Best Seattle Hotels With Shuttle to Cruise Port

If you’re heading to Seattle for an Alaskan cruise, spending at least one night in the city before embarkation day is a good idea. But there’s one little detail that can make your pre-cruise plans much easier: choosing one of the Seattle hotels with shuttle to cruise port service.

Seattle is a major cruise home port on the West Coast, with ships from Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and other major cruise lines sailing to Alaska throughout the cruise season.

The tricky part? Seattle has two different cruise terminals, and they aren’t right next to each other.

That means the best cruise hotel isn’t necessarily the hotel closest to the waterfront. Depending on your cruise line, budget, and sightseeing plans, a downtown hotel with cruise shuttle service may actually be the most convenient choice.

Below, I’ve rounded up some of the best Seattle cruise hotels with shuttle options, along with what you need to know about getting from Sea-Tac Airport to your hotel and from your hotel to the ship.

Important: Hotel shuttle services, schedules, prices, and cruise packages can change from season to season. Always confirm current transportation arrangements directly with the hotel before making a non-refundable reservation.

Quick Guide: Seattle Hotels With Cruise Port Shuttle Service

If you want the short version, these are some of the strongest options to consider:

Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown – My top pick for convenience, especially if you want to explore Seattle before your cruise. The hotel currently partners with a third-party transportation company offering scheduled transportation to both Pier 66 and Pier 91.

Mediterranean Inn – An excellent option near Seattle Center with an inexpensive cruise shuttle to both Seattle cruise terminals.

Seattle Marriott Waterfront – Particularly convenient for cruise passengers and currently offers a cruise package that includes transportation for two to Pier 91.

AC Hotel Seattle Downtown – Offers a Stay & Cruise package that includes one-way transportation to either Pier 66 or Pier 91.

Hyatt Regency Seattle – A polished downtown option offering arranged shuttle service to both Seattle cruise terminals.

Hyatt at Olive 8 – Another central Hyatt option with cruise terminal transportation available through the hotel.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Seattle-Sea-Tac Airport – Worth considering if your priority is airport convenience rather than downtown sightseeing. The hotel offers a complimentary Sea-Tac Airport shuttle and can arrange paid transportation to both cruise terminals.

Let’s look at each one more closely.

First, Know Which Seattle Cruise Terminal You Need

Before choosing your hotel, check your cruise documents to see which terminal your ship uses.

Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91

The Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 is north of downtown Seattle and is the home port for many Alaska sailings.

Cruise lines using Pier 91 include:

• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises
• Virgin Voyages

Pier 91 is approximately a 10-minute drive from downtown Seattle and the Space Needle under normal traffic conditions, although cruise day traffic can add time.

If you’re sailing from Pier 91, I wouldn’t choose a hotel simply because it looks close on a map. The area immediately surrounding the cruise ship terminal isn’t where most visitors will want to spend their pre-cruise night.

Instead, staying near Seattle Center, the Space Needle, or downtown Seattle gives you easy access to nearby attractions while still keeping you a short drive from your ship.

Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66

The Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 is located directly on the Seattle waterfront.

This is the more convenient Seattle cruise terminal if you’re staying downtown because you’re close to Pike Place Market and many of the city’s biggest attractions.

Norwegian Cruise Line is the primary cruise line using Pier 66, although cruise line assignments can change. Always verify the pier listed on your cruise documents before departure.

1. Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown

Best overall for: First-time Seattle visitors

For many cruise passengers, Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown may offer the best combination of location, comfortable accommodations, sightseeing and cruise-day convenience.

The hotel sits directly across from the Space Needle in the Seattle Center area, putting you within walking distance of attractions like Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture and the Seattle Monorail.

For the 2026 cruise season, the hotel partners with a third-party transportation company providing shuttle service to both Pier 66 and Pier 91 for $12 per person, including luggage transfers. Shuttles currently leave at the top of every hour between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., and reservations can be made with the front desk after arrival.

That’s an unusually straightforward arrangement for Seattle.

Guest rooms also include free Wi-Fi, and the hotel has a fitness center and 24-hour guest laundry.

Another advantage is getting here from Sea-Tac Airport. You can take Link Light Rail from the airport to Westlake Station and then take the Seattle Monorail to Seattle Center. From there, the hotel is only a short walk away.

Why I like it for cruise passengers

You don’t have to sacrifice your Seattle experience just to make cruise day easier.

Spend the afternoon seeing the Space Needle and Seattle Center, get a good night’s sleep, and then let someone else deal with getting your luggage to the cruise terminal the next morning.

Best for: Couples, families and first-time Seattle visitors who want sightseeing plus an easy cruise transfer.

2. Mediterranean Inn

Best overall value near Seattle Center

The Mediterranean Inn is another excellent choice for cruisers, particularly if you’re sailing from Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91.

