Seattle
Your Queen Elizabeth Cruise Guide
sailing Thursday, September 17, 2026Official schedule · Verified Sep 9, 2026CruiseDayGuide
Photo: Julia Rivera / Google Places
Queen Elizabeth · Thursday, September 17, 2026
Boarding day, answered
- Terminal
- Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91)
- Drop-off & parking
- Getting to Your Ship has the drop-off lane and the parking for Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91)
- Arrival
- Arrive at the time shown in your cruise line's boarding documents.
Your day at a glance
Boarding day: Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91) — Arrive at the time shown in your cruise line's boarding documents.
How much is parking at the Port of Seattle?
| Terminal | Parking |
|---|---|
| Pier 91 (Smith Cove) | $187 7-day economy parking Includes taxes, fees, shuttle and luggage assistance. Pier 91 operator · Checked |
| Pier 66 (Bell Street) | $30 Per day, plus tax Covered garage; maximum vehicle height 6ft 6in. Port of Seattle · Checked |
Confirm your pier and parking dates before reserving. Other parking zones and vehicle rates are covered in the parking guide.
Other rates and parking details
Pier 91 parking costs $187 economy, $220 standard or $329 premium or RV for a seven-day sailing. These cruise-length totals include service fees, taxes, the shuttle and luggage assistance. At Pier 66, Bell Street Pier Garage costs $30 per day before tax. Confirm your pier for your ship and sailing date in your cruise documents before booking parking.
Full parking guide →Where do cruise ships dock in Seattle?
Your sailing docks at Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91) — 2001 West Garfield Street, Seattle, WA 98119. Open that terminal's guide →
Which cruise lines sail from the Port of Seattle?
Our Port of Seattle guide directory includes Norwegian, Princess Cruises, Holland America, Carnival and nine more. Sailings vary by season; check the dated sailing calendar and your cruise documents to confirm departures and terminal assignments.
Disclosure: some affiliate links here — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
How we build these guides: picks are researched from public reviews and official sources — venues re-verified July 30, 2026. See every partner and what it pays us.
Where to Stay
Hotels near Port of Seattle for the night before
Photo: The Edgewater HotelThe Edgewater Hotel
Why: Compare water-facing room categories if the overnight view is part of the trip; confirm which cruise pier your ship uses.
More details
A Seattle waterfront hotel set above the water with rooms that reflect its music history.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- edgewaterhotel.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Seattle Marriott WaterfrontNautical-themed rooms along Elliott Bay near the downtown waterfront.
Why we picked it: A waterfront base for a pre-cruise stay; verify Pier 66 versus Pier 91 before arranging the morning transfer.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- marriott.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Inn at the MarketA boutique hotel within Pike Place Market with a guest rooftop deck.
Why we picked it: A market-centered stay makes sense for food browsing on the day before you sail.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- innatthemarket.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Hyatt House Seattle/DowntownSeattle Center lodging with kitchen-equipped suites available near the Space Needle.
Why we picked it: Select a kitchen-equipped suite specifically if self-catering matters; the hotel also offers other room categories.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- hyatt.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Patrick NakayaA downtown hotel with distinctive guestroom design and the Marin restaurant.
Why we picked it: An option for spending an advance day downtown with dinner at the hotel; confirm the current dining schedule.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- monaco-seattle.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Mayflower Park HotelHistoric downtown Seattle lodging with a dedicated cruise visitor page.
Why we picked it: Consider it when downtown sightseeing is part of your trip; request current cruise transport terms directly.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Previously checked cruise shuttle
Last checked 2026-08-11 · Confirm current terms
Previously listed as paid
Scheduled shuttles to the Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 and the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91, $15 per guest for the 2026 cruise season. One way only — the hotel publishes no return service from the terminal.
The hotel says to see the bellman to confirm availability and reserve.
These details are due for review. Confirm availability, fees and arrangements directly before relying on them.
mayflowerpark.com · check current informationSources for reviewed details
- mayflowerpark.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Hotel Five - A Staypineapple HotelA downtown Seattle boutique hotel between the market and Seattle Center districts.
Why we picked it: The location suits an advance day split between city sights; compare the room layout and total nightly fees.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- staypineapple.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Pioneer SquareRooms and suites in the historic Alaska Building in Pioneer Square.
Why we picked it: The building and neighborhood make it a distinct southern-downtown option; selected suites have kitchenettes, so check the category.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- marriott.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle-DowntownA downtown Hampton in the Seattle Center area with included breakfast.
