The famous Broadway cruise is coming back for another encore! For the third year in a row, Norwegian Cruise Line is bringing the glitz and glamor of the theater to the high seas.
The Broadway Cruise 3, which will be hosted onboard the 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem, will be setting sail on March 31, 2025.
The 4-night, round-trip charter sailing will be based out of Miami, Florida, and will feature two days at sea and a call on Cozumel, Mexico, on April 2, 2025.
But while the itinerary is rather sparse, the real fun of this theatrical sailing is in the exclusive experiences onboard – designed for both theater lovers and actors to enjoy.
The voyage will come with a full slate of entertainment from award-winning Broadway stars, including intimate performances in the Stardust Theater, tribute shows, Broadway karaoke with a live band, piano bar sing-a-longs, and stage door autograph experiences at sea.
There will also be panels and Q&A sessions with Broadway creatives and stars, as well as dance classes and interactive workshops.
Just to name some of the talented performers that will be onboard, Laura Benanti (Tony Award Winner), Shoshana Bean (Tony Award Nominee), Wayne Brady (Emmy Award Winner), Caissie Levy (Olivier and Grammy Award Nominee), and Alex Brightman (Tony Award Nominee) will all be making appearances.
From the creative and production side of the industry, Will Van Dyke (music director), Jeffrey Seller (Tony Award Winning Producer), and Jerry Mitchell (Director and Tony Award Winning Choreographer) will all be onboard.
Tickets are available for purchase now on the Broadway Cruise website, starting at $450 per person for an interior cabin – but range from $1,000 to $3,000 per person for ocean views and balcony staterooms.
Note that some performances onboard the Jewel-class ship, such as the headliner shows in the 850-person Stardust Theater, may require the purchase of additional tickets.
More Themed Voyages From Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line is not afraid to mix up its standard itineraries with themed voyages – and has already released a packed roster for special one-off cruises for the end of 2024 and throughout 2025.
As recently as June 18, 2024, the news broke that Music Promoter On the Blue Cruises announced it will present a Monsters of Rock Cruise aboard Norwegian Joy.
The 5-night sailing will embark from Port of Miami on March 10, 2025, and will call on Nassau, Bahamas, and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island destination located at the northern end of the Berry Islands.
Norwegian Cruise Line Open Deck (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)
But before 2024 even comes to an end, Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem will each host one more themed cruise.
From October 21-27, 2024, Norwegian Jade will host the 18th annual Ubersoca Cruise, which is essentially a non-stop carnival at sea with over 80 entertainers and more than 55 themed events packed into the voyage.
The 6-night cruise, which is a round-trip out of Miami, will call on St Croix, US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Plata/Amber Cove, Dominican Republic.
From November 1-5, 2024, Norwegian Gem will host its 26th annual Salsa festival at sea on a 5-night sailing to Nassau, Bahamas, and Great Stirrup Cay.
Guests of the Miami-based voyage are invited to dance, sing, and enjoy performances from live DJs and famous dancers like Charlie Aponte, Luisito Carrion, and Josimar Fidel.
In addition to the Broadway and Rock cruises, 2025’s extensive roster of themed cruises truly has something for everyone.
NCL’s lineup includes a country music cruise, the 8th annual wine cruise, a disco cruise, a sailing inspired by Blues music, a violin-themed cruise inspired by Lindsey Stirling, a comedy-themed cruise, and two separate sports cruises.
Near the end of the year, Norwegian Gem will even host a Hallmark Channel cruise inspired by the Hallmark Channel’s annual Countdown to Christmas celebration.
An experienced cruise passenger was surprised when she began to feel sick from the rough seas on the first night of her recent Alaska cruise on Norwegian Bliss.
But what was even more shocking was the cost of seeking care from the onboard infirmary – with the charges totaling over $2,000 (USD).
“Just returned from my Alaskan cruise (which was otherwise fabulous!) and the first night at sea was in very rough waters! I was wearing the scop patch and have never had a problem cruising with it before, but I’m not sure what happened because I was sick as a dog!,”Diana wrote on Reddit in a now viral post.
In the morning, she dragged herself to the 4,000-passenger vessel’s medical center, where she was seen by the doctor and given IV fluids and anti nausea medication to alleviate her symptoms.
“Mustered up my last ounce of energy to make my way to the ship infirmary the next morning and was seen by the doctors. Cost a pretty penny, but the IV fluids and Zofran were a lifesaver!,” Diana continued. “I do have insurance so I’m not too worried, but if I didn’t that would be a HUGE hit lol.”
Diana posted a photo of her final bill, which called for a payment of $2,297.00 for supplies, medications, and services rendered.
On most cruise ships, the final payment for medical bills like this is typically due before guests disembark the ship at the conclusion of their cruise, although passengers who invest in travel insurance – as Diana did – can submit a claim to their insurance provider for reimbursement.
Even though Diana won’t be entirely out of pocket, Reddit users were still stunned by the upcharges they saw in the bill she posted to the forum, calling out markups like $219 just for admission to the clinic, $109 for placing and reading the pulse oximeter on Diana’s finger while also charging for the nurse’s time, and $131 for all three IV bags.
