Whittier, Alaska Cruises | CruiseHuddle - CruiseHuddle

Whittier, Alaska Cruise Port

Your gateway to Prince William Sound's glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic coastal scenery on Alaska ocean cruises.

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296

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7

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$649

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Whittier sits at the head of Passage Canal in Alaska's stunning Prince William Sound, serving as a dramatic port of call for ocean cruises exploring Alaska's Inside Passage and coastal wilderness. This small town, accessible through the longest highway tunnel in North America, offers cruisers direct access to some of Alaska's most spectacular glaciers, abundant marine wildlife, and pristine fjords during port visits.

With 395 upcoming sailings and prices starting at $599, Whittier appears on itineraries from major lines including Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Ships like Coral Princess, Island Princess, and Discovery Princess regularly call here, with most sailings departing from Vancouver or operating as part of longer Alaska coastal voyages. The port's location makes it ideal for glacier-focused excursions, including boat tours to the face of massive tidewater glaciers like Surprise Glacier and whale-watching adventures through the sound's protected waters.

Popular shore excursions include kayaking among icebergs, scenic cruises through glacier-carved fjords where sea otters, harbor seals, and puffins thrive, and visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The town itself is compact and walkable, with the harbor just steps from where tenders dock. Whittier appeals to cruisers seeking authentic Alaska wilderness experiences without the crowds of larger ports, and those who want to witness the raw power of active glaciers calving into the sea. The surrounding Chugach National Forest provides a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks rising directly from the water.

Ready to experience Prince William Sound's glacial wonders? Browse the available sailings to Whittier and start planning your Alaska ocean cruise adventure.

Things to See & Do

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Portage Glacier Views

Take in dramatic ice-carved peaks surrounding this remote port town gateway.

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Historic Whittier Tunnel

Ride through the longest combined rail-highway tunnel in North America to reach town.

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Prince William Sound Wildlife

Spot otters, seals, and whales in the glacier-fed waters surrounding Whittier.

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Begich Towers Building

See the unusual single building that houses nearly all of Whittier's residents.

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Harbor Fishing Scene

Wander the small boat harbor lined with fishing charters and local vendors.

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Bald Eagle Spotting

Look skyward near the harbor where bald eagles frequently perch and soar.

Popular Excursions

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Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise

Board a boat tour to see tidewater glaciers calving into the sound up close.

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Sea Kayaking Adventure

Paddle calm coastal waters near glaciers with a guided small-group kayak tour.

🎣

Halibut and Salmon Fishing Charter

Head out with local guides for a half-day deep-sea fishing excursion.

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Helicopter Glacier Landing

Fly over icefields and land on a glacier for a rare alpine walking experience.

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Anchorage Day Trip

Travel the scenic highway to explore Alaska's largest city before reboarding.

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Portage Valley Wildlife Tour

Visit the wildlife conservation center and glacier valley just outside Whittier.

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Glacier cruises through Prince William Sound are the top choice, offering close-up views of tidewater glaciers and wildlife like whales, sea otters, and seals. Kayaking tours among icebergs and visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center are also popular options during port calls.
Port visits to Whittier typically last 6-10 hours, giving cruisers enough time for extended glacier excursions into Prince William Sound. Some itineraries use Whittier as a turnaround point, though most ocean cruises include it as a scenic port of call.
Whittier experiences cool, often rainy weather even in summer, with temperatures ranging from 50-65°F during the May-September cruise season. Rain is common year-round, so waterproof layers and warm clothing are essential for excursions on the water.
While you can see distant glaciers and mountains from the harbor area, the best glacier viewing requires a boat excursion into Prince William Sound. The town itself is small, so most cruisers book tours to experience the region's spectacular glacial landscapes.
Prince William Sound is home to humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, harbor seals, Dall's porpoises, and numerous seabirds including puffins and bald eagles. Wildlife sightings are common on glacier cruise excursions, especially during summer months when marine life is most active.

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