cruise ships in seward alaska

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Seward (Alaska)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Alaska

Local Time 2024-05-02 09:30

Port Seward cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Seward, Alaska. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Seward is a port city located in Kenai Peninsula Borough in the United States' state of Alaska. The city has total area approx 56 km2 (22 mi2) and population around 3,000.

The city was named after William H. Seward, U.S. Secretary of State under Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson. He fought for the purchase of Alaska in 1867, and finally negotiated to acquire it from Russia.

Port Seward (locode USSWD) is one of the USA's most profitable fishing ports based on the monetary value of fish taken. Another major industry is tourism. The city is an Alaska Railroad terminus that has a maintained dock (for cruise ships) and controls a coal terminal from Usibelli (Usibelli Coal Mine). Seward is used as homeport by major cruise shipping companies , including RCI-Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Celebrity, Silversea, RSSC-Regent.

Port Seward is approx 201 km (125 mi) from Anchorage , direction south. Whitter Cruise Port is closer to Anchorage but Seward offers more exciting entertainment options and sightseeing tours. It is one of the oldest and most charming places to visit in Alaska.

Seward AK was included as call port in the Northwest Passage cruises of the following ships:

• Crystal Serenity - 32-days itinerary from Seward Alaska to NYC New York (2016 - August 16 to September 16)
• Crystal Serenity - 32-days itinerary 32-days Seward to New York City (2017 - August 15 to September 15)
• Seven Seas Navigator - 63-days itinerary from Miami Florida to Montreal Quebec Canada (2017 - June 17 to August 18)

Note: All Northwest Passage ship transits are assisted by a Canadian icebreaker or another vessel with an ice-strengthened hull.

In 2022, ARRC (Alaska Railroad Corporation) started a development project to replace Seward's old cruise ship dock and passenger terminal (1966-built) with new facilities. The bond-funded project (USD 60 million in bonds, out of total USD 80M) is currently scheduled for completion in 2024-Q2.

Seward cruise terminal

Seward Cruise Port is the homeport/start or the end for over 50% of all cruise ship tourists in Alaska.

The Alaska Railroad Dock (passenger terminal) is approx 1 km / 0,5 mi from downtown. You won’t find anything interesting around the wharf but the historic downtown district is within walking distance. There you can visit fine art galleries or buy quaint souvenirs.

The nearest airport is the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. You will need 3 hrs to reach it by a motorcoach and up to 5 hours by train. The train departs at 6:45 AM from Anchorage and arrives at 11:15 AM in Seward. From Seward it departs at 6 PM and arrives at 11 PM in Anchorage.

If you prefer a car, you can rent from Hertz and drive 127 miles along the Seward Highway (or Alaska Routes 1 and 9).

• Alaska SeaLife Center: discover amazing sea life on the Resurection Bay shores. This aquarium is a world-class facility with octopus, sea lions, puffins and much more interesting ocean creatures. You will see 177 kinds of species.
• Major Marine Tours: try the Kenai Fjords or Prince William Sound cruise. Enjoy glaciers, whales, puffins and otters.
• Sunny Cove Sea Kayaking: Resurrection Bay tours for kayakers, both novice and experienced ones.
• Kenai Fjords National Park: located on the the Harding Ice Field fjordland. It is among the newest parks in Alaska. The distance from Seward Cruise Port is about an hour.
• Exit Glacier: it is located 10 miles away from Seward Cruise Terminal. This is among the Alaska’s more accessible glaciers.
• Lost Lake: try the most beautiful and popular Kenai Penisula trail – try mountain biking, running or just hiking to reach elevation of almost 200 ft to enjoy breathtaking Resurrection Bay and Gulf of Alaska views.
• Resurrection River Trail: another great trail to try. It is easy and beautiful, Chugach National Forest part.
• Seward Community Library: located across from the State Building. You can watch a movie or a slide show of the earthquake from 1964. also you will find the Seward Heirloom Quilt which dates from 1976. Located at the corner of Adams and Fifth.
• Seward Museum: discover great exhibitions of native relics and artifacts. It is located at the corner of Jefferson and Third.
• Qutekcak Cultural & Community Center: located on 3rd Ave. Discover the Qutekcak Native Tribe traditions and history.

Seward tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Responding to demand, HAL-Holland America Line expands its collection of 'Legendary Voyages' with the addition of 4 captivating journeys scheduled...

Celebrity Cruises launches 800 sailings for 2025-2026 season

Celebrity Cruises has unveiled its expansive program for 2025-2026, described as its "most ambitious" collection to date. With 800+ sailings...

RCI-Royal Caribbean opens bookings for 2025 Alaska cruises

RCI-Royal Caribbean International is expanding its cruise offerings in Alaska for summer 2025. The popular liner Anthem OTS will join the Alaskan...

RCI-Royal Caribbean's ship Radiance OTS spends 4 days stuck in Seward AK

RCI-Royal Caribbean faced disruptions in its Alaskan itineraries with its ship Radiance of the Seas, leading to cancellations and delays for 3...

RCI-Royal Caribbean's ship Radiance OTS setting sail after 2 canceled cruises

RCI-Royal Caribbean has confirmed the resumption of sailings for the Radiance of the Seas ship after experiencing propulsion problems that led...

Royal Caribbean’s ship Radiance OTS cancels 2 cruises due to propulsion issue

RCI-Royal Caribbean's vessel, Radiance of the Seas, recently faced operational setbacks resulting in the cancellation of two scheduled cruises...

Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas voyage cancelled due to propulsion issues

Cruise passengers who had booked a trip on RCI-Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas were recently informed of the cancellation of their voyage. The...