Norwegian Bliss Medical Bill (Credit: Dianabayyebii)
“Yes but to charge for a nurse reading the oximeter WHILE also charging for the nurses time by the hour??”commented one Reddit user.
“They’re charging 218 just for letting him in the door so not surprising that they’ve inflated the price of something that takes about 10 seconds to do. You could actually buy a pulse oximeter and pay a nurse to take a reading for less,”said another user.
Thankfully, the expensive visit didn’t take away from Diana’s vacation. The redditor concluded her post by saying that other than this hiccup, she loved her cruise and Alaska.
Norwegian Bliss Spends The Summer in Alaska
Diana specifically joined the Norwegian Bliss for a 7-night, roundtrip sailing out of Seattle, Washington, which embarked on June 8, 2024.
Her subsequent medical visit was on June 9, during a sea day, and got her back in tip-top shape for the first port call of the sailing at Sitka, Alaska, on June 10.
The Breakaway Plus-class cruise ship also called on Tracy Arm Fjord, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, and Victoria, British Columbia, before disembarking on June 15.
This was just one cruise of many, with the 168,028-gross ton vessel sailing nearly identical Alaskan itineraries until the end of October – operating as one of five Norwegian Cruise Line ships sent to the region to meet the demand of this particularly busy season.
She will then reposition to Long Beach, California, to spend the winter and early 2025 cruising the Mexican Riviera – with the first of these sailings embarking on October 29, 2024, just in time for Halloween.
It’s also worth noting that for most Alaska sailings, particularly while cruising through the protected waters of the Inside Passage or Glacier Bay, the ocean is smooth and calm – so sea sickness is not much of a concern.
But future passengers may want to keep in mind that the open waters of the Pacific Ocean can be very choppy, especially when ships must cross the Gulf of Alaska, which stretches from the Alaska Peninsula and Kodiak Island in the west to where Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage are found in the east.
For guests who are prone to motion sickness, this is a time to play closer attention when selecting a cruise cabin for the voyage. Choosing a stateroom in the middle of the ship and on a lower deck will help mitigate the rocking motion.
For the second consecutive year, Carnival Cruise Line will present a series of “Grinchmas Sailings” roundtrip from Sydney, Australia, in late June and July, marking the tradition Down Under of celebrating a second Christmas when it’s cooler in the Southern Hemisphere.
The festive voyages — four in total — are inspired by the cruise line’s longtime partnership with Dr. Seuss and the hit film “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.” The line introduced the family-focused concept in 2023 when it offered five Grinchmas departures of cruises from 3 to 12 nights.
In 2024, four themed sailings are planned, with 4- to 10-night itineraries. However, all of those special sailings have already sold out!
The Grinch in Sydney (Credit: Carnival Cruise Line)
As in 2023, the Grinchmas cruises will again be held aboard Carnival Splendor, a Concordia-class ship that launched in 2007. The 3,000-guest vessel will be decorated for the holiday and will offer several new activities.
Guests can enjoy the new highlight called Max’s Debut, where they can meet the Grinch’s dog during exclusive gatherings such as photo ops and meet-and-greet events. Other new activities will feature a Christmas tree with real snow, a holiday stage show, and a Grinchmas deck party.
Guests can participate in singing Christmas carols, meet the Grinch himself during special appearances, attend the tree lighting celebration, and partake in the Ugly Christmas Sweater Competition, among other fun activities.
Special themed foods and drinks will be offered as well, including the Grinchmas Long Lunch at Sea, the Mistletoe Martini, and the Cindy Lou Who mocktail.
The four featured sailings begin with the June 24, 2024 departure of a 10-night voyage to the South Pacific, with visits to destinations such as Mystery Island, Vanuatu, and Grande Terre Island, New Caledonia.
The July 4, 2024 departure will be a 4-night itinerary featuring an overnight on Moreton Island, Queensland, followed by a 9-night South Pacific sailing that departs on July 8, 2024 and calls at ports including Grande Terre Island, Lifou Island, both in New Caledonia. The final Grinchmas cruise is another 4-night Moreton Island sailing, departing on July 17, 2024.
Australians who celebrate a second Christmas in July call it Yuletide or Yulefest, and since the weather is colder at that time of year Down Under, the unofficial holiday can be enjoyed with warm drinks, fireplaces, and winter clothing. The July festivities do not replace those of December 25, instead they are considered an added bonus.
‘Seuss at Sea’ Enhancements Debuted in 2024
The Grinchmas cruises are part of Carnival Cruise Line’s Dr. Seuss partnership, which was formed in 2013 and features many “Seuss at Sea” programs, including the Dr. Seuss Breakfast, the Seuss-a-palooza Parade, and Seuss Storytime.
Carnival’s Thing 1 and Thing 2
Several enhancements to the Seuss at Sea offerings were announced in late 2023 and introduced across the fleet during the first half of 2024. Carnival Jubilee was the first in the fleet to roll out the new programming, which included, for example, the redesign of the popular Dr. Seuss Breakfast, which was renamed the Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast.
