Whereas Seattle could also be extra well-known for its espresso tradition and bustling tech trade, this seaport metropolis additionally serves as an necessary embarkation level for a lot of main cruise strains.
Whether or not you might be planning an Alaskan cruise that departs from the Emerald Metropolis or embarking on a totally totally different itinerary, it would be best to familiarize your self with the Port of Seattle, its cruise ship terminals, and what the town itself has to supply.
This complete information will offer you all the important data you need to know so you may take pleasure in a stress-free journey expertise. We’ll cowl the whole lot from instructions to and from the port to how one can take advantage of out of your time within the metropolis and surrounding space.
Seattle Cruise Port Places
The Port of Seattle operates two devoted cruise terminals—one alongside the waterfront close to the town’s downtown core and one other simply northwest of it. On condition that the 2 terminals are situated a number of miles aside, it’s necessary to double-check the place your ship is departing from earlier than you set off.
In case your cruise departs from the Bell Road Cruise Terminal at Pier 66, you’ll need to observe instructions to 2225 Alaskan Manner, South Seattle, Washington 98121.
Alternatively, to get to a cruise ship docked on the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91, you’ll observe instructions to 2001 West Garfield Road, Seattle, Washington 98119.
Distance From Seattle Cruise Ports to the Airport
Each of the Port of Seattle’s primary cruise piers are inside a reasonably handy distance of Seattle’s airport, the Seattle-Tacoma Worldwide Airport. For these flying into Seattle previous to their cruise, the period of time it should take will rely upon which of the 2 piers your ship is departing from and visitors situations while you arrive.
On common, you may count on a 25-minute drive to downtown’s Bell Road Cruise Terminal or a 30 to 35-minute commute to the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 66.
Learn Additionally: Should-Know Transportation Ideas from Seattle Airport to Cruise Port
With that mentioned, visitors into downtown Seattle will be fairly congested for those who arrive throughout rush hour, so you need to give your self additional time if you’re hoping to drive from Seattle’s airport to both pier between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. or between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., particularly on a workday.
Instructions:
Seattle-Tacoma Worldwide Airport to Bell Road Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 (14.1 miles):
- Get on WA-518 W from Airport Expressway (drive for two.3 miles)
- Take WA-509 N and Freeway 99 N to Alaskan Manner S. As soon as on Alaskan Manner S., proceed for 1.8 miles. Look ahead to indicators for the Bell Road Cruise Terminal and exit left while you see it. The terminal entrance will probably be on the correct.
Seattle-Tacoma Worldwide Airport to Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 (19 miles):
- Get on WA-518 from Airport Expressway (drive for two.3 miles)
- Take WA-509 N to Dexter Ave N (after 12.2 miles, take the exit in direction of Mercer Road)
- Drive alongside Mercer Road earlier than turning left onto Elliot Ave. Comply with indicators for the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal
Transportation Choices from the Airport to Seattle Cruise Ports
For these flying into Seattle, reasonably than driving on to their respective cruise terminal, quite a few choices make it straightforward to get from Seattle-Tacoma Worldwide Airport.
A number of low-cost shuttle companies hyperlink the airport and the Port of Seattle. With well-marked pick-up and drop-off factors at every terminal, this can be a good choice for these trying to minimize down on transportation prices.
For those who choose to journey on to your designated departure level, taxis are available outdoors the airport terminals. Not solely is getting a cab straightforward, however all of Seattle’s main taxi firms provide flat charges between the airport and the 2 cruise terminals.
Given Seattle’s popularity as one of many main tech hubs in the US, you gained’t be shocked to study that rideshare companies, together with Uber and Lyft, are additionally plentiful and simple to achieve.
In actual fact, you’ll even go by one among Uber’s primary engineering places of work in your technique to both cruise port, which explains why so many drivers can be found. Whereas these will be inexpensive, make sure you keep away from surge charges for those who arrive throughout rush hour, as it may possibly price greater than a taxi.
Parking at Seattle Cruise Port
In a single day and short-term parking is obtainable at each terminals. Bell Road Cruise Terminal has coated parking on the opposite facet of the highway from the terminal and a sky bridge connecting the parking storage to the terminal entrance. There are many areas, and in a single day parking is obtainable for $23 per day. We advocate reserving your spot forward of time.
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 additionally has on-site parking and a free shuttle that helps cruise passengers journey between the terminal entrance and the parking zone. Parking is slightly bit costlier at $29 per day, however it can save you $2 per day for those who guide on-line forward of time.
Touring by Practice to the Port of Seattle
Amtrak affords budget-friendly prepare routes connecting Seattle to different main American cities. For those who choose to take the scenic path to your cruise departure level, you may simply take the prepare to the King Road Amtrak Station, which is situated within the metropolis’s downtown core.