RCI-Royal Caribbean celebrating Alaska culture with “Locals Onboard” program

RCI-Royal Caribbean International has launched the "Locals Onboard" program in collaboration with Voyij.com to showcase local artists on its Alaska...

HAL-Holland America opens bookings for 2025 Alaskan cruises

HAL-Holland America Line has now opened reservations for its 2025 Alaska season. With a remarkable 75 years of experience sailing in the region...

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Seward - user reviews and comments

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Cruise from Seward, Alaska

Best cruises leaving from seward.

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Alaskan Adventure Awaits 

Embark on a remarkable cruise from Seward, Alaska. Witness towering glaciers, kayak among icebergs, and spot majestic whales in Kenai Fjords National Park. Explore lush forests, encounter bears and eagles, and immerse yourself in native Alaskan culture. There’s a plethora of things to do on your next cruise vacation sailing out of Seward. Experience Seward's wonders on a cruise like no other.

Fjord ahead to adventure on the Kenai Peninsula with southbound Alaska cruises from Seward.

RADIANCE OF THE SEAS

You’re in for an off-the-grid explore-a-thon that cruises from Seward Alaska. Forge a trail through America’s Last Frontier all onboard Radiance of the Seas®, a ship designed for edge-of-the-map exploration. Boasting the most glass of any Royal Caribbean ship, it’s perfect for glacier-gazing and whale-watching in Alaska.

Explore Radiance of the Seas

CRUISES TO ALASKA

Craving the ultimate Alaska adventure? This is it. Lead a team of huskies across the snow on Hubbard Glacier , brave the world’s longest zip line in Icy Strait Point , and tour totems in Ketchikan . Combine your cruise with a Cruise Tour on land and spend a few extra days exploring some of Alaska’s most iconic sights, wondering at wildlife and venturing deep into Denali National Park.

Explore Alaska Cruises

Seward Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in seward.

ENCOUNTER MARINE LIFE AFLUTTER

Sealife Center Sea Lions Marine Life, Seward, Alaska

Enter the world-class Alaska SeaLife Center for a “window to the sea” where puffins, giant Pacific octopuses, Steller sea lions and colorful fish swim. Hold sea anemones and starfish in touch tanks — or watch salmon splash their way up a fish ladder from an outdoor observation platform.

Kayaking Kenai Fjord National Park Wilderness Outdoor Activities, Seward, Alaska

Explore Kenai Fjords National Park, over 600,000 acres of wilderness chock-full of tidewater glaciers, Alaskan wildlife, and outdoor activities galore. From hiking backwoods trails to bicycling mountain pathways, kayaking icy waters and beach combing rocky shorelines, this park encompasses the best of Alaskan scenery and adventure.

DOG DAYS OF ADVENTURE

Live life like an Alaskan musher at Mile 0 of the Iditarod National Historic Trail. Learn about the famed dog-sledding race while touring a local kennel. Then board a custom-designed sled for an exhilarating ride through rainforest or across glaciers, a team of spirited huskies leading the way.

LOCAL CUISINE

Start the day with king crab eggs benedict and then enjoy a reindeer hot dog for lunch. Alaskan sablefish and Resurrection Bay red salmon are both solid dinner choices, best paired with a pint from Seward Brewing Company. Then stop by Sweet Darlings for fudge, gelato or saltwater taffy— all are made in-house.

A collection of downtown shops sell handmade pottery, jade jewelry, and hand-crafted knives with carved handles. Totem poles, ulu knives and watercolors by well-known Alaskan artist Karla Morreira all make great souvenirs. And local fish processors can arrange overnight shipping of fresh catches directly to your home.

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Seward, Alaska

Port schedule.

Seward, Alaska cruise ship port calendar shows all scheduled arrival and departure dates in a timetable format. The cruise calendar displays the ship’s estimated time of arrival including related information such as how crowded is the port, as well as the ship’s next port-of-call.

The following timetable provides valuable information and keeps track of the future cruise ship arrivals from all major cruise lines. In order to find out more about the cruise ship itineraries such as ports, dates, and arrival/departure times just follow the ship’s link.

• Norwegian Jewel 2.866 passengers 06 May 2024 - 05:00
• Viking Orion 930 passengers 07 May 2024 - 00:00
• Viking Orion 930 passengers 08 May 2024 - 00:00
• Seven Seas Explorer 829 passengers 08 May 2024 - 06:00
• Silver Shadow 466 passengers 10 May 2024 - 07:00
• Radiance Of The Seas 2.546 passengers 10 May 2024 - 07:00
• Silver Nova 728 passengers 16 May 2024 - 07:00
• Silver Muse 691 passengers 16 May 2024 - 07:00
• Celebrity Summit 2.590 passengers 17 May 2024 - 06:00
• Norwegian Jewel 2.866 passengers 20 May 2024 - 05:00
• Oceania Regatta 803 passengers 20 May 2024 - 08:00
• Seven Seas Explorer 829 passengers 22 May 2024 - 06:00
• Viking Orion 930 passengers 23 May 2024 - 00:00
• Radiance Of The Seas 2.546 passengers 24 May 2024 - 07:00
• Silver Nova 728 passengers 30 May 2024 - 07:00
• Celebrity Summit 2.590 passengers 31 May 2024 - 06:00
• Norwegian Jewel 2.866 passengers 03 Jun 2024 - 05:00
• Queen Elizabeth 2.503 passengers 04 Jun 2024 - 00:00
• Queen Elizabeth 2.503 passengers 05 Jun 2024 - 00:00
• Seven Seas Explorer 829 passengers 05 Jun 2024 - 06:00
• Norwegian Jewel 2.866 passengers 06 May 2024 - 21:00
• Seven Seas Explorer 829 passengers 08 May 2024 - 17:00
• Radiance Of The Seas 2.546 passengers 10 May 2024 - 19:00
• Silver Shadow 466 passengers 10 May 2024 - 19:00
• Silver Muse 691 passengers 16 May 2024 - 19:00
• Silver Nova 728 passengers 16 May 2024 - 19:00
• Celebrity Summit 2.590 passengers 17 May 2024 - 19:00
• Oceania Regatta 803 passengers 20 May 2024 - 18:00
• Norwegian Jewel 2.866 passengers 20 May 2024 - 21:00
• Seven Seas Explorer 829 passengers 22 May 2024 - 18:00
• Radiance Of The Seas 2.546 passengers 24 May 2024 - 19:00
• Viking Orion 930 passengers 25 May 2024 - 00:00
• Silver Nova 728 passengers 30 May 2024 - 19:00
• Celebrity Summit 2.590 passengers 31 May 2024 - 19:00
• Norwegian Jewel 2.866 passengers 03 Jun 2024 - 21:00
• Seven Seas Explorer 829 passengers 05 Jun 2024 - 17:00