A new breakfast menu debuted at the time, featuring such delights as Grinch’s Pancakes; One Berry, Two Berry, Strawberry and Peach Waffles; a Who Roast Beast Omelet; Who-Ville Red Velvet French Toast; and other options such as eggs, fruit parfaits, and yogurt parfaits. The classic “Do You Like Green Eggs and Ham?” remains on the menu.
Other changes included the introduction of a new character, “Fox in Socks,” in the Seuss-a-palooza Parade, and the new Seuss-a-palooza Story Time, which brings the popular “Green Eggs & Ham” to life.
Tropical Storm Alberto, the first named storm of the season, is set to impact portions of the Texas coast, including the Port of Galveston, a major cruise embarkation point, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the destination. So far, no cruise departures are affected, but booked guests and cruise line officials are watching the situation closely.
Carnival Cruise Line has three ships homeporting at Galveston, and some cruisers slated to board their ships in the next few days are reaching out to the line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, asking about any potential schedule changes.
Cruise Ship at Port of Galveston, Texas (Photo Credit: BUI LE MANH HUNG)
“I know parts of Texas and including possibly Galveston are under weather warning watch over the next couple of days. I’ve had some people write to me asking if this is going to affect any of the cruising from Galveston,” John Heald wrote on his Facebook page.
“Obviously, my wonderful colleagues at our state of the art fleet operation center will monitor everything. We will, of course, keep everybody informed should there be any news. However, as many you are asking, at the time of me writing this post, there are no changes to any cruise departing from Galveston,” Heald added.
The National Hurricane Center is reporting that Tropical Storm Alberto will bring heavy rains, flooding, and sustained winds up to 40 mph through June 20, 2024. Rain will continue on June 21, 2024, however, the winds are predicted to diminish.
The storm is moving west in the Gulf of Mexico and will reach the coast of northeastern Mexico late on June 19, 2024. The Port of Galveston is roughly 400 miles from the northeastern Mexican border.
Tropical Storm Alberto Tracker
Current National Weather Service alerts for the Galveston area include a wind advisory, flood watch, and rip current and small craft advisories along several Gulf of Mexico-facing beaches and Galveston Island. The service also indicates that the storm could possibly increase in strength as it approaches the coast.
Here’s Where the Galveston-Based Ships Are Now
Carnival Dream, Carnival Jubilee, and Carnival Breeze are based out of the Texas port, and all three are mid-voyage on current itineraries.
The 3,646-guest Carnival Dream is operating an 8-day Eastern Caribbean sailing that departed Galveston on June 15, 2024 and is due back June 23, 2024. The Dream-class ship that launched in 2008 is calling at Key West; Freeport and Nassau, Bahamas; and Half Moon Cay, Carnival’s private island destination.
The 5,228-guest Carnival Jubilee is sailing a 7-day Western Caribbean that left the Texas port on June 15, 2024 and will return on June 22, 2024. The ship, which launched in 2023 as the line’s third Excel-class vessel, is visiting Roatan, Honduras; and Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.
Carnival Jubilee Cruise Ship
Carnival Breeze, also a Dream-class ship, departed Galveston on June 17, 2024, sailing a 5-day Western Caribbean itinerary. The 3,690-guest ship, which debuted in 2011, will call at Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico, before returning to Galveston on June 22, 2024.
Other cruise lines currently homeporting ships at Galveston include Royal Caribbean. The line’s 3,344-guest Mariner of the Seas is sailing a 5-day Western Caribbean cruise to Costa Maya and Cozumel on an itinerary that left port on June 15, 2024 and will return on June 20, 2024.
The line’s 5,400-guest Harmony of the Seas is sailing a 7-day Western Caribbean voyage to Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel. The ship departed from Galveston on June 16, 2024 and will return on June 23, 2024.
Like Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean has not indicated any itinerary changes for these or future cruises as a result of the storm.
The tropical storm currently affecting the Gulf of Mexico is likely to be one of several that will impact the Western Caribbean and the Atlantic coast during summer and fall 2024. Early predictions for the hurricane season revealed by Colorado State University indicate a hectic series of weather systems will form.
Princess Cruises announced a delay in the launch of its new dining reservation system, citing an unforeseen holdup in the Princess Cruises App update as the cause. Originally scheduled to launch on June 17, 2024, the new date for guests to make dining reservations is now set for July 1, 2024.
The cruise line said in a letter sent to guests, “We wanted to inform you of a change regarding our main dining reservations. Due to an unanticipated delay in finalizing our app update, the ability to book reservations has been delayed. The new date for reservation is now set for July 1.“
Starting September 14, 2024, the cruise line is introducing reorganized dining arrangements across its fleet. This includes the separation of dining rooms aboard each ship to better cater to various guest preferences for mealtimes and settings.
The options available to guests will include Traditional Dining with early and late seatings, Reservable Dining times to accommodate planned meals, and open seating to support Walk-in Anytime dining.
The cruise line expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the reservation delay. In a statement to cruise passengers.
Princess Cruises said, “Once updates are complete, you will be able to use the app ahead of your voyage to opt for traditional seating in a dedicated dining room with the same waiter, same table, and same time each night, or flexible dining, allowing you to enjoy dinner at any available time and table size of your choosing in either the Reservable or Open Seating dining rooms.”
