While Seattle cruise port is less busy than other major cruise ports in the US, it still serves more than a million cruise passengers. This guide takes you through everything you need to know about the Seattle cruise terminal and travel tips to bear in mind.
Port Overview
For more than 100 years now, Seattle has often been the main gateway to Alaska. The port is in the Pacific Northwest. The Seattle cruise port is also ranked among the best ports in North America and one of the best tourist destinations in Canada and the US.
The port offers two terminals that are adjacent to each other. Therefore, it’s worth knowing which terminal your cruise ship might use during your travel.
Usually, cruise ships dock at Bell Street Cruise Terminal (Pier 66) or Smith Cove Pier (Pier 91). The latter features drop-off and pick-up areas. It also has ample paid parking spaces with a complimentary shuttle service.
List of Cruise Ports in the City
Seattle cruise port features two terminals, as discussed below.
Bell Street Cruise Terminal (Pier 66)
Pier 66 is the port’s downtown terminal, located near hotels and the city’s top attractions. The terminal serves mainly Oceania and Norwegian cruise ships. Bell Street cruise terminal, as it is also known, offers on-site parking with approximately 1,700 spaces.
Smith Cove Pier (Pier 91)
Smith Cove Pier (Pier 91) is the most visible pier due to its location. However, most individuals sail from the Smith Cove cruise terminal. This is because many lines serve this terminal, including Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America Line, Carnival, and Celebrity cruises.
Pier 91 has parking nearby, giving visitors an easier time boarding the ship.
Sightseeing and Activities
After booking your Alaska cruise from Seattle, you might wonder what to do around the port of Seattle. Get your bearings right before engaging in some activities or touring the area’s top attractions featured in this post.
Space Needle
Head to the Space Needle, a notable landmark just a few minutes from the port. Besides enjoying the wonderful views of the buildings, there are many exciting things to do here. Over one million individuals visit the Space Needle annually, making it a must-see location during your visit.
The Space Needle is perfect for taking pictures while sitting on floating glass benches. The thrilling experience in a picture is the best way to remember what Seattle offers.
You should also stop by the Loupe Lounge for a remarkable cocktail experience and superb views. There’s also a fun gift shop to take home some of your favorite goodies that will remind you of the place.
Ride on a Ferry
Taking a ferry ride is also worth the journey. You can take a ferry to Bainbridge Island, about 35 minutes away. The trip lets you enjoy the amazing sights that make Seattle a gorgeous and charming city. Points of interest along the journey include the eastern view of Mount Rainier and the snowcapped Olympic Mountains. It’s also exciting to watch the bike and car commuters while onboard.
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is another incredible tourist hotspot. It’s an open-air market featuring various specialty shopping.
Most tourists visit the market since it’s within walking distance from Pier 66. You’ll have to get a ride if you’re coming from Pier 91. Many hotels are near the market if you want to rent a room in downtown Seattle.
Seattle Aquarium
The Seattle Aquarium is near downtown Seattle and Pier 66. This place is home to a host of marine life, mainly creatures of the Pacific Northwest. One of the most interesting aspects of this facility is the underwater dome. Guests can watch fish and sea mammals swimming around them.
If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a kid-friendly touch tank where kids can have a thrilling one-on-one experience with sea mammals and learn to treat them kindly.
Shopping and Food
Visitors at the Seatle can shop from the many shopping gems right after pulling ashore. Neighborhoods like Queen Anne, South Lake Union, and downtown offer dozens of shopping stores for guests looking for a little retail therapy.
Pacific Place is one of the best places to shop at the Seattle. This mall features five floors with restaurants and high-quality shops. Visitors looking for a place to watch a movie can also have a great time here. Pacific Place is a great shopping area because it’s also conveniently located.
Trendy retail outlets to shop include Coach, Victoria’s Secret, Michael Kors, Tiffany & Co., and The Handmade Showroom.
Want to explore the outdoor shopping experience? Patagonia has just about everything for the entire family. You can choose from various clothing options that suit your fashion taste and preferences.
As for restaurants, you’ll be glad to learn that there are also plenty of options. Some of the best restaurants to try out include:
- Bookstore Bar
- The Pink Door
- Elliott’s Oyster House
- Anthony’s Pier 66
- Local 360
Other Things To Do
Still not sure which spots you want to check out? Here are a few more options.
Visit the Olympic Sculpture Park
You might not want to dig into your pockets to have fun. If this is the case, visit the Olympic Sculpture Park for free. It’s one of Seattle’s largest parks, sitting on over nine acres.
Underground Tour
Visit the underground city to learn more about Seattle’s past. This place features interesting paths right below the city with abandoned rooms. The tales of the underground world will surely impress you.
Pacific Science Center
Take your family to the Pacific Science Center, where kids will enjoy the scientific demos of insects, dinosaurs, robots, and computers. Animal exhibits are also on-site.
Visit the Gum Wall
The Gum Wall is a unique symbol that speaks volumes about Seatle’s culture. While it might be a little gross, this wall is just as the name suggests: a wall covered with gum. The wall is 50 feet high and is a tourist attraction most people visit in Seattle.
Currency
The US dollar is the currency used in Seattle. You can use major credit cards in most shopping areas, bars, and restaurants. Additionally, ATMs are conveniently spread across the city for easy access.
How To Get around Seattle During Your Stay
There are many ways to travel within Seattle, including biking, walking, using light rail, buses, taking a ferry, or using taxis.
Buses are a great option if you want to cut your traveling expenses. Plus, you can easily access different parts of Seattle using this means of transportation.
If you’re unfamiliar with the area, walking allows you to explore the neighborhoods with bars, restaurants, and shops. Tour Capitol Hill, downtown Seattle, and Fremont on foot.
Avid bikers will enjoy touring Seattle. It’s a bike-friendly city with abundant trails, bike lanes, and rental shops.
Cruise Lines That Sail Here and From Here
The major cruise lines from Seattle include:
- Carnival Cruises
- Royal Caribbean
- Oceania Cruises
- Princess Cruises
- Celebrity Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Holland America Line
Irrespective of your chosen itinerary, Seattle has many cruise experiences and options.
Conclusion
There are plenty of compelling things to do in Seattle cruise port. Whether you’re new here or frequently visit, you’ll find something to do. If you’ve toured some of the places featured in this post, consider visiting other top attractions you haven’t been to. It’s all about exploring Seattle in ways you’ve not experienced before.
