The Port of Seattle, situated on the United States’ Pacific Northwest coast was the first and largest of the port districts created in the State of Washington and is a vital staging point for travellers seeking to experience the beauty and wildlife when cruising the Alaskan corridor. With nearly 50% of all Alaskan cruises leaving from the Port, it is truly the place for cruise enthusiasts to begin that journey of a lifetime.
The city of Seattle
Visitors to Seattle will find landmarks that are familiar, such as the iconic Space Needle built for the 1962 World’s Fair. This futuristic looking 605-foot tower dominates the skyline and is often photographed with Mount Rainier an active volcano in the background. With three different and distinct ecosystems The Olympic National Park, designated an International Biosphere, is a short ferry ride from the city waterfront. Touring this beautiful and rugged area, which is full of delights, includes the opportunity of whale watching from Port Angeles, with resident and travelling Orca pods and other whale species guaranteed to be seen due to their abundance in the waters surrounding the peninsula.
Further afield, you will be surprised to know that Washington State is a wine producing area second only to California in the United States. And its wines are of the highest quality. So a day trip out of the city is perfect for a little tasting and vineyard tours.
Culture in Seattle
Back in Seattle, its charms seem limitless – you can see the works of Dale Chihuly displayed in a long-term exhibition at Seattle Center where his astonishing glass sculptures can be seen in a perfect setting. The Museum of Pop Culture known as MoPOP is a celebration of music, film and science fiction and you really don’t want to miss this museum. The birthplace of Jimi Hendrix and Starbucks, Seattle is also home to the flying fish at Pike Place Market, a must see, as fish sellers launch their wares from stall to handlers and back before selling to the public.
Excellent transport links for travellers
The Port also owns and operates Seattle Tacoma International Airport, the premier gateway to Washington State, the Port and City of Seattle. This modern hub is 10 hours flight from the UK with regular nonstop daily services. Travelling to downtown Seattle is easy by bus or better still, by light rail taking around 35 minutes.
The heart of the Port is cruising, and its mission is to support sustainable tourism and provide world class facilities, such as a new International Arrivals Facility at the airport to ensure that visitors have the best start their experience of the region. An excellent transport infrastructure, hotels, restaurants, and bars encourage visitors to stay awhile.
Seattle will stay in your memory long after you leave and have you definitely wanting to return.
Next steps
Call our team on 0800 412 5678 for cruises that dock in Port of Seattle or trips that visit the city and Washington state.