Guests immediately took to social media to comment about the delay noting the ability to book specialty dining venues is also not yet functional, and that the app delay is also affecting passenger reservations on sailings before the September 14 rollout.
Princess Cruises launched its updated app in December 2023, replacing the older MedallionClass version. Available since then on Google Play and the App Store, the overhaul included renaming services like “Dine My Way” to “Reservations” and “JourneyView” to “My Journey.” However, the new app and its updates continue to cause hiccups, like the delay in the new reservation system.
Passengers scheduled to depart before or near the new July 1 rollout may be forced to make their dining choices on the day of embarkation. This could lead to longer wait times at dining venues and adds an element of uncertainty for passengers who prefer to have their schedules organized before boarding.
Expanded Dining Choices for Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises announced the overhaul to its dining services in April following the successful dining model first implemented on the Sphere-class Sun Princess, which set on its inaugural voyage in February 2024.
The newly revamped dining options include Traditional Dining to maintain the familiar setup of assigned waiters, tables, and dining times, catering to guests who prefer consistency in their dining experience, a Reservable option that allows guests to pre-book their dining times, and a Walk-in Anytime choice enabling guests to dine at any available time and table without the need for reservations.
Horizons Dining Room (Photo Credit: James Morgan, Getty Images)
The transition forced the cruise line to cancel all existing main dining reservations for voyages sailing on or after September 14, 2024, with the exception of those booked on Sun Princess.
Reservations at specialty dining areas such as Crown Grill steakhouse, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, and the seven-course 360 and Chef’s Table experiences were not affected by the changes and cancellations, but passengers are reporting the app is not allowing them to book specialty restaurants at this time.
Once the app is functional, passengers will be able to book their preferred dining style, with the Main Dining Rooms, known for their all-inclusive, multi-course gourmet meals in a restaurant-style setting, segmented into these three new categories.
Due to space limitations, Coral Princess and Island Princess will combine the Reservable and Walk-in Anytime Dining Options into a single Main Dining Room.
Since its founding just two years ago in 2022, Resorts World Cruises has carved out a spot for itself as the leader of the Asian cruise market.
Along the way, the young brand has accomplished many milestones – and its newest ship, Resorts World One, has once again made history with her inaugural call on Jakarta, Indonesia, on June 16, 2024. Her arrival marks the first time an international cruise line is homeporting in the country.
Resorts World One Ceremony (Photo Credit: Resorts World Cruises)
Jakarta, which is home to famous landmarks like the Monas Tower, Istiqlal Mosque, and Jakarta Cathedral, celebrated the debut of the 75,338 gross-ton cruise ship with much fanfare.
The festive event was attended by more than 250 guests, including representatives from the cruise line, local government officials, members of the media and key influencers, and professionals from the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Tourism.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Transportation, we would like to congratulate Resorts World Cruises on being the first international cruise line to establish a homeport in Indonesia with the arrival of the Resorts World One,”said Captain Hendri Ginting M.M. , Director of Marine Safety & Seafarers, Directorate General of Sea Transportation, Ministry of Transportation.
“The presence of the Resorts World One will not only stimulate the local economy, but also enrich the diversity of our tourism destinations. With the luxurious accommodations and world-class facilities, Resorts World One will attract a new segment of cruise passengers from both within and outside the country,”continued the captain.
Local authorities hope that the arrival of Resorts World One will encourage other cruise lines to consider homeporting in Jakarta, thus furthering the country’s foreign exchange through the variety of tourists visiting and boosting the local economy further.
Resort World One’s Inaugural Season In Jakarta
While Resort World One’s debut in Jakarta is impactful, her season in the Indonesian region will be rather brief. She will remain at her current homeport from June 16, 2024, until July 1, 2024 – which is only about a month.
During her stay, the vessel will operate four round-trip cruises embarking on June 16, June 21, June 26, and July 1. Each sailing will call on Singapore and Kuala Lumpur (the capital of Malaysia), and will spend two days cruising at sea.
Resorts World Cruises was designed to create a luxurious at-sea experience for Asian passengers, with the experience carefully cultivated from the way the gourmet food is prepared to the 35-meter over-water zipline – so the itinerary builds in time to enjoy the amenities on board.
Resorts World One Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: SamJonah / Shutterstock)
The ship will then operate a two-night cruise from Jakarta to Singapore that embarks on July 6, 2024, with no port calls included.
Once in Singapore, the pride of the fleet will sail on a 4-night voyage to Keelung in northern Taiwan, again with no port calls included on the itinerary.
Keelung will then serve as the 1999-launched vessel’s home base for the majority of July, August, and September, offering a series of 2 to 5-night sailings, primarily to Japanese cruise ports like Kumamoto and Kagoshima.
Read Also: Construction on Second Chinese-Built Cruise Ship Well Underway
Meanwhile, Genting Dream, the 3,352-guest ship that originally launched the Asia-based cruise line, is primarily homeporting in Singapore and Port Klang, Malaysia, with most sailings calling on whichever port the cruise didn’t embark from, as well as Penang, Malaysia.
Both ships are currently offering discounted booking rates in honor of Resort World Cruises’ second anniversary, which just recently passed in May.
