Seattle Cruise Port Guide: Pier 66, Pier 91, and Transfers

Taking an Alaska cruise from Seattle? Start by checking which terminal your ship uses: Pier 66 or Pier 91. They sit in different parts of the city, which affects your airport transfer, hotel choice, and boarding-day plans. We’ve explored Seattle repeatedly and sailed from the city to Alaska. In this Seattle cruise port guide, we share our firsthand experiences and practical advice for organizing your departure. You’ll find details about both terminals, airport transfers, parking, boarding, and luggage storage. We also explain Port Valet and how to plan your journey home after disembarkation.

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Our Experiences Cruising from Seattle

We’ve cruised from Seattle few times, including 10-night and nine-night round-trip Alaska sailings. These cruises helped us understand the departure process and plan our time in the city before boarding.

We’ve also explored Washington State on several road trips, with Seattle always an important stop. We love its waterfront views, lively atmosphere, attractions, and great food. For us, spending time here adds another enjoyable part to an Alaska cruise vacation.

On one trip, we rented a car to explore Seattle and the surrounding area before sailing. We returned it downtown, then arranged transportation to the terminal. This avoided paying to park an unused rental car throughout the cruise.

Confirming your terminal is an important step when planning an Alaska cruise. Seattle’s two cruise piers require different arrival plans. A hotel convenient for Pier 66 may be less practical for Pier 91.

We enjoy arriving early enough to explore, handle last-minute errands, and board without rushing straight from a flight. Below, we share practical advice to help you organize your own arrival.

Seattle Cruise Port at a Glance

Seattle is one of the main departure ports for Alaska cruises, with most sailings returning to the city. For a typical seven-night, one-way cruise ending in Seward or Whittier, look at departures from Vancouver.

Seattle has two separate cruise terminals: Pier 66 and Pier 91. Confirm your assigned terminal before arranging transportation or choosing a hotel.

Use this overview for initial planning. Below the table, you’ll find detailed advice on transfers, parking, boarding, and luggage.

Planning detail	What to know
Pier 66	Bell Street Cruise Terminal, on Seattle’s downtown waterfront.
Pier 66 address	2225 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121.
Pier 91	Smith Cove Cruise Terminal, northwest of downtown. Plan a vehicle transfer from most downtown hotels.
Pier 91 address	2001 W Garfield Way, Seattle, WA 98119.
Main airport	Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, airport code SEA.
Airport driving time	Approximately 30–40 minutes to either terminal in typical conditions. Allow extra time for traffic and terminal access.
Airport transfer options	Cruise-line transfers, taxis, Uber, Lyft, private transfers, and shuttle services.
Public transportation	Link light rail connects SEA with downtown. It does not stop at either cruise terminal.
Cruise parking	Pier 66 uses a garage across from the terminal. Pier 91 has a parking lot with a complimentary terminal shuttle.
Luggage storage	Both terminals offer same-day storage. Check opening hours and collection deadlines before making sightseeing plans.
Port Valet	Eligible passengers can arrange complimentary checked-bag transfer from the ship to their departing flight. Restrictions apply.
Arrival recommendation	We recommend arriving in Seattle at least one day before sailing.
Boarding time	Follow your cruise line’s assigned arrival time and final check-in deadline. Ship departure time is not your arrival deadline.

Comparing departure cities before booking? Read our Seattle vs. Vancouver Alaska cruise comparison to weigh your options.

Which Seattle Cruise Terminal Will You Use?

Pier 66 and Pier 91 are separate locations, several miles apart. Confirm your ship’s terminal before booking a transfer. Enter the terminal name and address when arranging a taxi or rideshare.

Below is a map showing Seattle’s Pier 66 and Pier 91 cruise terminals, downtown Seattle, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in a regional inset.

Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66

Pier 66 sits on Seattle’s downtown waterfront at 2225 Alaskan Way. Norwegian Cruise Line and Oceania Cruises commonly use this terminal. Other sailings may also depart here, so check your specific ship and date.

The location works well for travelers staying near the waterfront or in Belltown. Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, and waterfront restaurants are nearby.

Some hotels are within walking distance. However, Seattle’s hills can make a short walk less comfortable with suitcases. Check the actual walking route before deciding to carry your luggage.

Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91

Pier 91 sits northwest of downtown at 2001 W Garfield Way. It serves several major cruise lines, including Princess, Holland America, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Cunard.

