Whittier to Anchorage Cruise Transportation

Anchorage , United States

Whittier to Anchorage Cruise Transportation

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About this experience

Enjoy a smooth and scenic small-group transfer from Whittier to Anchorage with an experienced local guide. Travel in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter, hear fun and informative narration about Alaska’s history and wildlife, and enjoy brief scenic photo stops when timing allows. Our 8:15 AM pickup is perfectly aligned with the 8:30 AM Whittier Tunnel (and your cruises 7 - 8a disembarking time) making this the easiest, most reliable way to reach Anchorage after your cruise.

Available options

Whittier to Anchorage Cruise Transportation

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

As you disembark your cruise ship in Whittier, your transportation is already waiting at the terminal to take you on a smooth, scenic journey to Anchorage. Whittier is one of Alaska’s most unique port towns—surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and deep fjords, and accessible through the famous Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. You’ll board a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter and enjoy narrated commentary about Whittier’s history, WWII origins, and stunning natural surroundings. After loading luggage and getting everyone settled, we depart the port area in time to align with the 9:00 AM outbound tunnel. It’s a relaxed, stress-free start to your day as we head toward the dramatic coastline of Turnagain Arm.

Stop 2

As we leave Whittier and begin your journey toward Anchorage, we travel through the famous Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel—one of the most unique roadways in the world. This single-lane, 2.5-mile tunnel runs straight through the Chugach Mountains and is shared by both trains and vehicles, offering a dramatic and unforgettable transition from Prince William Sound into Alaska’s wilderness. Your driver times the departure to align with the scheduled outbound opening, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Enjoy narration about the tunnel’s WWII origins, engineering, and its role in connecting Whittier to the rest of Alaska. Emerging on the far side opens into breathtaking views of mountains, waterfalls, and the start of the scenic Turnagain Arm.

After emerging from the tunnel, we join the famous Turnagain Arm, one of Alaska’s most dramatic stretches of coastline. Towering mountains rise straight from the water, waterfalls spill down the cliffs, and there’s always a chance to spot wildlife such as eagles, moose, or Dall sheep along the rocky slopes. As we travel toward Anchorage, your guide provides entertaining narration about the region’s history—stories of early explorers, powerful earthquakes, and the unique tides that make Turnagain Arm one of the fastest-changing waterways in the world. With stunning views around every bend, this scenic drive often becomes a highlight of the journey, offering great photo opportunities when timing allows.

As we reach Anchorage, the scenery opens into Alaska’s largest and most vibrant city, surrounded by mountain ranges and coastal trails. After a smooth and scenic ride up Turnagain Arm, we make relaxed drop-offs at your destination of choice—whether that’s a hotel, Airbnb, downtown location, or the airport. Your guide is happy to help with luggage and offer recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and ideas for the rest of your day. It’s an easy, comfortable transition from your cruise to your stay in Anchorage.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Anchorage

Anchorage is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Alaska, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the 'City of Lights and Flowers,' it serves as the perfect gateway to the vast wilderness of the Last Frontier, with easy access to stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

A scenic 11-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Cook Inlet, wildlife, and the Chugach Mountains. Perfect for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

Nature 2-4 hours Free

Anchorage Museum

A premier cultural and historical museum showcasing Alaska's art, history, and indigenous cultures. Features a large collection of Alaska Native art and contemporary exhibits.

Museum 2-3 hours $20 for adults, discounts available

Chugach State Park

A vast state park offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning alpine scenery. Features over 495,000 acres of wilderness just minutes from downtown Anchorage.

Nature Half-day to full day Free

Alaska Native Heritage Center

A cultural center dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditions, history, and art of Alaska's indigenous peoples. Features live performances, cultural demonstrations, and exhibits.

Cultural 2-3 hours $25 for adults, discounts available

Flattop Mountain

A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Anchorage and the surrounding mountains. A moderate hike that is accessible year-round.

Adventure 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon

Fresh, wild-caught salmon is a staple of Alaskan cuisine, often grilled, smoked, or baked.

Main Dish Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

King Crab

Alaska is famous for its king crab, which is typically steamed or grilled and served with butter.

Main Dish Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Reindeer Sausage

A unique Alaskan specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.

Main Dish Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Baked Alaska

A classic dessert featuring layers of ice cream and cake, topped with meringue and torched.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Wildlife viewing Kayaking Dog sledding Spa treatments Scenic drives Picnicking

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Anchorage, offering the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours, known as the 'Midnight Sun.' This is the best time for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and exploring the city's attractions.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Tagalog, Other indigenous languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Anchorage is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime and theft can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise common sense and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you
• Use reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport • 12 km from city center

By bus

Downtown Anchorage Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The People Mover bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes covering most of the city. Buses are well-maintained and punctual.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Anchorage South Anchorage West Anchorage Midtown Anchorage

Day trips

Chugach National Forest

20 km from Anchorage • Half-day to full day

A vast national forest offering stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Girdwood and Alyeska Resort

40 km from Anchorage • Full day

A scenic mountain town and ski resort offering year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and the famous Alyeska Tram.

Whittier

80 km from Anchorage • Full day

A small town accessible by tunnel, offering stunning coastal scenery, wildlife viewing, and the start of the famous Prince William Sound cruise.

Festivals

Anchorage Fur Rendezvous • February Midnight Sun Festival • June Anchorage Market and Festival • May to September

Pro tips

Visit the Anchorage Museum for a comprehensive overview of Alaska's history and culture
Take a scenic flightseeing tour to fully appreciate the beauty of Alaska's landscapes
Go wildlife viewing in the early morning or late evening for the best chances of spotting animals
Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Anchorage can be unpredictable and change rapidly
Try local Alaskan cuisine, such as fresh seafood, wild game, and reindeer sausage