The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority has collaborated with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to implement facial biometric technology at the Canada Place cruise terminal. The initiative marks the first use of such technology in a Canadian seaport for the embarkation of cruise passengers.
The technology automates the manual checks of travel documents for passengers entering the U.S., like those heading to Alaska, by comparing their live photo with the one in their pre-trip documentation within seconds.
Peter Xotta, president and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, emphasized the benefits of the new system. “We’re excited to partner with U.S. authorities to implement this state-of-the-art passenger processing technology, which will help us provide a fast, secure, and convenient experience for passengers embarking on a cruise.”
Canada Place (Photo Credit: Jeff Whyte)
The newly introduced technology replaces the automatic passport kiosks that were installed at Canada Place in 2015. Developed by Pangiam, the technology uses an advanced computer vision and AI to ensure accurate, real-time facial recognition. The system takes a photo of each passenger during the boarding process, which is then matched against the photo from their travel documents.
“Technologies being deployed in Vancouver have been purpose-built to enhance passenger experience, terminal efficiency, and border security,”said Kevin McAleen, president of BigBear.ai, which owns Pangiam.
Passengers who prefer not to use the new biometric system can opt out by informing a representative at the primary inspection point and will then undergo a manual document check.
Facial Biometric Technology Gains Traction
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been installing facial biometric technology at airports in the U.S. since 2019, according to the New York Times. Now found at more than 30 airports, facial biometric technology is also already at use at 20 U.S. cruise terminals for debarkation, including New Orleans, Louisiana; the Port of Portland, Maine; Bayonne, New Jersey; Brooklyn and New York City, New York; and multiple ports across Florida.
The technology, which can identify passengers within two seconds, has a reported 98% accuracy rate.
The integration of the technology at Canada Place is expected to significantly decrease wait times and enhance the efficiency of the boarding process for the 1.27 million passengers anticipated to visit in 2024.
Multiple cruise lines are in favor of utilizing facial recognition technology. For example, Royal Caribbean’s $247-million terminal at PortMiami, which opened in November 2023, uses the technology for its “frictionless boarding process.”
“Technology plays a huge part in our everyday existence, and so you need to start building the technology into the experience,”Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told Digital Travel Summit. “It’s happening with the airlines; it’s happening with the cruise lines; it’s an inevitable journey.
Carnival Cruise Lines, which utilizes the technology at the majority of its U.S. homeports, including Port Canaveral in Fort Lauderdale, PortMiami, Port of Galveston in Texas, and the Port of Long Beach California, said the debarkation process has expedited by an average of 30 percent following the installation.
“Through our partnership with Carnival Cruise Line, we will continue to transform cruise operations by leveraging technology and enhanced processes while also strengthening our data sharing agreement to further secure U.S. seaports,”said Diane J. Sabatino, acting executive assistant commissioner, Office of Field Operations for the CBP.
In Europe, the European Commission will introduce biometric technology for facial and fingerprint recognition at all cruise ports beginning in October 2024.
Nestled along the Gulf of Alaska, the Seward Cruise Port is among the many important gateways to memorable adventures in America’s ‘Last Frontier.’ Thanks to its strategic location and the fact that the town acts as an amazing place to see Alaska’s unique wildlife up close and in person, the Seward Cruise Port is a popular port of call.
Whether your cruise is just making a quick stop in the Seward Cruise Port or planning to spend a few days in Seward, this guide will help you get the most out of your stay.
We will cover everything you need to know, from details about the port itself to detailed information about the town and surrounding attractions, like Kenai Fjords National Park.
Seward Cruise Port, also known as the Seward Cruise Ship Terminal, is roughly one mile south of Seward’s historic downtown area. This means that visitors can enjoy easy access to the town’s wide range of attractions and amenities and the stunning nature and outdoor adventures outside the town.
Location of Seward Cruise Terminal
Next to the cruise ship docking area, visitors will see the Seward Small Boat Harbor, which serves smaller vessels like fishing and whale-watching boats. Just a five-minute walk from the Small Boat Harbor, visitors can easily walk to the Seward Train Station, one of the busier hubs of activity in this fairly tranquil town.
If you are hoping to drive to the port by taking the Seward Highway, or you just want to look into the area on maps, the port can be found at the following address: Seward Cruise Ship Terminal, Seward, Alaska, USA, 99664
Port Description and Future Expansion
Even though the port only features a single pier, it has a berth capable of handling even the largest cruise ships, which is impressive for such a small port and town. This simply reflects the popularity of Seward as an Alaskan port of call.
The plan also includes constructing a new 41,500-square-foot cruise terminal building, which will be outfitted with all of the latest passenger amenities.
It will even feature a bus terminal, which will be capable of transporting visiting passengers to popular tourist attractions and other major population hubs like Anchorage, Skagway, and Juneau.
Cruise Lines that Operate Out of Seward Cruise Port
Due to the port’s ability to handle full-sized cruise ships, plus its strategic location along the main Alaskan Inside Passage cruise route, it is regularly used by some of the most well-known cruise lines. The following are just some of the cruise lines that make regular use of the port:
Norwegian Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean International
Holland America Cruise Line
Viking Cruises
Celebrity Cruises
Princess Cruises
Port Facilities and Accessibility
Located right on the edge of the picture-perfect waters of Resurrection Bay, Seward Cruise Port offers visiting cruise passengers amazing views and a real sense of the untouched beauty that makes Alaska such a popular place to visit.