Located in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood near Seattle Center, it provides easy access to restaurants and many of Seattle’s most popular attractions.

More importantly for cruise passengers, the hotel currently offers transportation to both Pier 66 and Pier 91 for $10 per person.

Cruise shuttle sign-ups are taken at check-in rather than in advance, so ask the front desk about available departure times as soon as you arrive.

The hotel can also coordinate transportation from Sea-Tac Airport for an additional charge.

Why I like it for cruise passengers

This is one of those practical cruise hotels that makes sense.

You’re close enough to Seattle Center to actually enjoy your pre-cruise stay, but you also have an inexpensive transportation option to the ship the next morning.

For couples, the per-person shuttle price may be especially attractive compared with arranging a private shuttle.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, couples and cruisers departing from Pier 91.

3. Seattle Marriott Waterfront

Best for: Waterfront location and Pier 91 cruises

If you’d rather turn your pre-cruise night into part of the vacation, Seattle Marriott Waterfront deserves a look.

The hotel is located along the Seattle waterfront, putting you close to Pike Place Market and many downtown attractions.

For the 2026 Alaska cruise season, Marriott is offering a Cruise Away With Ease package that includes an overnight stay and shuttle transportation for two passengers to Pier 91.

That makes this an especially interesting option for passengers sailing with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises or other cruise lines departing from Smith Cove.

Why I like it for cruise passengers

Location, location, location.

You’re staying along the Seattle waterfront rather than treating your hotel as nothing more than somewhere to sleep.

Spend your pre-cruise afternoon exploring Pike Place Market and the waterfront, enjoy dinner downtown, and wake up knowing transportation to Pier 91 is already part of your cruise package.

Just compare the package rate with the regular room rate plus separate transportation before booking.

Best for: Couples who want a nicer pre-cruise experience and easy transportation to Pier 91.

4. AC Hotel Seattle Downtown

Best for: Travelers who want transportation included in the hotel package

The AC Hotel Seattle Downtown is another appealing option because Marriott currently offers a Stay & Cruise Package.

The package includes a night’s stay and one-way transportation to either Pier 66 or Pier 91.

That’s important because you don’t have to choose this hotel based on your cruise line. Whether you’re boarding Norwegian Cruise Line at Bell Street or Princess Cruises or Holland America Line at Smith Cove, the transportation can be arranged to the appropriate Seattle cruise terminal.

The hotel also offers private car service to the cruise terminals, Sea-Tac Airport and other destinations for an additional fee.

Why I like it for cruise passengers

There’s something wonderfully relaxing about eliminating one more decision from cruise morning.

Instead of waking up and checking rideshare prices while wondering how much room you’re going to need for your luggage, your transfer can already be part of your plans.

Best for: Travelers who prefer a cruise package with transportation built into their night’s stay.

5. Hyatt Regency Seattle

Best for: A more upscale downtown stay

If you’d like to stay in the heart of Seattle before your cruise, Hyatt Regency Seattle is a strong option.

The hotel is approximately one mile from Bell Street Pier 66 and about three miles from Smith Cove Pier 91.

The hotel confirms that shuttle service can be arranged to Seattle’s cruise terminals. Contact the concierge or front desk in advance to confirm current pricing, availability and departure times for your sailing date.

Its central location also puts you within easy reach of downtown Seattle attractions, restaurants and public transit.

Why I like it for cruise passengers

This is a great choice when you want the hotel itself to feel like part of the vacation rather than choosing purely on price.

You’re centrally located for exploring Seattle and still have a convenient way to arrange transportation to the cruise port.

Best for: Couples looking for a more upscale downtown hotel before an Alaska cruise.

6. Hyatt at Olive 8

Best for: Downtown sightseeing plus arranged cruise transportation

Another downtown hotel worth considering is Hyatt at Olive 8.

Like the Hyatt Regency, it’s approximately one mile from Pier 66 and about three miles from Pier 91.

The hotel offers cruise terminal shuttle service with convenient pickup and departure times to both Seattle cruise ship piers. Transportation can be reserved through the concierge and charged to your guest room.

This central location also makes it easy to reach Pike Place Market, the Seattle waterfront and other downtown attractions.

Why I like it for cruise passengers

It offers the combination I look for in a good pre-cruise hotel: a central location for sightseeing plus a transportation plan for embarkation morning.

You don’t need to stay beside the cruise ship terminal to make cruise day convenient.

Best for: Travelers who want a nicer downtown stay and easy access to sightseeing.

7. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Seattle-Sea-Tac Airport

Best for: Airport convenience and complimentary breakfast

Not every cruise passenger needs to stay in downtown Seattle.

If you’re flying into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) late in the day and simply need a comfortable night’s stay before your cruise, staying near Sea-Tac Airport can make sense.