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Seward (Anchorage), Alaska, US

To explore Seward on an Alaska cruise, select a cruisetour that includes overnight stays in this vibrant seaport. As a scenic gateway to the Kenai Fjords National Park and a laid-back burg steeped in history, there’s plenty of reason for to stop into Seward on an Alaska cruise adventure. 

Seward is ground zero for the Klondike Gold Rush's Iditarod National Historic Trail, a dogsled route that connected the Kenai Peninsula’s ice-free port with Nome during frontier-era winters. Though the modern race makes a ceremonial start in Anchorage, it’s inspired by the famous run of 1925, which dashed along parts of this older path. It allowed 20 mushers to carry urgently needed diphtheria vaccine more than 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) in just over 127 hours.

Native Alaskans and explorers from Russia, Britain and the United States  frequented this area before Seward’s official founding in 1903. The early settlement included a colorful neighborhood known as Homebrew Alley which was erased by a 9.2-magnitude megathrust earthquake. Known as the Good Friday earthquake, it was the second most powerful ever recorded and dropped the shoreline nearly six feet in 1964.

Today this mellow town welcomes visitors to Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park, along with the impressive 204-kilometer (127-mile) Seward Highway—honored as an All-American Road—stretching north to Anchorage. On a Seward cruise tour, visit some of the town’s most popular sites such as  the Alaska SeaLife Center, a research aquarium open to the public, and the steep, stony 920-meter (3,018-foot) Mount Marathon, which hosts one of America’s oldest footraces each Fourth of July.

Top 3: Things To Do In Seward, Alaska

Featured shore excursions.

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Seward (Anchorage), AK

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* Coming Soon

Named after the U.S. Secretary of State involved in buying Alaska from Russia, the town of Seward went on to become an important location in the olden days of the Klondike Gold Rush. Teams of dogsleds would rush the lifesaving diphtheria vaccine from here… and today there’s even a race that commemorates that time. But if Seward is your starting point for exploring the region, the region’s big city of Anchorage and its Native American culture is just one of the spots that’s worth a detour. There’s Kenai Fjords National Park with its marine life and dozens of glaciers, while on land the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center welcomes visitors to see the orphaned and injured animals recovering there, including bears, moose, elk, eagles and more. And there’s potential for adventure galore, whether it’s floating down Resurrection River, strapping in for a dogsled ride, or going for a scenic, up-close nature cruise aboard a smaller boat.

GOTTA SEE Seward (Anchorage)?

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* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

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Alaska Cruises from Seward, Alaska

Nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty, Seward serves as an idyllic departure port for your Alaskan cruise. Located on the shores of Resurrection Bay, this charming city offers a perfect blend of rugged landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant coastal atmosphere, providing an unforgettable start to your voyage through the Last Frontier. Explore a variety of Alaska cruises in 2024 departing from Seward , including itineraries from Celebrity Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) , Oceania Cruises , Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) , Royal Caribbean , Silversea Cruises , and Viking Ocean Cruises , among the most well-known cruise lines. Ships usually depart from the Seward Cruise Terminal in the late afternoon, allowing ample time for passengers to check-in and settle aboard their cruise ship.

The best time to take cruises from Seward

The best time to visit Seward and embark on your Alaskan cruise is during the summer months, from June to August. These months offer milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and a higher chance of clear skies, allowing for optimal outdoor exploration and wildlife sightings. Additionally, summer aligns with the peak cruise season, ensuring a lively atmosphere and a variety of events and festivals in Seward. Explore cruises from that depart in the months of May 2024 , June 2024 , July 2024 , August 2024 , and September 2024 .

Duration of cruises from Seward

Cruise Lines offer itineraries from Seward that range from 7 to 16 days. You can choose cruises lasting from 7-day cruise , 10-day cruise , 11-day cruise , 14-day cruise , and 16-day cruise , depending on the length of your holiday.

Cruise to Alaska from Seward Schedule 2024

The ship schedule for the year 2024 includes numerous exciting voyages from Seward, the picturesque capital city of Alaska, to various enchanting destinations across the beautiful state. Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard luxurious cruise ships, and experience the breathtaking natural wonders, rich wildlife, and charming coastal towns that Alaska has to offer. Explore magnificent glaciers, witness majestic humpback whales, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of this remarkable region. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures, serene landscapes, or cultural encounters, the ship schedule for 2024 from Seward to Alaska promises an extraordinary travel experience filled with unforgettable memories.