The terminal facilities reflect Seward’s small, isolated town, but visitors can expect a comfortable and stress-free in-port experience. An information office is always staffed when cruise ships are in port, so visitors can easily obtain assistance if they have questions about Seward or the surrounding area.
Seward Cruise Terminal (Photo Credit: Paolo Trovo)
There are also restrooms and comfortable seating areas. In terms of accessibility, the terminal building and the entire port itself are completely wheelchair accessible. With that said, if you need mobility assistance, it is worth informing your cruise line beforehand.
Unfortunately, Wi-Fi is not provided inside Seward Cruise Ship Terminal, but there are plenty of coffee shops and restaurants in Seward itself where you can access public Wi-Fi. For example, the Sea Bean Café on 4th Avenue in downtown Seward offers fast and free Wi-Fi for customers, and it is less than two miles from the port.
Getting to the Port
If you are hoping to travel to the Seward Cruise Port from outside Seward itself, accessibility is fairly simple, especially by Alaskan standards. Seward Cruise Port is approximately 140 miles south of Anchorage, Alaska’s largest and most populous city.
For this reason, many people fly into Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC) in Anchorage and then take a short flight on a smaller plane to Seward Airport (SWD), which is located just 1.9 miles away from Seward Cruise Ship Terminal.
Seward Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Steve Heap / Shutterstock)
For those looking for a more scenic version, it is also possible to rent a car in Anchorage and drive the roughly two-hour and twenty-minute journey along State Highway 9, which connects Anchorage to Seward.
Train travel via the USA Railroad is another way to enjoy a unique and breathtaking travel experience. The train journey from Anchorage takes a similar amount of time to drive, but the railroad winds through lush forests and rugged mountains, providing passengers with picturesque views and a relaxed way to see Alaska’s interior wilderness.
Transportation within Seward
If you arrive at Seward Cruise Port and you’re looking for ways to get around town, you will find that most visitors rely heavily upon taxis.
With several taxi companies operating in town, including Seward Taxi Co., Resurrection Taxi, and Aunt May’s Taxi & Tours, you should not have any difficulty getting a cab from the edge of the port. Currently, no rideshare services, like Uber or Lyft, operate in Seward, so cabs are your best bet.
Aerial View of Seward, Alaska (Photo Credit: Wangkun Jia)
Seward City Tours also operates a free shuttle bus with a pickup location on the harbor’s edge. The shuttle then takes passengers on a free 30-minute route through the town, with various stops at points of interest.
Keep in mind that stops are at designated locations, so you will have to walk from them. Fortunately, Seward is a small and compact town, so it is easy to navigate on foot.
On top of that, the majority of the most popular attractions in town are located within just one mile of the port, so walking is really easy. Some of the town’s hotels and tour operators also provide complimentary shuttles to and from the port.
If you choose to walk from the port into the downtown area, a waterfront walking path makes it easy, even with luggage and daypacks.
The Intermodal Hub and Alaska Railroad
For those interested in exploring Alaska by rail, Seward Cruise Port offers a unique feature—it sits adjacent to the Alaska Railroad. This means passengers can easily transition from traveling by cruise ship to railcar or vice versa.
Not only does this add an interesting layer of flexibility for tourists hoping to blend maritime travel with rail travel, but the combination of facilities is a major part of why Seward was once considered one of Alaska’s major transportation hubs.
Freight could be transferred from railcars to cargo ships, which helped the remote state stay connected to the rest of the United States and other countries.
The railyard also offers ample parking for visitors hoping to take a cruise with Seward as its embarkation and disembarkation point. This is also hugely beneficial for those wishing to drive into the town from Anchorage and beyond.
The Best Time to Visit Seward, Alaska
As you may already know, Alaska’s climate varies drastically from season to season. While individual travelers have their own preferences, and each season offers its own unique opportunities for exploration, the stretch between June and September is typically seen as the best time to visit Alaska, including the town of Seward.
Seward Cruise Port Area (Photo Credit: Mike Tiffany Ritz)
This is because these months have the warmest weather, with temperatures in the cool and comfortable range of 60° to 70°F. Not only is the weather fairly dry and daytime temperatures relatively pleasant, but the days are also longer, enabling visitors to enjoy more sunlight and time for outdoor activities.
Beyond the more pleasant weather and longer days, these months are also when many of Alaska’s most famed wildlife species are most active and visible. Visitors to the Port of Seward can view bears, sea otters, whales, puffins, sea lions, and bald eagles during the summer months.
In addition, it allows visitors to experience Alaska’s beauty during different seasons, each offering its unique advantages. For example, the northern lights are at their most prominent during the winter months, making even the least busy months their own attraction.
Fishing Boat and Cruise Ship in Seward, Alaska (Photo Credit: Vineyard Perspective / Shutterstock)
If you visit during the off-season, you can also book excursions that take advantage of the cold weather, glaciers, and heavy snowfall. From downhill and cross-country skiing to snowshoeing and dog sledding, numerous winter activities can make your visit to Seward even more memorable than a summer visit.