Why we picked it: Consider it for a stay that includes Seattle Center, and check breakfast timing against your planned departure from the hotel.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- hilton.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer SquarePioneer Square lodging with an indoor pool and included breakfast.
Why we picked it: A base for travelers spending their advance day in the southern part of downtown; arrange transport to the assigned cruise pier.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- hilton.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Mediterranean InnQueen Anne lodging with a rooftop terrace overlooking Seattle.
Why we picked it: An Uptown base for a visit that includes Seattle Center; request current cruise-transfer arrangements directly.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- mediterranean-inn.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice, address · checked 2026-09-09
- geocoding.geo.census.govlocation · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: JenniferIndependent lodging in Belltown near the downtown visitor districts.
Why we picked it: A compact hotel alternative for an advance day spent exploring the city; confirm the route to your ship's pier.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- belltown-inn.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice, address · checked 2026-09-09
- geocoding.geo.census.govlocation · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Hyatt Regency SeattleHowell Street rooms and suites with on-site dining.
Why we picked it: Adds a major downtown chain option for travelers comparing central Seattle stays before a cruise.
Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to your assigned Seattle cruise pier.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- hyatt.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice, address · checked 2026-09-09
- geocoding.geo.census.govlocation · checked 2026-09-09
Photo: Cedarbrook LodgeA SeaTac lodge offering complimentary shuttle service to SEA, Link light rail and the Tukwila Amtrak station.
Why we picked it: An airport-night alternative after a late SEA landing, with the trip to your Seattle cruise pier planned separately.
Pro tip: Confirm the airport-shuttle pickup arrangements with the lodge before arrival. Its listed airport and rail stops do not establish service to Pier 66 or Pier 91.
Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.
Sources for reviewed details
- cedarbrooklodge.comdescription, hotel features, visit advice, address · checked 2026-09-09
- geocoding.geo.census.govlocation · checked 2026-09-09
Where to Eat
Every restaurant worth eating at near Port of Seattle
Photo via Google MapsSushi Kashiba
Why: Omakase from a James Beard-nominated master at Pike Place, and the finest sushi in Seattle. Order: The omakase (chef's choice) at the sushi bar is the experience — multi-course parade of the day's best fish. If the bar is full, the a la carte menu in the dining room is still exceptional.
More details
Closed Tue
Pro tip: Omakase seats are extremely limited — book weeks in advance. This is a once-in-a-lifetime meal. If you can't get a reservation, try walking in right at opening for the a la carte dining room.
Parking: Pike Place Market garage. Restaurant is inside the market.
Photo: Shaker + Spear4 min$$$Pacific NorthwestBelltown's buzziest seafood spot, serving inventive Pacific Northwest plates in a sleek setting.
What to order: The whole roasted Dungeness crab is the star. Wood-grilled octopus and the daily fish specials never disappoint. Craft cocktails are worth the splurge.
Pro tip: Located inside the Palladian Hotel in Belltown. Walk here from Pike Place Market in 10 minutes. The bar scene is vibrant if you're looking for a last-night-on-land cocktail.
Parking: Street parking on 1st or 2nd Ave. Valet available at the Palladian Hotel entrance.
Directions
Photo: YT Chen4 min$American BreakfastIrreverent biscuit joint with massive portions — Seattle breakfast with attitude
What to order: The Hot Mess Bitch — a biscuit smothered in sausage gravy with a fried egg. Gritty Scramble is loaded with cheese. Wash it down with a coffee from their in-house espresso bar.
Pro tip: Long lines on weekends but they move. There are multiple locations — the Belltown spot on 1st Ave is closest to the terminals. Portions are huge, so split if you're not starving.
Parking: Street parking in Belltown or Pike Place Market garage.
Directions
Photo via Google Maps4 min$SeafoodSeattle's waterfront fish and chips since 1938, with seagulls to feed while you eat.
What to order: Classic fish and chips with a side of clam chowder. The fish tacos are surprisingly great. Corn dogs for the kids who refuse seafood.
Kids: Outdoor eating on the pier with bird-watching entertainment. Simple menu kids know and love. No reservations needed — just walk up and order.
Pro tip: This is the walk-up counter on the pier, not the sit-down restaurant upstairs. Way cheaper and more fun. Kids love tossing fries to the seagulls (it's a Seattle tradition).
Parking: Waterfront parking along Alaskan Way. Walk-up counter — no parking stress.
