Travelers heading from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to the cruise port have several transportation options including taxis, rideshares, shuttles, and rental cars. The journey covers approximately 15 miles and typically takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Many cruise lines also offer direct transfer services. Pre-booking transportation is recommended during peak cruise season.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 15 miles from Sea-Tac to Seattle cruise terminals |
| Travel Time | 30-45 minutes (traffic dependent) |
| Main Terminals | Bell Street Pier (Pier 66) and Smith Cove Terminal (Pier 91) |
| Budget Option | Shared shuttle ($28-40 per person) |
| Fastest Option | Rideshare or taxi (30-35 minutes) |
| Peak Season | May through September |
Want to know more about Alaska departure ports and which one might work best for your cruise?
Transportation Options Breakdown
Shared Shuttle Services
Shuttle companies operate dedicated airport-to-cruise-port routes and they’re surprisingly efficient. These services collect passengers from baggage claim and make multiple stops at different cruise terminals. Here’s what makes them appealing: you’re guaranteed a spot if you book ahead, the driver knows exactly where your terminal is (which matters more than you’d think), and the price is fixed regardless of traffic nightmares.
The downside? You might wait 15-20 minutes for the shuttle to fill up with other passengers, and you’ll likely make stops at multiple piers. If your cruise leaves from Pier 91 but the shuttle stops at Pier 66 first, add another 20 minutes to your journey.
Rideshare and Taxis
Uber and Lyft operate from designated zones at Sea-Tac, and they’re straightforward to use. The fare typically runs $50-75 depending on surge pricing and which terminal you need. Taxis cost roughly the same but you’ll find them at the traditional taxi stands outside baggage claim.
Pro tip: Rideshare prices can spike dramatically during cruise embarkation days when hundreds of passengers all request rides simultaneously. If you land between 11 AM and 2 PM on a Saturday during summer, expect surge pricing. Taxis maintain flat rates and don’t surge, making them occasionally the smarter choice.
Rental Cars
Renting a car makes sense only if you’re spending time exploring before your cruise. Otherwise, you’re paying for the hassle of navigating Seattle traffic plus parking fees at the Seattle cruise port parking facilities, which run $25-35 per day. Most rental companies charge a premium for port drop-offs too.
If you’re planning to stay at one of the best hotels near the Seattle cruise port for a night or two and want to explore the city, then a rental becomes more practical. Just factor in hotel parking costs as well.
Cruise Line Transfers
Most major cruise lines sell transfer packages that include transport from the airport directly to your ship. These typically cost $25-50 per person and provide peace of mind since the cruise line coordinates timing with your ship’s departure. The catch? You’re on their schedule, which might mean waiting around the airport for an hour or more if your flight lands early.
Here’s something most people don’t realize: if you book the cruise line transfer and your flight is delayed, they’ll wait for you or arrange alternate transport. Book independently and miss the ship’s departure, and you’re entirely responsible for catching up with the vessel at the next port.
Navigating Seattle’s Two Cruise Terminals
Seattle has two active cruise terminals and knowing which one your ship departs from matters enormously. The Seattle cruise port operates Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 (downtown near Pike Place Market) and Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 (northwest of downtown in the Interbay neighborhood).
Pier 66 sits right in the heart of tourist Seattle. If you arrive early, you can walk to Pike Place Market in five minutes. Pier 91 is more industrial and isolated, though closer to the Ballard neighborhood if you’re into craft breweries.
Always verify your terminal before booking transportation. Drivers occasionally get confused, and showing up at the wrong pier with two hours until departure is not the adventure you’re looking for.
Timing Your Airport-to-Port Journey
Cruise lines recommend arriving at the terminal no later than 90 minutes before departure, but seasoned cruisers know that’s cutting it close. Aim to arrive at the port by early afternoon even if your ship doesn’t leave until 4 or 5 PM. Boarding typically opens around noon, and getting on early means first dibs at the buffet plus time to explore the ship before it gets crowded.
Traffic between Sea-Tac and downtown Seattle is unpredictable. Morning rush hour (7-9 AM) and afternoon (3-6 PM) can add 30-45 minutes to your journey. If your Alaska cruise flight lands during these windows, build extra buffer time into your plans.
Here’s an insider trick: if your flight gets in very early (before 9 AM), consider storing your bags at the cruise terminal and spending a few hours exploring things to do near the Seattle cruise port. Most terminals offer bag storage for early arrivals, letting you grab breakfast at Pike Place Market or visit the nearby waterfront without lugging suitcases.
What About Coming From Vancouver?
Some Alaska cruises start in Vancouver instead of Seattle, and the Vancouver airport transport to cruise port operates differently. If you’re comparing itineraries, factor in transportation logistics along with the cruise itself.