It is still important to remember that cruises become far less frequent outside of the May to September busy season window. In fact, there are only a few cruise lines that continue to offer Alaskan itineraries during the winter months. Celebrity Cruises is one of them, as is Royal Caribbean International.
Nearby Amenities
If you have a limited amount of time in Seward and hope to stay close to the port, there are still plenty of things you can fit into your brief visit.
The Alaska SeaLife Center
Located just 2.2 miles from the Seward Cruise Port, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a public aquarium that showcases Alaska’s unique marine species.
Alaska SeaLife Center
The aquarium is also the state’s only permanent marine mammal rehabilitation facility, so you can view rescued and injured animals before they are released back into the wild. The Alaska SeaLife Center is a vital rehab center from sea otters to walruses.
This research, conservation, and education center is worth visiting if you are in Seward and looking for a fun and unique way to spend an afternoon.
Visit Exit Glacier
Exit Glacier is just a 10-minute drive from the edge of Seward. Visiting this roadside glacier is one of the most popular things to do in Seward, so many local tour guides are willing to drive visitors out to see it.
Exit Glacier (Photo Credit: Ramsey Samara)
For more ambitious thrill seekers, a hiking trail allows hikers to get up close with the dark blue glacier. Tour operators even offer ice-climbing experiences on the glacier’s side.
Walk Around Seward Waterfront Park
You don’t have to travel outside Seward to enjoy stunning views of Alaska’s Iconic nature. Seward Waterfront Park stretches 5 miles from the harbor to the above-mentioned Alaska SeaLife Center, so you can combine a visit to the facility with a pleasant stroll along the water. With views of the distant mountains and the water, you won’t regret it!
Seward Marina Right Next to the Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Wangkun Jia)
The park entrance is located right at the edge of the port, making walking incredibly easy. If you walk along the path, you’ll also see the Trail Landmarks Statue, which marks the original starting point for the world-famous Iditarod Race.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for eagles, otters, and seals!
Explore Downtown Seward
While the stunning nature surrounding the town often steals the show, Seward is fun to explore. Plus, with the cruise port sitting right at the edge of town, walking into Seward only takes a few minutes.
Downtown Seward (Photo Credit: Andrew F. Kazmierski)
In addition to having plenty of unique cafés, bars, and restaurants, the town also holds the official title of the “Mural Capital of Alaska.” Numerous murals throughout the town, all painted by local artists, depict the nature that surrounds the town, including recognizable sites like Kenai Fjords National Park.
Distance to Popular Attractions and Activities
If you have more time in Seward and you’re looking to explore beyond the town, or you want to enjoy some of the outdoor activities the area is famous for, we recommend the following:
Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures Ziplining Experience
One of the more unique ways to see Alaska’s lush forests is to book a ziplining experience with Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures. With their headquarters being less than one mile from the port, it couldn’t be easier.
Photo Credit: Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock
The three-hour tour features eight ziplines, three suspension bridges, and a rappelling experience for those looking for something new. Transportation to and from the ziplining park is included!
Whale Watching
The waters of Resurrection Bay surrounding Seward are known to be fairly active with whales, thanks to conservation efforts to protect whale populations. To capitalize on this unique feature, Seward is home to several whale-watching tour operators. You won’t have to travel far, as many tour operators will meet cruise passengers directly outside the port.
Whale Watching in Resurrection Bay (Photo Credit: NelsonK)
If you can, try to book with one of the operators who will take you to Cook Inlet. It is home to a population of wild beluga whales, and viewing these endangered and charismatic whales in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Visiting Kenai Fjords National Park
Whether you decide to hike along the coast or would prefer to see it by boat, traveling to Kenai Fjords National Park is considered to be one of the top attractions near Seward.
Kenai Fjords National Park (Photo Credit: Marta Lockwood)
These majestic waters and well-preserved fjords are home to some of Alaska’s most iconic species, including orcas. If you’re looking to see Alaska’s Rugged beauty first-hand, the park is the ideal place to do so.
Remember that hiking the trails that line that park should only be carried out by those with significant outdoor experience, as the wildlife and the trails themselves can be dangerous. Instead, we recommend booking a hiking or chartered boat tour.
If you go this route, you will find numerous providers in Seward. Not only is this preferable for safety and timing purposes, but transportation is included, simplifying the entire experience.
Fishing Tours
Seward is also an amazing place for fishing enthusiasts, as numerous tour operators work out of the Seward Small Boat Harbor, which is located directly beside the cruise port.
Fishing Area in Seward (Photo Credit: EWY Media)
Experience fishing for salmon, halibut, rockfish, and more in the deep and bountiful waters of Resurrection Bay. You’ll be provided with everything you need, but make sure you dress warm!
Dining Near Seward Cruise Port
Despite its relatively small size, Seward boasts some impressive culinary options. There are numerous options, and the seafood and other ingredients are incredibly fresh.
If you are looking to eat close to the port, there are plenty of waterfront options, including Chinooks, a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. With fresh, seasonal ingredients and unique dishes, like Thai-style grilled salmon, it’s a great option.
