Whittier Cruise Port Guide

Surrounded by dramatic fjords, glaciers, and mountains, Whittier is a scenic gateway to some of Alaska’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re starting or ending an Alaska cruise, riding the scenic train, or exploring Prince William Sound, there’s plenty to see and do in and around Whittier.

Getting to Whittier

There are several ways to reach Whittier, whether you’re arriving by cruise ship, train, car, or bus. No matter how you arrive, you’ll be treated to some great scenery along the way.

• By Road – Located about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, Whittier is accessible by road through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the longest highway tunnel in North America. The tunnel uses a scheduled, one-way traffic system. If you’re driving to or from Whittier, be sure to check the tunnel schedule ahead of time. Bus transfers are available on cruise-ship days and offer an easy way to travel between Anchorage and Whittier, with schedules planned around the tunnel and cruise ship arrival and departure times.


• By Train – The Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train runs between Anchorage and Whittier, offering views of Turnagain Arm along the way. It’s a convenient option for cruise passengers traveling between the two cities. Train schedules vary by season, so check the current schedule when planning your trip.


• By Cruise Ship – Whittier has two cruise terminals:
  
• Whittier Cruise Terminal – Centrally located in Whittier, this terminal is the primary docking location for Princess Cruises.
• Glacier Creek Terminal – Located about 1.5 miles from Whittier, this terminal serves Norwegian Cruise Line and smaller boutique cruise lines.
• If your ship is docked at Glacier Creek Terminal, a shuttle is also available to take you into Whittier, where you can explore the town, join an excursion, visit local shops and restaurants, or catch the Alaska Railroad to Anchorage.




Getting Around

Once you’re in downtown Whittier, many of the town’s attractions are within walking distance. Because Whittier is a small community, most visitors choose to explore on foot, join an excursion, or use a local shuttle.

Taxi service is limited, and rideshare availability may be limited as well. If you’re planning to explore independently, walking or using available shuttle services is often the easiest way to get around.

Best Whittier Excursions

Many cruise passengers use Whittier as a gateway to their cruise, arriving shortly before embarkation or departing soon after disembarking. If you have additional time in Whittier, however, there are several excellent ways to experience the area’s glaciers, wildlife, and scenery.

Whittier Spencer Glacier Float with Optional Anchorage Transfer – Board the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train and travel by scenic railway to the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. From there, enjoy a seven-mile rafting adventure through the Spencer Glacier area. With an option to transfer to Anchorage at the end of the float, this is an especially convenient choice for northbound cruisers ending their trip in Whittier.

Whittier Prince William Sound Wildlife & Glacier Cruise – Experience the dramatic scenery and wildlife of Prince William Sound on this six-hour cruise. Along the way, look for seabirds nesting on small islands, sea lions lounging along the shoreline, and tidewater glaciers in Blackstone Bay. A boxed lunch is included.

Bus Transfer: Whittier to Anchorage with Wildlife Viewing – This convenient transfer to Anchorage is an excellent option for northbound cruisers disembarking in Whittier. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and enjoy scenic photo stops before continuing to Anchorage, with drop-off available at the airport or Hotel Captain Cook in downtown Anchorage. Beginning your cruise in Whittier? Consider the Bus Transfer: Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure instead.



Exploring Whittier on Your Own

Prefer to explore independently? There’s plenty to experience in Whittier without booking a formal excursion. Wander through town, browse local shops, visit the harbor, or enjoy a meal overlooking the water.

Here are some of the best ways to experience Whittier like a local:

Prince William Sound Museum – Found in the historic Anchor Inn Hotel, this charming museum explores Whittier’s history as a military port and railroad terminal, along with Alaska’s military heritage.

Hike Horsetail Falls Trail – Located on the eastern end of Whittier, this moderately challenging trail offers beautiful scenery and opportunities to spot Alaska’s native plants and berries. For a more challenging adventure, consider the four-mile Portage Pass Trail, which leads to views of Portage Lake and the surrounding glaciers.

As with hiking anywhere in Alaska, be aware of wildlife, including bears. Stay alert, follow local wildlife-safety guidance, and carry appropriate bear-safety equipment when hiking in the area.

Local Eats

Whittier’s small but eclectic dining scene offers plenty of options for a meal or quick bite between adventures.


• Just steps from the cruise terminal, the Inn at Whittier Restaurant offers seasonal seafood, steak, burgers, and other hearty favorites.


• Try a popular local hangout, Anchor Inn Restaurant serving classic diner favorites in a casual setting.


• Looking for a sweet treat or a quick pick-me-up? Stop by Whittier Ice Cream and Pizza or the Frisky Mermaid Cafe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re starting or ending a cruise in Whittier, plan ahead for the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel and give yourself some flexibility around your cruise schedule. If you have time to spare, stay awhile and explore the town or get out on Prince William Sound before continuing on to your next destination.

View all our Whittier tours here!