Unlike Pier 66, this terminal is outside the main downtown sightseeing area. We recommend arranging a taxi, rideshare, shuttle, or private transfer from your hotel.

A hotel advertised as “near Seattle cruise port” may still require transportation to Pier 91. Check its location against your assigned terminal.

Detail	Pier 66	Pier 91
Terminal name	Bell Street Cruise Terminal	Smith Cove Cruise Terminal
Location	Downtown waterfront	Northwest of downtown, at Smith Cove
Walking from a hotel	Practical from some waterfront and Belltown hotels	Plan a vehicle transfer from most hotels
Nearby sightseeing	Pike Place Market and downtown waterfront	Arrange transportation for downtown sightseeing
Parking arrangement	Garage across from the terminal	Parking lot with a terminal shuttle

How to Confirm Your Cruise Terminal

Check your cruise documents first. You can also use the Port of Seattle’s ship and terminal finder.

Search for your ship and sailing date, rather than relying only on the cruise line’s usual terminal. Share the confirmed location with your transportation provider.

Getting from Seattle Airport to Your Cruise Terminal

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) serves both Pier 66 and Pier 91. The drive typically takes about 30–40 minutes. However, that excludes collecting luggage, reaching your pickup point, and waiting for transportation.

We recommend flying into Seattle at least one day before sailing. If you’re staying overnight, arrange transportation to your hotel first, then plan your terminal transfer separately.

Cruise-Line Transfers

Cruise-line transfers provide transportation between SEA and your assigned terminal. Book ahead and follow the meeting instructions supplied by your cruise line.

Before booking, confirm:

• Eligible flight arrival times.
• The airport meeting point.
• The price per person.
• Luggage allowances.
• Arrangements if your flight arrives the day before sailing.

An airport transfer does not automatically include pickup from your hotel. Check that detail before choosing accommodation.

Compare the total cost for your group. A transfer priced per person may cost more than sharing a taxi or reserved vehicle.

Taxis, Uber, and Lyft

Taxis and standard Uber and Lyft pickups are on the third floor of the airport parking garage. Follow the ground transportation signs after collecting your bags.

For rideshares, request a vehicle that fits both your passengers and suitcases. Follow the app’s instructions to reach the correct pickup stall.

SEA’s airport taxis use meters. Rideshare prices vary with demand, vehicle size, and destination. Check the current estimate rather than assuming a fixed airport-to-port fare.

Give your driver the terminal name and address, not simply “Seattle cruise port.” Pier 66 and Pier 91 require different drop-off locations.

The ride to either Pier 66 or Pier 91 usually takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs approximately $45-$75. Last time, we paid $60.

Link Light Rail to Downtown

The 1 Line connects SeaTac/Airport Station with Westlake Station in downtown Seattle. The train ride takes approximately 38 minutes. The regular adult one-way fare is $3.

The airport station is reached through the parking garage. Allow time to get there with your luggage.

Light rail does not go directly to either cruise terminal. From Westlake, you’ll need to complete the journey:

• Pier 66: Take a taxi or rideshare, or walk if you’re comfortable managing luggage and downtown slopes.
• Pier 91: Arrange a taxi, rideshare, or another vehicle transfer.

Light rail works particularly well when your first destination is a downtown hotel. With several suitcases, a direct vehicle transfer may be more practical.

Check Sound Transit’s service alerts before traveling.

Private Transfers and Airport Shuttles

A reserved private transfer can suit families, larger groups, or travelers needing specific assistance. Confirm passenger capacity and luggage space before booking.

Ask about flight monitoring, waiting charges, and the exact meeting point. If you need an accessible vehicle or child seat, arrange it in advance.

Shared airport shuttles are another option. Confirm that the service reaches your cruise terminal, rather than only downtown hotels. Multiple pickups or stops can extend the journey.

Getting from Downtown Seattle to Pier 66 or Pier 91

Your hotel’s location and your assigned pier determine the best way to reach the ship. Check the route before embarkation morning, especially if you plan to walk.

Getting to Pier 66

Some waterfront and Belltown hotels are within walking distance of Pier 66. From Westlake Station, the walk takes approximately 20 minutes without lengthy stops.

However, downtown Seattle has steep streets. A route that looks short on a map may involve slopes or stairs. Choose a route suitable for rolling luggage.

