Downtown Seattle to cruise terminal

[Rdwhite1999]

We will be arriving in Seattle 2 days before we depart on the NCL Star for an Alaska cruise. This will be our first time in Seattle other than changing planes at the airport. How far is it from the downtown area of Seattle to the cruise terminal and by which mode of transportation would you suggest to get us there?

[mypleasure]

The Star leaves from Pier 66. How to get there will depend on where you are staying and how many are in your party plus how much luggage you have.

 

If you can add these details then the resident Seattle expert will come along and advise you expertly.

 

Jean

[Rdwhite1999]

We are staying at the Renaissance Seattle and there are 2 in our party. We will have 2 checked bags and a carry-on. Also, can you advise what is near this hotel?

[SeattleCruiselover]

We are staying at the Renaissance Seattle and there are 2 in our party. We will have 2 checked bags and a carry-on. Also, can you advise what is near this hotel?

 

Take a cab, it's about 2 miles and should cost less than $15.00.

 

As to what is nearby....office buildings mostly, and the freeway on and off ramps. But, the waterfront is within 1-2 miles, Pioneer Square is about a mile, Seattle Center/Space Needle about 2.5 miles, all easily accessible by bus if you walk down off the hill where the Renaissance is to 3rd or 4th Street.

[newrosetravels]

I think Seattle Cruise Lover got it right!

One thing to remember, the downtown area of Seattle is very hilly (think San Francisco:)) Most locals figure we are at least 100 years behind as far as public transportation goes, so your choices are limited in getting around. If you are lucky, your hotel will offer car service, otherwise you will need to call a taxi to get to most places.

 

There are a number of nice, higher end clothing stores between 4th and 6th Avenues and Pike and Pine streets (sometimes called the downtown shopping district, again, much like San Francisco).

And don't forget the Pike Place Market, great for souvenir shopping and you can have coffee at the first Starbuck's store! One of the restaurants in the Market, the Athenian Inn, overlooks the waterfront. There is also a comedy club below the Market for evening fun.

 

The waterfront (from the cruise dock south) is a nice place to walk, but it is usually windy. Lots of fun places to eat, all price ranges and a wide variety of shopping. Amazing aquarium! If you have the time, I strongly suggest you take a harbor (boat) tour. You will learn about the city's history and how our some of our downtown hills were literally washed away!

There is a trolley that runs regularly along the waterfront. I believe it is only a few dollars to ride and yes, it really is called "the S.L.U.T." by locals for the Seattle Lake Union Trolley.

 

Be sure to wear your walking shoes and bring a sweater. Even in summer it is chilly near or on the water. And except for July and August, you can expect rain year round. (That may also explain why we tend to dress more casual here...)

 

I won't even attempt to list restaurants, because there are just too many wonderful, amazing places to try! Ask at your hotel for suggestions.

 

Enjoy our beautiful city! We are so happy that starting 2010 the Carnival Spirit is moving from Vancouver, BC Canada to Seattle for their Alaska cruises! AND they are now round trip!

 

Shannon

Let me know if you need anymore information! Also, next time, it would help to know the age range and mobility of your group.