Discover Seattle: Your Gateway to Alaska Adventure

Before embarking on your thrilling Alaska adventure cruise from Seattle, take the time to explore this vibrant and iconic city. Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle offers a blend of urban charm and natural beauty that's truly captivating. Start your journey at the world-famous Pike Place Market, where the scent of freshly roasted coffee and the lively bustle of artisan stalls fill the air. As you stroll along the waterfront, marvel at the stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains. For a dose of culture, visit the Seattle Art Museum or explore the captivating exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).

Seattle's Culinary Delights and Outdoor Escapes

Seattle is a food lover's paradise, boasting a diverse culinary scene. Don't miss the opportunity to savor fresh seafood at renowned restaurants or grab a cup of java at one of the city's many coffeehouses. For nature enthusiasts, Seattle offers easy access to the great outdoors. Take a scenic ferry ride to Bainbridge Island, hike in the lush forests of Discovery Park, or explore the serene Arboretum. No visit to Seattle is complete without a visit to the iconic Space Needle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and Puget Sound. So, as you prepare to set sail on your Alaska adventure, let Seattle's rich culture and natural beauty captivate your senses and set the stage for an unforgettable journey.

When is the Best Time to Cruise from Seatlle to Alaska?

The best time for small-ship cruising in Seattle is between May and September. During these months, you'll experience the most favorable weather conditions with warmer temperatures and calmer seas, ensuring a comfortable and safe adventure. June through August is ideal for scuba diving, with excellent visibility and marine life activity at its peak.

Types of Cruising and Activities

Seattle offers a diverse range of cruising activities to suit every adventurer's taste:

• Wildlife Watching: Explore the San Juan Islands and witness orca whales, humpback whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Cruises: Navigate through the Inside Passage and savor breathtaking views of fjords, glaciers, and coastal landscapes.
• Alaska Exploration: Embark on an epic journey to Alaska, visiting iconic destinations like Glacier Bay National Park and Tracy Arm Fjord.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover the rich indigenous culture of the Pacific Northwest with visits to tribal communities and art galleries.
• Adventure Activities: Kayak through serene waterways, go hiking in lush rainforests, and take guided expeditions to uncover hidden treasures.

Wildlife Encounters

Seattle's cruising and diving adventures offer remarkable opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts:

• Orcas:  Seattle's waters are a prime spot to observe orcas, especially in the San Juan Islands.
• Humpback Whales:  These majestic creatures are frequently spotted during your journey, particularly in Alaska's Glacier Bay.
• Bald Eagles:  Keep your eyes on the skies as bald eagles soar above, showcasing their impressive wingspans.
• Marine Life:  Encounter sea lions, seals, otters, and various seabirds as you cruise through pristine coastal habitats.

Additionally, you may be fortunate enough to glimpse bears, mountain goats, and other terrestrial wildlife during shore excursions and hikes.

Top 5 Places to Visited by Small Ship Cruises from Seattle to Alaska

Some of the more popular locations visited by cruises from Seattle to Alaska include:

• Glacier Bay National Park: Witness the grandeur of glaciers calving into the sea and encounter Alaska's diverse wildlife.
• Tracy Arm Fjord: Sail through this narrow fjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, to reach the Sawyer Glaciers.
• The Inside Passage: a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and those interested in diverse cultures and natural beauty, including mountains, glaciers, fjords, islands, forests, and beaches.
• Juneau: providing encounters with diverse wildlife and captivating scenery, it offers a rich cultural and natural experience, including museums, outdoor activities, and mining heritage.
• Ketchikan: visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty, outdoor activities, wildlife, local culture, and fresh seafood of the area while drifting through scenic waters.
• Sitka: Located on Baranof Island, Sitka boasts a rich history as a former Russian settlement, and its stunning scenery provides a backdrop for exploring the area.
• Alaska Islands: Alaska's extensive coastline has over 2,600 named islands. Adventure cruises provide a range of activities, such as wildlife spotting, photography, hiking, kayaking, and leisure time.

Seattle offers the perfect starting point for your small-ship cruise adventure, promising an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Pacific Northwest's natural wonders.