Directions
Photo: Manali Sawant5 min$French BakeryAn authentic French bakery right at Pike Place, turning out croissants that rival Paris.
What to order: Almond croissant is legendary. Their quiche Lorraine and ham and cheese croissant are perfect for a quick pre-cruise breakfast. Grab a macaron for the road.
Pro tip: Opens early. Get here in the morning if you want the full selection, because the almond croissants can run out. Order at the counter, eat outside overlooking Elliott Bay.
Parking: Use the Pike Place Market garage. Quick in-and-out if you know what you want.
Directions
Photo: Pete Fritsch5 min$$PizzaA Post Alley pizza spot near the gum wall, easy to miss, turning out brick-oven pies the whole family loves.
What to order: Brick-oven pizzas are the star — simple Margherita or pepperoni for kids, more adventurous toppings for adults. Salads are fresh and generous.
Kids: Pizza is always a win with kids. The tucked-away entrance makes it feel like a treasure hunt. Booths work well for families, and kids are welcome into the evening.
Pro tip: Kids love the adventure of finding this tucked-away spot down Post Alley. Walk past the famous gum wall on the way. It stays family-friendly into the evening, and pizza doesn't take long.
Parking: Pike Place Market garage. Tucked in Post Alley — look for the small sign.
Directions
Photo: Kathrin Kollinger5 min$$SeafoodAward-winning chowder in Pike Place Market, where the line moves faster than it looks.
What to order: The New England clam chowder has won national awards, but the Dungeness crab bisque is the one people overlook. Get a bread bowl and you won't regret it.
Pro tip: The line at the Post Alley location looks long but moves quickly. Go before the lunch rush if you can. They also have a less-crowded location in Pacific Place mall.
Parking: Pike Place Market garage on Western Ave. Street parking is tough on weekends.
Directions
Photo: Old Stove Brewing Co — Pike Place5 min$$Brewery & PizzaCraft brewery in Pike Place Market with waterfront views, pouring local beer alongside wood-fired pizza.
What to order: Their IPAs are some of the best in the PNW. Wood-fired pizzas pair perfectly. The fish and chips use fresh-caught local fish. Pretzels with beer cheese are a solid starter.
Pro tip: Grab a seat on the outdoor patio overlooking Elliott Bay and the Great Wheel. It's the best view in Pike Place Market. It gets crowded later in the day, so arrive early for the best seats.
Parking: Pike Place Market garage. The brewery is on the MarketFront expansion with outdoor seating.
Directions
Photo via Google Maps5 min$AmericanWorld-famous mac and cheese made fresh at Pike Place Market. Kids go crazy for it.
What to order: The 'World's Best' mac and cheese lives up to the hype. Grilled cheese sandwiches are simple and perfect for picky eaters. Their tomato soup is a great pairing.
Kids: Counter service so no waiting for a table. Mac and cheese is universally loved by kids. Small space but quick turnover.
Pro tip: Kids love watching the cheese being made through the glass windows. It's a mini science lesson before a meal. Order at the counter and grab a seat if one opens up.
Parking: Pike Place Market garage on Western Ave. Quick counter-service — no long wait.
Directions
Photo: alireza asgari5 min$$PizzaTom Douglas's artisan pizza spot, doing wood-fired pies with local ingredients in a cozy space.
What to order: The mushroom pizza with truffle cheese is a parent favorite. Margherita and pepperoni for kids. Their salads use local greens and are surprisingly kid-approved.
Kids: Simple pizza options for kids. Warm, casual atmosphere that doesn't feel stuffy. Quick service so kids don't get restless.
Pro tip: Walk-in only, no reservations. Go at an off-peak hour with kids to avoid the wait. Pizzas come out fast once you're seated.
Parking: Street parking on Virginia or Lenora. Close to the Pike Place Market garage.
Directions
Photo: Lowell's Restaurant5 min$$American BreakfastThree floors of Pike Place Market views, and a classic breakfast with a panoramic twist.
What to order: Pancakes and eggs on the top floor with water views. Their Eggs Benedict is a staple. Simple breakfast plates that even picky eaters approve of.
Kids: Straightforward breakfast menu kids love. High chairs available. The ferry-watching from the third floor keeps kids entertained between bites.
Pro tip: Ask for the third floor, which has the best views of Elliott Bay and the ferries. Breakfast is served all day. It gets crowded on weekend mornings, so arrive early.
