Seward Map & Getting Around
Seward is a compact, highly walkable port town built along a stunning fjord. Whether you are boarding your ship, ending your cruise, or just in town for the day, navigating this port is straightforward. The town is divided into two main hubs: the Small Boat Harbor to the north and the historic downtown district to the south, both connected by a flat, fully paved waterfront path.
Where Do Cruise Ships Dock?
Cruise ships dock at the Dale R. Lindsey Alaska Railroad Intermodal Facility. You will find the cruise dock at the head of Resurrection Bay (south end of Seward). Because the dock is physically attached to the train depot, logistics are incredibly easy for passengers arriving or departing by rail.
Unlike many other Alaskan ports, Seward rarely requires tendering. You will step right off your ship onto the pier. From the terminal, you have immediate access to ground transportation, local tour vendors, baggage storage, and the local shuttle system.
Distances to Key Attractions
If the weather is clear, walking is the best way to see the town. A 1.9-mile paved Waterfront Trail connects the cruise terminal to the downtown area, hugging the shoreline the entire way.
- Small Boat Harbor: 1 mile north of the dock along the bay. This is a flat, 20-minute walk. The harbor is the bustling epicenter for the town’s maritime activity and the departure point for all Kenai Fjords boat tours.
- Alaska SeaLife Center: 1.5 miles from the dock. Reaching this world-class marine research facility takes about 30 minutes on foot via the Waterfront Trail. It is located at the absolute southern tip of the historic downtown district.
- Downtown Seward: 1.2 to 1.5 miles from the dock. 4th Avenue is the main thoroughfare, lined with historic murals, local cafes, and boutique shops.
- Exit Glacier: 9 miles from the dock. This is the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park accessible by road. You cannot walk here; you will need to arrange a taxi, rent a car, or book a dedicated shuttle.
The City of Seward Free Shuttle
The easiest way to move between the cruise dock, the harbor, and downtown is the City of Seward Free Shuttle. Operated by Seward City Tours, this service is a lifeline for cruise passengers and runs daily from May through September.
The shuttle operates from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but shifts to an earlier 8:00 AM start on cruise ship days. Look for the white buses with “FREE SHUTTLE” printed in red lettering. The bus drives a continuous 5-mile loop, stopping at designated blue-and-white signs approximately every 30 minutes. It stops directly at the cruise terminal, the Small Boat Harbor, and the Alaska SeaLife Center. The route is entirely free, requires no ticket, and the buses are wheelchair accessible.
Taxis, Rideshares, and Rental Cars
Do not rely on your smartphone for a ride in Seward. Uber and Lyft do not operate here.
- Taxis: Local companies like PJ’s Taxi and Red Taxi service the area. A ride from the cruise dock to downtown costs about $10 to $15. Taxis are usually waiting at the pier on port days, but calling ahead is highly recommended if you have strict tour deadlines or an early morning departure.
- Exit Glacier Transport: To reach Exit Glacier, book a ride with the Exit Glacier Shuttle (roughly $20 to $25 round-trip) or hire a local taxi. The drive takes 15 minutes each way. Budget at least two hours on-site to hike the trails.
- Rental Cars: Hertz is the only major car rental agency in town, located near the Small Boat Harbor. Inventory sells out months in advance. Turo is available but supply is extremely limited. If you are only staying in Seward proper, a rental car is an unnecessary expense.
Getting From Seward to Anchorage
Because Seward is a primary turnaround port for one-way Alaska itineraries, most passengers need to travel between Seward and Anchorage. Anchorage is located 127 miles north of Seward and serves as the primary airport hub.
- The Alaska Railroad: The Coastal Classic train route is the most scenic transit option. The train departs from the depot directly next to the cruise terminal. The trip takes 4.5 hours, winding past backcountry glaciers and through the Chugach Mountains. Tickets cost $75 to $100 one-way.
- Motorcoach and Bus: The Park Connection Motorcoach and official cruise line transfer buses run daily. The drive takes 2.5 hours along the spectacular Seward Highway. Tickets average $65 to $85.
- Private Shuttles: Companies like Red Eye Rides and Seward City Tours offer point-to-point van transfers, ideal for groups traveling together with heavy luggage. Expect to pay around $75 to $95 per person.
Where to Eat Near the Water
Seward has a thriving local food scene. Skip the generic tourist food and seek out these verified local favorites:
- Near the Harbor: Ray’s Waterfront (open mid-April through September) is the local institution for fresh halibut, king crab, and unbeatable harbor views. For a faster meal, Alaska Seafood Grill serves excellent fish and chips and pizzas right across from the harbor docks.
- Downtown: The Cookery on 5th Avenue is arguably Seward’s best restaurant, featuring local oysters, foraged ingredients, and fresh catches. Just down the block, Lone Chicharron Taqueria serves massive, highly rated rockfish tacos for under $15. If you need coffee before a tour, grab an espresso at Resurrection Art Coffee House, famously located inside a beautifully repurposed historic church.