Seward, Alaska Cruise Ship Passenger Departure Port Guide

What Cruise Lines Operate from The Port

Several big cruise lines sail from Seward, providing a variety of itineraries that showcase Alaska’s fantastic landscapes.

You can find cruises with popular lines like Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America, as well as options with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea Cruises, and others.

These cruise lines have different itineraries that include stops in Alaska and the Inside Passage, with cruise lengths ranging from 6 to 14 nights.

Whether you’re after luxury or excitement, you’ll find a cruise line and itinerary that suits your travel preferences.

Cruise lines operating from Seward include:

• Celebrity Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Holland America
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Silversea Cruises
• Other major cruise lines, providing a range of options for exploring Alaska.

Cruise Destinations from The Port

Setting sail from Seward takes you on a journey through Alaska’s stunning landscapes.

You’ll get to visit Ketchikan, a historic fishing town with a lively waterfront and intricately carved Tlingit totem poles.

Next, there’s Juneau, Alaska’s capital, home to the iconic Mendenhall Glacier.

You’ll also stop at Skagway, a historic gold rush village within the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

The towns of Sitka and Haines are quieter but equally fascinating, with art galleries, outdoor activities, and the world’s largest seasonal concentration of bald eagles.

This cruise lets you explore the best of Alaska’s Inside Passage.

Why Choose This Port for Your Cruise Departure?

Choosing Seward as your cruise departure point gives you a mix of natural beauty and convenience.

You’ll see Alaska’s stunning landscapes right from the start of your journey. The port is next to the Alaska Railroad, making it easy to switch from ship to train if you want to explore more of Alaska by land.

Seward also provides various transport options, including motor coach services and car rentals, so you can tailor your travel plans.

The current port has a single pier that can handle large cruise ships. However, a new double-berth pier and a 68,000-square-foot cruise terminal are scheduled to open in 2026, making it even easier to get around.

How to get to the port, by air, train, road

By Train: The Alaska Railroad runs a scenic route from Anchorage to Seward, taking about 4 hours.

By Motorcoach**: Companies like Park Connection** provide efficient transfers between Seward and Anchorage, typically taking 3 hours.

By Car: Renting a car at Anchorage airport gives you the flexibility to drive to Seward along the scenic Seward Highway, which takes about 2.5 hours.

Port Parking Options

When you arrive in Seward, finding a decent parking spot for your vehicle is crucial.

The City of Seward has long-term parking for cruise passengers, but prices can change, so it’s best to contact them for details.

Alternatively, the Alaska Railroad’s Seward depot has free but limited long-term parking – call 907-265-2209 for more information.

Keep in mind that Seward area hotels don’t provide long-term parking, so planning ahead is key to securing a safe spot for your vehicle while you’re on your cruise.

Try to get parking close to the cruise terminal for your convenience.

Local Transport & Transfers

Seward is a fair way from Anchorage Airport, so you’ll need to plan your local transport and transfers before and after your Alaska cruise. You’ve got a few options to make the journey smooth.

• Coach Transfers: Scheduled coach services like the Park Connection Motorcoach run between Seward and Anchorage, perfect for cruise passengers. Buses go twice a day from Anchorage to Seward and back, with some transfers picking up and dropping off right at the cruise ship dock.
• Alaska Railroad: You can travel with the Alaska Railroad, which runs daily passenger services from May to September. This includes a morning arrival and evening departure from Seward.
• Car Hire and Taxis: For more flexibility, consider hiring a car at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport or booking a taxi for private transfers to and from Seward. Private van transfers are also available.

Port Terminal Facilities

Seward’s cruise terminal is a mile south of its historic downtown area, right next to the Seward Small Boat Harbor.

The facilities are wheelchair accessible and include restrooms and comfortable seating areas. An information office is staffed when cruise ships are in port to help with any questions about Seward or the surrounding area.

The port can handle even the largest cruise ships and is due for a major upgrade by 2026, with a state-of-the-art double-berth floating pier planned. This will enhance its facilities further.

The terminal building provides a comfortable and stress-free journey.

Local transportation options are readily available, making it easy to get around the town or travel to other destinations like Anchorage.

Things to Do Before Your Cruise in a Day

If you’ve got a day to kill before your cruise leaves from Seward, Alaska, pop into this lovely town next to Resurrection Bay.

It’s a great combo of natural beauty, action, and small-town charm that makes it a top start to your cruise.

