Plan a CruiseWhittier Cruise Port Guide
Most cruise ships dock in Whittier, a small, unique town located 60 miles southeast of Anchorage. Originally a military port during World War II, Whittier is home to approximately 180 residents, many of whom live in a single apartment complex. Access to Whittier is distinctive: it's reachable only by boat or through the nearly 3-mile-long Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, a one-lane passage shared by both rail and vehicle traffic that operates on a half-hourly alternating schedule.
For passengers arriving in Whittier, the primary draw is its proximity to Prince William Sound, renowned for its deep fjords, tidewater glaciers (which can be seen calving), and abundant islands. The town is also nestled within the Chugach National Forest, the second largest in the United States, offering a vast wilderness experience. Please note that only Holland America Line ships typically dock directly at the Port of Anchorage, which is 3.2 km (2 miles) from downtown Anchorage.
Getting Around from the Port
From Whittier: To reach Anchorage, located 60 miles away, you can utilize independent bus or train services. Be aware that any journey to or from Whittier involves passing through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, which operates on a strict schedule, alternating directions for vehicle and rail traffic every half-hour. This can impact travel times. Many passengers opt for cruise-organized excursions to Anchorage.
From Port of Anchorage (if applicable): If your ship docks at the Port of Anchorage, the city center is conveniently located just 3.2 km (2 miles) away. Shuttles, taxis, and charter vehicles are readily available at the port to transport passengers downtown. Shore excursions often depart directly from the port via train and motor coach for various activities across Southcentral Alaska.
For all excursions, it's advisable to compare options offered by your cruise line with independent providers like GetYourGuide and Viator.
Attractions and Activities
In and around Whittier:
- Prince William Sound Tour: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Prince William Sound on a boat tour. Witness deep fjords, observe tidewater glaciers calving, and look for diverse wildlife amidst the numerous islands.
- Local Hiking: Explore scenic trails such as Portage Pass, Salmon Run, or Horse Tail Falls. These offer opportunities for walking, beachcombing, berry picking, and wildlife viewing along the harbor and within the Chugach National Forest.
Day Trip to Anchorage (60 miles from Whittier – factor in tunnel transit time):
- Alaska Native Heritage Center: Gain insights into the rich history and culture of Alaska's indigenous peoples. The center features engaging exhibits, live performances, and traditional crafts.
- Downtown Anchorage Exploration: Discover an urban environment uniquely blended with rugged nature. You might spot moose, explore vast city parks, and enjoy fresh seafood at five-star restaurants. Anchorage is also a gateway for more adventurous activities like flightseeing over Mt. McKinley (Denali), wilderness fishing, or visiting grizzly bears via air taxi, though these may require more time than a typical port visit.
Dining & Shopping
Whittier: As a tiny hamlet of about 180 residents, dining and shopping options directly at the port in Whittier are very limited. Most services are geared towards the local population and transient visitors.
Anchorage: If you venture to Anchorage, you'll find a wide range of dining experiences, including restaurants serving fresh seafood and various other cuisines. Shopping opportunities are also extensive.
Shopping in the USA (General Information): In major metropolitan areas, many drugstores and supermarkets are open 24/7. Department stores, shopping centers, and most large retailers typically operate from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with shorter hours on Sundays (generally 11 a.m. or noon to 5 or 6 p.m.). Most stores remain open on minor holidays but are generally closed on major holidays like Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Payment & Pricing: The official currency is the U.S. Dollar. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, even for small transactions. Be aware that prices for goods and services in the U.S. rarely include sales tax (which varies by state, typically 4-6%, but can range from 2.9% to nearly 10%) or gratuities; these will be calculated and added to your total at checkout.
Tipping: Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. General guidelines include:
- Full-service restaurants: 15-20% (this often forms a significant part of a server's income). Check your bill as some restaurants may add an automatic service charge.
- Taxi drivers, hairdressers, other personal services: 10-15%.
- Bartenders: $1 per drink for inexpensive drinks, or 15% of the total bill.
- Bellhops: $1-2 per bag ($3-5 minimum regardless of number of bags).
- Tour guides: $5-10 per person for half-day tours or less; $10-20 per person for longer tours, depending on quality.
Safety
No specific safety concerns are noted for Whittier or Anchorage. However, always exercise standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, securing valuables, and following local guidelines, especially when hiking in wilderness areas.
Currency and Language
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available throughout the region. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are extensively accepted, even for small purchases.