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Princess Cruises Welcomes the New Year with an Alaska-Themed Float

On January 1, 2026, Princess Cruises made a spectacular entry into the new year by participating in the iconic 137th Rose Parade®, presenting a remarkable float titled "Together in the Magic of Alaska." This magnificent floral creation featured the brand's newest ship, Star Princess, framed against Alaska's stunning natural landscapes, signaling the cruise line's much-anticipated inaugural season in Alaska for 2026.

The parade, which meandered down a 5½-mile route through Pasadena, captivated millions of viewers and attendees. The float, intricately crafted by Artistic Entertainment Services, measured approximately 55 feet in length and 21 feet in height. It sparkled with over 300,000 flowers and natural materials, including silverleaf protea, coconut, blue statice, and the unique lunaria, artfully designed to evoke the icy splendor of Alaska's waters.

The float did not just rely on floral artistry; it incorporated dynamic animations that brought Alaskan wildlife to life, displaying whimsical movements of whales breaching icy waters, curious sea otters, majestic eagles soaring high, and bears clutching salmon—a vivid representation of Alaska's diverse wildlife. Notably, the float's design featured Blue Tweedia, chosen as a tribute to the state flower, the Forget-Me-Not, enhancing the lifelike spirit of Alaska throughout the display.

Marie Lee, Chief Marketing Officer of Princess Cruises, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, saying, "What better way to welcome the new year than on the world-famous Rose Parade stage, celebrating the breathtaking beauty of Alaska and the debut of our remarkable new ship, Star Princess?" She emphasized that the float pays tribute not only to the passionate crew who bring Alaskan voyages to life but also to the local communities and guides that welcome travelers each season, making each journey extraordinary.

The Rose Parade theme for 2026, "The Magic in Teamwork," resonated deeply with Princess Cruises, reflecting their commitment to delivering unforgettable travel experiences. To highlight this ethos, four members of the Princess team rode on the float—two crew members from the ship and two from the shoreside offices. They were joined by 12 performers who danced down the parade route to a reimagined version of "The Love Boat" theme song, harking back to the legacy that introduced cruise vacations to countless viewers.

The float's elaborate design included glaciers constructed from crushed white chrysanthemums and accented with serene blue tones, representing the smooth flow of Alaskan waters. Layers of floral elements, including iris, hydrangea, dendrobium orchids, ocean mums, and gypsophila, added depth and movement reminiscent of Alaska's flowing rivers. The presence of moose and bears, crafted with natural materials like palm fibers and seeds, showcased realistic textures, further connecting the design to the Alaskan wilderness.

Towering trees, made from live greenery, completed the scene to form an authentic forest backdrop, while carefully placed ferns, grasses, and other florals added softness and color transitions throughout the float's overall design.

Star Princess, a 177,800-ton vessel designed for 4,300 guests, includes features such as The Dome, an advanced relaxation and entertainment space, and the Piazza, a beautifully designed area with sweeping ocean views. This float marks the beginning of an extensive Alaska season for Princess Cruises, with eight ships, 180 departures, and 19 destinations, offering travelers unparalleled adventure options through land and sea explorations. Beginning May 3, 2026, Star Princess will operate weekly seven-day Inside Passage Alaska cruises roundtrip from Seattle through September 19.

With its legacy as the leading cruise line in Alaska, Princess Cruises continues to enhance its offerings, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every guest. More information is available through a travel advisor or by visiting princess.com. Their commitment to creating memorable journeys remains their top priority as they navigate the enchanting waters of Alaska.

About the Pasadena Tournament of Roses®

The Pasadena Tournament of Roses is a volunteer organization that plays a crucial role in hosting the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl Game, contributing countless hours of community service to ensure the success of these celebrated events. For more details, visit their official website.

About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises, known worldwide for its iconic "Love Boat" branding, consistently delivers dream vacations to millions aboard its grand ships. As part of Carnival Corporation, the brand offers a luxurious cruise experience in the most desirable destinations globally, transforming travel into unforgettable memories for all its guests.