Cruise port Valdez (AK)
Info for port Valdez (AK) on 21 Mar 2027
Port information & tips for Valdez (AK)
Thanks to its spectacular location on Prince William Sound, Valdez is known as the "Switzerland of Alaska" and welcomes travelers with a breathtaking backdrop of deep blue fjords and the snow-capped peaks of the Chugach Mountains. The port city exudes an authentic charm while offering direct access to untouched wilderness and fascinating worlds of ice. Special highlights include the Solomon Gulch Hatchery for watching salmon and sea lions, the informative Valdez Museum, and the majestic Worthington Glacier. Cruise ships dock at the John Hunter Memorial Marine Terminal (City Dock), from where shuttle buses comfortably take visitors to the city center, about five kilometers away, in just a few minutes.
Valdez in Alaska offers an impressive backdrop on Prince William Sound as a cruise port and, thanks to its manageable size and direct docking facilities, is easily accessible for cruise passengers from the DACH region. Cruise ships usually dock at the John Thomas Kelsey Municipal Dock, which is located right in the heart of the city, or at the Valdez Container Terminal, from where shuttles are available.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region typically takes place via Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), Alaska's largest airport. From Anchorage, you can reach Valdez Pioneer Field Airport (VDZ) with daily short flights of about 45 minutes offered by Arctic Legacy. Valdez Pioneer Field Airport is located only about 6 kilometers outside the city. Local taxi services and rental cars are available for the transfer to the port or hotel.
Auto
For travelers who want to experience a breathtaking drive through the Alaskan wilderness, the scenic Richardson Highway (Alaska Route 1) leads directly to Valdez. This "America's Most Scenic Road" connects Valdez with Fairbanks and offers an unforgettable route from Anchorage via the Glenn Highway. Parking facilities are available in Valdez city center as well as near hotels to safely park your vehicle during the cruise.
Vorab-Hotel
Given the long flight from Europe and possible flight delays, an overnight stay in Valdez the day before embarkation is recommended. In the city center, you will find several hotels, such as the Best Western Valdez Harbor Inn, which are just a few minutes' walk from Kelsey Dock and the starting points for shore excursions. This way, you can start your unforgettable Alaska adventure relaxed.
Check-in & Einschiffung
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
In port on 21 Mar 2027
