2025-04-01
If you’re traveling on a cruise with a stop at the Port of Seward, then here’s all the information you need!
In this article, I’ve put together some information that I think is important for first-time visitors to the Seward Cruise Terminal in Alaska.
See what to do in a few hours in Seward, what are the main tours and excursions you can do in this port.
I also explain what disembarkation is like and include a restaurant suggestion in Seward if you want to try the local cuisine.
Things to do in Seward in a few hours (Must-see excursions for cruise passengers)
If you’re stopping off in Seward for a few hours, there are several excursions that will allow you to make the most of your time and have an authentic Alaskan experience.
Most cruises offer tours and excursions in Seward, but here are the ones I consider to be the best.
Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords Cruise
Duration: 3 to 6 hours
Highlights:
- Whale watching, sea lions, otters and seabirds such as puffins
- Navigation between fjords and impressive landscapes
- Passing by glaciers, such as Holgate Glacier
Why is it worth it?
It’s one of the best ways to see Kenai’s wildlife and fjords in a short space of time. Some operators offer shorter tours (3 to 4 hours), which are ideal for cruise passengers.
Exit Glacier and Kenai Fjords National Park
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Highlights:
- Easy trail to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier
- Possibility of seeing bears and moose along the way
- Explanations by guides on the impact of climate change on the glacier
Why is it worthwhile?
It is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska and an excellent opportunity for those who want to get in touch with nature without too much physical difficulty.
Kayak tour of Resurrection Bay
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
Highlights:
- Paddling between fjords and snow-capped mountains
- Possibility of spotting sea otters, seals and even orcas
- Quiet experience closer to nature, without the noise of engines
Why is it worth it?
Ideal for adventure seekers who want a more immersive experience in the Alaskan landscape. In addition, some tours include a picnic on a remote beach.
Alaska SeaLife Center
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Highlights:
- Alaska’s only marine life rescue aquarium
- Observation of octopuses, sea lions, puffins and local fish species
- Ideal option for rainy days or for those with less time
Why is it worthwhile?
An interesting and educational visit, perfect for those who want to learn more about Alaska’s marine fauna in a short space of time.
Which cruise ships stop at the Port of Seward?
Royal Caribbean has the Ovation of the Seas and the Radiance of the Seas, while Celebrity Cruises has the Celebrity Summit and Silversea has the Silver Nova, all of which stop at the Port of Seward.
What is disembarkation like at the Port of Seward?
Disembarkation at the Port of Seward, Alaska, for cruise passengers is well-organized and smooth.
For those who arrive in the morning and have a few hours to explore before returning to the ship, the process is usually as follows:
As soon as you get off the ship, there are signs and staff directing tourists to local transportation and excursions.
The ships dock at the Seward Cruise Ship Terminal, which is about 3 km from the city center.
The immigration and control process is simple, as Seward is a domestic port for most cruises coming from within the USA (usually from Seattle or Vancouver).
Kenai Fjords National Park: is it worth a visit?
Yes, Kenai Fjords National Park is well worth a visit. In fact, this park near Seward is one of the most spectacular destinations in Alaska
It’s worth a visit for its impressive landscapes, with glacier-carved fjords, turquoise waters and snow-capped mountains. The sight of the glaciers collapsing into the sea is a unique spectacle!
It also has abundant wildlife and, depending on the time of year, it is possible to see whales (humpbacks and orcas), sea otters and sea lions, puffins and other seabirds, black bears and moose (especially in the land area, such as Exit Glacier).
However, it may not be so interesting if you have little time in Seward Harbor and if you are sensitive to seasickness, as the boat trips can be challenging because of the rough seas.
Where to eat near the harbor?
If you want to try some restaurants in Seward, I recommend the Flamingo Lounge Restaurant.
It has several local specialties, but the highlight is the fish and seafood.
I tried the halibut and the crab, which were delicious. And if accompanied by a nice cocktail, even better!
You May Also Like:
- Explore Seward, Alaska: Best Things To Do and See
- I Saw Wild Bears at Lake Clark (Alaska): Here’s the Story!
- Kenai Fjords National Park: A Glimpse of Glaciers and Wildlife
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