If you have several bags, limited mobility, or wet weather, consider a taxi or rideshare. Arrange drop-off at Bell Street Cruise Terminal, 2225 Alaskan Way.

Getting to Pier 91

Plan a vehicle transfer to Pier 91 from most downtown hotels. The terminal sits beyond the main downtown waterfront.

The Port of Seattle estimates approximately 15 minutes by car from Westlake Station. Allow additional time for traffic and terminal queues.

Nearby bus service does not take you directly to the terminal entrance. The former Magnolia Bridge pedestrian staircase access is unavailable. We recommend a taxi, rideshare, reserved shuttle, or private transfer.

Use Smith Cove Cruise Terminal, 2001 W Garfield Way as your destination.

Using a Hotel Cruise Shuttle

If your hotel offers a cruise shuttle, confirm which pier it serves. Ask about departure times, reservations, luggage space, and the price per person.

A hotel’s complimentary airport shuttle does not necessarily include transportation to the cruise terminal. Compare the total shuttle price with a taxi or rideshare for your group.

Keep your cruise documents accessible during the journey. They contain your terminal details, assigned arrival time, and boarding deadline.

Seattle Cruise Parking and Rental Car Returns

Choose parking for your assigned terminal. Pier 66 and Pier 91 use different facilities, with different vehicle restrictions and transfer arrangements.

Parking for Pier 66

The Bell Street Pier Garage sits across from the cruise terminal. Its entrance is at 9 Wall Street.

The Port of Seattle lists parking at approximately $30 per day before taxes, subject to change. Reserve through Republic Parking and check the total for your cruise dates.

The garage has a 6-foot-6-inch vehicle height limit. Check clearance if you’re driving a tall SUV or carrying a rooftop cargo box.

Consider dropping passengers and checked bags at the terminal before parking. Follow staff directions, and keep your travel documents with you.

Parking for Pier 91

Pier 91 has a cruise parking lot with a complimentary shuttle to the terminal. Reservations are available through Seattle CruisePark.

The Port lists standard parking from approximately $27 per day. Confirm the final price, taxes, fees, and shuttle arrangements when booking.

Options are also available for RVs, trailers, and oversized vehicles. These require different reservations and rates. Confirm space for your specific vehicle before arriving.

Comparing Other Parking Options

Off-site lots and hotel parking packages may also work. Compare the full cost and transfer arrangements, rather than the advertised daily rate alone.

Check:

• Parking coverage for your entire cruise.
• Shuttle service to your assigned pier.
• Pickup arrangements after disembarkation.
• Vehicle size restrictions.
• Whether a hotel stay is required.

Returning a Rental Car Before Boarding

A rental car can help with a longer Washington road trip, but it adds little value while you’re cruising. On one trip, we returned ours downtown before heading to the ship.

Before booking, confirm that your rental company accepts returns at your chosen downtown location. Airport pickup and downtown return may involve a different rate or additional fee.

Allow time for refueling, returning the car, and reaching the terminal. A downtown rental office is not necessarily beside your cruise pier.

Keep your luggage transfer practical. If traveling together, you may prefer dropping bags and a passenger at the terminal first. Confirm that baggage acceptance has started before choosing this arrangement.

Boarding Your Cruise in Seattle

Follow your cruise line’s assigned arrival time and final check-in deadline. Arriving before your time slot may mean waiting. Your ship’s departure time is later than the deadline for completing boarding requirements.

Complete Check-In Before Arriving

Finish online check-in and review your cruise line’s document requirements. Keep your boarding pass and required identification accessible.

Attach your cruise luggage tags before reaching the terminal. Check that each tag shows the correct ship, sailing date, and cabin information.

Drop Off Checked Bags

Follow signs and staff instructions for your ship’s baggage drop-off. Your checked bags will be delivered onboard separately.

Keep medications, travel documents, valuables, and electronics in your carry-on. Add anything you’ll need during your first few hours aboard.

Baggage drop-off and passenger check-in may open at different times. Confirm arrangements before leaving bags and heading out to explore Seattle.

Security, Check-In, and Boarding

Expect security screening and document checks before boarding. The order and waiting time can vary by cruise line and terminal.

Have your documents ready and follow your cruise line’s instructions for prohibited items. Don’t assume rules from a previous cruise apply to this sailing.

