Complete Guide To Cruising From Seattle In 2020
As a resident of downtown Seattle with a view of the both Seattle cruise terminals from my apartment complex (#dreamscometrue) and a frequent cruiser (some might even say cruise addict), today’s lecture will cover my best tips for cruising out of Seattle in 2020.
Welcome Back To Seattle, Cruise Passengers!
It’s nice for us locals to have the city mostly to ourselves in the winter. I can get my Moscow Roll at Piroshky Piroshky without waiting in a winding rope line like I’m about to hurl myself over a tracked cliff at Disney World while being asked, “would you mind taking my photo?” by throngs of tourists in a similar, neighboring line for the original Starbucks (not Mickey).
Still, I’m ready to welcome the cruise ships and the cruise ship passengers back to Seattle. I get goose bumps when I see the first ship of the season pulling into Pier 66. And also resentful if I’m not going to be on it. But mostly I’m excited!
We’re expecting well over 1 million people to cruise from Seattle, mostly bound for Alaska, during the 2020 season. Based on passenger numbers, Seattle has been ranked the largest cruise port on the west coast for the past three years and continues to grow. It’s estimated that the cruise industry results in over a half billion dollars in economic benefit for the region each year and for that, we thank you!
Seattle’s Cruise Terminals: Two Going On Three
Currently there are two cruise ship terminals in Seattle – one at Pier 66 and the other at Pier 91. It was also recently announced that plans for a third terminal at Pier 46 are underway – it seems my prolific lobbying efforts have paid off.
Before we move on, it’s important to establish which cruise terminal you’ll be sailing out of.
Where Will My Ship Be Docked In Seattle?
Pier 66: Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Sun, Oceania Regatta
Pier 91: Carnival Spirit, Celebrity Solstice, Emerald Princess, Holland America’s Eurodam, Holland America’s Maasdam, Holland America’s Oosterdam, Holland America’s Volendam, Ovation Of The Seas (RCCL), Ruby Princess, Sun Princess
Everything You Need To Know About Pier 66 In Seattle
Where Is Pier 66 Located?
Address: 2225 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121
Pier 66 is located along the Seattle waterfront, very convenient to all things downtown.
What Are The Closest Hotels To Pier 66?
There are two hotels within shouting distance to Pier 66, the Seattle Marriott Waterfront and the historic Edgewater Hotel. The Marriott is located across the street and the Edgewater about a block to the north.
Where Do I Park At Pier 66?
Parking for Pier 66 is located directly across the street on Alaskan Way. Vehicle entry is from Wall Street. Cost for parking at Pier 66 is $24 per day with a small discount available if you prepay online. Go here for detailed directions and additional information.
How Do I Get To The Pier 66 Cruise Ship Terminal From The Airport?
Your best options to get from the airport to Pier 66 (and from Pier 66 to the Seattle airport) include cruise line transfers, private shuttles, a taxi, ride shares (Lyft/Uber), and for hearty folks, the light rail.
Cruise Line Transfers From The Airport To Pier 66
Every cruise line operating out of Seattle offers both one-way and round trip transfers to/from Sea-Tac to/from Pier 66. These can be convenient and a good value if you’re traveling solo or in a small party, but can become costly for a larger group.
Norwegian: $20-$30 per person one-way. Go here or to your online booking for more information.
Oceania: Call (855) 623-2642 or consult your online booking to confirm price and book.
Private Shuttle From The Airport To Pier 66
Shuttle Express: This shared shuttle service is the most popular private shuttle option at $24.99 per person each way. Shuttles are available to/from Sea-Tac to/from Pier 66. Go here for additional information or to book online.
Taking A Taxi From The Seattle Airport To Pier 66
Taxi’s are readily available at Sea-Tac and at the cruise terminal after your cruise. A metered ride to the airport will likely cost you between $40-$70, depending on traffic. Some companies also offer a $40 flat rate to the airport. This is a good option if you don’t want to wait for a shuttle to arrive and load or have three or four people traveling in your party. More information for Yellow Cab can be found here.