If you’re just looking for a sweet treat, Harbor Street Creamery offers homemade ice cream and smoothies, perfect for walking along Seward Waterfront Park.
Seward Waterfront (Photo Credit: Raisa Nastukova)
Seward’s downtown is also home to various cafés and restaurants. Train Wreck is a unique Tex-Mex restaurant built into a refurbished railcar, while Resurrect Art Coffeehouse and Gallery is the perfect place to enjoy fresh pastries and a delicious cup of joe.
Beer lovers should also make time to sample a pint of craft beer at the Seward Brewing Company. Not only are the beers refreshing and flavorful, but the building has been around since 1904!
Shopping Near Seward Cruise Port
If you want to bring home a souvenir to remember your time in Seward, we recommend wandering down 4th Avenue. Here, you’ll find numerous souvenir stores and art galleries where you can purchase unique, handcrafted items.
Stores on Seward Waterfront (Photo Credit: sljones)
Nakao Ceramics offers a variety of handmade ceramics, while the Ranting Raven carries unique prints and native Alaskan artworks.
If you are looking for outdoor gear you can use while you are in Seward rather than souvenirs and gifts, take a trip to Frontier Safety and Supply, where you’ll find everything you need to enjoy this rugged landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Seward walkable?
Yes, Seward is a walkable town with many attractions and amenities within easy walking distance of the cruise port. However, taxis and shuttles are also available for travelers who prefer not to walk.
How do I get from Seward Cruise Port to Anchorage Airport?
Travelers can reach Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport from the Seward Cruise Port by shuttle, bus, or rental car. There is also a small airport in Seward, located less than two miles from the port.
Is it worth visiting Seward, Alaska?
Absolutely! Seward offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy, from stunning natural scenery to cultural landmarks and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, or simply exploring the charming town, Seward has something for everyone.
Disney Cruise Line has announced its sailing itineraries for fall 2025 through spring 2026, introducing a variety of destinations across the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, and the Pacific. The itineraries, which continue to follow this season’s sailing routes, include several themed voyages.
Disney Cruise Line’s upcoming schedule features the Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Dream, all set to visit Disney’s exclusive island destinations, Disney Castaway Cay and the brand-new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, which welcomed its first guests on June 10, 2024.
Photo Courtesy: Disney Cruise Line
Starting in October 2025 through May 2026, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will be a staple for shorter Caribbean getaways. Both 4,000-passenger weighing 144,000 gross tons will offer 3- to 5-night sailings from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas, where both Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay await.
Fort Lauderdale will serve as the departure point to the Bahamas for 3- to 5-night sailings on the 4,000-passenger Disney Dream, also featuring Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay. Additionally, the slightly smaller ship at less than 130,000 gross tons will offer 7-night sailings San Juan, Puerto Rico, to explore the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean, running from October 2025 to May 2026.
Disney Magic, the oldest and smallest ship in the fleet at 83,000 gross tons, will also operate 7-night sailings from San Juan to the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean from October to November 2025.
Then, from November 2025 to May 2026, the 2,400-passenger ship will reposition to the Gulf of Mexico to offer 4- to 7-night voyages from Galveston, Texas, with stops in Cozumel and Progresso, Mexico.
Also sailing in the Eastern and Western Caribbean will be the new Disney Treasure, which embarks on its inaugural cruise in December 2024. Also a 4,000-passenger, 144,000-gross-ton ship, its first season will feature a similar itinerary from Port Canaveral.
Only Disney Wonder will veer from the U.S. and will be deployed for Australia and New Zealand from October 2025 to February 2026. These voyages will range from 3 to 10 nights, exploring destinations in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, including Wellington, New Zealand, and Hobart, Australia.
But the 1,750-passenger ship weighing 85,000 gross tons will reposition to San Diego, California, from March to May 2026. From there, it will offer 3- to 4-night sailings along the Pacific Coast and Beja Peninsula, with stops at Catalina Islands and Ensenada, Mexico, much as it did earlier this year.
Themed sailings will also be available with the return of the popular Halloween on the High Seas offered on select sailing in September and October 2025, and Very Merrytime Cruises available in November and December 2025, providing seasonal experiences for guests.
Bookings for these itineraries open to the public on June 28, 2024.
Disney Ships Visiting Disney Destinations This Summer
Following the grand opening of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Magic and Disney Wish are each spending summer through Halloween traveling between Fort Lauderdale and the new destination, as well as Castaway Cay.
Magic will leave the Caribbean for Galveston in November, while Wish will remain the main ship taking passengers to private destinations.
Disney Fantasy is currently sailing slightly longer cruises in the Western and Eastern Caribbean, with calls in Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Mexico, the Bahamas, and the British and U.S. Virgin Islands. Of course, they also visit Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay.
Missing out on the Bahamas’ fun is Disney Wonder, which is enjoying itineraries in Alaska from a homebase in Vancouver.
Disney Dream is currently enjoying a summer in the Mediterranean, visiting multiple calls in Italy and Greece as it homeports in Barcelona, Spain, and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy. It will reposition to Southampton, England, in July to begin visiting Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, and Baltic ports.
