Cruise port Seattle (WA)
Info for port Seattle (WA) on 31 Jul 2027
Port information & tips for Seattle (WA)
Seattle is the impressive gateway to Alaska and the vibrant Emerald City in the Pacific Northwest of the USA. The metropolis fascinates with its picturesque location between Puget Sound and the majestic peaks of the Cascade Range, while maritime flair and urban innovation create a unique atmosphere. World-famous highlights such as the lively Pike Place Market, the iconic Space Needle, and the impressive Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum are in the immediate vicinity. Cruise ships use either the central Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal (Pier 66) directly on the waterfront or the extensive Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91), both of which guarantee a fast and comfortable route into the heart of the city center thanks to their excellent connections.
The Port of Seattle is the most important hub for Alaska cruises and impresses with its two modern piers at Bell Street Pier 66 and Smith Cove Terminal Pier 91. Thanks to the close connection to the city center and the international airport, the journey for guests from Europe is extremely efficient.
Airplane
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is served by direct flights from Frankfurt and also offers convenient connections for travelers from Munich, Vienna, or Zurich. Depending on traffic, the journey from the airport to the terminals takes about 30 to 50 minutes, with the piers located approximately 25 to 30 kilometers north of the airport.
Transfer & Shuttle
From SEA airport, guests can reach their ship comfortably using official cruise line transfers, taxis, or rideshare providers. A budget-friendly alternative is the Link Light Rail, which connects the airport to Westlake Station in Downtown, allowing for an easy connection to the terminals by taxi or a short onward journey.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the time difference and the long journey from the DACH region, we recommend arriving at least one day before embarkation and staying overnight in one of the hotels at Waterfront Park or in Downtown. Many centrally located accommodations also offer special packages for cruise passengers and are in the immediate vicinity of Pike Place Market and the piers.
The Port of Seattle is the most important hub for Alaska cruises and impresses with its two modern piers at Bell Street Pier 66 and Smith Cove Terminal Pier 91. Thanks to the close connection to the city center and the international airport, the journey for guests from Europe is extremely efficient.
Airplane
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is served by direct flights from Frankfurt and also offers convenient connections for travelers from Munich, Vienna, or Zurich. Depending on traffic, the journey from the airport to the terminals takes about 30 to 50 minutes, with the piers located approximately 25 to 30 kilometers north of the airport.
Transfer & Shuttle
From SEA airport, guests can reach their ship comfortably using official cruise line transfers, taxis, or rideshare providers. A budget-friendly alternative is the Link Light Rail, which connects the airport to Westlake Station in Downtown, allowing for an easy connection to the terminals by taxi or a short onward journey.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the time difference and the long journey from the DACH region, we recommend arriving at least one day before embarkation and staying overnight in one of the hotels at Waterfront Park or in Downtown. Many centrally located accommodations also offer special packages for cruise passengers and are in the immediate vicinity of Pike Place Market and the piers.
Seattle offers cruise guests an excellent infrastructure, and the central Bell Street Terminal is located directly on the metropolis's bustling waterfront. Thanks to the well-organized transport links, you can reach the city's most important sights comfortably and quickly.
On Foot
From the Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66, you can reach the famous Pike Place Market and the city center in about 10 to 15 minutes. The walk leads along the picturesque waterfront promenade and simultaneously offers you a wonderful view of the Ferris wheel and the skyline.
Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Official taxis and pick-up points for ride-hailing services such as Uber or Lyft are available in clearly marked zones at both terminals, Pier 66 and Pier 91. The ride to the city center or the Seattle Center is short and allows for a comfortable transfer directly to your destination.
Monorail & King County Water Taxi
The historic Monorail connects the city center with the Seattle Center and the Space Needle in just two minutes of travel time. Additionally, the King County Water Taxis offer an attractive connection across the water, taking you directly from the waterfront to West Seattle while you enjoy the panorama of Elliott Bay.
To make the most of your time in the Emerald City, we recommend a combination of the lively harbor district and the iconic landmarks in the city center.
Pike Place Market & Waterfront
Located just a few minutes' walk from the cruise terminal, the pulsating heart of the city awaits you with its famous fish market, fragrant flower stalls, and charming waterfront promenade. A stroll along the piers also offers fantastic views of Elliott Bay and invites you to linger in cozy seafood restaurants.
Space Needle & Seattle Center
The futuristic Space Needle is the landmark of Seattle and offers a breathtaking panorama over the city and the Olympic Mountains from its observation deck. At the same time, the surrounding Seattle Center delights with cultural highlights such as the Chihuly Garden and Glass and is perfectly accessible for a visit via the historic Monorail.
Alki Beach
This extensive sandy beach in West Seattle is ideal for a relaxing excursion and can be easily reached directly from the harbor thanks to a short water taxi ride. Visitors here enjoy the maritime flair while strolling along the promenade and simultaneously benefit from the spectacular view of the Seattle skyline.
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is easily accessible from Pier 66 within a few minutes' walk, as well as from Pier 91 in approximately fifteen minutes' driving time, and offers an incomparable cultural experience in the heart of Seattle. Here, you can enjoy the famous atmosphere of the historic market halls and also admire the craftsmanship of the fishmongers as well as the colorful local flower stalls. Thanks to the first-class gastronomy and the inviting cafés with views of Elliott Bay, this location is ideal for a culinary stroll as well as for purchasing authentic souvenirs. Start your visit perfectly right in the early morning to explore the market stalls in peace, and return to the port relaxed and in good time in the afternoon.
The return journey to terminals Pier 66 and Pier 91 is very relaxed thanks to the central location and good transport links, ensuring you arrive back on board punctually and safely.
Taxi and Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are available at all times at all major hotels, such as the Westin or Marriott, as well as at well-known landmarks. From the Space Needle or Pike Place Market, you can reach Pier 66 in a few minutes and Pier 91 comfortably in about 10 to 15 minutes. Simply give the driver your pier number or the name of your ship to ensure you are taken directly to the correct terminal.
Shuttle Buses and Public Transport
For passengers at Pier 91, organized shuttle buses from the cruise lines are often available from central meeting points in Downtown. Additionally, the Seattle Monorail connects the Space Needle with Westlake Center, from where you can easily take a taxi for the final leg to the port. King County Metro bus lines 24 and 33 also run regularly to the vicinity of Smith Cove and offer a practical connection to Pier 91.
On Foot
If your ship is docked at Pier 66 (Bell Street Cruise Terminal), you can simply stroll from Pike Place Market or the Seattle Aquarium along the busy waterfront directly to the terminal. The path is excellently signposted and, thanks to wide sidewalks, is safe and comfortable to navigate. Allow about 10 to 15 minutes for this relaxed walk from the center to Pier 66 and enjoy the view of Elliott Bay along the way.
In port on 31 Jul 2027