From the station, taxis take roughly 10 minutes to the Bell Road Cruise Terminal and about 20 minutes to the Smith Cove Terminal. Once more, journey occasions can differ relying on visitors and downtown development delays, so you could need to give your self extra time. In spite of everything, the very last thing you need is to be late to your cruise!
Variations Between the Two Terminals
Other than the truth that Bell Road Pier is situated within the coronary heart of downtown Seattle whereas Smith Cove Cruise Terminal is located barely north of it, close to the town’s Magnolia neighborhood, the 2 terminals are comparatively comparable.
Each characteristic trendy terminal amenities, together with clear and wheelchair-friendly restrooms, quite a few seating areas, and data cubicles. Sadly, neither terminal affords complimentary Wi-Fi, however it may be bought for a small payment. Most cruise passengers discover that their cellular phone reception is fairly sturdy, which is never a difficulty for American vacationers.
The Bell Road Terminal affords a VIP ready space for passengers who’ve paid additional. Whereas this isn’t mandatory, it may be worthwhile for those who plan to reach early. In case you have paid for a collection, you could even qualify totally free entry to the VIP space, so it’s value checking together with your cruise line.
The place the 2 piers actually differ is in dimension. The Bell Road Terminal caters extra to smaller cruise ships and fewer cruise strains, so it’s the smaller of the 2 terminals. For these touring on a full-size cruise ship, it’s extra seemingly that you’ll depart from the bigger Smith Cove Terminal at Pier 91.
Accessibility
The terminal was designed to be extremely accessible, so there are many wheelchair ramps. Particular person cruise strains additionally provide wheelchairs and attendants who might help passengers in want of help. For those who require a wheelchair, it’s a good suggestion to contact your cruise line forward of time to make sure that they are going to have one ready to your arrival.
Cruise Traces that Use the Port of Seattle
Seven main cruise strains use Seattle’s two devoted cruise piers. As talked about, Pier 91 is the bigger of the 2, so it handles the larger cruise ships belonging to 5 of the seven cruise strains:
Cruise Traces Working Out of Smith Cove Terminal at Pier 91 embrace Carnival Cruise Line, Celeb Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean Worldwide.
The Cruise Traces Working Out of Bell Road Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 embrace Norwegian Cruise Line and Oceania Cruises.
Relationship Between the Port and Alaska’s Cruise Trade
The Port of Seattle is an important embarkation and disembarkation level for cruises, with itineraries that take them to discover Alaska’s pristine shoreline. Due to the strategic Pacific Northwest location of the 2 cruise terminals and Seattle’s world-class worldwide airport, it is likely one of the most popular selections for a number of the world’s most respected cruise strains.
Whereas San Francisco, California, and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, each have port amenities that enable Alaska cruises to depart from them, with out the Port of Seattle, your complete Alaskan cruise market would endure. In 2023 alone, 251 cruise ships departed from Seattle on their technique to Alaska. Trade forecasts anticipate this quantity will develop to not less than 275 this yr.
Not solely does the port assist a whole bunch of hundreds of vacationers discover Alaska’s rugged panorama and untamed wildlife, however it has been doing so for 25 years! This explains why the Port of Seattle is taken into account to be one of many primary gateways to Alaska.
Close by Facilities
With Seattle being a vacationer vacation spot in its personal proper, many cruise passengers departing from the Port of Seattle will give themselves a couple of days both earlier than or after their cruise to discover the town. Fortunately, there are many facilities and factors of curiosity situated inside a brief distance of the 2 cruise ports:
Discover Downtown
Whereas they might not essentially be inside strolling distance of the downtown core, the 2 cruise terminals are situated comparatively shut. Bell Road at Pier 66 is simply over a mile away from downtown, so you may attain it with a 25-minute stroll, however the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal is over 3 miles away and would require strolling alongside roads that aren’t overly pedestrian-friendly.
Whether or not you stroll or take a cab, downtown Seattle is house to some actually iconic sights. We advocate going up the House Needle for a 360° view of the town and the encompassing space. The Seattle Nice Wheel additionally affords some beautiful views of Seattle’s downtown waterfront, and tickets are lower than $30.
Value Studying: Most IDEAL Resorts Close to Seattle Cruise Port
Downtown Seattle can be a foodie’s playground; with eating places, informal eateries, and numerous espresso retailers, it’s not tough to deal with your tastebuds whilst you stroll across the downtown space.
Go to the Seattle Aquarium
Seattle Aquarium is roughly half a mile from Pier 66, so passengers might simply stroll to it. For these departing from the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal, it could be a couple of 1-hour stroll or 15-minute drive, however it’s properly value visiting.