• Drop by the Alaska SeaLife Center: See puffins, otters, and sea lions up close.
• Head to Kenai Fjords National Park: Take a boat tour or kayak to see glaciers and fjords.
• Hop on a scenic train: Ride the Alaska Railroad for stunning views and maybe even spot some wildlife.

Dining and Shopping

Seward’s dining scene is right between the stunning backdrop of Resurrection Bay and the lively downtown area.

You’ll find loads of fresh seafood, Alaska-grown produce, and wild game on the menus. They’re often paired with local brews and wines, giving you a taste of Alaska’s culinary scene. The fancier restaurants use foraged ingredients and local specialties.

For shopping, Seward’s historic downtown has a mix of year-round and seasonal shops.

They’ve got top-notch outdoor gear, handmade crafts, and unique Alaskan gifts. You’ll find plenty to explore and take home as souvenirs when you’re not out on an excursion.

Accommodation

After enjoying Seward’s local brews and fresh flavours in the lively downtown area, you’ll want a place to stay that matches the town’s natural beauty.

Seward has a range of hotels, motels, and lodges to suit different budgets.

• Central Location: Hotels like Hotel Seward are in the heart of town, with perks like free shuttle services to the cruise dock and train station.
• Seafront Views: Breeze Inn Motel and similar waterfront options have fantastic views of Resurrection Bay and are within walking distance of the Small Boat Harbor.
• Quirky Lodges: Try unique wilderness lodges or B&Bs like Seward Front Row B&B for a more personal and immersive stay.

Tips for First-Time Cruisers from The Port

Getting Around Seward Cruise Port

Arriving at Seward Cruise Port is relatively straightforward. The Dale R. Lindsey Alaska Railroad Intermodal Facility is the cruise terminal and is within easy walking distance to shops, galleries, restaurants, and lodging.

If you want to explore before or after your cruise, think about renting a car or using local transport like taxis, motor coaches, or the Alaska Railroad.

First-time cruisers should sort their transport from Anchorage to Seward ahead of time, as it can take about 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on how you travel. Make sure you arrive with plenty of time to get to the cruise terminal and sort your bags if needed. Local businesses provide baggage storage, as the terminal doesn’t do this.

Plan your day carefully if you’re disembarking in Seward and heading to the airport in Anchorage afterwards. Allow enough time for both getting off the ship and travelling to the airport.

Don’t plan to be at the airport before the afternoon. Taxis are available outside the terminal and can take you to local spots or to Anchorage. If you’ve booked with a local transport provider, they’ll meet you at the terminal.

Customs & Immigration at The Port

Navigating Seward’s cruise terminal is straightforward as it’s not an international port of entry, so you won’t encounter customs or immigration checkpoints here.

However, if your cruise includes stops in Canada, follow these guidelines:

• Fill out ArriveCAN forms: If sailing from a U.S. port to Canada, complete and submit your ArriveCAN report within 72 hours before boarding your ship. This covers potential scenarios like unexpected medical emergencies that might require disembarkation in Canada.
• Carry proper identification: U.S. citizens on closed-loop itineraries starting and ending in the same U.S. port can use a birth certificate and photo ID, but it’s recommended to carry a valid passport.
• Verify with your cruise line: Check for any additional documentation or visa requirements based on your itinerary and nationality.

Local Currency & Payment Options

In Seward, Alaska, U.S. dollars are the local currency used in the city and its businesses. Most places take major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and other well-known ones, making it easy to pay for things.

You’ll also find plenty of ATMs where you can get cash with your bank card.

For certain bills and services, such as utility payments, you can use cash, card, or pay online at specific offices like the Harbormaster’s. Some local businesses also let you pay online for convenience.

If you need to change money, you might’ve to do it in Anchorage at banks or money marts before arriving in Seward, as currency exchange isn’t widely available locally.

Emergency Contacts

If you encounter an emergency while in Seward, Alaska, contact the relevant services immediately. For life-threatening situations, dial 911 to connect to police, fire, or emergency medical services.

• Emergency Medical Services: The 24-hour emergency room at Providence Seward Medical and Care Center provides extensive emergency care.
• Police Services: The Seward Police Department investigates crime reports on the AVTEC campuses and throughout Seward. Call them on (907) 224-3338 for non-emergency needs.
• Crisis Support: Seaview Community Services has a 24-hour crisis line at (907) 224-3027 for emergency support and community-based social services.

