Smith Cove Cruise Terminal Pier 91
Seattle's Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 offers a highly efficient and traveler-friendly embarkation experience for major cruise lines.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded embarkation
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal Pier 91
Best Time
Less crowded embarkation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Seattle's Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 offers a highly efficient and traveler-friendly embarkation experience for major cruise lines.
"This was the most efficient cruise port I have ever experienced; the people are very effective with communication."
🎯 Luggage Tag Tip
Attach luggage tags beforehand for a faster drop-off. You don't have to leave bags out the night before!
🚗 Transport Options
Consider Light Rail + Uber or direct rideshare from SeaTac for efficient travel to Pier 91.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Smooth Embarkation
Experience a fast and efficient boarding process with helpful staff. Get to your ship without the usual cruise terminal hassle.
Convenient Location
Easily accessible from SeaTac Airport and local hotels, making your cruise departure seamless.
Scenic Waterfront Views
Enjoy views of docked cruise ships and the waterfront while waiting or after disembarking.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embarkation Efficiency
Getting to Pier 91
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Luggage Tag Tip
Attach luggage tags beforehand for a faster drop-off. You don't have to leave bags out the night before!
🚗 Transport Options
Consider Light Rail + Uber or direct rideshare from SeaTac for efficient travel to Pier 91.
🧳 Pack Smart
Bring essentials you might not think of, like organizers or specific comfort items for your cabin.
🚢 Alaska Cruise Focus
If cruising to Alaska, ensure your itinerary includes Glacier Bay for the best scenic experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Luggage Tag Tip
Attach luggage tags beforehand for a faster drop-off. You don't have to leave bags out the night before!
🚗 Transport Options
Consider Light Rail + Uber or direct rideshare from SeaTac for efficient travel to Pier 91.
🧳 Pack Smart
Bring essentials you might not think of, like organizers or specific comfort items for your cabin.
🚢 Alaska Cruise Focus
If cruising to Alaska, ensure your itinerary includes Glacier Bay for the best scenic experience.
🧼 Cabin Hack
A simple sponge can be a surprisingly useful item for keeping your cruise cabin tidy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 for its remarkably fast and efficient embarkation and disembarkation processes. The staff are frequently commended for being helpful and communicative, ensuring a smooth start and end to cruises. While lines can form, they typically move quickly, contributing to a positive overall experience.
"Me and my wife undertook 12 days Alaska cruise ship tour by Queen Elizabeth through port and it was most amazing, smooth and fast embarking and disembarking process."
B.K. Dr. More
"Fast, efficient and prepared, everything moved quickly and we were on our ship in a timely manner. The people we extremely nice and helpful."
Jill Shannon
"I have cruised out of many ports. This was the most efficient. The people that work this port are very effective with communication. They are friendly and helpful. From curb drop off to bag drop and the return. These people should be commended for their service!"
Baf Barbara
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have a few options. The Light Rail to University Station, followed by an Uber, is a popular choice. Alternatively, taxis and rideshare services like Uber or Lyft offer direct transport. Some hotels may also provide shuttle services for a fee.
Yes, parking is available at the terminal. It's recommended to check the specific cruise line's website for details on parking rates and reservation procedures, as availability can vary.
Absolutely! Taxis and rideshare services are readily available at SeaTac Airport and can take you directly to Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91. This is often a convenient and direct option.
If you're staying downtown, a taxi or rideshare service is usually the most straightforward. Public transport options might involve multiple transfers, so factor in extra time if you choose that route.
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal Pier 91 is located north of downtown Seattle. The drive typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal is an embarkation point for cruises, not a standalone attraction. You need to have a booked cruise ticket to enter the terminal for boarding.
The terminal operates based on cruise ship schedules. It is typically open for embarkation several hours before the ship's departure time. Check with your cruise line for specific embarkation windows.
There are no entry fees to simply access the terminal. However, you will need a valid cruise ticket for your sailing. Parking fees apply if you are driving and parking at the terminal.
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 is a primary port for Princess Cruises and hosts most other major cruise lines, with the exception of Norwegian Cruise Line.
Seattle has two main cruise terminals: Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91) and Bell Street Cruise Terminal (Pier 66). Double-check your booking confirmation for the correct terminal. If you arrive at the wrong one, contact your cruise line immediately and arrange transport to the correct terminal.
🎫 🚢 Onboard Experience
Travelers recommend packing essentials like organizers, comfortable shoes, and any specific comfort items for your cabin. Don't forget items like a reusable water bottle and perhaps a small sponge for cabin tidiness. +2
For Alaskan cruises, ensure your itinerary includes Glacier Bay for stunning glacier views. Also, try to stay up late to experience the midnight sun during summer months.
Many travelers share hacks like using a sponge for cabin cleaning or ensuring luggage tags are correctly attached for smooth embarkation. Some suggest bringing a food and beverage voucher if available for port days. +2
Reviews indicate a smooth and fast disembarkation process. Staff are helpful, and the process from the ship to curb is generally efficient.
Cruise lines have varying policies on bringing food and beverages onboard. It's best to check your specific cruise line's guidelines regarding restrictions on alcohol, non-alcoholic drinks, and food items.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For Alaskan cruises, ensure your itinerary has activities suitable for children. The smooth disembarkation also makes the end of the trip less of a hassle for families managing multiple bags and tired children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for food and beverage vouchers that might be included with your cruise package or offered for port days, as mentioned by some travelers. Packing your own snacks and reusable water bottles can also help cut down on onboard expenses.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Cruise Passengers
If you're just visiting the area and want to see the ships, you can often find good vantage points near the terminal to admire the docked vessels. The waterfront location offers pleasant views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Smith Cove Cruise Terminal
Key to a smooth embarkation is having your luggage tags properly affixed before you arrive. While some may think you need to leave bags out the night before, you can often take them with you to the terminal. This proactive step can significantly speed up your boarding process.
When planning your arrival, consider the time of day. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded than weekends, allowing for an even quicker passage through check-in and security. The terminal staff are noted for their helpfulness and clear communication, ensuring a positive start to your vacation.
Transportation to Pier 91: Your Options
For those preferring direct transport, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available at the airport and are a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, option. If you're staying in downtown Seattle, these services are also your best bet for a direct and timely journey to Pier 91.
It's worth noting that some hotels offer shuttle services to the cruise terminal, often for an additional fee. Always inquire with your hotel about this possibility when booking your stay. Regardless of your chosen method, allow ample travel time, especially during peak cruise departure days, to avoid any last-minute stress.
Packing Essentials for Your Cruise
Some creative hacks involve bringing items like a small sponge, which can be surprisingly useful for quick clean-ups in your cabin. Others suggest packing a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste. For those embarking on an Alaskan cruise, remember to pack layers suitable for variable weather conditions.
Don't forget to check your cruise line's specific policies on what you can and cannot bring onboard, especially regarding food and beverages. Having these thoughtful items packed can make your journey from Smith Cove Cruise Terminal to your final destination much more comfortable and enjoyable.
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