Positioned alongside the waterfront at Pier 59, visiting is a family-friendly exercise. View sharks, rays, faculties of fish, and a wide selection of marine life that’s native to the coastal waters of Washington State, in addition to species from all around the world.
Stroll Round Pike Place Market
Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market is simply steps away from Seattle Aquarium, so journey occasions are virtually equivalent. For over a century, the Pike Place Market has acted because the unofficial heart of Seattle’s downtown and the guts and soul of the town’s distinctive tradition.
With retailers catering to vacationers and locals, you’ll certainly discover one thing that catches your eye. As one of many oldest and largest repeatedly working markets within the nation, it’s not one thing you’ll need to miss.
Seasonal Climate Situations in Seattle, WA
To ensure you’re ready to your time in Seattle, you’ll need to just be sure you contemplate the climate:
Summer season (June – August)
Temperatures normally vary between 65° and 75°F, and rainfall is restricted. Carry gentle clothes and cozy footwear, as Seattle is a really walkable metropolis.
Fall (September – November)
Daytime temperatures drop to between 45° and 60°F. The cooler temperatures are additionally joined by elevated rainfall and loads of fog, particularly within the mornings. Ensure you carry a water-resistant jacket and a few hotter layers, particularly for those who plan on being outdoors within the evenings.
Winter (December – February)
Temperatures drop to simply above freezing however will be as excessive as 45°F on hotter days. The chilly temperatures additionally carry occasional snowfall, loads of rain, and actually sturdy winds blowing in off the water. Put on heat layers and a water-resistant jacket. Heat socks and insulated footwear are additionally useful.
Spring (March – Might)
Daytime temperatures return to a extra nice common of 45° to 60°F. Anticipate occasional showers, however they are typically transient. Put on gentle, detachable layers and convey a rain jacket or umbrella with you.
Issues to Do in Seattle
As talked about, Seattle and the encompassing space provide loads of points of interest and actions for guests to take pleasure in. We already talked about exploring the downtown, ascending the House Needle, visiting the Seattle Aquarium, and wandering round Pike Place Market, however the metropolis affords far more:
Go to Seattle’s Museums
The Seattle Artwork Museum is situated in downtown Seattle alongside the waterfront, so it’s straightforward to get to from both cruise terminal. Artwork lovers will benefit from the eclectic assortment and the constructing’s distinctive structure.
The Museum of Pop Tradition is one other must-see for those who plan to soak up the town’s actual cultural expertise. It’s situated in Seattle’s Uptown neighborhood, so you may take a look at the House Needle in your method.
The Museum of Flight is value a go to for aviation lovers. It’s appropriately situated close to the airport, so if you’re planning to go to, hold the roughly 11-mile journey in thoughts.
Get a C3 Metropolis Go
For lower than $100, you may go to three of Seattle’s prime points of interest, together with the House Needle, Aquarium, Pacific Science Middle, and a number of other of the town’s museums.
Take a Harbor Tour
Whether or not you trip one of many low-cost Washington State Ferries or select a extra intimate expertise on a devoted Harbor Tour, you’ll get the chance to see Seattle from a singular perspective.
In case your funds permits for it, we advocate an Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour. These one-hour narrated excursions provide an informative and enjoyable technique to see the town from the water.
Uncover Seattle’s Wealthy Historical past and Tradition for Your self
Whereas points of interest and guided excursions are nice, top-of-the-line methods to immerse your self in the whole lot Seattle has to supply is to easily stroll round and uncover it for your self. Discover the varied neighborhoods on foot, wander into the numerous retailers, and stroll alongside the scenic waterfront.
Learn Additionally: The Finest Time to Cruise Alaska: Months to Select
Seattle is a really walkable metropolis; nothing will make you are feeling extra like an area than grabbing a cup of espresso and taking a stroll. Have a seafood lunch and benefit from the salmon, oysters, and sushi the town is known for.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions (FAQs)
What port do cruise ships depart from in Seattle?
Cruise ships depart from each Bell Road Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 and Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91. Each piers are a part of the Port of Seattle, so ensure you test with the terminal your particular cruise ship will probably be departing from.
How far is Seattle Cruise Port from the airport?
Seattle-Tacoma Worldwide Airport is 14.1 miles away from the Bell Road Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 and simply shy of 19 miles from the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91.
How far is Pike Place Market from the cruise terminal?
Pike Place Market is simply 0.6 miles from Bell Road Cruise Terminal and three.1 miles from Smith Cove Cruise Terminal. When you can stroll to it alongside the waterfront, many passengers save time by taking a taxi.
