Whittier

United States

Embark on breathtaking glacier tours and wildlife cruises into Prince William Sound's pristine Alaskan wilderness.

💱 Currency US Dollar (USD)

🗣 Language English

🕐 Time Zone AKDT (UTC-8)

☀️ Best Time to Visit May–Sep

🚢 Typical Duration 7-10 nights

💰 Price Range From $443 pp

⚓ Port Type Departure & Port of Call

🚤 Tender Port No

Gateway to Alaska's Inside Passage and Denali National Park, offering access to pristine glaciers, wildlife viewing, and remote Alaskan wilderness.

Build Your Day in Whittier

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 7:00 PM

Usually about 11 hours ashore

🛳 Embarkation port — worth arriving early

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Inn At Whittier Every time I visit the inn in Whittier, it’s an absolute blast! Inn · ★ 4.5 · 1k

Prince William Sound Museum Excellent small museum packed with exhibits and information. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k

Emerald Cove Trail Park at Lu Young Park and walk the remaining distance. Hiking area · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Lu Young Public Beach Kids friendly. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 0k

Glacier water falls Best bottled water I’ve had! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Whittier is an embarkation port. Many cruises start or end here — it's worth arriving a day early or extending your stay to explore beyond a single port day.

Next Departures from Whittier

About Whittier

Whittier, Alaska serves as a vibrant port of call for cruise travelers exploring the stunning Inside Passage and beyond. With three major cruise lines—Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection—calling here regularly, you'll find over 1,200 upcoming cruises departing from this dynamic port. Most voyages feature the popular seven-night itinerary, offering passengers the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation as they navigate Alaska's pristine waters.

From Whittier, cruise passengers embark on unforgettable journeys to iconic Alaskan destinations including Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, with many itineraries also featuring visits to Denali National Park. The peak season runs from May through September, with summer months drawing the largest crowds eager to experience Alaska's natural wonders. Whether you're seeking glacier viewing, wildlife encounters, or charming frontier towns, Whittier provides an excellent launching point for your Alaskan adventure.

Glacier Bay's Pristine Wilderness

Whittier serves as the gateway to stunning glacier viewing and wildlife encounters in nearby Prince William Sound. Book a day excursion to witness calving glaciers, spot sea otters and bald eagles, and experience Alaska's raw natural beauty. The dramatic coastal scenery and abundant marine life make this an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

Fresh Alaskan Seafood Dining

Savor exceptional halibut, salmon, and crab at Whittier's waterfront restaurants, where local fishermen deliver the daily catch. These establishments showcase authentic Alaskan cuisine prepared with regional pride and expertise. Dining here connects you directly to the port's fishing heritage and maritime culture.

Portage Glacier Day Excursion

Take a scenic drive through the Portage Valley to witness the magnificent Portage Glacier and turquoise Portage Lake. This accessible excursion offers breathtaking mountain vistas and opportunities to photograph one of Alaska's most iconic glaciers. The journey showcases the region's dramatic geological features and pristine wilderness.

Local Artisan Crafts & Galleries

Browse Whittier's charming shops featuring handcrafted Native Alaskan art, jewelry, and souvenirs created by local artisans. These galleries showcase authentic regional craftsmanship and traditional designs reflecting the area's rich cultural heritage. Supporting local makers ensures you take home genuine Alaskan treasures with meaningful stories.

Historic Gold Rush Heritage

Explore Whittier's fascinating maritime and gold rush history through local museums and historic sites that reveal the port's pivotal role in Alaska's development. Learn about early explorers, indigenous cultures, and the adventurers who shaped this rugged coastal community. The town's heritage offers compelling insights into Alaska's transformative past.