Seward, Alaska is a stunning small town on Resurrection Bay, serving as the southern terminus of the Alaska Railroad and a key embarkation point for Alaska one-way cruises. Princess, Holland America, and Celebrity all use Seward as their southbound disembarkation point on Gulf of Alaska itineraries.
The drive or train from Anchorage to Seward is one of the most spectacular in North America — through Chugach National Forest, alongside glacial lakes, and across the Kenai Peninsula. Kenai Fjords National Park is right outside town.
What's New for 2026
- 🚂 The Alaska Railroad's Coastal Classic train from Anchorage to Seward is one of the world's great train journeys — highly recommended over driving if time allows
- 🐋 Kenai Fjords boat tours are world-class — orcas, humpbacks, sea otters, and tidewater glaciers all in one trip
Hot Tip
Take the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic from Anchorage to Seward instead of driving — 4.5 hours of spectacular scenery through the Chugach Mountains, completely stress-free. Book early as it sells out.Port of Seward, Alaska – Quick Facts
Port of Seward, Alaska Cruise Terminals
Know your terminal before you arrive — each serves different cruise lines.
Getting to Port of Seward, Alaska
Transportation options from nearby airports, train stations and downtown.
Fly into Anchorage (ANC)
Most passengers fly into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport — 120 miles from Seward. Major domestic airlines plus JetBlue and Frontier serve ANC. Getting there is part of the adventure.
Train, motorcoach, or rental car from AnchorageAlaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad runs between Anchorage and Seward with a stunning glass-domed roof car. One-way fare: $89 base or $165 GoldStar (includes meals and drinks). The 4-hour scenic journey is a highlight of any Alaska cruise.
From $89/person one-way · ~4 hoursMotor Coach Shuttles
Many companies offer narrated motorcoach service between Anchorage and Seward with scenic stops. Direct routes take about 3 hours. Anchorage Tours and Transfers and Alaska Cruise Transportation are popular options.
Shared coach from ~$50/personRental Car Drive
The Seward Highway from Anchorage is one of America most scenic drives — glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic mountain scenery. Only Hertz has a location in Seward; rent from Anchorage if possible.
~120 miles · 2.5–3 hoursPlan Your Visit
Everything you need for a smooth departure from Port of Seward, Alaska.
Parking
On-site garages connect directly to your terminal. Off-site lots offer free shuttles at lower daily rates. Hotel+park packages can be the best value of all.
See Parking Options →Hotels Near the Port
Seward has limited but charming hotel options. The Breeze Inn and Best Western Edgewater are the main options near the harbor. Many cruisers stay an extra night…
See Hotels →Shore Excursions
Book shore excursions before you board for best availability and pricing. Day trips, city tours, snorkelling, and more departing from Port of Seward, Alaska.
See Excursions →Things To Do
Seward and Kenai Fjords offer some of Alaska's most spectacular wildlife and scenery. 🐋 Kenai Fjords National ParkExit Glacier and the Harding Icefield are a…
See Things To Do →Port of Seward, Alaska – Frequently Asked Questions
Everything cruise passengers ask before sailing from Port of Seward, Alaska.
How do I get from Anchorage to Seward?
Two main options: drive the Seward Highway (127 miles, 2.5–3 hours of spectacular scenery), or take the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic train (4.5 hours, even more scenic). The train is highly recommended — book early as it sells out.
What is there to do in Seward before my cruise?
Kenai Fjords National Park boat tours are world-class — orcas, humpback whales, and tidewater glaciers in one trip. Exit Glacier is a short drive from town. The Alaska SeaLife Center is excellent. Seward's waterfront restaurants serve outstanding fresh seafood.
Do cruise ships actually dock in Seward?
Yes — Seward is the primary southern terminus for Gulf of Alaska one-way cruises on Princess, Holland America, and Celebrity. Ships dock right in Seward harbor, adjacent to the Alaska Railroad station.