Once aboard, your cabin and checked bags may not be ready immediately. Keep your carry-on manageable so you can comfortably explore the ship.

Arrange Accessibility Assistance Ahead

Contact your cruise line before departure if you need boarding assistance. Arrange accessible transportation separately with your transfer provider.

Ask where to meet assistance staff at your assigned terminal. If traveling with a wheelchair or scooter, confirm the vehicle can accommodate it.

Our tip: Finish errands before heading to the pier. Keeping embarkation morning simple gives you more time to enjoy the start of your cruise.

Luggage Storage Before and After Your Cruise

Luggage storage and cruise baggage drop-off serve different purposes. Storage holds bags you’ll collect later. Cruise baggage drop-off sends tagged bags aboard your ship.

Same-Day Storage at Pier 66 and Pier 91

Both terminals offer same-day luggage storage through their Crew Centers:

Terminal	Storage location	Published price	Collection deadline
Pier 66	Crew Center at the south end of the terminal building	$6 per bag	Collect by 3 p.m. to avoid a late fee
Pier 91	Crew Center north of the Ground Transportation Center	$6 per bag	Collect by 3 p.m. to avoid a late fee

Confirm opening hours, availability, and collection arrangements before planning your day. Prices and policies can change.

Include the return journey when planning sightseeing. Bags stored at Pier 91 require returning there before heading to the airport.

Early Baggage Drop-Off Before Boarding

Some sailings offer early drop-off for checked cruise luggage. The port currently lists this option for Norwegian Bliss, Joy, and Encore at Pier 66.

For eligible sailings, tagged bags may be accepted from 8 a.m. Passengers should return by 2 p.m. to continue embarkation.

Confirm eligibility with your cruise line. These arrangements do not apply automatically to every ship or departure. Follow your sailing’s arrival instructions and final check-in deadline.

Hotel Storage and Other Options

If you’re staying overnight, ask your hotel about holding bags before check-in or after checkout. Confirm collection hours and any charges.

Hotel storage can be practical when you plan to explore downtown. However, include the time needed to collect everything before your terminal or airport transfer.

After your cruise, eligible passengers may also use Port Valet to send checked bags directly to their departing flight. We explain that service below.

Seattle Port Valet: Sending Your Bags to the Airport

Port Valet transfers eligible passengers’ checked luggage from the cruise ship to their departing flight. It lets you explore Seattle without collecting bags at the terminal.

The service is complimentary, but airline baggage fees still apply. You must fly home on the day you disembark. Your cruise line, airline, and flight must qualify.

How to Sign Up

Enroll through the official Port Valet page before your cruise or complete the onboard enrollment form. Sign up early and confirm eligibility with guest services.

Before the cruise ends, you’ll receive airline boarding passes, special luggage tags, and collection instructions. Place your tagged bags outside your cabin at the designated time.

Follow your assigned disembarkation instructions. Your checked bags travel separately, and you collect them at your destination airport.

What You Still Need to Arrange

Port Valet does not include your transportation to SEA Airport. Arrange that separately and leave enough time for security and boarding.

Keep medications, identification, valuables, and anything needed during the day in your carry-on. Follow your airline’s baggage limits.

If your flight changes, contact guest services before handing over your bags. Don’t assume the original arrangements remain valid.

Where Should You Stay Before Your Seattle Cruise?

Choose your hotel around your arrival plans, assigned pier, and time in Seattle. The closest hotel is not always the most practical choice.

Downtown works well if you want restaurants, sightseeing, and convenient transportation before sailing. Waterfront and Belltown hotels can be especially practical for Pier 66. Some are within walking distance, but check the route with luggage.

For Pier 91 departures, downtown remains a useful base. Simply budget for a vehicle transfer on embarkation morning.

Seattle Center and Lower Queen Anne area suits travelers planning to visit the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, or other Seattle Center attractions.

We’ve enjoyed staying near the Space Needle before cruising. However, being close to these attractions does not mean being beside your terminal. Arrange transportation to either pier.

An airport hotel can work well after a late flight, particularly if you have little sightseeing time.

Confirm airport shuttle hours and arrange your cruise transfer separately. A free airport shuttle does not automatically include transportation to the ship.

For hotel comparisons and help choosing an area, see our guide to where to stay in Seattle before an Alaska cruise.

