Whether you have two hours or two days, there’s plenty to see and do mere steps from your ship.
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal Rachael Jones
Experience the remote frontier land that helped establish Seattle during the Klondike Gold Rush on a cruise from Seattle to Alaska—home to magnificent landscapes, amazing wildlife, and remote towns that preserve the history of intrepid explorers.
Seattle’s two centrally located cruise ship terminals are easily accessible from SEA Airport, and with seven major cruise lines operating from mid-April through late October, the city is a premier point of departure for a cruise to Alaska.
Both the Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal (Pier 66) and Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91) are close to downtown, so you can comfortably explore Seattle’s major attractions and renowned food scene before or after your cruise.
Additionally, there’s an easy way to sightsee in Seattle without luggage. The Port of Seattle’s free service, Port Valet, transfers your belongings from the boat to your airline at the end of your cruise.
Things to Do Before or After a Cruise
Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal (Pier 66)
This terminal is 25 minutes from SEA Airport by taxi or shuttle. Its proximity to major downtown attractions makes it ideal for pre-and post-voyage exploring. Home port for Norwegian and Oceania cruise lines.
- The Waterfront is home to several major attractions, including The Seattle Great Wheel at Pier 57 and the Seattle Aquarium at Pier 59. Allow two hours to enjoy the sights along the waterfront, including passing ferry boats and souvenir shops.
- Pike Place Market is a 10-minute walk east of Pier 66. Browse hundreds of shops and fresh produce vendors, watch street performers and fish throwers, and pose for a photo at the original Starbucks cafe.
- Olympic Sculpture Park is an easy 10-minute walk north from Pier 66. This free, outdoor sculpture park lets travelers admire art and nature all in one place.
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91)
Only 35 minutes from the airport by taxi or shuttle, this cruise terminal is north of downtown in the Magnolia neighborhood. Pier 91 is a 15-minute taxi ride or a 25-minute bus ride (King County Metro route 33) from downtown attractions. The port serves Carnival, Celebrity, Holland America Line, Princess, and Royal Caribbean cruise lines.
- The Seattle Art Museum is home to thousands of works from around the world, including pieces and installations that span centuries and cultures.
- Hundreds of stores are all within walking distance in downtown Seattle, including the flagship Nordstrom, Pacific Place, and Westlake Center.
- From Westlake Center shopping mall downtown, ride the Seattle Center Monorail to Seattle Center, home of the iconic Space Needle and attractions such as the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).
Public Transport to the Cruise Terminals
Along with taxis and shuttles, cruise passengers can take public transportation from SEA Airport to either cruise terminal. Link light rail provides service between the airport and downtown via the University Street and Westlake stations. Take King County Metro Transit bus route 33 from Third Ave and Pine St to Pier 91, or bus routes 24 or 33 to Third Ave and Bell St and walk five blocks to Pier 66.
Travel Professionals:
Dive deeper into Seattle’s cruise offerings and discover resources here.