Whittier Cruises

Discover Whittier, Alaska

Whittier, a charming seaside town nestled in the stunning Prince William Sound, is an exceptional destination to kick off your Alaskan adventure. With its extraordinary mountain vistas and captivating wildlife, visiting Whittier on a cruise offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Alaska. Fun fact: Whittier is home to the only condo in the United States built in a former military base—“Begich Towers”—which houses the majority of its residents!

Activities and Attractions in Whittier, Alaska

When your cruise ship docks in Whittier, you’ll want to take advantage of the many exciting activities available:

• Seward Highway Scenic Drive: Before or after your cruise, consider taking a scenic drive along the Seward Highway to experience breathtaking landscapes. This route provides stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and the coastline, making it perfect for photography lovers.
• Whittier Glacier Tours: Join a boat tour for an unforgettable experience visiting the nearby glaciers. You’ll likely see calving icebergs, marine wildlife, and breathtaking ice formations while navigating the waters.
• Prince William Sound Cruises: Explore the scenic Prince William Sound on day cruises that offer fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Look for sea otters, humpback whales, and an array of sea birds.
• Hiking the Williwaw Nature Trail: This accessible trail leads you through stunning rainforest scenery and culminates in beautiful views of the sound and surrounding mountains. Perfect for a leisurely hike or a nature stroll, the Hawthorn and Juniper trees provide a unique experience.
• Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: Located a short drive from Whittier, this centre is home to iconic Alaskan wildlife like bears, moose, and eagles. This is a great opportunity to learn about local species, their habitats, and conservation efforts.

Nearby Harbours to Explore

If you’re cruising to Whittier, consider these nearby harbours for additional unforgettable experiences:

• Ketchikan, Alaska, USA: Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan offers great fishing and stunning coastal scenery. Explore the renowned Totem Heritage Center, take a scenic floatplane ride, or visit the historic Creek Street district.
• Juneau, Alaska, USA: As Alaska’s capital, Juneau offers visitors stunning glacier views and unique experiences. Take a tram ride to Mount Roberts for panoramic views or explore the Mendenhall Glacier via hiking trails and guided tours.
• Icy Strait Point, Alaska, USA: A popular cruise destination, Icy Strait Point features rich Native Alaskan heritage and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Don’t miss the chance to take zip-line tours or go whale watching!
• Skagway, Alaska, United States: Known for its Gold Rush history, Skagway features historic buildings preserved as a National Historic Park. Explore the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park or take the scenic White Pass and Yukon Route Railway.
• Sitka (Alaska), United States: Offering a wonderful blend of Tlingit culture and breathtaking nature, Sitka is famous for its stunning coastline. Explore the Sitka National Historical Park and learn about local wildlife as you stroll among the totem poles.

Regions Commonly Visited on Cruises to Whittier

Cruises that include Whittier often explore these exceptional regions:

• Alaska & West Canada: Alaska and Western Canada boast magnificent glacial landscapes and abundant wildlife. Visiting key destinations like Glacier Bay and Jasper National Park offers spectacular outdoor activities and incredible scenery.
• USA West Coast: The West Coast of the United States features vibrant cities and breathtaking national parks. Popular stops include San Francisco, Los Angeles, and the stunning coastal views of Big Sur.
• South Pacific: Defined by tropical paradise islands and vibrant cultures, the South Pacific is famous for their stunning coral reefs and beautiful beaches. Destinations like Fiji and Tahiti offer captivating experiences and rich marine life.
• New Zealand: Known for its stunning scenery and adventure-seeking opportunities, New Zealand features breathtaking fjords, lush rainforests, and rich Maori culture. Must-visit regions include Fiordland, and Queenstown.
• Hawaii: Famous for its beaches, volcanoes, and beautiful landscapes, Hawaii welcomes cruisers to enjoy stunning islands like Maui and Oahu. Engage in activities like surfing, hiking, and indulging in local cuisine.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Whittier, Alaska

• Holland America Line: With a fleet size of 12, Holland America operates 3 ships (Noordam and Nieuw Amsterdam) that visit Whittier. Known for their exceptional service and immersive itineraries, Holland America provides extraordinary Alaskan experiences, with cruises departing from Vancouver and Whittier.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess operates 1 ship (Grand Princess) that visits Whittier. Renowned for their excellent onboard amenities and diverse itineraries, they primarily depart from Sydney or Brisbane, Australia, as well as Auckland.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet size of 20, Norwegian operates 1 ship (Norwegian Jade) that visits Whittier. Known for their flexible dining options and lively atmosphere, Norwegian’s cruises typically depart from ports like Vancouver and Whittier.

Visiting Whittier, Alaska Throughout the Year

• Summer (June, July, August): Average temperatures range from 9°C to 19°C. This is the peak cruise season, with long daylight hours ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife watching in the stunning Alaskan wilderness.
• Fall (September, October, November): Expect cooler temperatures around 5°C to 13°C. Fall offers a quieter experience as the cruise season begins to taper off, but you’ll still appreciate beautiful autumn foliage and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
• Winter (December, January, February): Temperatures can drop to around -5°C to 5°C. In winter, Whittier can become quite tranquil, with opportunities for snow sports and experiencing Alaska’s wintery scenery.
• Spring (March, April, May): Generally ranging from 0°C to 10°C, spring brings melting snow and blooming wildflowers. It’s a perfect time for exploring the increasingly accessible trails and witnessing wildlife awakening.

Frequently Asked Questions about Whittier, Alaska

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

The typical cost of a cruise to Whittier generally starts around $1,600 for a one-week itinerary and can go up to $4,000 for a two-week cruise. Prices may vary depending on the cruise line, time of year, and accommodations.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from $10 to $50 per person for specialty dining options, while beverages generally cost between $5 and $15 for cocktails or other drinks.

What are some of the dining and shopping possibilities?

In Whittier, enjoy a variety of dining options primarily featuring seafood and Alaskan cuisine. Local shops offer unique souvenirs including handcrafted items and outdoor gear.

What are transportation options?

Transportation options in Whittier include local taxis and shuttles. Most attractions are within walking distance from the port, making it easy to explore the town.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases at local shops and dining establishments.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Whittier is generally safe for tourists. Basic safety precautions should be taken with personal belongings, and it’s recommended to dress in layers, especially when exploring outdoors.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The primary language spoken is English. Locals are friendly and welcoming, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations or guidance while visiting!

This guide is designed to help you plan an incredible visit to Whittier, Alaska. Book your next cruise with CruiseAway to explore the stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and unforgettable experiences that await you in this unique Alaskan destination!