Seward, with its stunning natural landscapes, warm hospitality, and abundance of outdoor activities, serves as a captivating departure port for your Alaskan cruise. Immerse yourself in the city's charm, explore its attractions, indulge in local cuisine, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking wonders of Alaska. From the moment you set sail from the Seward Cruise Terminal, you will embark on a remarkable adventure, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

7-day Alaska cruise from Seward

Celebrity summit, celebrity cruises.

Date: July 12, 2024

Ports of Call: Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Cruise Line

Date: July 29, 2024

Ports of Call: Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Date: July 15, 2024

Date: August 12, 2024

Radiance of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Date: August 16, 2024

Date: May 10, 2024

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

Date: May 30, 2024

Ports of Call: Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Seven Seas Explorer, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Date: June 5, 2024

Ports of Call: Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Date: May 6, 2024

Date: August 26, 2024

Date: May 20, 2024

Date: September 11, 2024

Date: August 23, 2024

Date: June 17, 2024

10-day Alaska cruise from Seward

Viking orion, viking ocean cruises.

Date: July 23, 2024

Ports of Call: Seward, Seward, Valdez, Yakutat Bay, Icy Strait, Skagway, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Silver Muse, Silversea Cruises

Date: June 20, 2024

Ports of Call: Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Haines, Sitka, Wrangell, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Date: September 5, 2024

Date: August 8, 2024

14-day Alaska cruise from Seward

Ports of Call: Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Haines, Sitka, Wrangell, Inside Passage, Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Icy Strait, Skagway, Icy Bay, Valdez, Seward; View Itinerary

Date: June 6, 2024

Date: September 23, 2024

Date: May 24, 2024

Date: May 17, 2024

Date: June 7, 2024

Date: June 14, 2024

Date: September 9, 2024

Date: September 6, 2024

Date: July 19, 2024

Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Cruise Line

Date: August 21, 2024

Ports of Call: Seward, Valdez, Hubbard Glacier, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Vancouver; View Itinerary

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ALASKA RAILROAD PORT FACILITIES

The Alaska Railroad owns approximately 328 acres in a land reserve, which is used mostly for train operations, but also includes Seward Cruise Ship Terminal facilities, the docks and adjacent uplands, all to support intermodal operations. 

Each year, over 200,000 people and all types of cargo enter or exit Seward through the railroad facilities. Since the docks are directly connected to the Alaska Railroad system, freight and passengers are easily transported to key hubs such as Anchorage and Fairbanks, and the communities in between. 

SEWARD CRUISE SHIP TERMINAL

Seward is a pivotal port for cruises in Alaska. Many ships either start or end their journeys in Seward, using the adjacent Alaska Railroad or Seward Highway to shuttle from Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage. 

The passenger dock is only occasionally used for light freight and logistics. Each736 foot dock face is equipped with 10 fenders, 12 mooring bollards, and 2 mooring dolphins located 300 and 400 feet from the end of the dock. 

The Berthing Application, Terminal Use Permit, and Terminal Tariff are available at the ARRC Seward Dock Office located in the Dale Lindsey Seward Intermodal Facility or online at www.AlaskaRailroad.com .

FREIGHT SHIP DOCKING

The freight dock supports freight routes through the state, making connections to ports, rivers, and roads in every region. 

The 620 by 320-foot freight dock is accessible on the west side and is equipped with seven fenders and nine mooring bollards. There is one mooring dolphin with a single bollard 71.5 feet from the dock, which is accessible by a catwalk. 

Other features and utilities of the freight dock include:

• Compacted gravel surface
• Top-of-dock elevation: 20 feet MLLW
• Designated front ramp unloading/loading area
• 8000+ sq. ft. paved area with electrical power and water service
• Cranes and boom trucks available through terminal use permit holders
• Fenced perimeter, card access gates, and security cameras  

DALE LINDSEY SEWARD INTERMODAL FACILITY

The 24,000 square foot Dale Lindsey Seward Intermodal Facility is 240-by-100-foot and connects cruise and other maritime passengers to Seward and beyond. Located at 913 Port Avenue on the Cruise Ship Dock, the facility is available for rent from mid-September to mid-May, when not supporting cruise ship operations. The building has 25-foot ceilings, heated concrete floors, decorated walls, and ample parking. The venue can accommodate 800 for a sit-down event or 1,675 at a standing-room event. 

SHIPPING & TRANSPORTATION

The Alaska Railroad specializes in moving goods like lumber, heavy machinery, rebar, pipe, and hazardous material and can transload commodities to and from ships, railcars, and trucks. This is a popular option for customers without rail service directly to their facility. For those needing to transload, the railroad offers an all-inclusive transportation service alongside their shipping partners.  

Seward Alaska Railroad Depot

Traveling to Seward? The Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic train operates daily during the summer season and offers a scenic travel choice to and from Anchorage.

Seward Boat Harbor

Repairs & maintenance, seward marine industrial center.

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Seward Cruise Terminal information

Last updated on January 21st, 2024 at 10:26 pm

Seward's cruise terminal, nestled at the end of the scenic Resurrection Bay, serves as the gateway to Alaska's stunning wilderness. Surrounded by majestic mountains and glaciers, this charming terminal provides an authentic Alaskan experience before you embark on your cruise.

Seward is a small town of with a population of approximately 2700 people. Even so, it offers many amenities atypical for its size because it is a main port for Alaskan cruises , and is the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Seward is easily walkable, with level terrain and most attractions are within 2 miles of the cruise terminal.

