Whittier

Whittier rests securely at the scenic entrance to Passage Canal in Prince William Sound, positioned roughly sixty miles southeast of Anchorage as a primary gateway to south-central Alaska. Functioning as a specialized deepwater facility and the only ice-free cruise port in the region, the destination serves predominantly as a major turnaround hub where international voyages begin and end.

The harbor's marine infrastructure features the historic original dock utilized by Princess Cruises and Holland America Line. A modern double-berth pier developed by Huna Totem Corporation and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings further expands the port's capacity to accommodate larger contemporary cruise vessels seamlessly during the busy summer season.

Reaching the remote community is an extraordinary journey requiring transit through a combined railway and highway tunnel carved directly into Maynard Mountain. This unique single-lane passage stands proudly as the longest combined highway and railroad tunnel in all of North America, operating on a strict schedule during the peak summer tourist months.

Historically established during World War II as a strategic military supply seaport, the remote settlement has since evolved into a peaceful wilderness gateway. Remarkably, a vast majority of the resident population lives together within a single Cold War-era condominium complex that houses the local school, post office, and convenience store under one roof.

Framed immediately by towering snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense coastal temperate forests, the port opens into a region boasting the world's densest concentration of active tidewater glaciers. The surrounding icy waters teem with rich wildlife, including humpback whales, sea lions, playful otters, black bears, and mountain goats. Passengers stepping ashore frequently embark on immersive glacier cruises, wildlife viewing expeditions, and guided hikes through pristine wilderness areas.

Visited the remarkable glaciers at Whittier? Log this scenic getaway on your account to add it to your Passport at The Cruise Globe and see your actual route!