Port of Seattle Parking
The Port of Seattle is the primary gateway for Alaska cruises, offering scenic Inside Passage itineraries from the Pacific Northwest. Seattle combines a major city experience with easy access to two dedicated cruise terminals. The port operates on a seasonal schedule tied to the Alaska cruise season.
From
$25/day (demo pricing)
Cruise lines served
Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises
What to expect
- Parking is generally available at or near both cruise terminals.
- The Alaska cruise season is seasonal, so parking demand fluctuates throughout the year.
- Covered parking options are common given Seattle's frequent rain.
Parking options
Covered Garage
Walking distance
$30/day (demo pricing)
- Covered
- Walkable to terminal
Off-Site Surface Lot
Short shuttle ride
$22/day (demo pricing)
- Uncovered
- Oversized-vehicle friendly
- Shuttle every ~20 min
| Facility | Type | Distance to terminal | Shuttle | Oversized vehicles | From / day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Covered Garage | Covered | Walking distance | Walkable — no shuttle needed | Not confirmed | $30(demo) |
| Off-Site Surface Lot | Uncovered | Short shuttle ride | Every ~20 min | Yes | $22(demo) |
Prices shown on this page are demo pricingfor planning purposes only — not a live, bookable rate. Real pricing will be shown here once Vacation Island connects a confirmed parking operator’s live rates.
Arrival & departure
Arrival day
- Confirm whether your cruise line uses Smith Cove or Bell Street terminal before you travel.
- Allow extra time for Seattle traffic, particularly around downtown and the waterfront.
- Check weather conditions, since rain is common and can affect travel time.
Departure day
- Disembarkation traffic near the terminals can be heavier on turnaround days.
- Keep parking confirmation details accessible for retrieval.
- Plan your route considering downtown Seattle traffic patterns.
Shuttle service
Shuttle service runs approximately every 20–20 minutes between shuttle-served facilities and the cruise terminal.
Covered Garage is within walking distance of the terminal — no shuttle needed.
Exact shuttle schedules will be confirmed with the operating facility closer to your sail date.
Terminals served
- Smith Cove Cruise Terminal — Princess Cruises
- Bell Street Cruise Terminal — Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises
Terminal assignment can vary by sailing — always confirm your exact terminal on your cruise line’s check-in documents before you travel.
Oversized vehicles
Placeholder — exact oversized-vehicle (truck, van, trailer) rates and space availability have not yet been confirmed with a parking operator. Contact your reserved facility directly before arrival if you're driving an oversized vehicle.
Port tips
- Pike Place Market is a popular stop within a short drive of both terminals.
- The Alaska cruise season generally runs spring through early fall.
- Rideshare and taxi drop-off are available at both terminals.
Port & parking map
Port & parking map coming soon
Trust & security
Vacation Island only lists parking partners we’ve vetted for legitimate, insured operation.
Specific security features (cameras, gated access, patrols) vary by facility and will be listed here once confirmed with each operator.
Your reservation and payment details are never shared beyond what’s needed to confirm your parking spot.
Parking FAQs
Does parking differ between the two Seattle cruise terminals?
Parking options exist near both Smith Cove and Bell Street terminals, but specific facilities, distances, and rates can vary, so confirm details for your terminal.
Is Seattle cruise parking seasonal?
Demand for parking generally follows the Alaska cruise season, which runs primarily from spring through early fall.
Nearest airport
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is located roughly 20-30 minutes from downtown Seattle and the cruise terminals under normal traffic, making it a workable fly-cruise connection with some buffer time built in.
Driving guidance
Both Seattle cruise terminals are generally accessible from I-5 with signage directing traffic to Smith Cove or Bell Street. Downtown and waterfront traffic can add time, especially during peak embarkation hours.
Local dining
The Seattle waterfront and downtown area near the cruise terminals offer a wide variety of dining, including casual seafood spots reflecting the Pacific Northwest's coastal setting, coffee shops, and familiar chain restaurants.
Things to do before
- Pike Place Market
- Space Needle
- Seattle waterfront
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
Things to do after
- Pike Place Market
- Space Needle
- Seattle waterfront
How early should I arrive?
Travelers generally arrive at Seattle's cruise terminals about 2-3 hours before their scheduled departure to allow time for parking and check-in, with extra buffer recommended during peak Alaska season sailings.
Port FAQs
Which terminal will my Alaska cruise use in Seattle?
It depends on your cruise line — check your cruise documents to confirm whether you'll depart from Smith Cove or Bell Street terminal.
Is Seattle a good option for pre-cruise sightseeing?
Yes, Seattle offers many well-known attractions within a short distance of both cruise terminals.
How far is the airport from the cruise terminals?
Sea-Tac Airport is roughly 20-30 minutes from the terminals under normal traffic conditions.
When does the Alaska cruise season generally run?
Alaska cruises from Seattle generally operate from spring through early fall, though exact dates vary by cruise line and year.
Ships that sail from here
Popular destinations from here
From
$25/day
Demo pricing
Cruise lines served
- Princess Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Celebrity Cruises
Hotel + parking bundles
Pre- or post-cruise hotel stays near Port of Seattle can be bundled with your parking reservation once booking is live.
Online reservations for Port of Seattleparking aren’t open yet — Vacation Island is finalizing parking operator partnerships. In the meantime, Larry can help you plan and answer what he knows.
Ask Larry About Port of Seattle Parking