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Seattle-Sea-Tac Airport offers a complimentary 24-hour airport shuttle along with free breakfast.

For cruise passengers, the hotel can arrange transportation to Pier 66 or Pier 91. Current information lists cruise transportation through a third-party provider for approximately $20 per person each way; reservations can be made through the front desk.

Why I like it for cruise passengers

This isn’t the hotel I’d choose if I had an entire afternoon to explore Seattle.

But if my flight landed at 9:30 p.m.?

Absolutely.

Take the complimentary shuttle from Sea-Tac Airport, sleep, grab the complimentary breakfast and head to the cruise port the following morning.

Sometimes convenience wins.

Best for: Late arrivals, budget-conscious travelers and passengers who aren’t planning to sightsee before their cruise.

What About Hyatt Place Seattle/Downtown?

You’ll often see Hyatt Place Seattle/Downtown mentioned on lists of Seattle cruise hotels, and the location is certainly convenient.

It’s close to Seattle Center and only a few blocks from the Space Needle. Guest rooms are spacious, complimentary breakfast is included for registered guests and free Wi-Fi is available.

However, because cruise transportation arrangements can change, I would contact the front desk directly and confirm the current cruise shuttle situation before booking specifically for that reason.

If transportation works for your sailing date, the location of the Hyatt Place makes it a very appealing option.

Should You Stay Near Pier 91?

Probably not — at least not for the sole purpose of being close to your ship.

Smith Cove Cruise Terminal is located north of the main downtown area, and there isn’t a large collection of traditional cruise hotels immediately surrounding the terminal.

A better strategy is usually to stay near Seattle Center or downtown Seattle and take a hotel shuttle, private shuttle, taxi or rideshare to Pier 91 on cruise day.

That gives you much better access to restaurants and nearby attractions during your pre-cruise stay.

Should You Stay Near Pier 66?

This is a different story.

Because the Bell Street Cruise Terminal is directly on the Seattle waterfront, downtown hotels can put you within a short distance of your ship.

Depending on your hotel, mobility and amount of luggage, you may technically be within walking distance.

But here’s my rule:

Just because Google Maps says I can walk somewhere doesn’t mean I want to drag cruise luggage there.

For many cruise passengers, paying for a short transfer is worth the peace of mind.

Seattle Cruise Hotel or Sea-Tac Airport Hotel?

This decision mostly depends on when your flight arrives.

Stay downtown or near Seattle Center if:

• You arrive early enough to explore Seattle.
• You’ve never visited the city before.
• You want to see Pike Place Market.
• You want to visit the Space Needle or Seattle Center.
• You want restaurants and attractions within walking distance.
• You’d like your pre-cruise night to feel like part of your vacation.

Stay near Sea-Tac Airport if:

• Your flight arrives late.
• You’re mainly looking for an affordable night’s stay.
• Complimentary airport transportation is important.
• You’re not planning to sightsee.
• You simply want to sleep, have breakfast and head to the cruise ship terminal.

For most first-time visitors arriving by mid-afternoon, I’d choose Seattle Center or downtown.

You came all the way to the Pacific Northwest. You might as well see a little of Seattle before sailing away.

Getting From Sea-Tac Airport to Your Seattle Hotel

Sea-Tac Airport is south of downtown Seattle, so airport transportation and cruise port transportation are two separate pieces of your trip.

Don’t assume a hotel advertising an airport shuttle also provides complimentary transportation to the Seattle cruise port.

In fact, that’s relatively uncommon.

Your main transportation choices from Sea-Tac Airport include:

• Link Light Rail
• Taxi
• Rideshare
• Private shuttle
• Hotel-arranged transportation

If you’re staying downtown and traveling fairly light, public transit can be a convenient way to reach the downtown area.

If you’re traveling with larger groups, children or several pieces of cruise luggage, a private shuttle may be worth the additional cost.

Private Cruise Port Shuttles in Seattle

You don’t necessarily need a hotel with its own shuttle.

Several transportation companies provide door-to-door cruise shuttle services between Sea-Tac Airport, local hotels and Seattle’s cruise terminals.

This can be particularly useful for larger groups.

Instead of paying a per-person hotel shuttle fee or splitting everyone between several rideshare vehicles, compare the price of a private shuttle or van.

Private transportation can also give you more control over departure times on cruise day.

When comparing options, calculate the total cost for your group, not simply the advertised per-person price.

For two passengers, a hotel shuttle may be the better deal.

For eight passengers with luggage, the math can change quickly.

How Early Should You Leave Your Hotel on Cruise Day?

Follow the arrival instructions provided by your cruise line rather than simply heading to the port first thing in the morning.

Your cruise documents should provide your scheduled terminal arrival or check-in window.