Ride Share From Sea-Tac To Pier 66: Uber And Lyft
A ride share such as Uber or Lyft is a great option, and often the most economical. The Lyft estimator suggests a cost of $25-$35 from the airport to Pier 66. This is less expensive than a taxi and much more economical than a shuttle if you’re traveling with two or more people.
*Note: the street in front of Pier 66 is very congested on cruise days and there isn’t a great spot for ride share drivers to drop off/pick up. Consider walking a block to the north to the Edgewater Hotel and request they pick you up (or drop you off) there (thank you to coastcat on Cruise Critic for sharing this helpful tip!).
Is It Possible To Take The Light Rail From The Airport To Pier 66?
Yes. But be warned, this options involves a good deal of walking. While there is a light rail stop right at the Seattle airport, it’s a fairly long walk from the baggage claim area to the boarding station. Then, once you exit the light rail at your downtown stop, the Westlake Station, it’s another mile to Pier 66 (downhill on the way to the cruise terminal, uphill on the way from the cruise terminal back to the light rail station).
If you feel like you’re up for it, it’s the most cost effective option at $3.00 one-way per person. Travel time on the light rail (12 stops) is 38 minutes and you won’t risk sitting in traffic.
Everything You Need To Know About Pier 91 In Seattle
Where Is Pier 91 Located?
Address: 2001 West Garfield St.
Seattle, WA 98119
Pier 91 is located in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood near downtown.
What Are The Closest Hotels To Pier 91?
While there are no hotels within easy walking distance to Pier 91, there are several that are close and convenient by car, taxi, or ride share. I would recommend these four located in the Queen Ann neighborhood near Magnolia:
Inn at Queen Ann (for a less expensive option)
I’d Rather Stay Closer To The Downtown Tourist Attractions, But I Don’t Want To Pay A Year’s Salary To Do It. Is There A Less Expensive Hotel You’d Recommend?
Yes! I’d recommend the historic Moore Hotel. It’s located just two blocks from Pike Place Market, gets good reviews (people especially love the location for the price), and is fairly inexpensive for Seattle. You can check it out or book here.
Where Do I Park At Pier 91?
Pier 91 Smith Cove Cruise Terminal Parking
2001 West Garfield St., Lot D, Seattle, WA 98119
Parking is available at Pier 91 for $27 per day with a small discount if you prepay online. The parking lot is located a long walk away from the terminal, but a free shuttle is available to transport you and your luggage.
How Do I Get To The Pier 91 Cruise Ship Terminal From The Airport?
Cruise Line Transfers From The Airport To Pier 91
Carnival, Celebrity, Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean all offer transfer shuttle services to/from the airport to/from Pier 91. Check your online booking or call the cruise line for cost and additional information. This can be an expensive option for a larger group, but can be cost effective if you’re a party of one or two.
Private Shuttle From The Airport To Pier 91
Shuttle Express: This shared shuttle service is the most popular option at $34.99 per person each way. Shuttles are available to/from Sea-Tac to/from Pier 91. Go here for additional information or to book online.
Taxi From The Seattle Airport To Pier 91
Taxis are readily available at Sea-Tac and at the cruise terminal after your cruise. A metered ride to the airport will likely cost you between $45-$80, depending on traffic. This is a good option if you don’t want to wait for a shuttle to fill or have three or four people traveling in your party. More information for Yellow Cab can be found here.
Ride Share From Sea-Tac To Pier 91: Uber and Lyft
A ride share is likely the most economical route if your travel party is two or more. The Lyft estimator quotes a price of $35-$42 to Pier 91 from the Seattle airport.
Is It Possible To Take The Light Rail From The Airport To Pier 91
Unfortunately, no. It’s possible to get there by light rail and then a bus transfer, but I wouldn’t recommend that option.
Can I Walk To Pier 91 From Downtown?
