Seattle Cruises

Discover Seattle, Washington: The Emerald City Awaits

Seattle, Washington, is a vibrant city nestled between the breathtaking Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, known for its stunning waterfront, thriving arts scene, and tech-driven economy. Visiting Seattle on a cruise is an incredible option for travelers keen on experiencing the Pacific Northwest charm, rich cultural history, and culinary delights. Fun fact: Seattle is home to the iconic Space Needle, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding natural beauty, making it a must-visit landmark!

Activities and Attractions in Seattle

Once your cruise ship docks in Seattle, you’ll have a plethora of activities and attractions at your fingertips:

• Explore Pike Place Market: This famous market is a must-see for every visitor. Stroll through the bustling stalls filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and seafood. Don’t forget to catch the fishmongers tossing fish and visit the original Starbucks store!
• Visit the Space Needle: For unforgettable views of Seattle and beyond, take a ride up the Space Needle. Enjoy stunning panoramas of Mount Rainier, the Puget Sound, and the city skyline from the observation deck, especially beautiful at sunset.
• Discover the Museum of Pop Culture: This unique museum showcases the history of music, sci-fi, and pop culture in interactive and visually stunning exhibits. With something for everyone, it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon while in the city.
• Experience Chihuly Garden and Glass: Adjacent to the Space Needle, this exhibition features the breathtaking works of glass artist Dale Chihuly. Wander through the gardens and galleries filled with vibrant and intricate glass sculptures that captivate the imagination.
• Savor Seattle’s Culinary Scene: From fresh seafood to farm-to-table cuisine, Seattle is a foodie’s dream. Visit local restaurants to try the region’s specialties, including delicious Dungeness crab and artisanal coffee.

Nearby Harbours to Enhance Your Itinerary

Cruises to Seattle often include visits to these picturesque ports:

• Juneau, Alaska, USA: Juneau is Alaska’s capital, known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the Mendenhall Glacier, take a whale-watching tour, or delve into the state’s rich gold mining history at local museums.
• Ketchikan, Alaska, USA: Famous for its totem poles and vibrant fishing community, Ketchikan offers cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Explore Totem Bight State Park, or take a scenic kayak trip through the stunning waterways.
• Victoria, Canada: A charming city on Vancouver Island, known for its beautiful gardens and British colonial heritage. Visitors can explore the famous Butchart Gardens, visit the Royal BC Museum, or take afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
• Sitka (Alaska), United States: Known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful scenery, Sitka offers visitors wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes. Explore historical sites like St. Michael’s Cathedral, and look for sea otters or bald eagles in the wild.
• Skagway, Alaska, United States: This historic gold rush town is full of character and charm. Cruise passengers can take scenic train rides on the White Pass Railway, hike in the breathtaking mountains, or learn about the Klondike Gold Rush at local museums.

Regions Commonly Visited on Cruises to Seattle

Cruises sailing to Seattle typically explore these remarkable regions:

• Alaska & West Canada: This region is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, with stunning glaciers, wildlife sights, and picturesque coastal towns. It’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
• USA West Coast: The USA West Coast offers a diverse range of cities and landscapes, from the sunny shores of California to the rugged beauty of Oregon and Washington, each filled with cultural gems and outdoor activities.
• Central America: A vibrant area rich in biodiversity and culture, Central America features countries like Costa Rica and Panama, known for their stunning rainforests, wildlife, and ancient ruins.
• South America: This diverse continent is home to captivating countries like Peru and Brazil. Explore the Amazon Rainforest, experience the Andes, and indulge in incredible culinary experiences!
• Hawaii: A tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich Hawaiian culture. Experiences range from hiking volcanic craters to relaxing on beautiful beaches and splashing in crystal-clear waters.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Seattle, Washington, USA

• Holland America Line: With a fleet size of 12, Holland America has 5 ships, Westerdam and Eurodam, offering itineraries that include Seattle. Known for their exceptional service and cultural enrichment programs, these cruises depart frequently from Seattle or Vancouver.
• Royal Caribbean: With a fleet size of 29, Royal Caribbean features 4 ships, including Anthem of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas. Renowned for their innovative ships and diverse entertainment options, they typically depart from Brisbane or Sydney.
• Carnival Cruise Lines: With a fleet size of 27, Carnival has 3 ships, Carnival Spirit and Carnival Luminosa, visiting Seattle. Known for their fun, casual atmosphere and great family-friendly options, these cruises often depart from Seattle or Miami.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess has 6 ships, including Discovery Princess and Royal Princess, that visit Seattle, offering exceptional Mediterranean and Alaskan itineraries that often depart from Seattle or Vancouver.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet size of 20, Norwegian has 4 ships, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore, offering cruises to Seattle. Famous for their freestyle cruising experience, they typically depart from Seattle or Miami.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8, Oceania features 1 ship, Riviera, visiting Seattle. Known for their refined, upscale experience and culinary excellence, these cruises most often depart from Seattle or Vancouver.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet size of 6, Regent offers 1 ship, Seven Seas Explorer, visiting Seattle. Renowned for luxury and all-inclusive voyages, these cruises typically depart from Seattle or Vancouver.
• Silversea: With a fleet size of 13, Silversea has 1 ship, Silver Nova, that visits Seattle. Known for their ultra-luxurious experiences with personalised service and immersive travel, these cruises depart from Seattle or Yokohama.

Visiting Seattle Throughout the Year

• Winter (December, January, February): Average temperatures range from 2°C to 9°C. While it’s chilly, winter brings fewer crowds, making it a great time to enjoy city attractions and holiday festivities.
• Spring (March, April, May): Expect temperatures between 6°C and 17°C. Spring blooms with vibrant flowers, making it the perfect time for outdoor exploration and visiting local parks and gardens.
• Summer (June, July, August): Average temperatures can reach 15°C to 25°C. Summer is the peak tourist season, full of outdoor activities and events with pleasant weather for cruising and sightseeing.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Temperatures typically range from 8°C to 18°C. Fall showcases beautiful foliage and a pleasant atmosphere, perfect for exploring local attractions and enjoying seasonal festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions about Seattle, Washington, USA

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

The typical cost of a cruise to Seattle generally starts around $1,200 for a week-long itinerary and can reach up to $2,800 for two weeks. Luxury cruises may start from $4,000 for one week and exceed $10,000 for two weeks, depending on available amenities.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from $25 to $70 for specialty options, while beverages usually cost between $8 and $20 for cocktails or drinks.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities?

Seattle is renowned for its exceptional food scene, featuring fresh seafood and local specialities. Visit Pike Place Market to explore a variety of dining options and shop for local crafts, gourmet foods, and coffee.

What are transportation options?

Getting around Seattle is easy with local buses, light rail, and rideshare services. The city is also walkable, making it convenient to explore nearby attractions.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted at most establishments, but carrying some cash is recommended for small purchases and local markets.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Seattle is generally safe for tourists. It’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and follow basic safety precautions while exploring the city.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

English is the primary language spoken in Seattle. Embracing local customs and being respectful toward others will enhance your experience while visiting this diverse city.

With this comprehensive guide to Seattle, Washington, it’s the perfect time to book your unforgettable cruise holiday via CruiseAway! Discover the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and culinary delights that await you in this iconic city!