Seward, AK
Welcome to Seward, the gateway to the magnificent Kenai Fjords National Park! This charming port town, nestled at the head of Resurrection Bay, serves as a key embarkation and disembarkation point for many Alaska cruises.
Major lines like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line frequently call here, utilizing its strategic connection to inland Alaska tours.
Seward's primary appeal for cruise travelers is its unparalleled access to glaciers, abundant marine wildlife, and breathtaking fjord landscapes, making it an essential stop for any Alaskan adventure.
The top attraction is a boat tour into Kenai Fjords National Park, departing from the Seward Boat Harbor. These full- or half-day excursions offer incredible opportunities to witness calving glaciers, whales, sea lions, puffins, and other marine life.
A short 20-minute drive from the port brings you to the Exit Glacier Nature Center. Here, accessible trails lead to viewpoints of the glacier, allowing you to get remarkably close to a massive river of ice.
Located right in town, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a world-class marine research facility and public aquarium. It offers fascinating exhibits on local marine ecosystems and provides up-close views of puffins, sea lions, and harbor seals.
Last updated on February 13, 2026
The largest city in Alaska, Anchorage, is a popular destination located about 127 miles north of Seward. The journey can be made in approximately 2.5 hours via the breathtakingly scenic Seward Highway or by taking a relaxing trip on the Alaska Railroad.
For a closer adventure, the resort town of Girdwood is about 90 miles away, or a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. It is home to the Alyeska Resort, where you can take a scenic aerial tram up Mount Alyeska for panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and the Turnagain Arm.
Last updated on February 13, 2026
The Seward Cruise Ship Terminal is conveniently located on the south side of town, adjacent to the Alaska Railroad depot. Downtown Seward and the bustling Seward Boat Harbor, where most day tours depart, are approximately 1 to 2 miles from the cruise pier.
While it is a walkable distance for some, most cruise lines provide complimentary shuttle buses that run a continuous loop between the ship, the harbor, and the downtown area.
The terminal itself has basic facilities, but the nearby harbor and downtown have numerous shops, restaurants, and tour offices. Ships dock directly at the pier, so no tendering is required.
Last updated on February 13, 2026
The local currency used in Seward and throughout Alaska is the US Dollar (USD). Other currencies, such as the Euro or Canadian Dollar, are not widely accepted for transactions.
ATMs are readily available in town at banks and inside some larger stores, making it easy to withdraw cash. Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at almost all shops, restaurants, and tour companies.
Last updated on February 13, 2026
Seward is generally a very safe town for visitors, and it's enjoyable to explore the main areas on foot. The primary safety considerations relate to the natural environment and wildlife.
When hiking or exploring, be aware of your surroundings and be 'bear aware' by making noise on trails. Never approach or feed wildlife such as moose or bears, as they can be dangerous and unpredictable.
For activities like kayaking or glacier hiking, it is highly recommended to use a guided tour, as local guides are trained to handle the rapidly changing weather conditions and challenging terrain safely.
Last updated on February 13, 2026
The cruise season in Seward runs from May through September, which coincides with the Alaskan summer. The climate is a temperate rainforest, meaning mild temperatures and frequent rain are the norm.
Daytime temperatures typically range from 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (10-18°C), but it can feel much cooler, especially on the water during a fjord tour. Rain can occur at any time, so packing waterproof layers is essential.
Be sure to bring a good rain jacket, waterproof shoes, and clothing that can be layered, such as fleeces or sweaters, to stay comfortable as conditions change throughout the day.
Last updated on February 13, 2026
Seward is a small and very walkable town, especially the downtown area and the boat harbor. To get from the Seward Cruise Ship Terminal to these areas, most cruise lines provide free and frequent shuttle buses.
Local taxi services are available for trips to destinations further afield, such as the trailheads for Exit Glacier. There is also often a free city shuttle that circulates between key points in town during the summer season.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not reliably available. For travel to Anchorage, the Alaska Railroad and various bus lines offer daily service.