Port Terminal Layout

Navigating Seward’s cruise ship terminal starts at the Dale R. Lindsey Alaska Railroad Intermodal Facility. This is where your ship docks, and it’s close to Seward’s shops, galleries, and attractions.

The facility is a 26,555 square foot, steel-framed rectangular building with a flexible layout that can fit up to 1,675 people.

By Spring 2026, a new terminal will take over. It features a modern floating double berth pier, 100 feet wide and 748 feet long, which can handle two ships at the same time.

The new terminal will have a 41,500-square-foot space with indoor shelter for passengers and crew, making boarding and disembarkation safe and efficient.

History of The Port

Seward’s port history is closely linked to the Alaska Railroad. It all started in 1903 when the Santa Ana arrived in Resurrection Bay with Frank Ballaine on board, marking the town’s beginning and the start of the railroad’s construction.

The port and railroad played a vital role in World War II, with Fort Raymond set up in Seward to protect the community.

The 1964 Alaska earthquake caused significant damage to Seward, including the destruction of port facilities, which were later rebuilt.

The current cruise terminal, built in 1966, is due for replacement with a modern, state-of-the-art floating dock and passenger terminal by 2026, designed to meet the cruise industry’s operational and safety standards.

Environmental Initiatives at The Port

You’ll notice big environmental changes at Seward’s port in the next few years, thanks to a nearly $46 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

This funding, part of the EPA’s Clean Ports Program, will turn Seward’s port into a “green port”. The city of Seward, along with The Seward Company, Royal Caribbean Group, and the Alaska Railroad, will use the grant to extend the electric transmission line to the port and integrate a battery energy storage system.

This means cruise ships can plug into Seward’s electricity services instead of using diesel generators for power.

The project will significantly cut emissions, noise, and fuel consumption, while making the grid more stable and reducing energy costs.

It’s set to be finished by 2026.

Cruise Packages and Deals from The Port

Located at the edge of Resurrection Bay, Seward, Alaska, has a variety of cruise packages that cater to different budgets.

If you’re planning an Alaska cruise, consider combining your stay with local excursions.

You can book a night at the Harbor 360 Hotel and get 20% off a glacier and wildlife cruise with Major Marine Tours. This deal is available for all 2025 cruise and hotel stays.

Major Marine Tours provide cruises ranging from 4 hours to 8.5 hours that explore Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay, featuring glacier viewing and whale watching opportunities.

For those who prefer a combination of land and sea activities, Harbor 360 Hotel’s package includes a discount on Major Marine Tours cruises.

If you’re looking for longer cruises, consider 7-day voyages from Seward to Vancouver with lines like Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, visiting ports like Icy Strait, Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

Alternatively, there are multi-day cruises that focus on exploring Kenai Fjords National Park in smaller boats, providing a more tailored experience.

Accessibility Information for Disabled Passengers

Accessibility for passengers with disabilities is top priority in Seward, Alaska’s cruise ship facilities.

Disabled travellers will find various facilities to make their cruise journey smooth and enjoyable. The Seward Cruise Ship Terminal has wheelchair-accessible toilets and plenty of seating areas. You can request wheelchair and boarding assistance directly from your cruise line or a third-party service provider.

Onboard, cruise ships must follow the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing accessible cabins and modifying facilities and services.

Many Alaska cruise tours also include accessible shore excursions and activities, such as those with wheelchair-accessible trains and luxury coaches with lifts.

Cruise Insurance and Medical Facilities at The Port

Cruise insurance is a must-have when planning your Alaska cruise, given the remote and unpredictable nature of the region. It protects you from unexpected expenses related to trip cancellations, interruptions, and medical emergencies.

Key components to consider include:

• Trip Cancellation Protection: This covers non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel due to illness, injury, or death.
• Emergency Medical Assistance: This provides coverage for medical evacuations and high medical bills, which is critical in Alaska’s remote areas.
• Travel Delay Coverage: This covers additional lodging and transportation costs due to weather conditions or flight complications.

Seward Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services, including a 24-hour emergency department, laboratory, and radiology services, which can be reassuring in case of an emergency.

However, it’s important to note that even with local medical facilities, evacuation to larger medical centers might be necessary in serious cases due to the remote nature of Alaska.

Therefore, choosing a cruise insurance plan with sufficient medical evacuation coverage is crucial.

