Do Cruise Ships Go to Anchorage?

By Michael Ferguson

Cruising is an incredibly popular way to travel the world, with millions of people taking to the seas each year. One question that often arises for those planning a cruise is whether or not ships go to Anchorage.

What is Anchorage

Anchorage is a city located in Alaska, United States. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including glaciers, mountains and wildlife. Many tourists visit Anchorage each year, either as part of a larger Alaskan cruise or as a standalone destination.

Can Cruise Ships go to Anchorage

The short answer is no, cruise ships do not go directly to Anchorage. Instead, they typically dock at nearby ports such as Seward or Whittier and passengers are transported by bus or train to Anchorage.

This may seem like an inconvenience for some travelers, but it actually provides an opportunity to see more of the stunning Alaskan landscape. The journey from Seward or Whittier to Anchorage offers breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains and wildlife that are not visible from the water.

Port Options

Seward is located approximately 125 miles south of Anchorage and serves as the gateway for many Alaskan cruises. It has a deep-water port that can accommodate large cruise ships and offers easy access to popular attractions such as Kenai Fjords National Park.

Whittier is located approximately 60 miles southeast of Anchorage and also has a deep-water port that can accommodate large cruise ships. It offers easy access to popular attractions such as Prince William Sound.

Transportation Options

There are several transportation options available for passengers traveling from Seward or Whittier to Anchorage:

  • Bus: Many cruise lines offer bus transportation from the port to Anchorage. This is a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive.
  • Train: The Alaska Railroad offers train transportation from both Seward and Whittier to Anchorage. This is a popular option for those who want to experience the stunning Alaskan scenery.
  • Rental Car: Rental cars are available at both Seward and Whittier for those who prefer to drive themselves.

In Conclusion

While cruise ships do not go directly to Anchorage, there are plenty of options available for travelers who want to visit this stunning Alaskan city. Whether you choose to take a bus, train or rental car, the journey from nearby ports such as Seward or Whittier offers breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains and wildlife that are not visible from the water.

If you are planning an Alaskan cruise, be sure to include a visit to Anchorage on your itinerary. It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime destination that should not be missed!