The first challenge when traveling to Alaska by cruise ship isn't necessarily the ship itself. It is arriving at the proper cruise terminal with your luggage, family, and schedule intact. Seattle has an unusual traffic pattern, as well as two distinct cruise piers, which can baffle visitors to the city for the first time.
Our Seattle airport transportation services connects from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Pier 66 (Bell Street) and Pier 91 (Smith Cove) and typically will take about 25-45 minutes depending on traffic and time of day.
After a long flight, you don't want to compare rideshare prices, spend time in the pickup line or find out that your cruise is going to come from a different terminal. We don't want you to get involved in all that confusion; that's why we schedule pickups ahead of time, and take you directly to the proper terminal at the Port of Seattle.
🛳️ Understanding Seattle's Two Cruise Piers
There is a misconception about many travelers that there is just one cruise port in Seattle. The truth is there are two major cruise terminals that are operated by the port of Seattle, and your cruise line will let you know which terminal you need.
Cruise Line | Terminal |
|---|---|
Norwegian Cruise Line | Pier 66 (Bell Street) |
Royal Caribbean | Pier 91 (Smith Cove) |
Holland America Line | Pier 91 (Smith Cove) |
Princess Cruises | Pier 91 (Smith Cove) |
Pier 66 is situated on the waterfront downtown near the Edgewater Hotel, and near Pike Place Market. Pier 91 is further north, close to Smith Cove and is generally a longer drive from downtown hotels.
In case you have not specified the terminal, you'll be using for your sailing please refer to your cruise confirmation or ask us when you book. Your vehicle is dispatched after check of the terminal.
📏 How Far Is Sea-Tac Airport from the Seattle Cruise Terminals?
One of the most frequent queries we receive from guests that travel by ship is this one.
SEA to Pier 66: about 15-16 miles
SEA to Pier 91: about 18-20 miles
Distance is not a factor in determining travel time. Seattle traffic, congestion, and waterfront activity can affect the ride.
For morning arrivals on cruise days, we typically recommend allowing 45 minutes to arrive at Pier 66, and 50-60 minutes to Pier 91. During lighter traffic periods, the trip can be noticeably shorter.
🗓️ Should You Fly Into Seattle the Same Day Your Cruise Departs?
Technically, yes. Practically, it is advisable to arrive a day before departure if possible.
Weather, mechanical failures, missed connections or baggage issues may cause flight delays. The danger is very real if you are leaving your ship at 4:00 PM and your flight is delayed for several hours.
Many of our guests choose to stay overnight at a downtown Seattle hotel such as:
Fairmont Olympic Hotel
Hyatt Regency Seattle
Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
The Edgewater Hotel
If you can stay overnight, this will allow you to rest and recover from your journey and get started on your cruise without a rush.
We can arrange:
Airport to hotel transfer
Hotel to cruise terminal transfer
Return transfer after the cruise.
🧳 Luggage Planning for a 7-Day Alaska Cruise
Alaska cruises typically have more luggage than Caribbean cruises. Jackets, layers, walking shoes, and rain gear add bulk quickly.
As a practical guide:
Travel Party | Recommended Vehicle |
|---|---|
1–2 guests | Sedan |
2 guests with 4+ large bags | SUV |
3–5 guests | Large SUV |
6+ guests | Executive van |
A typical couple on a 7-day Alaska cruise will bring 2 large checked bags, 2 carry-on bags and sometimes a garment bag or backpack. If you are bringing mobility equipment, a stroller or additional luggage for pre- or post-cruise touring, let us know in advance so we can ensure the appropriate vehicle for you.
😌 Why Pre-Booked Transportation Reduces Cruise-Day Stress
During peak days on the cruise, thousands of travelers are arriving to SEA within a limited time frame. Rideshare pickup points tend to become congested, and getting a ride may be difficult. With our chauffeur service Seattle, the pick-up is arranged around the time of your flight. We track the flight, and if delayed, we let you know, and we give you clear pickup directions.
This translates to a reduction in the number of people walking around the airport with bags for families. For older travelers, it is about not spending too long in loading areas. For groups, it means traveling in a single car as opposed to several cars. Professional limousine service Seattle with luxury vehicles, experienced chauffeurs, and 24/7 availability.
🚶 If You Are Staying Near the Waterfront
People close to the waterfront frequently inquire of whether or not they should walk to Pier 66.
Walking might be helpful if you have little luggage and are at the Edgewater or Four Seasons. But Seattle's hills and sidewalks are not as comfortable as some might think and its luggage for cruises is not standard.
Even from downtown hotels, it is strongly suggested that cars be used to get to Pier 91.
🕒 A Realistic Transfer Timeline
Here is an example for a family arriving on the morning of a Princess cruise.
Time | Schedule |
|---|---|
9:15 AM | Flight lands at SEA |
9:45 AM | Meet chauffeur and load luggage |
10:00 AM | Depart airport |
10:45 AM | Arrive at Pier 91 |
11:00 AM | Begin cruise check-in |
This is a comfortable schedule with an ample margin for the afternoon embarkation. Reliable limo service Seattle for airport transfers, cruise transportation, business travel, and special occasions.
🗺️ Exploring Seattle Before or After Your Cruise
If your flight arrives early or departs late, we can include a short city transfer or hourly service. Many guests visit:
Pike Place Market
Colman Dock
Seattle waterfront
Space Needle
Bainbridge Island ferry terminal area
Our Seattle black car service is often used for these short transfers because it keeps luggage secure while you make a brief stop.
📱 Booking Your Seattle Cruise Transfer
A cruise vacation consists of flights, hotels, boarding and coordinating luggage. Transportation should be the easiest way to get there. Upon booking, we will confirm the airport, cruise terminal, pick up time, number of bags and the type of car. You can also manage reservations via our Android and iOS App for convenience.
If you're looking for a limo service to Seattle for a sedan for a couple, an SUV for a family, or a larger vehicle for a cruise group, you can count on our service to take you from Sea-Tac to Pier 66 or Pier 91 without all the cruise day hassle.
Book a Limo today for your Seattle airport transportation and begin your Alaska cruise with a seamless, reliable transfer to the right airport in Seattle.