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Whittier United StatesCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Whittier

Alyeska is not a direct cruise port. Cruise ships typically dock in Whittier, a small town on Prince William Sound, which serves as the most practical access point for visitors wishing to reach the Alyeska/Girdwood area. Whittier itself is a unique port, nestled between mountains and the sea, known for its single-building community (Begich Towers) and as the gateway to Prince William Sound. Ships dock directly at the cruise terminal pier in Whittier. Passengers have 8-10 hours in port. A key consideration for independent travel from Whittier is the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, a one-way tunnel shared by road and rail, which operates on a strict hourly schedule and requires a toll. This tunnel is the only land access to/from Whittier and significantly impacts travel times to Girdwood/Alyeska.

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.

  1. 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).
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Average Temperature (°F)
32-8Jan32-7Feb34-4Mar3910Apr4826May6436Jun6742Jul6439Aug5531Sep4411Oct35-5Nov33-3Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
7.4Jan6.09Feb5.89Mar5.35Apr5.91May5.2Jun6.72Jul10.45Aug10.67Sep9.94Oct9.29Nov9.54Dec

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.

Top Attractions

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College Fjord
A stunning fjord in Prince William Sound, renowned for its concentration of tidewater glaciers. Visitors can witness dramatic calving events, observe diverse marine wildlife, and immerse themselves in the pristine Alaskan wilderness.
Prince William Sound
Explore this vast and pristine body of water by boat, kayak, or cruise. Witness stunning tidewater glaciers, abundant marine wildlife like whales, sea otters, and seals, and dramatic fjords. It's a prime destination for nature photography and outdoor adventure.
Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel
Experience the unique one-lane tunnel, shared by vehicles and trains, that serves as the only land access to Whittier. This engineering marvel offers a memorable journey through the mountains, with scheduled openings for traffic in each direction. It's an essential part of the Whittier experience.
Harvard Glacier
One of the largest and most active tidewater glaciers in College Fjord, known for its impressive ice face and frequent calving. It offers a spectacular display of glacial power and is a prime spot for photography and wildlife viewing.
Begich Towers
Visit the iconic building where most of Whittier's residents live, often referred to as 'the city under one roof.' It houses apartments, a post office, a church, and a store, offering a unique glimpse into Alaskan community life.
Yale Glacier
A massive tidewater glacier located on the western side of College Fjord, often seen alongside Harvard Glacier. Its vast ice field and deep blue hues make it a breathtaking sight, providing excellent opportunities for observing glacial features.
Harriman Glacier
Venture to Harriman Glacier, a massive tidewater glacier in Harriman Fjord. Boat tours offer incredible views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the area is rich in marine life. A fantastic destination for glacier viewing and photography.
Portage Glacier
Witness the retreating Portage Glacier from the lake or via boat tours. The area offers stunning views of the glacier and surrounding mountains, with opportunities for short hikes.
Vassar Glacier
A notable glacier in College Fjord, contributing to the fjord's stunning glacial landscape. It offers visitors a chance to appreciate the scale and beauty of Alaska's ice formations in a serene setting.
Bryn Mawr Glacier
One of the many beautiful glaciers within College Fjord, named after a prestigious college. It provides picturesque views and is a key part of the fjord's unique glacial ecosystem.
Surprise Glacier
A prominent tidewater glacier located in Harriman Fjord, known for its active calving into the waters of Prince William Sound. Visitors on boat tours often witness dramatic ice falls, making it a highlight for those seeking to experience the raw power and beauty of Alaskan glaciers.
Wellesley Glacier
Part of the 'Seven Sisters' group of glaciers in College Fjord, offering stunning ice formations and contributing to the fjord's dramatic scenery. It's a popular spot for cruise ships to observe glacial activity.
Blackstone Bay
Explore this stunning fjord within Prince William Sound, renowned for its numerous tidewater and alpine glaciers. Take a boat tour to witness glaciers calving into the sea, observe marine wildlife, and marvel at the dramatic mountainous landscape. It's a prime spot for glacier viewing and photography.
