Getting in & out of Seattle’s Cruise Port
Cruise ports can be very chaotic, and it is nearly impossible to keep a large group together. So let’s discuss what it is like getting in and out of Seattle’s cruise port, because once you enter, it’s kind of an “every man for himself” situation. Even if you start out with your group leaders, it is very likely you will get separated at some point. You need to be comfortable functioning independently.
Whether you’re boarding your ship for an exciting Alaska itinerary or disembarking after a week of adventures, knowing what to expect at the Port of Seattle will reduce stress and confusion.
ARRIVAL
For boarding, when you arrive at the terminal – either Smith Cove Terminal at Pier 91 or Bell Street Terminal at Pier 66 – the first people you’ll encounter are the porters stationed at curbside. Their job is to take your checked luggage and ensure it is loaded onto the ship for delivery to your stateroom.
Have your luggage tags attached before arrival to speed up the process. Tip your porter (around 2 to 3 dollars per bag). Once your luggage is taken, keep your carry-on items with you, including passports, medications, and valuables, as you will not see your checked bags again until later that day on the ship.
From there, you proceed into the terminal for security screening, check-in, and boarding. This area is often crowded, so remind your group to be patient and stay alert for signage guiding you to the correct lines.
DEPARTURE
After your cruise ends, your luggage is offloaded by ship staff and placed in designated sections inside the terminal, organized by tag color or number. You will disembark the ship when your group or luggage tag color is called, proceed to baggage claim, find your luggage in the assigned area, and then continue through customs and immigration.
Immediately after you clear customs, porters are waiting to help you with your luggage. They can assist you all the way to the taxi line, shuttles, ride-share pickup areas, or parking lots. Like arrival porters, they work for tips based on the number of bags and service level.
Specifically at Pier 91, after exiting customs, if you are meeting a scheduled van, walk down the left sidewalk. If you are catching a taxi or coach bus, go down the right sidewalk. There are staff and signs outside to help direct you, but it can be crowded and confusing, so pay close attention.
Seattle’s cruise port staff are generally efficient, but the crowds can be overwhelming, and there are a lot of people yelling. It’s a bit of sensory overload after a relaxing week. Be sure to know where you are headed once you get outside the terminal, and remember that once you enter, you’re navigating lines, security, and customs individually. Being ready for that will make embarkation and disembarkation day much smoother.
