted, “..they served the most delicious gazpacho at dinner on one of the last nights while we were scenic cruising.” Its fresh, vibrant flavors perfectly captured the essence of fine dining at sea, and I’m incredibly grateful she recreated it – it’s definitely on my menu this week!
During our unforgettable whale watching excursion at Icy Strait Point, my friend Jenn and I, along with several companions, indulged in an epic “seafood feast.” The star of the show was undoubtedly the most incredible king crab legs we had ever tasted. Inspired by this fresh Alaskan bounty, Jenn created her rich and creamy Cheesy Baked Crab Dip, a dish her family declares the absolute best!
- Homemade Crackers
- Chicken Zoodle Soup
- Smoked Salmon Dip
April found dual inspiration for her delightful homemade cracker recipe. The first spark came while savoring a comforting bowl of chicken zoodle soup in the tranquility of her stateroom (yes, even the soup found its way onto her recipe list!). The second, equally inspiring moment, occurred while enjoying a rich smoked salmon dip during our captivating stop in Hoonah, Alaska, surrounded by the fresh flavors of the region.
Sandra’s creation of this zesty mango salsa transported her back to the sensational fish tacos she devoured at Deckhand Dave’s in Juneau. You might recall my own enthusiastic mention of Dave’s legendary spot in my post about our thrilling Mendenhall Glacier helicopter tour. Truly, these were the best fish tacos anywhere, and Sandra’s salsa perfectly captures that unforgettable flavor!
For another delectable crab dip option, I present Stephanie’s Crab Dip. What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its use of Greek yogurt for a lighter touch, and it’s a no-bake version, meaning you can whip it together in a snap, perfect for effortless entertaining or a quick, indulgent snack.
During their port visit to Skagway, Lynne and her husband, Kurt, embarked on the historic White Pass Scenic Railway tour. Among the many incredible sights, they were treated to an array of gourmet food trays. Inspired by these elegant offerings, Lynne meticulously recreated her exquisite Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Bites, a sophisticated and delightful appetizer.
It seemed that with nearly every meal, Stephanie found herself ordering a refreshing Caesar Salad. She cherished them so much on board that she now frequently prepares them at home, a perfect simple side dish that brings back fond dining memories from the cruise.
Cocktails & Drinks: Toasting to Alaskan Cruising Memories
One of the true luxuries of a cruise ship vacation is the freedom from worrying about who’s driving home. This liberating aspect allows for a more relaxed approach to enjoying a delightful cocktail or two! The Island Princess offers numerous inviting venues to unwind and savor a drink. This collection of cruise-inspired drink recipes was born out of those cherished multiple cocktail hours, each sip a liquid memory of our Alaskan adventure.
My wonderful friend and roommate, Jackie, was also my fellow excursion adventurer! After our return from Alaska, she was on a roll, mixing up an array of creative drinks. Her exceptional Rum Cruiser cocktail was her own brilliant creation, directly inspired by the sophisticated and beautiful cocktails we enjoyed each night in the elegant Wheelhouse Bar.
I must admit, I am completely captivated by the creative inspiration behind Jenn’s Alaskan Glacier Martini! The vibrant blue liquid perfectly captures the stunning blue ice of Alaska’s glaciers, while the delicate white meringue artfully represents a floating glacier. It’s a truly visual and delicious tribute to the breathtaking Alaskan landscape.
No comprehensive cocktail list would be complete without the timeless Long Island Iced Tea. Erin, too, found herself greatly inspired by the extensive and delicious array of cocktails readily available throughout her voyage aboard the Island Princess, leading her to recreate this classic at home.
As I mentioned, Jackie has been diligently whipping up fantastic cocktails since our return. It all began with her determination to perfect this Key Lime Pie Martini. Ordinarily, we both enjoy our nightly glass of Cabernet and rarely stray from it. However, on our final evening aboard the Island Princess, Jackie ordered a Key Lime Pie Martini from the menu at the sophisticated Wheelhouse Bar. She adored it so much that she was determined to recreate it at home, and it was a resounding success! I recently made them myself, and they were absolutely delicious.
For a truly beautiful cocktail, behold Sandra’s exquisite Island Cocktail (which can also be enjoyed as a refreshing mocktail). The inspiration for this stunning drink arose from The Sanctuary, a reserved, adults-only private oasis at the very back of the ship where guests are pampered with luxurious service, delectable food, and any drink their heart desires. It’s a true haven of calm and inspiration.
A leisurely stroll around the ship reveals an abundance of delightful spots offering snacks, coffee, sodas, sophisticated cocktails, delicious lunches, and, of course, irresistible ice cream and milkshakes! Erin crafted this rich chocolate milkshake as a delightful nod to those comforting treats readily available on board, capturing the essence of casual indulgence at sea.
I am genuinely excited to try Lynne’s captivating Blue Ocean cocktail! In my personal opinion, it was hands down the most visually stunning drink served on board – its vibrant hue perfectly evokes the majestic Alaskan waters we cruised through.
Dinner Time Delights: Alaskan Inspired Main Courses
Aside from the blissful cocktail hour, dinner was unequivocally my favorite part of the day on the cruise! The dinner options were vast and varied, and every single dish I tasted was absolutely delicious. I’m already eagerly planning my next cruise, driven in no small part by the memories of those incredible meals. To tide you over until your next voyage, I present a generous selection of cruise-inspired dinner recipes, perfect for bringing the flavors of Alaska to your table!
