I’ve done two Alaska cruises but not either of these lines. Viking is very different. Do you get the same kind of excursion choices/freedom with Viking, since excursions are included? The excursions are the best part. The port stops look pretty similar to other cruises so I’m not sure that Viking is worth the upcharge—also doesn’t look like they go to glacier bay but Hubbard is really cool too.
The nat geo or uncruise ships go some places the big ships can’t go, so that might be worth the upcharge.

Viking is more upmarket than Princess, and does not allow children under the age of 18, among other distinctions between the two lines.

Viking is a whole other price point. You are comparing apples and oranges. I've done both lines, but only Princess to Alaska. It's great for a family. If it were just a couple, and you can afford it, go with Viking. Really terrific ships, foods, TLC.

I just came back from a Princess cruise, not to Alaska though.

I will say that I have been on most cruise lines (RC, Norwegian, Disney, Holland America) and Princess was my least favorite. They just don't run it all that well. The app is glitchy, the website is not at all user friendly, and the onboard programs are mediocre.

I can't vouch for Viking, but I would go with them. They definitely have a better reputation.

For those who have done one or both: what did you like/dislike. Does Viking have more limited access to the Glacier Bay? What are the other distinctions?