Parking: Pike Place Market garage. Enter through the market — look for the neon sign.
Directions
Photo: MOD Pizza5 min$PizzaBuild-your-own pizza assembly line — everyone gets exactly what they want
What to order: Custom pizzas — kids pick their own toppings Subway-style. The Calexico (spicy chicken) is a parent favorite. Unlimited toppings at no extra charge.
Kids: Kids love picking their own toppings. Fast service — pizzas ready in minutes. No-fuss environment where nobody cares if kids are loud.
Pro tip: Born in Seattle, so this is the original. The fast-casual format means you're in and out quickly. Perfect for families who can't agree on toppings.
Parking: Street parking downtown or nearby garages.
Directions
Photo: Cutters Crabhouse5 min$$$SeafoodPanoramic Elliott Bay views and fresh Northwest seafood. The pre-cruise splurge.
What to order: Dungeness crab cakes, pan-seared wild salmon, and the seafood tower for the table. The brunch menu is excellent — bloody marys with a view.
Pro tip: Request a window seat for unobstructed views of the ferries crossing Elliott Bay. Weekend brunch reservations are a must. The happy hour has great value on oysters.
Parking: Validated parking at Pike Place Market garage with purchase.
Directions
Photo: IL Bistro5 min$$$ItalianTucked below Pike Place and easy to walk right past, an Italian room doing romantic candlelit dinners since 1981.
What to order: Order the handmade pasta. The rack of lamb is a long-running favorite, and the wine list is deep and reasonably priced for the quality.
Pro tip: No sign outside — look for the stairs going down in Post Alley near the gum wall. Perfect for a special pre-cruise dinner. Make a reservation, especially on weekends.
Parking: Pike Place Market garage. The restaurant is down the stairs in Post Alley — easy to miss if you're not looking.
Directions
Photo: ekapan Atamakoolsri5 min$$-$$$SeafoodWaterfront seafood feast where you eat off the table with mallets — dinner and a show
What to order: The SeaFeast is the experience — a bucket of crab, shrimp, clams, and corn dumped right on your table. Kids get mallets and bibs. Fish and chips for the less adventurous.
Kids: Bibs and mallets make this dinner feel like playtime. Kids menu available. Arcade and Pier 57 carousel steps away for post-dinner entertainment.
Pro tip: Sit by the windows for water views. The SeaFeast is messy and fun — perfect for kids who like getting their hands dirty. There's a carousel and arcade on the pier right outside.
Parking: Waterfront parking lots along Alaskan Way or the Pike Place garage.
Directions
Photo: Duke's Seafood South Lake Union10 min$$SeafoodFamily-friendly waterfront chain with reliable seafood and great lake views
What to order: Award-winning clam chowder, fish and chips, and wild salmon. Kids menu has grilled cheese, chicken tenders, and mini fish and chips.
Kids: Full kids menu with crayons and activity sheets. High chairs and boosters. Waterfront patio where kids can watch the boats on Lake Union.
Pro tip: The South Lake Union location has the best views and the most space for families. Less crowded than downtown spots. Crayons and coloring pages keep little ones busy.
Parking: Free parking in the South Lake Union lot. Easy access from both terminals.
Directions
Things to Do
Things to do near Port of Seattle before you board
Photo: Sylvia LinSeattle Waterfront & Overlook Walk
Why: A pedestrian connection between the Pike Place area and Seattle's waterfront. Best for: Anyone wanting fresh air, views, and exercise before a week on a ship.
More details
Pro tip: Check current access and choose a route that accounts for changes in elevation and your return trip.
Photo: Jarrod Clark3 minFree30 minOutdoor sculpture and waterfront paths at Seattle Art Museum's park.
Best for: Anyone wanting fresh air, art, and waterfront views before boarding
Pro tip: Check park notices and choose a short route that fits your mobility and return plans.
Official informationDirections
Photo via Google Maps5 minFree30 minA visit to the fishmongers at Pike Place Fish Market.
Best for: Consider your group's interests and available time
Pro tip: Treat any fish throwing as part of a working market, not a guaranteed performance at a set time.
Official informationDirections
Photo: Cody Rodrigo5 min$18–2330 minAn enclosed-gondola observation wheel at Pier 57 on Elliott Bay.
Best for: Families looking for a quick, easy waterfront activity
Pro tip: Check operating conditions, tickets, and queue time; the ride's length does not include the wait.
