3 Must-Do Activities Before Boarding Your Seattle Cruise

Several cruise lines make departures from Seattle’s cruise terminals (Pier 91 / Smith Cove and Pier 66 / Bell Street Pier) including Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Silversea Cruises.

Some of the main cruising itineraries from Seattle include:

• Alaska cruises — many 7-day round-trip itineraries stopping in places like Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Sitka, Ketchikan, etc. 
• Pacific Northwest & Canadian stops (e.g. Victoria, British Columbia) often included as parts of Alaska itineraries or shorter cruises. 
• Longer / more varied itineraries: Hawaii, Asia, South Pacific, or repositioning cruises offered during certain seasons.

If you cruise from Seattle, arriving a day or two ahead can transform your trip from rushed to relaxing. Here are three standout activities to enjoy before you set sail:

• Seattle Aquarium
  Located along Elliott Bay at Pier 59, this hands-on facility offers immersive marine exhibits like “Window on Washington Waters” and the Underwater Dome. Reserve your ticket in advance and spend an hour or two exploring local sea life.

• Chihuly Garden & Glass
  Nestled beside the Space Needle, this stunning exhibit showcases Dale Chihuly’s dramatic glass sculptures across gardens, galleries, and a soaring glasshouse. Budget 1–2 hours to tour at your own pace.

• Space Needle Observation Deck
  Go up during sunset for sweeping 360° views of the Seattle skyline, Cascades, and Olympic Mountains. Consider getting a combo ticket with Chihuly and timing your visit so you catch both in one evening.

Bonus Tip:
We chose not to focus on Pike Place Market in this list because some of its signature experiences—like the fish toss—have changed. Instead, if time allows, stroll the waterfront and explore nearby dining options to round out your day.

Taking these steps before your cruise gives you breathing room, lets you adjust to travel fatigue, and ensures you get a taste of Seattle’s highlights before you sail.