There is a Hertz car rental kiosk  available in Seward, however it is recommended passengers book ahead of time.

Seward Cruise

The following cruise lines have ships that embark from Seward, Alaska during the summer months:

Royal Caribbean International Holland America Norwegian Cruise Lines Celebrity Cruises Oceania Cruises Crystal Cruises

Weather in Seward

Alaskan cruises run from May to September and temperatures range between 62 degrees F and 45 degrees F, so it’s important to pack accordingly. June and July are the months with the least amount of precipitation and September has the most. The days are long during the summer months. The longest day of the year is June 21 with daylight lasting anywhere from 19 to 22 hours, depending on where you are in the state. Because it doesn’t really start to get dark until the second week of September, so you won’t see the Aurora Borealis until then.

Seeing Wildlife in Seward

The best time to see wildlife, except for bears, is late May and early June. The best time to see bears is late June or early July. If you really hate mosquitoes, cruise in either May or September, otherwise bring plenty of bug repellent.

See Excursions in Seward

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CRUISE PORT GUIDES

Seward – Alaska – USA

Cruise Port Guide Seward – Alaska – USA: docked

The Cruise Ship Terminal Seward is close to the town. It is about 1 mile walk to get to the historical downtown area. At the cruise dock you will find a tourist information centre. Pick up your maps and local information here.

Shuttle Service Seward

There is shuttle service available at the dock that will take you all over the small town of Seward. It makes 11 stops in town at all the mayor attractions.

Why not rent a car in Seward? There is a Hertz car rental close to the cruise port. See its exact location in the map above.

Bicycle rental

Find a bicycle rental service on 411 Port Ave in Seward. The shop is called Seward Bicycle shop. It is within walking distance of the cruise dock. See map above for its exact location.

Seward Train

Seward is connected to Anchorage by road and train. Most people reach Anchorage by train. Find more information on: www.alaskarailroad.com

Hiking in Seward

There are many hiking trails in and around Seward. You can try the Two Lakes Trail, Resurrection River Trail or Historic Iditarod Trail. Whether it is a stroll along the shore line or up the glacier, there is always a suitable one to find in Seward. The Two Lakes trail starts right in town. It is a easy half a mile walk. Watch for wildlife! Find the start of the trail in the map above. Always visit the Seward Visitors Information before going on a hike to check on the latest status and pick up the hiking map.

Things to see and do in and around Seward:

Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Centre You will find the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center at Seward’s boat harbour. Ask the rangers all your questions or see one of the park films on display in their auditorium.

Downtown walking tour Take a self guided walking tour through Seward and learn all about this amazing historical place. Get your map here: http://www.alaska.org/assets/content/maps/Walking%20Tours/Seward-Walking-Tour.pdf

Seward museum Learn about all the historical events like the Russian occupation, military presence and 1964 Earthquake that formed Seward.

Alaska Sealife Centre This is one of the best attractions of Seward. Get a close encounter with the sea lions, birds and learn about Alaska’s marine life in the touch tanks.

The Seward art murals In Seward you will find many murals all over town. It already starts at the cruise terminal where you will see the “Welcome to Seward”, “Painting with Wyland” and “Seward: Gateway to Alaska” mural.

Exit Glacier Visit the Exit Glacier Nature Centre just outside of Seward. Take guide walks and learn about the local flora and fauna. Visit the campground, ranger station and access the glacier from the Harding Icefield. Keep in mind that the hike to the glacier is 9 mile round trip on a rough terrain.

Made in Alaska

When shopping in Haines make sure to buy the products with this logo. This indicated the products has actually been made in Alaska.

Seward cruise dock

The Seward cruise dock is located about 1 mile from the city center. Find tourist information and a shuttle service at the dock. More information on this can be found in the full Seward cruise port guide.

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A dock project in Seward will bring even bigger cruise ships to Southcentral Alaska

Royal Caribbean's cruise ship Radiance of the Seas is docked in Seward on May 13, 2022. Alaska Railroad is planning a $100 million expansion project for Seward. (Marc Lester / ADN)

The Alaska Railroad plans to spend $80 million to replace and expand the old cruise ship dock in Seward, setting the stage to bring larger cruise ships and more tourists to Southcentral Alaska. A $25 million freight dock expansion is also in the works.

The new dock will extend close to a quarter of a mile into Resurrection Bay, about 500 feet longer than the existing dock that must be replaced because of its age, railroad officials said.

The longer dock will enable cruise companies to bring in ships that can haul around 4,500 passengers, more than the roughly 2,500-passenger ships that now reach Seward, said Bill O’Leary, Alaska Railroad president.

Those big ships currently visit Southeast Alaska, but they don’t cross the Gulf of Alaska to visit Southcentral Alaska, he said.

O’Leary said the bigger ships will mean more visitors not just for Seward, but for destinations such as Anchorage or Fairbanks, he said.

Alaska Railroad CEO Bill O'Leary speaks about the railroad's $100 million projects planned for Seward on May 13, 2022, at the Seward Chamber of Commerce. (Marc Lester / ADN)

“It’s a critical project for not only the cruise industry, but also the entire visitor industry in Alaska,” O’Leary said.

Business and political leaders in Seward said they support the plans. But the prospect of a bigger footprint for the cruise industry has some residents in the bayside town of 2,800 closely watching developments.

[Earlier coverage: Tourists and cruise ships are ready to return to Seward. But is Seward ready for them? ]

The project will be mostly complete in two summers, and finalized in 2025, railroad officials say.