Official informationDirections
Photo: Julia Rivera5 minFree1–3 hrA public market of food stalls, crafts, shops, and restaurants above Seattle's waterfront.
Best for: Consider your group's interests and available time
Pro tip: Check individual vendor hours and current vehicle-access rules; pick a small section if your time is limited.
Official informationDirections
Photo via Google Maps5 min$1–330 minCarousel and game attractions within Miners Landing on the waterfront.
Best for: Quick fun for antsy kids between bigger activities
Pro tip: Check current attraction hours and leave time to return to your luggage.
Official informationDirections
Photo: Seattle Aquarium5 min$23–512–3 hrA waterfront aquarium spanning the historic piers and Ocean Pavilion.
Best for: Families with kids who love animals and ocean life
Pro tip: Choose a timed ticket and check current campus access; allow a separate visit to see the different areas.
Official informationDirections
Photo: Louis Ruth Photography8 minFree30 minA Queen Anne viewpoint toward Elliott Bay and Seattle's skyline.
Best for: Photographers, romantics, anyone wanting the postcard shot of Seattle
Pro tip: Visibility depends on weather; check the route and current park access before making the trip.
Official informationDirections
Photo: Sean Mullen8 minFree30 minA large fountain and open gathering space at Seattle Center.
Best for: Consider your group's interests and available time
Pro tip: Check whether the fountain is running and whether any maintenance or events affect access.
Official informationDirections
Photo via Google Maps8 minFree1–2 hrHistoric Seattle blocks with art, shops, and neighborhood gathering places.
Best for: History buffs, architecture fans, couples looking for a unique experience
Pro tip: Choose a few blocks to explore; tours and individual businesses require their own opening-hour checks.
Official informationDirections
Photo: DL8 min$20–351–2 hrGlass artwork displayed through indoor galleries, a glasshouse, and a garden.
Best for: Art lovers, couples, anyone who appreciates color and creativity
Pro tip: Check current exhibition and garden access and leave a separate visit for the collection.
Check availability on ViatorOfficial informationDirections
Photo: Andrij Abyzov8 min$35–551–2 hrSeattle's observation tower with views above Seattle Center.
Best for: First-time Seattle visitors, photography enthusiasts, anyone wanting panoramic views
Pro tip: Choose a timed ticket and check the access restrictions for the experiences included with it.
Official informationDirections
Photo: Sagar Dave8 min$282–3 hrSeattle Center exhibitions covering music, film, games, and popular culture.
Best for: Music fans, sci-fi enthusiasts, Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix devotees
Pro tip: Check which exhibitions and ticket options are available for your visit date.
Official informationDirections
Photo: Lic. Horus Ruiseco Jacobo8 min$21–302–3 hrScience exhibits and scheduled theater or planetarium experiences at Seattle Center.
Best for: Curious kids who like to push buttons and pull levers
Pro tip: Check which experiences need timed tickets and leave a separate visit for the museum.
Official informationDirections
Photo: Seattle Children's Museum8 min$151–2 hrHands-on play spaces for children at Seattle Center.
Best for: Consider your group's interests and available time
Pro tip: Check current age guidance, admission, and visitor policies before planning a separate museum visit.
Official informationDirections
Photo: jparra2K10 minFree1–2 hrWorking navigation locks connecting Seattle's inland waterways with Puget Sound.
Best for: Nature lovers, engineering nerds, anyone wanting something off the tourist trail
Pro tip: Check visitor notices and seasonal fish-viewing information; wildlife and boat movements are not guaranteed.
Official informationDirections
Photo: Andy Chesley—$4—A monorail ride linking downtown's Westlake Center with Seattle Center.
Best for: Consider your group's interests and available time
Pro tip: Check current service and fare rules, and plan how you will return from the other end.
Official informationDirections- ———
Seattle and regional-history exhibits at Lake Union.
Best for: Consider your group's interests and available time
Pro tip: Check the operator's current hours and exhibitions; the tourism listing establishes the venue but not a guaranteed morning visit.
Official information - ———
A Pioneer Square museum exploring Seattle's role in the Klondike gold rush.
Best for: Consider your group's interests and available time
Pro tip: Check current NPS hours and visitor notices; do not rely on an older tourism timetable.