Technically, yes. In fact, I run this route frequently and have walked from my downtown apartment to embark on a cruise from Pier 91 many times. However, this depends on a few factors like your fitness level and how much luggage you’ll have with you. I wouldn’t recommend it for the average traveler.
But if you’re fit and looking to burn off a few hundred final calories before fully embracing “all you can eat” or want a beautiful walk that will save you the cost of transportation to the pier, then go for it!
The distance from the Olympic Sculpture Park to Pier 91 is 1.8 miles (and once you’re on the trail, you’re basically committed as there aren’t many easy exit points). Be sure to use Google Maps or another map app to determine the exact distance from your starting point downtown.
How To Walk From Downtown Seattle To Pier 91
Check out my video with instructions on how to walk from downtown Seattle to the cruise terminal. If you try this, keep your eye out for sea lions, harbor seals, and bald eagles. I’ve spotted all of them along this trail.
Is It Safe To Arrive In Seattle On The Day Of My Cruise?
There are many ways to get to Seattle for your cruise depending on your unique circumstances – train, bus, car, ferry, plane or, in my very fortunate case, foot. However you choose to travel, I’d strongly recommend you arrive at least the day before your cruise departs, unless you have travel insurance that would cover any possible travel delays (including getting stuck in traffic).
Seattle, and especially I-5, is notorious for traffic snarls. Even though I live downtown and avoid I-5 like the salad bar on the lido buffet, I’ve found myself parked in gridlock contemplating vehicle abandonment, “maybe a kind new owner will come along and give her a better life anyway,” dozens of times with, “at least I’m not trying to make a flight or a cruise,” as my only consolation. Don’t sacrifice your cruise to I-5, he’s a jerk and totally not worth it!
Besides, the earlier you arrive, the more time you have to explore my beautiful city and the surrounding region and the more opportunities you’ll have to run into Prof. Cruise. Let me warn you though, you might discover me later as a stowaway when unpacking your luggage: “surprise!” Don’t worry, I’m small and won’t take up too much room in the bed. At least before I order my standard two to three desserts in the MDR every night.
What Should I Do In Seattle Before My Cruise?
Or after! If you can spare the time and expense, consider spending some days in or around Seattle before or after your cruise. There’s so much to see and do.
Seattle CityPass
If you only have a day or two and want to hit the main tourist attractions near downtown, I’d strongly suggest purchasing a CityPASS. At just $99 for adults and $79 for children 5-12, it will save you a significant amount (nearly 50%) and is good for admission to the following popular attractions:
- Space Needle
- Seattle Aquarium
- Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) or Woodland Park Zoo
- Chihuly Garden and Glass or Pacific Science Center
Harbor Cruise Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum of Pop Culture Space Needle Woodland Park Zoo
You can buy the Seattle CityPASS here. We find this such a good value, we’ve purchased it several times ourselves to hit the sights with our out-of-town guests. They’re starting to recognize me at the Space Needle: “Oh, you again. You’re the one who passed gas in the elevator and then made a joke about it propelling us into space.”
Pike Place Market
If you didn’t spend all your money on DOD’s (drinks of the day) like I normally do on a cruise, there are hundreds of shops, restaurants, seafood, flower, bakery, and produce stands, and local artisans available to separate you from your remaining dollars at the vast nine acre Pike Place Market historic district. And if you’re out of cash, stop by just for the people watching and street performers. We have some characters (in addition to Prof. Cruise)!
You can also book an organized tour that includes Pike Place Market. Here are some fun options.
My Flight Leaves Seattle Late in the Day. I Want to Explore the Area After my Cruise, But What Do I Do With My Luggage?
Port Valet! This awesome and almost too good to be true service offered by the Port of Seattle will transfer all your luggage to your airline after your cruise for FREE. It’s available at both Pier 66 and Pier 91 and applies to the following airlines if you’re traveling domestically:
- Alaska
- American
- Delta
- Horizon
- JetBlue
- Southwest
- United
Go here for more information and instructions on how to participate.