The cruise ship dock upgrade is part of a bigger effort to upgrade the railroad’s infrastructure in the community. An expansion of the freight dock is up next, to be finished in 2027.

The docks are vital transportation links for the state, O’Leary said. He said the improvements will also support industries such as construction that send materials to Seward for distribution across Alaska.

“It’s a significant amount of money for a town of that size and for a railroad of our size,” O’ Leary said.

The heart of the plan is the replacement of the passenger dock. It was originally a freight dock, built in 1966 as the railroad upgraded its facilities following the Great Alaskan earthquake two years earlier.

The dock is still safe, but its pilings are corroding, said Clark Hopp, the railroad’s chief operating officer. It has passed the standard design lifetime for a marine project.

“It has served us well,” Hopp said. “But as we like to say at the railroad, it’s in hospice care. It’s going to die.”

Passengers arrive in Seward on an Alaska Railroad train on May 12, 2022. (Marc Lester / ADN)

The railroad is working on an agreement with Royal Caribbean for that cruise company to serve as the new dock’s long-term anchor tenant, O’Leary said.

Wendy Lindskoog, a Royal Caribbean vice president for West Coast operations, said the agreement, still under negotiation, could cover two or three decades.

The dock expansion will support Royal Caribbean’s plans to bring its new Quantum-class ships to Seward, she said. The ships are larger and more energy-efficient than earlier ships, she said. Two of the ships visiting Southeast this year are the Quantum of the Seas , with capacity for 4,900 guests and Ovation of the Seas , with capacity for 4,200 guests.

Alaska and Seward are popular with guests, she said.

“Our company has a great interest in growing in Alaska,” she said. “Our guests love the destination.”

In 2019, about 230,000 people disembarked in Seward. They were part of the 1.3 million cruise guests to visit the state that year.

Industry officials have said that statewide record could be broken this year, after large cruise companies faced two years of zero-to-limited calls in Alaska during the COVID-19 pandemic.

[ Tourists are returning to Alaska this summer. Will there be enough workers to manage them? ]

As part of the passenger dock expansion, the railroad is also planning a new terminal building, where cruise guests gather as they prepare for their land journey in Alaska.

Customers line up inside the Seward cruise ship terminal to board the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Radiance of the Seas on May 13, 2022. (Marc Lester / ADN)

If needed, the railroad will look at increasing its capacity to transport more guests from Seward to Anchorage and elsewhere, O’Leary said.

The Alaska Legislature advanced the cruise dock project this session, approving a bill for a $60 million bond.

The railroad will cover the rest of the cost with cash, railroad officials say. The bonds will be repaid over time with dock user fees.

Seward is largely excited about the opportunity for more visitors in the community and modernized facilities at the port, said Kat Sorensen, head of the Seward Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center.

“It will be a boon for Seward in general,” she said.

Trent Gould, owner of Kayak Adventures Worldwide, a local kayak guiding business, said he’s concerned that bigger and more cruise ships could hurt Seward’s small-town charm.

“As a tour operator, we recognize the importance of tourism and we want to manage it in a sustainable way with people having a say in that growth,” he said. “When the cruise ships come in, those values don’t always align.”

Seward Vice Mayor Sue McClure said many cruise guests often head straight to Anchorage by rail or bus. That reduces the need for more seasonal workers or housing to support them, an especially urgent issue now as Seward deals with ongoing labor shortage issues.

While some cruise guests will spend time in Seward, she said the community can adapt to any labor issues or other complications that might arise.

One benefit is that the larger cruise ships, if they come, will create more work for the local longshoremen that support them, she said.

“I have no worries about what they’re proposing,” she said of the railroad’s plans.

As for the railroad’s plans to expand the freight dock in Seward, it will more than double in size after it’s widened and lengthened. It will be about 1,000 feet long when the work is done.

The freight dock expansion is part of a $25 million project, with a 2020 grant from the U.S. Maritime Administration paying for most of it.

The expansion will allow more efficient movement of the freight that arrives in Seward, such as fracking sand and pipes for the oil industry, officials said.

From left, Alaska Railroad CEO Bill O'Leary, Royal Caribbean captain Marek Slaby and Alaska Railroad vice president for real estate and facilities Jim Kubitz walk on the Seward cruise ship dock on May 13, 2022. (Marc Lester / ADN)

The railroad says it will focus on building the passenger dock first, then the freight dock.

The phased approach is needed in part to avoid disrupting cruise ship activity in summer, the railroad officials said.

Anchorage Daily News journalist Marc Lester contributed to this report.

Alex DeMarban

Alex DeMarban is a longtime Alaska journalist who covers business, the oil and gas industries and general assignments. Reach him at 907-257-4317 or [email protected].

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Fri, May 31, 2024

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Cruise company backs Alaska Railroad’s plan to replace Seward dock

The Alaska Railroad Corp. is moving forward with plans to replace a nearly 60-year-old passenger dock in Seward. The $137 million project is for one of three docks in the city operated by the company and it handles all of Seward’s cruise ships.

Alaska Railroad Company external affairs director Meghan Clemens said putting in a new dock is overdue.

“We’re looking at this investment as a 50 year asset for Seward. And to that end, we want to be sure that this new dock is going to be able to accommodate growth into the future as that works for both the industry, and for Seward and the Kenai Peninsula,” she said.

The proposed project includes an almost 748-foot floating dock and 60,000-square-foot terminal building. While the planned dock is only slightly longer than the existing one, the new terminal would be more than double the size of the current building.

Local developer The Seward Company designed the space large enough to hold all cruise ships that sail the state now. Clemens said the terminal building — which also acts as a transition space for cruise passengers in the summer — will serve more than just tourists.

