Port of Seattle Cruise Port Guide
The Port of Seattle is the busiest Alaska cruise gateway in the Lower 48, sending ships north to the Inside Passage all summer long. It is a lively, walkable port with two cruise terminals and an easy connection to a great pre-cruise city stay. This guide covers Seattle’s two terminals, parking, airport transfers, and the timing tips that make embarking for Alaska smooth.
Port overview
Seattle operates two cruise terminals: Pier 66 (Bell Street) on the downtown waterfront and Pier 91 (Smith Cove) in the Magnolia area. Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Norwegian, Princess, Holland America, and Carnival sail Alaska itineraries from May through September.
Cruise lines sailing from Seattle
- Royal Caribbean
- Celebrity Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Princess Cruises
- Holland America Line
- Carnival Cruise Line
Terminal information
Pier 91 (Smith Cove) is a large, modern terminal built for big ships, while Pier 66 (Bell Street) sits right on the walkable downtown waterfront. Both offer porter service, seating, and accessible facilities.
Getting there
From I-5, take the appropriate downtown exits toward the waterfront (Pier 66) or Elliott Avenue toward Magnolia (Pier 91). Confirm your pier — they are several miles apart.
Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA) is about 15-18 miles from the terminals, a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic. The Link light rail connects SEA to downtown near Pier 66.
Both piers offer on-site parking; reserve in advance, especially at Pier 91.
Parking options
- Pier 91 parking: On-site lots run about $40-$45 per day; reserve online in advance for peak Alaska season.
- Pier 66 parking: Downtown garage parking near Bell Street runs about $35-$40 per day.
- Off-site lots: Independent downtown garages offer alternatives, some with shuttles.
Check-in steps
- Complete online check-in and select an arrival window.
- Confirm whether your ship uses Pier 66 or Pier 91 — they are miles apart.
- Drop luggage with porters curbside.
- Clear security and check in.
- Board and enjoy Puget Sound views.
Security & documents
Standard screening applies. While many round-trip Seattle Alaska cruises are closed-loop and technically allow a birth certificate and photo ID for U.S. citizens, a passport is strongly recommended because these itineraries call in Canada.
Which Seattle pier will my cruise use?
Seattle has two terminals — Pier 66 (Bell Street) downtown and Pier 91 (Smith Cove) in Magnolia. Confirm yours in your cruise documents; they are several miles apart.
How much is parking at the Seattle cruise port?
Pier 91 runs about $40-$45 per day and Pier 66 about $35-$40; reserve in advance for peak Alaska season.
Do I need a passport to cruise to Alaska from Seattle?
A passport is strongly recommended because Seattle Alaska itineraries call in Canada, even though closed-loop cruises technically allow a birth certificate and photo ID.
How far is SeaTac airport from the cruise port?
About 15-18 miles, a 30-45 minute drive; the Link light rail also connects SEA to downtown near Pier 66.
What cruise lines sail to Alaska from Seattle?
Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Norwegian, Princess, Holland America, and Carnival all offer Alaska sailings from Seattle.
When is Alaska cruise season from Seattle?
Typically May through September, with peak weather and daylight in June, July, and August.
What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?
Layers, a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and warm clothing — Alaska ports are cool and often rainy.
What time is all-aboard in Seattle?
Typically around 4:00 p.m., about 90 minutes before departure.