How to Get to Seward, Alaska for a Cruise: The Complete Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

How to Get to Seward, Alaska for a Cruise

Seward, Alaska is a popular port of call for cruise ships, offering stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and a variety of activities for visitors. But how do you get to Seward if you’re not taking a cruise?

In this article, we’ll discuss the different ways to get to Seward, including by plane, train, and car. We’ll also provide tips on how to make the most of your time in this beautiful Alaskan city.

So whether you’re planning a cruise to Seward or you’re just looking for a great place to visit, read on for all the information you need to know!

How To Get To Seward Alaska For Cruise?

| Method | Cost | Travel Time |
|—|—|—|
| By Plane | \$200 – \$500 | 2 – 3 hours |
| By Car | \$150 – \$250 | 6 – 7 hours |
| By Ferry | \$100 – \$150 | 4 – 5 hours |

By Plane

The closest airport to Seward is Anchorage International Airport (ANC), which is located about 120 miles away. There are multiple airlines that offer direct flights from major cities in the United States to ANC, including Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. The flight time from ANC to Seward is typically around 2 hours.

Once you arrive at ANC, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the Seward Bus Depot, which is located about 10 miles away. The bus ride to Seward takes about 30 minutes and costs \$20.

By Car

The drive from Anchorage to Seward is about 6 hours long. The road is well-maintained and there are plenty of gas stations and restaurants along the way. The scenery is beautiful, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take pictures.

By Ferry

The Alaska Marine Highway System offers a ferry service from Bellingham, Washington to Seward. The ferry ride takes about 4 hours and costs \$100 – \$150. The ferry departs from Bellingham once a day and arrives in Seward the following morning.

Once you arrive in Seward, you’ll be in the heart of the Kenai Peninsula, which is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Alaska. You’ll be close to some of the best hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the state.

How to Get to Seward Alaska for Cruise

Seward is a small town located on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, as it is the gateway to the Kenai Fjords National Park. There are a few different ways to get to Seward, depending on your starting point.

By Plane

The closest airport to Seward is the Kenai Municipal Airport (ENA), which is located about 15 miles from the town. There are direct flights to ENA from Anchorage, Seattle, and Portland. The flight time from Anchorage is about 45 minutes, and the flight time from Seattle and Portland is about 2 hours.

Once you arrive at ENA, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Seward. The taxi fare is about $30, and the shuttle fare is about $20. The shuttle ride takes about 20 minutes.

Flights to Seward

There are a few different airlines that fly to ENA. Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Horizon Air all offer direct flights to ENA from Anchorage, Seattle, and Portland.

The cost of a flight to Seward will vary depending on the time of year and the airline you choose. During peak season, flights can be quite expensive. However, you can often find good deals on flights during the shoulder season (May and September) and the off-season (October through April).

Transportation from the airport to Seward

Once you arrive at ENA, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Seward. The taxi fare is about $30, and the shuttle fare is about $20. The shuttle ride takes about 20 minutes.

You can also rent a car at ENA. There are several car rental companies located at the airport. The cost of a rental car will vary depending on the type of car you choose and the length of your rental.

By Car

If you are driving to Seward, you will take the Seward Highway from Anchorage. The drive time from Anchorage to Seward is about 3 hours. The road is well-maintained, but it can be windy and narrow in some areas.

There are a few things to keep in mind when driving to Seward. First, make sure you have a full tank of gas. There are gas stations in Seward, but they are few and far between. Second, be prepared for wildlife. Moose, bears, and other animals are common along the Seward Highway. Third, watch out for road construction. There is often road construction on the Seward Highway, so be prepared for delays.

Driving to Seward

To drive to Seward, you will take the Seward Highway from Anchorage. The drive time from Anchorage to Seward is about 3 hours. The road is well-maintained, but it can be windy and narrow in some areas.

To get to the Seward Highway, take the Glenn Highway south from Anchorage. The Glenn Highway will merge with the Seward Highway just south of the town of Girdwood.

The Seward Highway is a scenic drive that winds through mountains, forests, and glaciers. There are a few things to keep in mind when driving to Seward. First, make sure you have a full tank of gas. There are gas stations in Seward, but they are few and far between. Second, be prepared for wildlife. Moose, bears, and other animals are common along the Seward Highway. Third, watch out for road construction. There is often road construction on the Seward Highway, so be prepared for delays.

Road conditions and weather

The road conditions on the Seward Highway can vary depending on the time of year. During the winter, the road can be icy and snowy. During the summer, the road can be dusty and gravelly. It is important to check the road conditions before you drive to Seward.

The weather in Seward can also vary depending on the time of year. During the summer, the weather is typically mild and sunny. During the winter, the weather can be cold and snowy. It is important to dress appropriately for the weather when you are visiting Seward.

Parking in Seward

There are a few different places to park in Seward. There is a parking lot at the cruise ship terminal, as well as a few other parking lots around town. The cost of parking varies depending on the location.

The parking lot at the cruise ship terminal is the most convenient option for cruise passengers. The lot is located right next to the terminal

3. By Cruise Ship

Seward is a popular port of call for cruise ships, and there are many different cruise lines that stop there. Some of the most popular lines include:

  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Holland America Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • Norwegian Cruise Line

Each line offers a variety of different cruises to Seward, so you can find one that fits your budget and interests. Once you’ve booked your cruise, you’ll need to make your way to Seward. Most cruise lines will provide transportation to Seward from the nearest airport, but you can also drive or take a bus.