“We think it’s both going to serve customers as they’re embarking or disembarking on the cruise ship, as well as be a great asset for the community of Seward that holds a lot of community events at the terminal building during the offseason,” she said.

The project is being funded by revenue bonds, which must be approved by the state Legislature. The Legislature approved $60 million in bonds for the project in 2022, and the railroad company requested additional bonds worth $75 million this year.

House Bill 122 and Senate Bill 105 are currently in the House and Senate finance committees, respectively. Passing the bills will allow the company to take on the bonds to fund the project. No state funds will go towards the project.

To secure the debt from the bonds, the company signed a 30-year agreement with cruise ship company Royal Caribbean International. This commits the cruise line to using the dock throughout that time and guarantees the minimum amount of money needed each year to pay off the debt. Clemens says an agreement of this length is unprecedented in the state.

According to a port schedule from Cruise Lines International Association, a trade group for cruise lines that Royal Caribbean is a member of, Royal Caribbean cruise ship Radiance of the Seas is scheduled to stop in Seward 10 times this season. Last year, 87 cruise ships went through the docks, bringing nearly 200,000 people to the coastal community, according to a press release from the railroad company.

If the Legislature approves the additional bonds, construction is slated to begin in the fall of 2025, with the goal to open the following summer.

Jamie Diep, KBBI - Homer

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Alaska railroad poised to issue bonds to replace seward passenger dock.

May 1, 2024 | News , Tourism , Transportation

The new passenger dock would include a 60,000 square foot terminal building that will accommodate cruise passengers in the summer and community use in the off season.

The Seward Company

The Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC) is seeking approval from the Alaska Legislature to issue bonds that would allow it to replace the existing passenger dock and terminal building in Seward. A public-private partnership called The Seward Company would build the facility, thanks to a thirty-year commitment from Royal Caribbean Group to use it.

Increased Accessibility

Royal Caribbean would help design and pay for the $137 million facility, while the Alaska Railroad would own it.

The existing dock was built in 1965 and is approaching the end of its useful lifespan. Alaska Railroad External Affairs Director Meghan Clemens says the state-owned railroad had been searching for a workable replacement and took a “strategic pause” a year ago for lack of progress. Then in January, it received a proposal from The Seward Company to build the dock.

The Seward Company describes itself as a public-private project formed to revive, reimagine, and rebuild cruise port infrastructure in Seward. Partners include the Alaska Railroad, Royal Caribbean Group, and Turnagain Marine.

“This dock is a vital piece of Alaska’s transportation infrastructure, not just for the community of Seward, but for Alaska’s visitor industry across Southeast, Southcentral, and the Interior,” says ARRC President and CEO Bill O’Leary. “As maintenance became more challenging, it’s imperative we replace the old dock. This new, state-of-the-art infrastructure will serve Alaskans for the next fifty years.”

The new 748-foot dock, scheduled to open in time for cruise season in 2026, will be “the most robust floating double-berth pier in Alaska,” according to the Alaska Railroad. Designed as a turn-port, the double-barge hull will feature a concrete deck with ample space for passengers to safely embark while also supporting effective provisioning. Designed for the Royal Caribbean’s Quantam-class specifications, the new facility will easily accommodate all classes of cruise vessels sailing in the Alaska market, as well as potential winter cargo shipments in coordination with ARRC’s adjacent freight dock.

“We believe it will work well for Royal Caribbean and work well for other cruise line customers, and meet the long-term needs of the Alaska Railroad,” Clemens says.

The new passenger dock will replace an outdated dock that required significant ongoing maintenance to keep operable.

Last year, eighty-seven ships docked in Seward carrying 188,000 passengers. Many of these cross-gulf cruise guests extend their time in the state with shoreside excursions on the Kenai Peninsula or onward to Anchorage, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Denali, Fairbanks, or other destinations.

“The new Seward passenger dock is an important investment in Alaska’s long-term ability to welcome visitors to Southcentral Alaska and beyond,” says Governor Mike Dunleavy. “We’re proud that Alaska is rightfully known as a world-class destination, and our strong visitor industry is ready to continue providing incredible experiences for guests, and benefits to our local communities.”

The floating dock will raise and lower with Alaska’s extreme tides, allowing ships to berth on both sides. It will also include a 60,000-square-foot terminal building. During the winter, the workstations and dividing walls of the terminal can be moved, making the new facility the largest flex-space in the region.

“This dock is hugely important to our community,” says Seward Mayor Sue McClure. “In addition to the economic importance of bringing summer visitors to local businesses, the terminal building is used for community events over the winter months. We are excited about the revitalization of this infrastructure, and Royal Caribbean’s long-term commitment to Seward as a premier destination.”

Clemens says the dock will also accommodate side-loading ferry vessels, giving the Alaska Marine Highway System the option to return to Seward. Shore power will also be available, an important new feature to meet future regulations and objectives for low-emission solutions.

Bonding Authority

The floating dock will allow two cruise ships to be in port at once.

ARRC plans to purchase the new dock and terminal facility primarily through bonding. The organization has bonding authority granted in 2022 by the legislature to issue up to $60 million in bonds when plans called for a smaller facility. Now ARRC is seeking permission from the legislature to increase that bonding amount by $75 million.

The new proposal includes an unprecedented commitment on the part of Royal Caribbean: a thirty-year contract that will effectively pay off the cost of construction over time.