Smart Strategies for Pre-Cruise Planning
Flying in the day of your cruise is risky. Flight delays happen, and missing your ship’s departure turns an expensive vacation into a logistical nightmare plus a giant financial hit. Instead, fly in at least one day early and book a pre-cruise hotel near your departure port.
Many hotels near Sea-Tac and downtown Seattle offer “park, sleep, and cruise” packages that include a night’s stay plus parking for the duration of your cruise. These deals often cost less than port parking alone, plus you get the bonus of a good night’s sleep before embarkation.
Bonus Tips
- Download your rideshare app and set up payment before you land. Sea-Tac’s cellular service can be spotty in baggage claim and you don’t want to fumble with app setup while other passengers snag available rides.
- Keep your cruise documents and boarding passes easily accessible. Some shuttle services want to verify your sailing before loading you aboard.
- Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on. If your checked bags get delayed but you make it to the ship, you’ll board with something to wear until your luggage catches up.
- The Light Rail connects Sea-Tac to downtown Seattle for just $3, but it’s impractical with cruise luggage. The train gets crowded and there’s limited space for large bags. Save yourself the hassle unless you’re traveling ultralight.
- Exchange contact information with your shuttle-mates if you’re sharing a ride. If someone’s flight is delayed, the shuttle might wait or you might need to coordinate alternate plans.
- Bring snacks for the journey. Sea-Tac has plenty of food options but they’re pricey and you might not have time to grab something before your transport departs.
- Check if your credit card offers trip delay or missed connection coverage. Some premium cards reimburse transportation costs if flight delays cause you to miss pre-booked transfers.
- Screenshot your driver’s information and vehicle details if using rideshare. If you get separated from your travel companions in the pickup area, you can share the exact car info.
Common Questions and FAQ
Can I walk from downtown Seattle hotels to the cruise terminals?
Pier 66 is walkable from some downtown hotels if you’re traveling very light, but it’s about a mile and not practical with cruise luggage. Pier 91 is roughly three miles from downtown and definitely requires transportation. Even if you’re staying nearby, a quick rideshare or taxi with your bags makes more sense than attempting to walk.
What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss my pre-booked shuttle?
Most shuttle companies offer flexible rebooking if you contact them as soon as you know about the delay. Some charge a small fee to switch to a later departure time. This is another reason to have their contact number saved in your phone before you fly. If you’re really running late and at risk of missing the ship, skip the shuttle and take a rideshare directly to save time.
Are there luggage restrictions for airport shuttles?
Shared shuttles typically allow two standard suitcases plus a carry-on per passenger. If you’re bringing extra bags, oversized items, or equipment like golf clubs or dive gear, call the shuttle company in advance. They might charge extra or ask you to book additional space. Don’t assume everything will fit without checking.
Is it cheaper to arrange transportation at the airport instead of pre-booking?
Not usually, and you risk longer wait times or no availability during peak season. Pre-booking shared shuttles often includes a small discount compared to walk-up rates. Rideshares don’t offer advance booking discounts, but at least you’ll know your options work. Taxis don’t require booking but they also don’t offer price breaks for advance arrangement.
Can Uber or Lyft pick up directly at the cruise terminals for your return trip?
Yes, rideshares can pick up from both Seattle cruise terminals when you disembark. However, on busy turnaround days when multiple ships are in port, getting a ride can take 20-30 minutes due to high demand and port traffic. If you have a tight connection to catch a return flight, consider booking a shuttle or taxi in advance for more reliability.
Do I need to tip my shuttle driver?
Tipping isn’t mandatory but it’s customary to tip $2-5 per bag for drivers who help with luggage, or 10-15% of the fare for excellent service. If your driver goes out of their way to accommodate a flight delay or provides useful local information, showing appreciation makes sense.
Personal Experience
Getting from Sea-Tac to the cruise terminal was way easier than I expected, and I’m glad I did my homework before the trip. We landed around noon and needed to be at the pier by 3 PM, so I booked a shared shuttle ahead of time for about $35 per person. The shuttle dropped us right at our terminal, and the driver even helped with our luggage. My friend took a rideshare on her cruise and paid almost $60, but she did get there about 20 minutes faster. If you’re traveling with kids or have a ton of bags, the shuttle is definitely worth it for the convenience and cost.
The one thing I wish I’d known is that rental cars aren’t really practical unless you’re planning to explore Seattle for a day or two before boarding. The port charges a hefty daily parking fee, and returning a car there can be a hassle. Taxis are reliable but pricey, running around $50-70 depending on traffic. For us, the shuttle hit the sweet spot between budget and convenience, especially since we didn’t have to stress about navigation or parking. Just make sure you book whatever option you choose in advance, especially during busy cruise season, because spots fill up fast.