Families: Child-Friendly Services and Activities

In Seward, Alaska, your family can enjoy loads of activities that cater to all ages, making it a top spot for families.

Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, home to Steller sea lions, harbour seals, and other marine wildlife. Take a day cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park for breathtaking glacier and wildlife viewing.

Explore Tonsina Point and go tidepooling along the coast, or watch the salmon run at Bear Lake weir. Kids can even help train sled dogs or join in family-friendly programmes.

Seward’s community library and museum also have children’s activities and events. With so much to see and do, Seward is a family-friendly destination that won’t let you down.

Activities are designed to be engaging and educational for kids, while also giving adults memorable encounters.

Local Cultural Highlights and Events

Seward’s cultural heritage is a real treat. The town is crammed with a vibrant art scene, historical landmarks, and lively events. Seward is proudly known as the ‘Mural Capital of Alaska,’ thanks to its array of unique murals curated by the Seward Mural Society. Each one tells a story of Alaska’s history, landscapes, and characters.

• Mural Walk: Take a stroll through the town and explore 30+ murals showcasing historical characters, events, and landscapes.
• Historic Seward Depot: This 1917 historic depot is a key piece of the city’s history and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
• Seward Community Library & Museum: The museum, which is located on the first floor of the library, hosts events and exhibitions about historical people and events throughout the year. It’s a great place to learn about Seward’s past.

You’ll also find plenty of events and activities at the library, including historical movie programs and exhibitions that bring Seward’s history to life.

Best Times of Year to Cruise from The Port

Determining the best times to visit Seward via cruise ship means thinking about Alaska’s weather and seasonal activities.

Cruise from Seward during peak season (mid-June to mid-July) for the best weather and daylight, with temperatures from 18°C to 23°C.

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider cruising in the shoulder season (May or September).

May gives you drier weather and a chance to see wildlife emerging from hibernation, while September shows off a bit of fall foliage and fewer mosquitoes.

October cruises mean cooler temperatures and more unpredictable weather, but you might see the Northern Lights.

Plan your cruise based on your weather, activity, and budget preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Local Support Services for Irreplaceable or High-Value Items During My Cruise?

You can store high-value or irreplaceable items safely in Seward through various local services. Your hotel will usually let you leave items securely, or if you’re on a tour, some operators will store your items for you.

For example, if you’re taking the train later, you can drop your bags at the Seward train depot around 11:30 AM. Major day cruise and tour operators can also watch your suitcases while you’re out. Alternatively, hotels like Harbor 360 Hotel provide luggage storage for guests who arrive before check-in.

Can I Use an E-Scooter or Bike Service to Get Around Seward Before My Cruise?

Getting around Seward before your cruise is a doddle with e-scooters or bikes. Services like Scoot Alaska aren’t an option in Seward, though. Instead, you can use Seward Bike Shop. They have e-bike rentals for $75 a day, or mountain bikes starting at $85 per day. Their shop is at 502 Adams St in downtown Seward. You’ll also get a helmet and a trail tool kit with every mountain bike rental. They’re open daily from 10am-6pm during summer. Just pop by and grab a bike to explore Seward before your cruise sets sail.

How Can I Report Violations of Cruise Ship Waste Dumping Regulations?

To report cruise ship waste dumping regulation breaches, get in touch with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the U.S. Coast Guard. You can file a complaint online or ring the National Response Center on 1-800-424-8802.

Are Local Baggage Storage Services Secure and Do They Offer Same-Day Delivery?

In Seward, Alaska, you can leave your bags with local storage services and they’ll sort the rest. They’ve got same-day delivery, too, so you’re free to explore without worrying about your luggage.

The major tour operators and hotels in Seward will watch your bags while you’re out. If you’re taking the train to Anchorage later in the day, you can drop your luggage at the Seward train depot around 11:30 AM. Plus, if you’re departing from Seward by cruise, just attach the cruise line’s luggage tags and the operator will get your bags to the ship.

Can Seward Handle Medical Emergencies for Cruise Passengers With Special Needs?

If you’ve got special needs and there’s a medical emergency while cruising from Seward, local medical facilities like Providence Seward Medical & Care Center will handle your care. In serious cases, you might be airlifted to a different location. Specific protocols, though, depend on the cruise line’s arrangements, such as those detailed by MSC Cruises, which advise passengers with special needs to inform them in advance to provide appropriate care.