College Fjord USACruise Port Guide
Getting Around from the Port
From Whittier, reaching the Alyeska/Girdwood area (approximately 37 miles / 60 km) involves navigating the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. Travel time to Girdwood is about 1 hour each way, not including potential wait times for the tunnel schedule.
- Tunnel Schedule & Cost: The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel operates on a timed schedule, typically allowing traffic to flow one way for 15 minutes out of every hour. Check the current schedule upon arrival, as missing a slot can add significant delays. The toll for a standard vehicle is $13 one-way.
- Taxi/Private Transfer: Taxis are available but can be expensive for a round trip to Girdwood/Alyeska, potentially costing $150-$250+ each way. This option offers flexibility but requires careful scheduling around the tunnel.
- Cruise Line Excursions: Many cruise lines offer organized shore excursions to Girdwood/Alyeska, including the Alyeska Aerial Tram and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. These tours handle all logistics, including tunnel timings, and are often the most convenient way to visit the area within the port time.
- Alaska Railroad: The Glacier Discovery train operates between Anchorage and Whittier, with a stop in Girdwood. This can be an option if schedules align with your cruise port stay, but careful planning is essential for round-trip travel. Fares from Whittier to Girdwood are typically $50-$70 one-way.
- Rental Cars: Rental cars are not typically available directly in Whittier. Picking one up in Anchorage (if your cruise begins or ends there) is an option but not practical for a day visit from Whittier.
Attractions and Activities
Given the 8-10 hour port stay and the travel logistics from Whittier to Alyeska/Girdwood, planning is crucial. A round trip to Girdwood/Alyeska (including tunnel waits) can consume 3-4 hours, leaving 4-6 hours for activities.
- Alyeska Resort Aerial Tram (Girdwood): Ride the tram up Mt. Alyeska for panoramic views of Turnagain Arm, glaciers, and surrounding peaks. At the top, there are viewing platforms and dining options.
- Fee: Approximately $40 per adult for a round trip.
- Distance/Time: Located in Girdwood. Allow 1-2 hours for the tram experience.
- Travel: Reach Girdwood via taxi, train, or cruise excursion from Whittier (1 hour drive + tunnel wait).
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Portage Valley): A non-profit organization dedicated to wildlife education and rehabilitation. See moose, bison, bears, and other Alaskan animals up close in large enclosures.
- Fee: Approximately $19 per adult.
- Distance/Time: About 15 miles (24 km) from Girdwood, on the way to/from Whittier. Allow 1-1.5 hours.
- Travel: Accessible by taxi or cruise excursion from Whittier.
- Prince William Sound Glacier & Wildlife Cruise (Whittier): For those preferring to stay closer to the port and explore the immediate surroundings, a cruise into Prince William Sound is an excellent option. Operators like Phillips Cruises & Tours offer 5-6 hour "26 Glacier Cruises" to see tidewater glaciers, marine wildlife (otters, seals, eagles), and rugged coastlines.
- Fee: Approximately $179 per adult.
- Distance/Time: Departs directly from Whittier. Allow 5-6 hours for the cruise. This will likely consume most of your port time, leaving little for Girdwood.
- Hiking in Girdwood: The Girdwood area offers several scenic hiking trails. The Winner Creek Trail, accessible near Alyeska Resort, is a popular choice, offering a relatively flat walk through the rainforest along Winner Creek, with a hand tram crossing partway.
- Fee: Free.
- Distance/Time: Located in Girdwood. Hikes can range from 1-3 hours depending on your chosen path.
- Travel: Reach Girdwood via taxi, train, or cruise excursion from Whittier.
Dining
- Jack Sprat: Popular for its focus on healthy, locally sourced ingredients (Eclectic American, $$).
- The Double Musky Inn: A renowned, upscale establishment known for Cajun-Alaskan fusion (Fine Dining, $$$$). Reservations often required well in advance.
- Girdwood Brewery: Offers a selection of craft beers and often has food trucks on-site (Brewery/Casual, $).
- Alyeska Resort: Multiple options including the upscale Seven Glaciers restaurant at the top of the tram (Fine Dining, $$$$) and more casual choices like The Pond Cafe (American, $$).
Shopping
Limited shopping in Girdwood, primarily consisting of small local boutiques, art galleries, and gift shops at Alyeska Resort. Look for Alaskan-themed souvenirs, local art, and handcrafted items.
In Whittier (near the terminal): *
Dining
Very limited options, primarily casual cafes and diners catering to travelers. Expect basic American fare, seafood (fish & chips). Prices are moderate ($$). *
Shopping
A few small gift shops near the cruise terminal offer Alaskan souvenirs, postcards, and basic travel necessities. There are no major markets or duty-free shops.
Weather
Whittier in Prince William Sound has a cold, very rainy maritime climate with temperatures between 40°F and 62°F (4°C to 17°C) during the cruise season from May through September. One of Alaska's rainiest communities, it also has one of its most dramatic settings. Pack substantial waterproof and windproof layers, warm base layers, and sturdy waterproof boots.
Safety
Alaska is generally safe, but wildlife awareness is important, especially when hiking. Bears are present in the Girdwood area; carry bear spray and know how to use it, make noise on trails, and keep food secured. Be aware of changing weather conditions, as rain and cooler temperatures are common even in summer.