Official information
Getting to Your Ship
True at more than one terminal here
- Bring proof of citizenship plus a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license alone is not accepted, even a REAL ID. — every terminal here
- A passport covers both; on a closed-loop sailing that returns to Seattle, a state-issued birth certificate with your photo ID also works, and guests under 16 need only the birth certificate. — every terminal here
- Bring the passport anyway — it is required if your cruise ends in Vancouver rather than returning here — every terminal here
Photo: E P
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91)
Getting here: 2001 W Garfield Way
Drop-off
Take W Garfield Way to the terminal entrance at 2001 W Garfield Way. Follow the cruise ship signs from Elliott Ave W. There's a covered drop-off area where porters will take your luggage (tip $2-3 per bag). After dropping off bags and passengers, continue to the parking lot.
Parking
Parking at Smith Cove is prepaid and priced by voyage length rather than by the day — about $187 for a 7-day cruise in the economy zone, with fees, taxes and the terminal shuttle included (USP Parking, checked August 27, 2026). A reservation isn't strictly required for general parking, but the operator recommends booking ahead to guarantee a space in peak Alaska season, and cancellations must be made seven days before your booking date. Oversized and RV spaces exist but are limited, reservation is mandatory for that zone, and the operator prices it separately — check when you book.
Check-in Tips
- Complete your cruise line's online check-in and have your boarding pass on your phone before arrival
- Bring proof of citizenship plus a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license alone is not accepted, even a REAL ID. A passport covers both; on a closed-loop sailing that returns to Seattle, a state-issued birth certificate with your photo ID also works, and guests under 16 need only the birth certificate. Bring the passport anyway — it is required if your cruise ends in Vancouver rather than returning here
- Arrive during your assigned boarding time — arriving early won't get you on the ship faster
- There's no light rail here, and the nearest bus stops leave a walk that isn't realistic with cruise luggage — plan for rideshare, shuttle, or private vehicle
Last-Minute Needs
There are no shops at the terminal itself. The nearest grocery and pharmacy options are the QFC on Dravus St in Interbay (5 min drive) and Walgreens on Denny Way. Stock up before you arrive.
Other terminals at this port (1)
Drop-off
The terminal is at 2225 Alaskan Way on the downtown waterfront. Follow cruise terminal signs from Alaskan Way. The drop-off area is directly in front of the terminal — pull up, unload luggage with porters (tip $2-3 per bag), and then proceed to the parking garage.
Parking
The Bell Street Pier Garage has 1,500 covered spaces at $30/day, located at 9 Wall Street directly across from the terminal. A sky bridge connects the garage to the cruise terminal — no need to go outside. Maximum vehicle height is 6ft 6in with no oversize option, so a tall SUV, van conversion, or roof box may not fit — measure before you drive in. Reservations run through SpotHero and are worth making given the garage's size. Credit cards accepted.
Check-in Tips
- Complete your cruise line's online check-in and have your boarding pass ready on your phone
- Bring proof of citizenship plus a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license alone is not accepted, even a REAL ID. A passport covers both; on a closed-loop sailing that returns to Seattle, a state-issued birth certificate with your photo ID also works, and guests under 16 need only the birth certificate. Bring the passport anyway — it is required if your cruise ends in Vancouver rather than returning here
- The terminal is in downtown Seattle — Uber/Lyft drop-off is straightforward with plenty of nearby options
- Bell Street is the homeport the Port of Seattle names for Norwegian Cruise Line and Oceania Cruises; Cunard, Regent, Silversea and Windstar work this pier too
- Norwegian guests complete Online Check In in the Norwegian Cruise Line app — guests of the other lines check in through their own line, not that app
Last-Minute Needs
Being downtown, you have easy access to shops. Pike Place Market is a 10-minute walk south. There's a Walgreens on 3rd Ave (5 min walk) for any forgotten toiletries or medications. Grab a coffee at any of the dozens of cafes within walking distance.
Photos by E P, and others via Google Maps.
Passport & Documents
Bring a valid passport even on a closed-loop cruise — one that leaves and returns to the same U.S. port, where a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID are technically enough — because only a passport gets you home if you miss the ship at a foreign port (full document list in our first-time cruise tips).
Last-Minute Stops
Pick up anything you forgot before heading to the port.
QFC — Interbay
Full grocery store closest to Pier 91 — snacks, drinks, sunscreen, Dramamine
DirectionsWalgreens — Denny Way
Pharmacy, toiletries, phone chargers, and last-minute essentials
566 Denny Wy, Seattle, WA 98109
DirectionsTarget — Downtown
Everything last-minute — clothes, sunscreen, snacks, electronics, travel gear
1401 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
DirectionsUSPS — Magnolia
Post office — drop your mail before you sail
3211 W McGraw St, Seattle, WA 98199
DirectionsGetting There & Parking
Compare parking and the other practical ways to reach Port of Seattle.