“Royal Caribbean Group remains strongly committed to the future of Seward and the State of Alaska,” says Preston Carnahan, regional vice president for Royal Caribbean Group, noting that the homeport agreement will be the largest in the state of Alaska. “We are excited to continue to collaborate with the Alaska Railroad and watch as Seward energizes opportunity across Alaska.”

ARRC is awaiting approval of the bond authorization request before the close of this Legislative session. Approval will allow the developer to break ground in fall 2025 and have the new facility ready for the 2026 season.

Clemens says, “We are excited about bringing new infrastructure to Seward that will support the growth of the next fifty years of the Alaska visitor industry.”

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2024 Cruises from Vancouver: Visit Alaska, California & Hawaii

Whether you want to sail to Alaska, cruise the Hawaiian islands, or explore California's wine country, you can plan your ideal cruise vacation from Vancouver, British Columbia. This diverse city in western Canada is a gateway to some of the world's top destinations, which you can experience on a five-day trip along the Pacific Coast, an 18-day adventure to Alaska and Japan, and various other cruises in between.

Discover all the places you can go on a Vancouver cruise in 2024 and start planning your trip with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Vancouver cruises .

2024 Vancouver Cruise Ports of Call

When you book a cruise from Vancouver , you can plan the perfect vacation to match your interests. Do you want to go whale watching while cruising past the beautiful glaciers of Alaska? Do you want to sample new wine varietals all the way down the Pacific Coast? Do you want to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Japan? You can do it all (and then some) when you take a Norwegian cruise from Vancouver.

Depending on the itinerary you choose, your 2024 Vancouver cruise may take you to these ports of call:

• Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Alaska.
• Juneau, Alaska.
• Hubbard Glacier, Alaska.
• Icy Strait Point, Alaska.
• Astoria, Oregon.
• San Francisco, California.
• San Diego, California.
• Ensenada, Mexico.
• Hakodate, Japan.
• Sendai (Ishinomaki), Japan.
• Tokyo, Japan.
• Kahului, Maui.
• Hilo, Hawaii.
• Nāwiliwili, Kaua`i.
• Honolulu, Oahu.

Shore Excursions on Cruises From Vancouver

When you cruise from Vancouver in 2024, you'll have the opportunity to visit new places and choose the experiences you want to have. Here are just a few popular shore excursions on cruises from Vancouver.

Whale and Marine Mammals Cruise

If you're cruising to Alaska in 2024, make sure you include whale watching on your trip itinerary. When you dock at Icy Strait Point, you can take a cruise to watch humpback whales and other mammals in this unique part of the Alaskan panhandle. Other animals you may see on your whale-watching cruise include porpoises, sea lions, harbor seals, and orcas. If you're lucky, you may also see some of Alaska's other natural wildlife, including bears, deer, and bald eagles.

Glacier Hike and Packraft

Does your Vancouver cruise include a stop in Juneau? Book a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the Fly-in Norris Glacier Hike and Packraft excursion . Your adventure will start with a flight over the Alaskan wilderness, providing spectacular views of the glaciers below. When you land, you'll transfer to a packraft (similar to a kayak) that you'll paddle through a glacial lake, giving you an up-close view of the breathtaking natural scenery around you. Finally, you'll hike across Norris Glacier before ending your day — one you're sure to remember for the rest of your life.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Alaska: Vancouver to Seward: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau 7-Day Alaska From Vancouver to Seward: Hubbard Glacier & Skagway 18-Day from Vancouver to Tokyo: Hubbard Glacier, Skagway & Juneau

For those who prefer a relaxing journey through California's wine country, a wine tour in Santa Barbara should not be missed. The Santa Ynez Valley wine tour will delight your palate with tastings at two well-known wineries. You'll take a scenic drive through the valley as you travel to each winery, where you'll have the opportunity to sample some award-winning vintages. It's a great choice for anyone who loves wine or simply enjoys the finer things in life.

Hakodate History and Culture

The longest Norwegian cruise from Vancouver in 2024 — an 18-day trip to Alaska and Japan — includes a stop in Hakodate. If you want to learn more about the history and customs of this Japanese city, book the Hakodate cultural tour . You'll visit the city's top landmarks, including the Motomachi district located at the base of the mountains. From there, you'll drive to Goryokaku, an urban park with gorgeous views of the city. You'll end your tour by visiting a historic magistrate's office, which was carefully reconstructed to represent the original.

Things To Do & See in Vancouver

By booking a cruise from Vancouver, you can spend time exploring the city. Start your trip early with a few days in Vancouver before the ship departs, or extend your vacation in this Canadian city once you're back on land. There are many things to do in Vancouver. Stroll through stunning Stanley Park for some ocean views, or visit the VanDusen Botanical Garden to learn more about the region's natural flora. If you want to explore Vancouver's history and its significance in the Pacific Northwest, make a stop at the Museum of Anthropology.

Not sure where to start your tour of Vancouver? Norwegian offers a comprehensive city tour that marks the perfect way to end your cruise vacation. After getting off the ship, your tour will take you to the city's top neighborhoods, including the Gastown District and Vancouver's Chinatown, the second largest in North America. Your tour will end with some free time in Stanley Park, where you can take in some final spectacular sights before heading home. This tour includes transportation to Vancouver International Airport, so you don't have to worry about missing your flight.

With beautiful natural scenery, fun shore excursions, and historical and cultural insights, a cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia, has something to offer everyone. Cruising from Vancouver truly allows you to see the world. Take a look at all the itineraries we offer from Vancouver in 2024, and find the one that best aligns with your travel bucket list. Before you book, make sure you're signed up to receive our cruise deals to stay updated on our top cruises from Vancouver.

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