The Best Way to Experience Seattle And Its Cruise Port

Your Ultimate Guide To The Emerald City

If you’ve booked a cruise holiday with a stop in Seattle cruise port, you’re in for a treat! Known as the Emerald City for its lush, year-round greenery, Seattle is a vibrant destination with a stunning waterfront, iconic attractions, and cool cultural experiences.

The Seattle cruise port is not only one of the busiest on the West Coast but also a gateway to breathtaking Alaskan cruises. So, why is the port of Seattle important? Its strategic location and modern facilities make it a key hub for cruise lines and an exciting starting point or port of call for cruise guests.

In our Seattle cruise port guide, we'll answer your key questions about this port, including where cruise ships dock, how to get to Seattle from the cruise port, and the best things to do during your visit.

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Seattle?

There are two Seattle cruise terminals, each with two berths that accommodate various leading cruise lines:

1. Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91)

Located approximately a 10-minute drive north of downtown, Smith Cove is the largest of Seattle’s cruise terminals. From here, many cruises venture to Alaska via the spectacular Inside Passage.

At Smith Cove Seattle Cruise Terminal, you’ll find:

• Modern facilities, including luggage handling, ample parking, wheelchair access, a nearby food truck and passenger drop-off areas

• Accessibility for large vessels like those of Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean

2. Bell Street Cruise Terminal (Pier 66)

Situated on Seattle’s downtown waterfront, Pier 66 offers a prime location within walking distance of many attractions. This Seattle cruise terminal caters to Norwegian Cruise Line and Oceania Cruises, among others. 

Here, you have access to facilities including:

• Parking options, luggage storage, wheelchair access and a transportation hub for local buses and taxis

• Easy access to the bustling Pike Place Market and the Seattle Aquarium and stunning views of Elliott Bay

How Far Is Seattle From The Cruise Port, And How Do You Get There?

The distance from the Seattle cruise port to the city centre depends on where your ship docks:

From Bell Street Terminal (Pier 66): 

Getting from the Seattle cruise port to the city centre when docking at Bell Street Terminal couldn’t be simpler; it’s right in downtown Seattle! With this convenient location, it’s easy to walk to infamous attractions like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. Just a leisurely stroll will have you exploring the city within minutes! Taxis are also available if required.

From Smith Cove Terminal (Pier 91): 

Though a bit farther, downtown Seattle is only a 10-minute drive from this Seattle cruise terminal. To get there, you can take a taxi or rideshare, which are conveniently available at the terminal. Alternatively, consider the King County Metro line. It has a stop around 5 minutes walk from the terminal and offers a more affordable option. 

Also, remember to talk to your cruise line when looking at how to get to Seattle from the cruise port, as often it will offer a shuttle service. 

What Are the Best Things to Do in Seattle on Port Days?

Seattle is packed with exciting activities and attractions, with great options for every type of cruise guest. Here are our top recommendations for what to do in Seattle cruise port:

1. Explore Pike Place Market

Just a short walk from Pier 66, Pike Place Market is Seattle’s notorious marketplace. Founded in 1930, it is home to the traditional fish-tossing vendors. Spend some time here browsing the incredible local seafood or grab a delicious bite at one of the many food stalls. Soaking up the unique Seattle culture here is undoubtedly one of the best activities by the Seattle cruise port.

While at Pike Place Market, don’t forget to pay a visit to the quirky Gum Wall nearby! This unusual art display is made up of colourful gum, which started in the 1990s and now covers a huge area of brick wall. 

2. Visit the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass

When looking to see if there is anything near the Seattle cruise port, many cruise guests are delighted to learn that the Space Needle – possibly the city’s most recognisable landmark – is less than a mile’s walk from Pier 66. 

Built in 1962 as a cultural centrepiece representing the ‘The Age of Space’ for the World’s Fair, it stands at an impressive 650 ft. tall. Take the lift to the observation deck, and you can enjoy exceptional panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the city skyline. 

Adjacent to the Space Needle is the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, and when deciding what to do in Seattle on port days, this attraction should not be missed! The extensive collection of Chihuly's colourful glassblowing work is utterly astounding.

3. Stroll Along the Waterfront

One of the simplest but best activities near Seattle Cruise Port is wandering along the waterfront. The developed waterfront is not only an attractive place to spend time, but it also offers several great attractions, including the Seattle Aquarium and the Great Wheel, as well as a variety of tempting souvenir shops.

After working up an appetite, stop for a bite at one of the various waterfront restaurants, many offering fresh seafood. 

4. Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island

For a relaxing escape, board a ferry to Bainbridge Island from downtown Seattle. The ride is a worthwhile experience itself, providing outstanding views of the city and the magnificent Mount Rainier.

Once there, you can meander around its charming town with shops and cafes to explore. Alternatively, you can hike the impressive waterfall trail or rent a bike to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. 

5. Indulge in Coffee Culture

As the birthplace of Starbucks, Seattle’s coffee culture is unmatched. Visit the original Starbucks at Pike Place Market or explore local favourites like Tully’s or Seattle Coffee Works for a true caffeine fix.

There's so much to discover in Seattle, whether you want to soak up its vibrant, creative culture, take in the natural beauty or discover the city's rich history. And with Seattle being so easy to navigate from the cruise port, you can be assured your time spent here will be a highlight of your holiday.