Last updated on February 13, 2026
The main shopping areas in Seward are clustered along 4th and 5th Avenues in the historic downtown district and around the Seward Boat Harbor. Here you'll find a variety of charming gift shops, galleries, and boutiques.
Popular local souvenirs include authentic Alaska Native arts and crafts, such as ulu knives and carvings, locally made jewelry, and gourmet items like smoked salmon and birch syrup.
You can also find plenty of high-quality outdoor gear and warm clothing perfect for the Alaskan climate. Prices are generally fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice.
Last updated on February 13, 2026
Immerse yourself in unrivaled natural beauty on this eight-hour tour with a friendly, local guide. Experience the exhilarating rush of looking over a bottomless crevasse and feel the cool breeze from the Harding Icefield on your face. You will gaze across the glaciated landscape and smell the earthy alder of boreal forests with plenty of time to soak it all in.
Go behind the scenes at a Top 10 Iditarod Kennel to learn about dog sledding from expert mushers. Watch a dog team respond to commands like “Gee” and “Haw” and enjoy a presentation on this unique sport. On this hands-on tour, you'll also see a nearby active eagle's nest and get to cuddle adorable husky puppies.
Embark on an 8-hour adventure to the Caines Head State Recreation Area. You will first paddle out to the original Fort McGilvray dock, then begin a two-mile Alaskan hike with a 650-foot elevation gain. At the top, explore the historic WWII defensive structure and enjoy gorgeous views of Resurrection Bay before your kayaking adventure back.
Take a beautiful 15-minute helicopter tour for an amazing introduction to Alaska's beauty. You will view a glacier from the air before your skilled pilot lands at a magnificent location. Depending on the weather, you may land near a glacier to touch the ice, on a mountain with magnificent glacier views, or at the edge of an incredible alpine lake.
Embark on a 6-hour cruise to explore the glaciers and wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park with onboard captain narration. Your journey will take you into beautiful Aialik Bay to visit the mighty Holgate or Aialik Glacier. Float among the icebergs to watch for calving, while also keeping an eye out for whales, sea otters, and puffins, with a complimentary deli lunch included.
Explore Kenai Fjords National Park on a thrilling 7.5-hour cruise dedicated to whales, wildlife, and glaciers. Get up-close views of orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, and puffins as you travel to two active tidewater glaciers to watch for calving. The tour visits Steller sea lion colonies and seabird rookeries at the Chiswell Islands or Cape Resurrection, and includes a complimentary deli lunch.
Feel the energy of amazing sled dogs as they pull you through wooded trails on a comfortable, wheeled summer sled. This two-hour tour includes a thrilling ride, a tour of the kennel facilities, and an opportunity to cuddle adorable husky puppies. Roundtrip transportation is also included for your convenience.
Your adventure begins with a narrated van ride along the scenic shoreline of Resurrection Bay to your kayaking launch point. Once on the water, paddle in search of sea otters, harbor seals, bald eagles, and leaping salmon. Depending on the season, you may also take a short walk on the beach to view a salmon spawning stream. This trip is perfect for first-time kayakers or those with limited time.
Experience the beauty of winter during the summer on this helicopter and dog sledding tour. Fly to a professional dog camp atop the Godwin Glacier to meet the Alaskan huskies and their mushers. You'll learn about Alaska’s state sport, take an easy two-mile dog sled ride, and then play in the snow and cuddle with the puppies.
Maximize your adventure on this flexible seven-hour cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park. Your experienced captain selects the day's route based on current conditions and wildlife reports to find the most spectacular sights. This freedom and extra time on the water creates more opportunities to witness coastal Alaska magic, from breaching whales to calving tidewater glaciers.
Discover the best of Seward's history and nature in just 2.5 hours on this combination tour. First, uncover the charming character of this port town during an engaging historical city tour. Then, venture to Exit Glacier, the only land-based entrance to Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can visit the nature center, explore scenic trails, or hike to a stunning lookout.
Embark on an 8-hour cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park to learn about the region’s fascinating natural history. This is the only daily tour that visits the magnificent Northwestern Fjord. There you will witness its three amazing tidewater glaciers and numerous alpine glaciers found in this stunning part of the park.
