If you’re in Seattle next week, it may be worth looking up after sunset. Princess Cruises says it will host a one-night-only Alaska-themed drone show over downtown Seattle on May 1, giving locals and visitors a free public spectacle ahead of the summer cruise rush. The event is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. and is expected to be best viewed from the Seattle Center International Fountain Mall.
Instead of fireworks, hundreds of synchronized drones are expected to light up the sky in a choreographed display inspired by Alaska’s landscapes, wildlife, and adventurous spirit. Drone shows have become increasingly popular across the US because they offer a quieter and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fireworks, while still delivering a major wow factor.
For Princess Cruises, the event is more than just entertainment. It also serves as the official kickoff for the arrival of the company’s newest ship, Star Princess, which begins its inaugural Alaska season from Seattle on May 3.
“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,” says Marie Lee, chief marketing officer for Princess Cruises. She adds that the drone show is meant to honor both Alaska’s natural beauty and Seattle’s role in helping power the cruise line’s seasonal operations.
After the sky show wraps up, Star Princess will begin the first of 20 round-trip Alaska sailings running through September 13, 2026. During that season, the ship is expected to carry around 90,000 guests through Alaska’s famous Inside Passage. Travelers on board can expect stops in popular ports including Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, along with scenic glacier viewing at Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier.
The launch of Star Princess is part of Princess Cruises’ biggest Alaska season yet. In 2026, the cruise line plans to deploy eight ships across the region, offering 180 departures and visits to 19 destinations. Seattle remains one of the most important homeports in that strategy. Alongside Star Princess, Royal Princess will also sail seven-day Inside Passage itineraries from Pier 91.
For Seattle tourism, the free drone event could also be a smart preview of the busy summer travel season. For locals, it’s a chance to enjoy a high-tech light show. For Princess Cruises, it’s a flashy way to remind travelers that Alaska bookings for 2026 and even 2027 are already open.
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