During her first-ever salmon fishing excursion in Alaska, Holly was captivated by the sheer freshness and abundance of the catch. On board the ship, she particularly loved the Hazelnut and Panko crusted salmon. Inspired by these culinary highlights, she skillfully recreated a similarly exquisite, drool-worthy Herb Baked Salmon recipe, capturing those delicate flavors in her own kitchen.
One evening, we enjoyed a memorable dinner at The Bayou Steakhouse, one of the exceptional specialty restaurants on board. Erin was so enchanted by the delicious grits and sausage dish served there that she decided to recreate and share this incredibly easy Shrimp and Grits recipe, a perfect way to bring back those cherished culinary memories of the cruise.
After Lynne’s picturesque hike in Icy Strait Point, where she learned extensively about bears, salmon, and other captivating wildlife, salmon was firmly on her mind. The sheer abundance of incredibly tasty, fresh salmon available throughout Alaska is truly remarkable, and it profoundly inspired her to create this exquisite Chimichurri Salmon – a dish I absolutely cannot wait to try!
Another truly delicious Alaskan-inspired salmon recipe comes from my dear friend Jenn. She masterfully created this Grilled Salmon Kale Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette. It looks absolutely amazing, a perfect blend of fresh, healthy ingredients with the exquisite taste of Alaskan salmon, and I eagerly anticipate trying it!
In all honesty, I am incredibly excited that Stephanie decided to recreate this fantastic Low Country Boil, directly inspired by our unforgettable seafood feast at Icy Strait Point! That original meal was super delicious, featuring the most incredible crab legs I have ever had, and this recipe promises to bring all those vibrant flavors and cherished memories right back to the table.
Stephanie also developed this beautifully glazed Brown Sugar Baked Salmon. Are you noticing a delicious trend here? The sheer variety and incredible quality of Alaskan salmon inspired so many fantastic recipes – truly yum!
If you’re among the many Princess Cruises enthusiasts who adore a particular onboard recipe and constantly seek to recreate it, then Sandra’s latest achievement is for you! She successfully brought home and recreated the classic Fettuccine Alfredo she savored during her voyage, capturing its rich, comforting flavors perfectly.
As I mentioned earlier, Holly and her husband embarked on an exhilarating salmon fishing excursion during their Alaskan adventure. She couldn’t wait to return home and begin preparing all sorts of delightful salmon recipes, including these incredibly easy and delicious Salmon Patties, a perfect way to enjoy the fresh bounty of Alaska.
Sweet Endings: Cruise-Inspired Desserts & Pastries
There was absolutely no shortage of breathtakingly delicious desserts, sweets, and pastries aboard the Island Princess. I sampled so many wonderful creations that I genuinely don’t know if I could pick a single favorite! Let’s explore what inspired my fellow travelers with these delightful cruise-inspired recipes for sweets, perfect for bringing a touch of onboard indulgence home.
Aboard the Island Princess, the Horizon Court buffet boasts the most incredible chocolate chip cookies, while The International Cafe tempts with sweet, Nutella-filled donuts. April brilliantly mashed these two beloved favorites together to create these absolutely gorgeous Nutella Cookies, a fusion of onboard dessert perfection!
A true cruise-going highlight is the famous Baked Alaska Parade that grandly takes place in Sabatini’s restaurant. Jenn was deeply inspired by those magnificent desserts and ingeniously developed these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Baked Alaska creations, a perfect tribute to that cherished cruise tradition.
Another cherished favorite from Sabatini’s was the exquisite Espresso Creme Brulee. Jackie raved about it every single night and was absolutely determined to recreate its rich, velvety perfection at home. It has now become her undisputed go-to entertaining dessert, delighting guests with its gourmet charm.
My friend Lynne absolutely adored the indulgent Chocolate Bear Claws she savored at Horizon Court, the seemingly always-open buffet on board. Her love for them was so profound that she made sure to recreate them at home. And judging by the looks of them, they are truly amazing!
Yet another culinary inspiration springing from the delightful offerings at Horizon Court were these charming Mini Pavlovas from Erin. She cherished them so much during her cruise that she felt compelled to share how to recreate these delicate little gems, bringing a touch of elegant simplicity to any dessert spread.
Sandra was so captivated by the array of delectable pastries served onboard that she was inspired to create these incredibly delicious-looking Coconut Knots! Their delicate texture and sweet coconut flavor promise to transport you straight back to those indulgent mornings at sea.
While on board, we were treated to an exclusive tour of the ship’s bustling galley, the very heart where all the delicious culinary magic happens! During this fascinating tour, Stephanie caught sight of the chefs meticulously preparing a dessert she instantly knew she had to recreate once she returned home: a comforting and classic Deep Dish Apple Pie!
If reading this has your taste buds tingling and you’re now curious about the full spectrum of culinary delights awaiting you on a Princess Cruise, be sure to explore all the incredible food and dining options available here! Have you ever embarked on a cruise adventure? What was your absolute favorite part of the experience, especially when it came to the food?