Explore the world of Alaska's orca whales on the only cruise in Seward that is specifically focused on finding them. Cruising Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords, your captain follows recent sightings rather than a set route for a unique experience every day. You will learn about these fascinating animals from local captains and naturalists and can listen for their calls through an onboard hydrophone.
Depart from Seward on a guided morning kayak trip along Resurrection Bay to Tonsina Point. As you paddle along the coast, admire the scenery and watch for wildlife such as birds, otters, eagles, and sea lions. This trip is a great option for those with limited time who want to experience the beauty of Resurrection Bay.
Visit all the best attractions of Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park on this guided tour with transportation included. You will see Exit Glacier, visit "Mile 0" of the Iditarod Trail, and experience a dog sled ride. View the wildlife that roams the mountainside and enjoy an included full lunch with 13 options to choose from.
Discover the wonders of Resurrection Bay on this captain-narrated, half-day adventure. Depart from Seward to marvel at massive glaciers, cruise beside rugged cliffs, and spot soaring seabirds. This tour is perfect for families and travelers short on time who want to share the waters with iconic marine wildlife.
Enjoy a six-hour voyage on Alaska's most popular wildlife and glacier cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park. Coast past alpine and tidewater glaciers, view migratory seabird rookeries in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and keep an eye out for whales and other wildlife. A complimentary lunch and onboard commentary from your captain are included as you take in the magnificent sights.
Head out into the wilderness on this 2- or 4-hour best-selling guided hiking tour of Seward. After a quick safety briefing, your knowledgeable guide will take you directly to the best local spots and hidden gems. On your hike, you will experience breathtaking landscapes and an array of wildlife.
Immerse yourself in Seward’s hidden wilderness on this four-hour tour with a friendly, local guide. Experience the exhilarating rush of spirited rapids and feel the mist from the glacial river on your face. You'll gaze up at towering mountains and smell the earthy evergreens of our boreal rainforests with plenty of time to soak it all in.
Enjoy a 30-minute helicopter flight over beautiful Resurrection Bay and into Kenai Fjords National Park. Your flight includes views of Bear Glacier and its lagoon, which is full of amazing icebergs. Depending on your route, you may also view the Harding Icefield, waterfalls, and wildlife from the air.
No ships scheduled in port today.
Last updated on June 13, 2025
Downtown Seward and the Small Boat Harbor are often walkable from the cruise terminal, or you can use free shuttles provided by tour operators or the city. Taxis are also available for longer distances.
Key attractions include the Alaska SeaLife Center (walkable or short shuttle) and Kenai Fjords National Park boat tours departing from the harbor. Exit Glacier is a short drive or bus ride away.
Savor fresh Alaskan seafood, especially salmon and halibut, at restaurants in the Small Boat Harbor area or downtown Seward. Local breweries also offer casual dining options.
The local currency is United States Dollar (1 USD = 1.00 USD). The currency is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are readily available at local banks and some stores in town for cash withdrawals.
Summer weather (May-September) is typically cool and often rainy, with average highs of 55-65°F (13-18°C). Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
Seward's coastline features scenic pebble beaches along Resurrection Bay, ideal for walking, beachcombing, and enjoying views, rather than traditional swimming. These are accessible from downtown.
Popular shore excursions include Kenai Fjords wildlife and glacier cruises, and visits to Exit Glacier. Both cruise line and independent operators offer excellent tours, with many independents located near the harbor.
Shops in downtown Seward and near the Small Boat Harbor offer Alaskan-made gifts, native crafts, ulu knives, smoked salmon, and local artwork.
Beyond Seward, explore more of Kenai Fjords National Park by boat or visit Exit Glacier by road. The scenic Seward Highway offers stunning views for those with more time or rental cars.
Seward is the historic starting point of the Iditarod National Historic Trail and the southern terminus of the Alaska Railroad.
Cruises leaving from Seward during the peak seasons of summer and fall are much more expensive than the the low season of spring. Overall cruises from Seward are fairly expensive compared to other ports. See the chart below for the average cost per day by month.
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