Parking for your cruise
Driving & Port ParkingCruisers driving from the Pacific NorthwestCosts & travel details
Cost$30/day at the Pier 66 Bell Street Pier Garage
Both terminals have on-site parking, run by different operators, so a booking at one is useless at the other — confirm your pier before you reserve. Pier 91 (Smith Cove) sells zones priced for the length of the cruise rather than by the day: $187 economy for a seven-day sailing, rising to $220 standard and $329 premium, described as all-inclusive. Pier 66 (Bell Street) has a 1,500-space covered garage at $30/day before tax, with a skybridge into the terminal. From I-5, take the Mercer St exit for Pier 91 or the Seneca St exit for Pier 66.
Pro tip: Pier 91 reservations are recommended rather than required for general parking, but they are mandatory for the RV and oversize zone — and the cancellation term is unforgiving, seven days ahead rather than the usual 24 hours. Pier 66 reservations go through SpotHero, so its terms are the ones you agree to. Both take cards, not cash. Note that Pier 91's lots are open-air surface parking with no height limit, while the Pier 66 garage caps vehicles at 6ft 6in. Do not count on a cheap off-site lot with a shuttle: the independent lots listed near Pier 91 are ordinary neighborhood lots 0.9 to 1.6 miles out, 19 to 35 minutes on foot, with no shuttle and no luggage help.
Verified Sep 7, 2026 · Republic Parking Northwest — Bell Street Pier Garage · See something outdated? Tell us
Other ways to reach the ship
From Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)Most cruisers flying in for an Alaska cruiseCosts & travel details
CostTaxi: metered, with a $20 minimum on any trip leaving Sea-Tac under King County Ordinance 19700, and $1 more allowed on an on-demand taxi. Rideshare: no published fare. Link light rail is a flat $3.00 but reaches downtown only.
SEA is about 15 miles south of the cruise terminals — roughly 25-40 minutes by car depending on I-5 traffic. This is the closest major airport and where the vast majority of cruise passengers arrive.
Pro tip: Take the Link Light Rail from SEA to Westlake Station downtown ($3, about 40 min) and then grab a short Uber/Lyft to the terminal — it's significantly cheaper than rideshare from the airport. For Pier 66 cruisers, you can even walk from Westlake to the terminal in 15 minutes.
Hotel Shuttle ServicesCruisers who want a stress-free embarkation morningCosts & travel details
CostFree to $15/person depending on hotel. Often included in cruise packages.
Several downtown hotels offer scheduled shuttles to the cruise terminals during Alaska season (May-September). The Mayflower Park Hotel, Hyatt House, and Seattle Marriott Waterfront all offer shuttle service. Quality and frequency vary.
Pro tip: Book your shuttle spot when you reserve the hotel — they fill up. The Mayflower Park Hotel runs a scheduled shuttle to both piers at $15 per guest for the 2026 cruise season, arranged through the bellman, but it states plainly that it does not offer long-term parking for cruise travelers, so it solves the ride and not the car. The Marriott Waterfront is literally across the street from Pier 66.
Uber/LyftFlexibility and door-to-door convenienceCosts & travel details
CostNot published. Rideshare pricing is dynamic and no first party publishes a Seattle cruise terminal fare, so we quote none.
Rideshare is widely available throughout Seattle. Both terminals have designated drop-off areas. Traffic on I-5 can be unpredictable, especially on weekend mornings.
Pro tip: Embarkation day Saturdays can see surge pricing, especially from the airport. Check prices early in the morning when rates are lowest. Pier 66 is easier for drivers to find since it's on the main waterfront road. For Pier 91, make sure the driver follows GPS to 2001 W Garfield Way.
Link Light Rail + Rideshare ComboBudget-conscious travelers, especially Pier 66 cruisersCosts & travel details
CostLink light rail: $3.00 flat, and free for riders 18 and under. The ride on from Westlake to the pier is not published by anyone.
The most budget-friendly option from the airport. Take Link Light Rail from SEA to Westlake Station ($3, 40 min), then grab a short rideshare or walk to Pier 66. For Pier 91, you'll need a rideshare from Westlake.