When reserving hotel shuttles or cruise shuttle services, give yourself enough time for Seattle traffic, luggage loading and potential congestion around the cruise terminal.

This is especially important at Smith Cove during the busy Alaska cruise season.

And please don’t plan to arrive in Seattle by plane the same morning your ship departs unless you truly have no other choice.

A night’s stay before an Alaskan cruise isn’t an unnecessary expense.

It’s travel insurance for your sanity.

Which Cruise Lines Sail From Seattle?

Seattle is one of the most important Alaska cruise home ports in the United States.

During the cruise season, you’ll find sailings from major cruise lines including:

• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Carnival Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises
• Oceania Cruises and other cruise lines on select itineraries

Cruise line terminal assignments can change, so always use the terminal listed on your final cruise documents rather than relying on an older article or previous sailing.

My Pick: Where Would I Stay Before a Seattle Cruise?

If I had one full afternoon or evening in Seattle before an Alaskan cruise, I’d stay near Seattle Center or downtown rather than at Sea-Tac Airport.

For overall convenience, Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown would be near the top of my list.

You’re across from the Space Needle, have easy access to Seattle Center and currently have an inexpensive scheduled shuttle option to either cruise terminal.

The Mediterranean Inn is another strong choice, especially if you’re trying to keep the cost of your pre-cruise night reasonable.

For a more elevated start to the trip, I’d look at the Seattle Marriott Waterfront, particularly when its cruise package is available.

If I landed late at Sea-Tac Airport, however, I’d change strategies completely and stay near the airport. At that point, I don’t need sightseeing.

I need a bed.

Useful Things to Know Before Booking a Seattle Cruise Hotel

Before making your reservation, double-check these details:

• Which Seattle cruise terminal your ship uses
• Whether the cruise shuttle runs on your departure date
• Whether advance reservations are required
• Current shuttle cost
• Whether luggage is included
• Shuttle departure times
• Maximum group size
• Whether the service is provided by the hotel or a third party
• Hotel cancellation policy
• Whether your rate is refundable

I especially recommend verifying transportation again shortly before your trip. Hotel shuttle partnerships and cruise packages can change between cruise seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seattle Hotels With Cruise Shuttles

Ready to Find Your Seattle Hotel?

Staying in Seattle before your cruise gives you time to settle in, explore the city, and start your vacation without rushing to the ship on embarkation morning.

Need Help Planning Your Alaska Cruise?

Still deciding on a cruise line, itinerary, cabin, or pre-cruise plans? I can help you put together an Alaska vacation that fits the way you want to travel.

Final Thoughts: Best Seattle Hotels With Shuttle to Cruise Port

Choosing the right hotel before your cruise doesn’t have to mean finding the building physically closest to your ship.

In Seattle, I think the better approach is choosing a hotel that gives you the combination of location, comfortable accommodations and reliable transportation that works for your trip.

If you’re arriving early, stay near Seattle Center or in the heart of Seattle and spend some time at Pike Place Market, the Space Needle or along the Seattle waterfront.

If you’re arriving late, take advantage of a Sea-Tac Airport hotel with complimentary airport transportation and arrange your cruise shuttle for the next morning.

Either way, arriving one day early and having your transportation planned before cruise day gives you something every cruiser could use a little more of:

Peace of mind.

Then all that’s left is getting aboard — and watching Seattle disappear behind you as your Alaska cruise begins.

💌 Want More Alaska Travel Tips?

Planning an Alaska cruise can feel like a lot—especially when you’re trying to figure out where to stay, what to pack, and how to make the most of every port.

Join the Costa Bella Travel newsletter for Alaska cruise tips, destination guides, hotel recommendations, and practical advice to help you plan your trip with confidence.

🌎 Keep Exploring

Planning an Alaska cruise from Seattle? These guides can help you plan the rest of your trip, from navigating the cruise terminals to spending a little extra time exploring the Pacific Northwest.

🚢 Seattle Cruise Port Guide
Not sure whether your ship leaves from Pier 66 or Pier 91? My complete Seattle Cruise Port guide covers the terminals, transportation, parking, and what to expect before embarkation.
→ Read the Seattle Cruise Port Guide

🇨🇦 One Day in Vancouver
Adding Vancouver to your Pacific Northwest or Alaska cruise vacation? This one-day itinerary will help you make the most of a short stay in the city.
→ Discover How to Spend One Day in Vancouver

🍁 Things to Do in Vancouver in September
Traveling during Alaska’s beautiful late-season months? Discover some of the best things to do in Vancouver in September, including seasonal activities, neighborhoods, parks, and events.
→ Explore Vancouver in September

🧳 Alaska Cruise Packing Guide
Once the hotel is booked, it’s time to figure out what goes in the suitcase. Use my Alaska packing guide to prepare for changing weather, port days, and life onboard.
→ See What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise