Cruise ships dock in Whittier, Alaska, primarily because it serves as a strategic and convenient gateway for passengers traveling to or from Anchorage, Alaska's largest city. Located on the picturesque Prince William Sound, Whittier offers a vital access point for exploring the state's interior.
Strategic Location and Purpose
Whittier is one of two principal ports—the other being Seward—that cruise lines utilize for itineraries connecting to or from Anchorage. Its position deep within Prince William Sound provides a sheltered and deep-water harbor suitable for large vessels. This makes it an ideal location for cruise lines to manage passenger transfers for those wishing to extend their journey into Alaska's interior or connect with flights from Anchorage.
- Proximity to Anchorage: While not directly in Anchorage, Whittier is accessible by road and the unique Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, connecting passengers efficiently to the city and its international airport.
- Access to Prince William Sound: The port's location offers immediate access to the stunning natural beauty of Prince William Sound, known for its glaciers, wildlife, and serene waters, often serving as a scenic component of the cruise itinerary itself.
A Port Steeped in History
Whittier is more than just a functional port; it's a small town with an extensive and fascinating history. It gained prominence during World War II, serving as a strategic military port. This historical significance meant that robust infrastructure was developed to support its operations, which continues to benefit its role as a cruise ship destination today. The town's unique architecture, including the Begich Towers (a single building housing most of the town's population), reflects its military past and adds to its distinct character.
Whittier vs. Seward: Gateways to Anchorage
Cruise lines often choose between Whittier and Seward for their Anchorage connections, each offering unique advantages. Whittier's direct connection via the tunnel and rail to Anchorage makes it an efficient transfer point.
| Feature | Whittier, Alaska | Seward, Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Key gateway for Anchorage-bound cruises | Primary gateway for Anchorage-bound cruises |
| Location | Head of Passage Canal, Prince William Sound | Resurrection Bay, Gulf of Alaska |
| Access to ANC | Via Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel & Alaska Railroad | Via Sterling Highway & Alaska Railroad |
| Historical Note | Strategic World War II military port | Historical entry point to the Kenai Peninsula |
| Surroundings | Glaciers, calm waters of Prince William Sound | Coastal mountains, gateway to Kenai Fjords NP |
For passengers, docking in Whittier means a unique disembarkation experience, often involving travel through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel—the longest highway tunnel in North America—followed by a scenic bus or rail journey to Anchorage, seamlessly connecting their cruise adventure with further Alaskan exploration.