I’m Arriving To Seattle Early In The Morning And Want To Explore The City Before My Cruise. But What Do I Do With My Luggage?
If you’re looking for a place to store your luggage before or after your cruise (and port valet doesn’t work for you), there are a number of luggage storage services in Seattle that can help. Here are my two favorites:
What Can I Do In Seattle If I Want To Avoid The Crowded Touristy Areas?
Fair warning, the popular tourist areas around downtown and the Seattle Center will be mobbed seven days a week during the cruise season. Arrive to attractions early to beat some of the crowds. But if you’d prefer a more peaceful and serene activity, consider spending some time at one of our beautiful parks or beaches. You can find my recommendations for great beaches near downtown Seattle (several of which are accessible via public transit from downtown) here.
I’m Interested In Visiting One Of The National Parks Near Seattle
Or if you have longer, I’d strongly encourage a side trip to one of the nearby national parks, either Mt. Rainier or Olympic National Park. Go here for my guide to Mt. Rainier National Park and here for my guide to Olympic National Park. You can also book a tour to Mt. Rainier here or Olympic National Park here.
What’s The Earliest Safe Flight Out Of Seattle On The Way Home From My Cruise?
This is a tricky one as there are many factors at play, such as how early you’re able to get off the ship (they usually have to drag me off), your transportation plans to the airport, and the day of the week (weekdays will take a lot longer than weekends). As a general rule, I wouldn’t book a flight before noon at the absolute earliest unless you’re flexible and on an airline that will re-book you for free in the event you miss your flight. Keep in mind that the security line at Sea-Tac can sometimes take over an hour. It’s a VERY busy airport.
I would also strongly suggest you enroll in TSA Pre✓ if you’re flying out of Seattle. It will save you a tremendous amount of time and hassle. It’s a simple process and lasts for 5 years.
Happy Cruising!
Say hello if you see me around downtown Seattle and please feel free to post any additional questions you may have in the comments or on my Facebook page and I’ll do my best to answer them. Most of all, enjoy your cruise from Seattle to Alaska (or wherever else your voyage may take you)! Seattle is my favorite place to live and Alaska is my favorite place to cruise (you can check out my Alaska port posts here). I hope you love them both as much as I do. Happy Cruising!
Thank you so much for valuable info. We will be leaving on the spirit next May. Was wanting to do airbnb. What location would you recommend? Thank you.
Hi Kim,
How exciting! Airbnb is a great choice to save some money and enjoy more space. If you want to be closer to the cruise terminal, I’d recommend something in the Queen Ann neighborhood (lower Queen Ann will have more restaurants and things you can walk to and is close to Seattle Center where the Space Needle is located). If you’re going to spend some time exploring Seattle, I’d suggest staying downtown or in Belltown (which is right next to downtown). I hope that helps. Feel free to run any specific places by me and I can let you know if I’m familiar with them and comment on their exact location. So fun!
Thanks appreciate it. Quick question. We are planning on doing normal tourist things. Thinking about renting car but was worried about parking at pikes peak or space needle. Would it be better to depend on uber and mass transit? Thanks again
Hi Kim,
I would definitely avoid renting a car if you’re sticking to touristy things around downtown and the Seattle Center. Traffic and parking can be a real nightmare and parking is very expensive. I’d stick to Uber and the Monorail (to get from downtown to the Seattle Center), etc. Have a great trip!!!
Hi Prof, We are sailing on NCL Sun late Sept 2020. We are staying Edgewater (already booked) dearer but as they say when in Rome!….. on previous cruises we have met many people from around the world, but spookily 3 different families from Seattle. that made our choice of cruise starting point easy….. have already chatted to them via facebook https://www.facebook.com/champagne.charlie.12 and decided to try to meet up……. they have given us much advice re: dining, sites to see, getting around etc. follow me on trip advisor https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Profile/Pengys_of_Leigh and see our plans……….. but my biggest hope is to try to get to a photo from the Sky View Observatory (on the morning of departure with the hotel & ship in the same shot………. not sure about logistics getting from hotel to Sky View & back, just for a photo………. any comment input greatfully received.
