Whittier, Alaska is one of the most dramatic and unique cruise embarkation points in the world. This tiny town of just 200 year-round residents sits at the head of Passage Canal, surrounded by glaciers and mountains, and is only accessible by boat, plane, or through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel — a single-lane combined road and rail tunnel that is one of the longest in North America.
Whittier serves as the embarkation and disembarkation point for many Alaska one-way cruises on Princess, Holland America, Norwegian, Celebrity, and Royal Caribbean. The scenery arriving or departing through the tunnel is unforgettable.
What's New for 2026
- 🚇 The Anton Anderson Tunnel alternates direction — check the tunnel schedule before you drive, as wait times can be up to 30 minutes
- 🏔️ Whittier is surrounded by stunning glacial scenery — arrive early if possible to take it all in
Hot Tip
Check the tunnel schedule before you drive to Whittier — the Anton Anderson Tunnel alternates direction on a set schedule. Arriving at the wrong time means a wait of up to 30 minutes. Plan around tunnel opening times.Port of Whittier, Alaska – Quick Facts
Port of Whittier, Alaska Cruise Terminals
Know your terminal before you arrive — each serves different cruise lines.
Getting to Port of Whittier, Alaska
Transportation options from nearby airports, train stations and downtown.
Fly into Anchorage (ANC)
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the gateway for Whittier cruises. Served by major domestic airlines plus JetBlue and Frontier. Whittier is 60 miles south of Anchorage.
Train, motorcoach, or rental car from AnchorageAlaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad travels daily between Anchorage and Whittier. Base fare is $94 per person and the scenic ride takes just over 2 hours. A relaxed and beautiful way to arrive in Whittier.
From $94/person · ~2 hoursMotor Coach Shuttles
Narrated motorcoach services run between Anchorage and Whittier with sightseeing stops. Direct routes take approximately 2 hours. Anchorage Tours and Transfers is a popular provider.
Shared coach from ~$45/personAnton Anderson Tunnel
The only road into Whittier is through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel — a single-lane, shared rail/vehicle tunnel that runs on a timed schedule. Missing a slot means a 1-hour wait, so plan your arrival time carefully.
Toll applies · Round-trip fee · ~6 min through tunnelPlan Your Visit
Everything you need for a smooth departure from Port of Whittier, 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
There are almost no hotels in Whittier itself. Stay in Anchorage the night before and take a shuttle or drive to Whittier on departure day. Anchorage has excell…
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 Whittier, Alaska.
See Excursions →Things To Do
Whittier has very limited amenities — the real experience is the dramatic scenery and the tunnel drive. Stay in Anchorage for pre-cruise activities. 🏔️ Whitt…
See Things To Do →Port of Whittier, Alaska – Frequently Asked Questions
Everything cruise passengers ask before sailing from Port of Whittier, Alaska.
How do I get to Whittier from Anchorage?
Drive the Seward Highway south from Anchorage (45 miles), then take the Whittier Connector road through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. Total about 75 miles / 90 minutes. Check the tunnel schedule before departing — it alternates directions and waits can be 30 minutes.
What is the Anton Anderson Tunnel?
A 2.5-mile single-lane combined road and rail tunnel through the Chugach Mountains. It alternates between road traffic and rail use on a set schedule. The toll is about $13 for a standard vehicle. Check the schedule at dot.alaska.gov.
Are there hotels in Whittier?
Very limited — Inn at Whittier is the main option. Most cruisers stay in Anchorage the night before and drive or shuttle to Whittier on departure morning.