Things to Do Before or After Your Seattle Cruise

We enjoy spending a few extra days in Seattle for its views, attractions, and great food. Some of our favorite options include:

• Seattle’s food scene: Leave time for a market meal, waterfront restaurant, or coffee stop.
• Pike Place Market: Browse food stalls, explore local shops, and stop for lunch.
• Seattle waterfront: Enjoy Elliott Bay views, especially convenient if your ship uses Pier 66.
• Seattle Center: Choose from the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and Museum of Pop Culture.

For a longer visit, follow our three-day Seattle itinerary, based on our repeated trips.

On sailing day, keep plans close and flexible. After disembarkation, arrange luggage storage or Port Valet before heading out to explore.

Disembarking in Seattle and Getting to the Airport

Your ship’s scheduled arrival is not the time you’ll leave the terminal. Allow for disembarkation, collecting luggage, and reaching your transportation pickup point.

Leaving the Ship

Your cruise line will explain departure groups and luggage arrangements before the cruise ends. Follow those instructions, especially if you have a booked airport transfer.

If you choose self-assist disembarkation, you must manage your own bags. Consider stairs, elevators, and walking distances before selecting this option.

Port Valet participants should follow their separate instructions. Their checked bags travel directly to the airport.

Finding Your Airport Transfer

Confirm that your pickup is at the pier where your ship returns. Share your ship’s name with the provider and keep its contact details accessible.

At Pier 91, rideshares use a designated pickup area. Follow terminal signs and your app’s instructions. If you booked a private transfer, confirm where the driver will meet you.

Cruise-line transfers have their own meeting arrangements. Avoid booking another ride until you understand what your existing reservation includes.

Choosing Your Flight Home

We recommend an afternoon flight when possible. This leaves more room for disembarkation delays, traffic, and airport security.

Before booking, check your cruise line’s earliest recommended flight time for your sailing. Then allow for your airline’s check-in and baggage deadlines.

The usual 30–40-minute drive to SEA is only part of the journey. You also need time to leave the ship, reach your vehicle, and navigate the airport.

If taking light rail, arrange transportation to a downtown station first. Check service alerts and include the walk between the airport station and terminal.

If Your Flight Leaves Later

A later flight may give you time for a meal or sightseeing. Arrange luggage storage or confirm Port Valet eligibility before making plans.

Set your airport departure time first, then choose activities that fit comfortably around it.

Seattle Cruise Port FAQs

Can You Fly into Seattle on the Day Your Cruise Departs?

It may be possible if your flight meets your cruise line’s arrival requirements. However, delays or missed connections can leave little recovery time.

We recommend arriving at least one day before sailing. If flying that morning, confirm the latest acceptable flight arrival with your cruise line before booking.

Can You Reach Seattle’s Cruise Terminals by Amtrak?

Amtrak trains arrive at King Street Station, rather than either cruise terminal. The station is approximately 1.5 miles from Pier 66 and four miles from Pier 91.

With luggage, arrange a taxi, rideshare, or private transfer. Include time to leave the station and reach your assigned pier.

Do You Need a Rental Car Before Your Seattle Cruise?

For a short stay focused on downtown attractions, you can usually manage without one. Walking, public transportation, and occasional taxis or rideshares provide practical options.

A rental car becomes more useful if you’re exploring beyond Seattle. Confirm the return location and onward terminal transfer before booking.

Can Someone Drop You Off and Pick You Up at the Cruise Terminal?

Yes. Both terminals have designated passenger drop-off and pickup arrangements. Follow staff directions rather than stopping wherever space appears available.

Pier 91 also has a cell phone waiting lot. After disembarkation, contact your driver when you’ve collected your bags and reached the designated pickup area.

How far is the cruise port from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport?

The distance from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to the cruise ports is approximately 15-20 miles, depending on the terminal. A taxi or rideshare usually takes 30-45 minutes to reach either Pier 66 or 91.

Final Thoughts

Seattle has become a favorite part of our Alaska cruise trips. We’ve enjoyed leaving from here on different sailings and returning during our Washington road trips. The waterfront views, lively neighborhoods, and great food always give us reasons to stay longer.

If your schedule allows, give Seattle more than a quick overnight stop. We love having time for a market lunch, an attraction, or a relaxed waterfront walk before boarding.

A little preparation helps keep departure morning simple. Once you’ve organized the practical details, you can enjoy Seattle as part of your vacation—and look forward to Alaska.

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