Fishing Charters
Join a fishing charter and experience the thrill of catching salmon, halibut, and other Alaskan fish in the waters surrounding Whittier. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, the local guides will help you reel in a memorable catch against the backdrop of stunning scenery.
Portage Pass
Hike the challenging Portage Pass Trail to reach the pass, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Portage Glacier, Passage Canal, and the surrounding Chugach Mountains.
Smith Glacier
Another of the 'Seven Sisters' glaciers in College Fjord, known for its impressive ice face and surrounding rugged landscape. It provides a captivating glimpse into the dynamic forces of nature.
Amherst Glacier
A prominent glacier in College Fjord, offering majestic views of its ice front and the surrounding wilderness. It's a significant feature for visitors exploring the fjord's glacial wonders.
Byron Glacier Trail
Enjoy an easy, family-friendly hike to the base of Byron Glacier. The trail offers close-up views of the glacier and opportunities to explore ice caves in winter (with caution).
Harriman Fjord
Discover another magnificent fjord in Prince William Sound, home to several active glaciers including Surprise Glacier. Boat tours offer close encounters with these icy giants, along with opportunities to spot seals, sea otters, and various seabirds. The fjord's pristine wilderness provides an unforgettable Alaskan experience.
Hiking trails around Whittier
Explore the wilderness surrounding Whittier on foot. Several hiking trails offer varying levels of difficulty and stunning views of the mountains, glaciers, and Prince William Sound. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and wildlife encounters. A great way to immerse yourself in nature.
Williams Glacier
This glacier adds to the spectacular array of ice formations found in College Fjord. Its serene beauty and the chance to witness glacial processes make it a memorable stop for visitors.
Dartmouth Glacier
A beautiful glacier contributing to the diverse glacial landscape of College Fjord. It offers picturesque views and is an integral part of the fjord's natural charm and ecological significance.
Passage Canal
Travel through the stunning Passage Canal, the primary waterway leading to Whittier from Prince William Sound. Enjoy dramatic fjord-like scenery and potential wildlife sightings.
Whittier Museum
Delve into the unique history of Whittier, from its origins as a secret military base during WWII to its development as a port town. The museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits detailing the construction of the tunnel, the town's military past, and the lives of its residents. It offers a fascinating glimpse into this isolated community.
Buckner Building
View the imposing, abandoned Buckner Building, once the largest building in Alaska. This historic military barracks offers a glimpse into Whittier's past, though it's not open for public entry due to safety concerns.
Decision Point
A significant navigational point at the entrance to Passage Canal, offering expansive views of Prince William Sound and the surrounding mountains. It's a common landmark for boat tours and kayakers, marking a transition into the deeper fjords.
Emerald Cove
Explore a picturesque cove in Prince William Sound, known for its clear waters and lush surroundings. It's a popular spot for kayaking and small boat excursions.
Horsetail Falls
Admire this beautiful waterfall cascading down the mountainside near the entrance to Whittier. Easily visible from the road and parts of the town, it's a picturesque natural feature, especially vibrant after rainfall or during snowmelt. It provides a lovely backdrop to the rugged Alaskan landscape.
Shotgun Cove
A serene and picturesque cove within Passage Canal, often visited by kayakers and small boats for its calm waters and scenic beauty. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and enjoying the tranquility of Prince William Sound.
Emerald Isle
A small, verdant island located near Whittier in Passage Canal, contributing to the scenic beauty of the area. It's a charming landmark often passed by boat tours and kayakers exploring the immediate vicinity of Whittier.
Whittier Creek Trail
A relatively easy local trail that follows Whittier Creek, offering a pleasant walk through the forest with views of the creek and surrounding mountains. It's a good option for a short, accessible outdoor experience within town limits.
Hobo Bay
A serene bay in Prince William Sound, offering a quiet escape for boating and enjoying the natural beauty. It's a less frequented spot, ideal for those seeking solitude.
Whittier City Park
A small, local park in the heart of Whittier, offering green space for relaxation and views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. It's a pleasant spot for a stroll or picnic.