Pro tip: The train runs every 8-15 minutes. You can bring luggage on board — there's space. Westlake Station is about a 15-minute walk to Pier 66 through the waterfront area. For Pier 91, you'll want to grab a rideshare from downtown — the walk is too far with luggage.
Cruise Line Shuttle ServicesCruisers who want the simplest possible transferCosts & travel details
CostNot published. Holland America's own transfers FAQ, read 2026-08-25, says transfers run on embarkation and disembarkation days for Flight Ease and independent-air guests and prints no price, so the line quotes the fare inside your booking.
Some cruise lines offer airport-to-terminal shuttle transfers that can be booked through your cruise booking. Holland America and Princess are known for reliable Seattle transfer options.
Pro tip: Book through your cruise line's website or travel agent. Shuttles are timed to your ship's boarding schedule. Not the cheapest option, but the most worry-free — they'll get you to the right terminal at the right time.
Getting to Sea-Tac after your cruiseAnyone flying home the same day the ship docks, especially out of Pier 91Costs & travel details
CostBoth pages we read describe the luggage transfer itself as complimentary, with the traveler paying only their own airline's checked-bag fees. The ride to the airport is separate and costs whatever the options above cost.
The Seattle transfer that actually bites is the one going home, because a ship clearing customs at 8 a.m. puts a few thousand people on the same road in the same hour. The Port's own answer to half of it is Port Valet: you enroll on board, set your bags outside the cabin the night before, and they travel by truck from the ship into your airline's baggage system, so you leave the terminal holding a boarding pass and nothing else. Visit Seattle lists Celebrity, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess and Royal Caribbean on the cruise side, and Alaska, American, Delta, Horizon, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit and United on the airline side, as read on visitseattle.org on 2026-08-20. Seattle Southside's page on the same program states that flights should generally depart after 12:00 PM on disembarkation day.
Pro tip: Enroll in the first day or two of the sailing rather than the last, and pack the flight day into your carry-on before the bags go out — once they leave the cabin door you cannot get back into them, so medication, chargers and a change of clothes have to come off the ship in your hand. Port Valet also solves the suitcase and not the ride. From Pier 91 the taxi rank is at the terminal building and the run to Sea-Tac is roughly 35-45 minutes; the Link Light Rail is the cheaper leg at $3 a person but the nearest station is about three miles from Pier 91, so you are paying for a rideshare or a taxi to reach it either way. Give yourself the noon flight rather than the ten o'clock one, whichever way you go.
What to Pack
The essentials you'll actually need — plus a few things most people forget
Sailing to Alaska?
Seattle is the homeport for Alaska sailings — the Inside Passage stays cool and often wet even in July and August. The list below is the every-port baseline; the layers that itinerary actually needs are on the Alaska list.
Alaska packing listAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. How we make money
Alaska Weather
Seattle is the homeport for Alaska sailings — the Inside Passage stays cool and often wet even in July and August
Carry-On Day Bag
Pack these in a bag you keep with you at boarding — your checked luggage won't arrive until 3-4pm
Boarding Tips
Cunard
Pack a carry-on day bag with essentials
You probably know this one, but it bears repeating: regardless of which line you're sailing, your checked luggage won't arrive at your cabin until mid-to-late afternoon. Pack swimsuits, sunscreen, any medications, phone chargers, and a change of clothes in a bag you carry on board. You'll want to start enjoying the ship immediately.
Disney: Download the My Disney Cruise Line app. Norwegian: Download the NCL app. MSC: Download MSC for Me. All require online check-in before arrival — don't wait until the terminal.
Arrive at the time shown in your cruise line's boarding documents.
First cruise? Embarkation day in the order it happens walks through the whole day, and the muster drill, explained covers the one thing you cannot skip.
All Port of Seattle guides
Ships sailing from Port of Seattle
- Star Princess terminal & parkingPrincess Cruises
- Anthem of the Seas terminal & parkingRoyal Caribbean
- Brilliant Lady terminal & parkingVirgin Voyages
- Carnival Miracle terminal & parkingCarnival
- Carnival Spirit terminal & parkingCarnival
- Celebrity Edge terminal & parkingCelebrity
- Discovery Princess terminal & parkingPrincess Cruises
- Eurodam terminal & parkingHolland America
- MSC Poesia terminal & parkingMSC
- Noordam terminal & parkingHolland America
- Norwegian Bliss terminal & parkingNorwegian
- Norwegian Encore terminal & parkingNorwegian