Cruise lines that stop in Seward

The following cruise lines stop in Seward:

  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Holland America Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • Norwegian Cruise Line

Port facilities in Seward

Seward’s port facilities are located on the waterfront, just a short walk from the town center. The port has a variety of amenities, including:

  • A cruise terminal
  • A passenger terminal
  • A shopping mall
  • A variety of restaurants
  • A number of hotels and other accommodations

Things to do in Seward while waiting for your cruise

While you’re waiting for your cruise to depart, there are a number of things to do in Seward. You can:

  • Visit the Alaska Sealife Center
  • Take a hike in the Kenai Mountains
  • Go fishing in Resurrection Bay
  • Visit the Seward Museum
  • Take a guided tour of the Kenai Fjords National Park

4. By Bus

Seward is located about 130 miles from Anchorage, and there are a few different bus companies that offer service to the city. The most popular bus company is Alaska Coach Lines, which offers daily departures from Anchorage. The trip takes about 3 hours.

Buses to Seward

The following bus companies offer service to Seward:

  • Alaska Coach Lines
  • Gray Line Alaska
  • Kenai Peninsula Tours

Bus schedules

The bus schedules to Seward vary depending on the bus company. Alaska Coach Lines offers daily departures from Anchorage, while Gray Line Alaska and Kenai Peninsula Tours offer departures several times per week.

Transportation from the bus depot to Seward

Once you arrive at the bus depot in Seward, there are a few different ways to get to your hotel or other destination. You can:

  • Take a taxi
  • Take a shuttle bus
  • Rent a car

Taxi

Taxis are available at the bus depot in Seward. The fare to most destinations in Seward is around $10.

Shuttle bus

There are a few different shuttle bus companies that operate in Seward. The fare to most destinations in Seward is around $10.

Rent a car

You can also rent a car at the bus depot in Seward. The cost of a rental car will vary depending on the type of car you rent and the length of your rental.

Seward is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re arriving by cruise ship or by bus, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

How do I get to Seward, Alaska for a cruise?

There are several ways to get to Seward, Alaska for a cruise. The most common way is to fly into Anchorage International Airport (ANC) and then take a shuttle or bus to Seward. The drive from Anchorage to Seward takes about 3.5 hours.

Another option is to take a ferry from Bellingham, Washington to Ketchikan, Alaska. From Ketchikan, you can take a bus or train to Seward. The ferry ride takes about 36 hours, and the bus or train ride takes about 10 hours.

Finally, you can also drive to Seward from Seattle, Washington. The drive takes about 14 hours.

What is the best time of year to go to Seward for a cruise?

The best time to go to Seward for a cruise is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the days are long. The average temperature in Seward during the summer is 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

What are the best things to do in Seward?

There are many things to do in Seward, Alaska. Some of the most popular attractions include:

  • Kenai Fjords National Park: Kenai Fjords National Park is located just outside of Seward and offers stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. You can take a boat tour of the park, go hiking, or camping.
  • Seward Seaport Museum: The Seward Seaport Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Seward and the surrounding area. The museum has exhibits on the fur trade, the gold rush, and the fishing industry.
  • Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is home to a variety of Alaskan wildlife, including bears, wolves, and moose. You can take a guided tour of the center or go hiking in the surrounding area.
  • Seward Salmon Bake: The Seward Salmon Bake is a popular event that takes place every summer. The bake features fresh-caught salmon, live music, and dancing.

What are the best hotels in Seward?

There are many great hotels in Seward, Alaska. Some of the most popular hotels include:

  • The Westmark Inn: The Westmark Inn is located right in the heart of Seward and offers stunning views of the mountains. The hotel has a variety of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
  • The Seward Waterfront Hotel: The Seward Waterfront Hotel is located right on the waterfront and offers beautiful views of the bay. The hotel has a variety of amenities, including a pool, a hot tub, and a restaurant.
  • The Alaska Inn: The Alaska Inn is located just a short walk from the cruise ship terminal. The hotel has a variety of amenities, including a free breakfast, a fitness center, and a business center.

What are the best restaurants in Seward?

There are many great restaurants in Seward, Alaska. Some of the most popular restaurants include:

  • The Saltry: The Saltry is a seafood restaurant that offers fresh-caught Alaskan seafood. The restaurant has a beautiful view of the bay.
  • The Glacier Brewhouse: The Glacier Brewhouse is a brewery and restaurant that offers a variety of craft beers and pub food. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere.
  • The Black Diamond Grill: The Black Diamond Grill is a fine dining restaurant that offers a variety of American cuisine. The restaurant has a sophisticated atmosphere.

    there are many ways to get to Seward, Alaska for a cruise. The best way for you will depend on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. By considering all of your options, you can find the best way to get to Seward and enjoy your cruise to the fullest.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • The most popular way to get to Seward is by flying into Anchorage and then taking a bus or train to Seward.
  • Another option is to drive to Seward from Anchorage or Fairbanks.
  • If you are looking for a more scenic route, you can take a ferry from Bellingham, Washington to Ketchikan, Alaska, and then drive or take a bus to Seward.
  • No matter how you choose to get to Seward, you are sure to have a memorable experience in this beautiful Alaskan town.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.