Regards Clownboy & Jobo (Mark & Joanne
Hi Clownboy and Jobo (based on those names alone, I can already tell we’d get along),
I’m so excited for you! I’m really hoping to hop on the Sun myself this summer – such great itineraries offered – so maybe I’ll even run into you. In terms of the Sky View Observatory, I think you have two good options. It doesn’t open until 10am, so you could take the time to walk there stopping along the way for coffee and/or breakfast. It’s 1.5 miles from the Edgewater (but note that you have to navigate some pretty steep hills). Then I’d probably do an Uber or Lyft back to the hotel. Alternatively, if you don’t want to walk, I’d do Uber/Lyft or a taxi both directions (there will be a million taxis parked right near the Edgewater). Even with weekday downtown traffic, it should be a pretty quick and inexpensive ride over and back. Hope that helps! Have a fabulous trip and let me know if I can help with anything else! -Sarah
Sarah, yep……. plans so Far Tues lots of travel :- “Home-Manchester-Paris-Seattle-Hotel……. maybe later to Hamilton Park Viewpoint, then an early night”
Day 2 (Wednesday 23 Sept 2020)
Breakfast “C.J.’s Eatery”……….. “maybe free shuttle bus”………………… “Pioneer Square, Last resort F.D., Underground Tour, Waterfall Garden Park, Occidental Park, Smith Tower, Pinball Museum, Piroshky Piroshky, Klondike Gold Rush Museum, Glasshouse Studio, Chinatown, Stonington Gallery, Wings over Washington, Seattle Great Wheel & Waterfront Cruise”………… Tour of & Dinner”Pike Brewing Company” Restaurant
Day 3 (Thursday 24 Sept 2020)
Breakfast “ludi’s”………… “maybe free shuttle bus”………….. “Pike Place Market, Gum Wall, Westlake Centre, Monorail, Space Needle, Seattle Ducks, Chihuly Garden’s & Museum of Pop Culture” Dinner “Paddy Coynes” Restaurant
Day 4 (Friday 25 Sept 2020)
Breakfast “Hotel”………… “Sky View Observatory”, check -in NCL Sun………… 16:00 Sail Away
Not necessarily doing everything Weds, but lots of options as we have time! & they all seem close by to each other
That sounds like an awesome itinerary. You’re definitely making the most of your time here! I few things to note…
Ludi’s is sadly closed due to a fire and the loss of their lease. So sad as it was one of our favorite spots. Also, the free Seattle Waterfront Shuttle is also no more (I’m not sure if that’s what you were referring to when you said “maybe free shuttle bus”). It’s possible that it will come back (a survey was sent out to residents recently to collect data on use), but I definitely wouldn’t count on it.
Sarah, I’m gutted about Ludi’s (that was highly recommended)……….. yes the free waterfront shuttle, I heard was suspended thought it may be seasonal (that’s why i listed as “maybe”, not everything will happen (time)………….. just trying to cover enough bases………… we actually set off from home (22:00 Monday eve & land at 14:00 Tues, Seattle time)……….. did you get a look at my Tripadviser or Facebook………… by all means Like, follow, etc. and I will reciprocate.
Mark
We are cruising in May What type weather are we going to arrive in Seattle. Also are you into the know of weather in Alaska
Hi Linda,
The weather in May in both Seattle and Alaska is very hard to predict. However, the temperatures in Seattle are generally in the 50’s and 60’s with some risk of light drizzly rain (downpours are very rare here, especially during that time of year, but you might experience some drizzles for part of the day, so plan for that just in case). I’d plan for cool temps in Alaska with a fairly high chance of experiencing at least some rain. But you never know! It’s been a weird few years weather-wise, averaging much warmer than usual. Definitely check the forecast right before you leave and have a wonderful cruise!!!