Cruises From Whittier, Alaska Norwegian Cruise Line

alaska whittier cruise

In this guide, we have explored various transportation options to reach Whittier, including traveling by car, train, bus, flight, or cruise ship. Each mode of transportation offers its own benefits, whether it’s the flexibility of a road trip, the scenic beauty of a train ride, the convenience of a bus, the speed of a flight, or the luxury of a cruise ship. Holland America Line’s Alaska cruise  tours now include the tiny town of Whittier. This remote village is nestled along breathtaking Prince William Sound, home to a stunning array of wildlife, including bald eagles, sea otters and killer whales, so have your camera ready. Whittier has the odd distinction of being almost entirely under one roof.

Tour Summary

Most guests enjoy the 5‑day/​4‑night trips, but you can book longer 10-day/9‑night expeditions. In 2024, the company will operate four high-speed catamarans on the calm waters of Prince William Sound. All cruises are backed by their exclusive “No-Seasickness guarantee” — or the price paid for the cruise will be refunded.

National treasures

alaska whittier cruise

At my last count, there are 17 day cruises from Seward and only two from Whittier. That’s not to say Whittier is lacking – one of the cruises, the 26 Glacier Cruise – is among the most popular day cruises in Alaska! What’s more important than the raw number of options is what each cruise has to offer – and how well that maps onto what you want to see on a day cruise. I want to spend a little time talking about both Whittier and Seward, and the day cruise options offered by each one. This will help you get a sense of each town; then I’ll dive into which one is better for different Alaskan experiences you might want to have.

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Fares & Payment Adult fares apply to ages 12 and up at the time of Travel. Infants under 24 months on the trip must be confirmed on the passenger manifest to travel free. Guests aged 2 to 14 must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Hot Meal Included A hot meal will be served shortly after the cruise departs. Complimentary hot coffee, tea and ice water are available as self-serve stations during the cruise.

Once your cruise ship arrives in Whittier, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the town and its surrounding attractions before continuing your journey through the spectacular landscapes of Alaska. Traveling by flight to Whittier offers convenience, speed, and a unique aerial perspective of Alaska’s natural beauty. It’s a great option for those who want to minimize travel time without compromising their experience. When planning your trip, it’s important to consider the bus schedule and allow sufficient time to ensure you arrive at the cruise terminal in Whittier with ample time before your cruise departure. If you prefer a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation to Whittier, traveling by bus is a great option.

Ride the Glacier Discovery Train to the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, where you’ll disembark to explore this backcountry paradise only accessible by rail. Includes a guided hike to the glacier overlook with a Chugach National Forest Service Ranger. Your luggage may be stored in a secure location next to our office and reclaimed after the day cruise. 👆 The check-in for the 26 glacier cruise is very near the Whittier cruise port. When you arrive for check-in, there is a board that lists day-by-day the wildlife that have been spotted during their tours in the past week. Following the war, the Army built two large buildings that still stand as landmarks guarding this port town.

THE 25 BEST Cruises from Seward, AK 2024 (with Prices) on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic

THE 25 BEST Cruises from Seward, AK 2024 (with Prices) on Cruise Critic.

Posted: Mon, 23 Oct 2023 18:59:17 GMT [source]

Passengers 18 years of age or older must present a government-issued photo I.D. Getting to Whittier by Coach or Rail  Please review your travel documents for the departure times of locations of your scheduled transportation. At coach or rail departure locations to board transportation and immediately upon arrival in Whittier to receive your boarding pass. Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel.

Whittier is the Gateway to Prince William Sound, a favorite among locals for its calm waters. By combining our stable catamarans and Prince William Sound’s protected waters – we guarantee a trip without seasickness on the 26 Glacier Cruise and the Glacier Quest Cruise or your money back. Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel To access Whittier, all self-drive, coach and rail passengers will travel through  North America’s longest shared rail and vehicle tunnel. The tunnel was originally built to create a supply line from the Port of Whittier to Interior Alaska.

Cruises From Whittier

But glaciers are not common elsewhere, even in places meant to protect them – like Glacier National Park. So for many people – and perhaps you, dear reader – seeing glaciers is super high on their Alaska bucket list. In that case, Whittier is the best place to book a glacier viewing day cruise.

alaska whittier cruise

Either way, you’ll enter Whittier through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, constructed as part of Whittier’s strategic military history. Whittier, Alaska is a remote destination, but there are several modes of transportation that can take you there. Depending on your preference and location, you can choose to travel by car, train, bus, flight, or cruise ship. The 26 glacier day cruise tour operated by the tour company Phillips cruises does the cruise so you can make cruise ship timings and train timings.

Looking a mile and a half behind you along the coast, you’ll see a new cruise ship terminal set to open this summer. Your cruise starts in Whittier and takes you to Blackstone Bay, a dramatic deep water fjord where two tidewater glaciers and several alpine glaciers await. Shortly after your cruise departs, our crew will serve a complimentary hot meal at your reserved seat. The entree comes with sides featuring oyster crackers, a fresh Julienne vegetable salad, a multi-grain roll, a fruit snack, and a  peppermint pattie. Meal selections can be modified up to 24 hours before travel due to our remote location.

School-age children who complete their activity book during the cruise can earn their Junior Ranger Badge. College Fjord offers a panoramic view of the glaciers named during the Harriman Expedition after the Ivy League Colleges on the East Coast. On the way to Harvard Glacier, the Captain will plot a path through the ice-filled waters up to the front of the glacier to get an up-close view while watching for massive chunks of ice calve into the sea. Whittier, Alaska, is a destination that captures the essence of the Last Frontier. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and access to magnificent glaciers, Whittier offers a remarkable experience for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure.

A cruise ship that goes to or from Anchorage is actually going to or from Whittier. You can do it after you arrive in Whittier and get off your northbound cruise ship that goes from Vancouver to Anchorage. What makes the glacier part of the tour worth it is 2 of the glaciers that we did see up close. And once again you should keep in mind that glaciers also do their own thing and there’s also no guarantee that chunks of ice will fall off when you are there. Please visit our most frequently asked questions page on cruise preparation, transportation, safety and security, and more.

The expansive windows of the train provide panoramic views, offering ample opportunities for photography and taking in the awe-inspiring scenery. When you reach Whittier, you’ll find ample parking options near the cruise terminal. Many cruise lines offer long-term parking facilities where you can safely leave your vehicle while you embark on your cruise. The 26 glacier tour starts at the small boat harbor right next to the cruise ship! As you drive toward the city’s heart, Alaska’s famed Prince William Sound and a small harbor are on the left. To the right, a massive waterfall cascades down the verdant face of the mountain you just drove through.

In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about how to get to Whittier, Alaska for a cruise. From various transportation options to helpful tips, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your Alaskan adventure. The Cruise Ship Terminal is adjacent to our pier and the ground surface is paved for an easy transition between the day cruise and the cruise ship.

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