Getting to Anchorage from Seward.

Question

We are ending our Alaskan cruise in Seward in June. Our flight is not until 9:00 PM from Anchorage. Any suggestions on what to do that day that will get us to the airport by 6:00 PM. Also, we will have our luggage with us. As far as I can tell, we can get a transfer to the airport thru our cruise line, but that leaves us at the airport ALL day.

Answer

Since you’re ending your Alaskan cruise in Seward and have a late evening flight from Anchorage, you’ll want to maximize your day without feeling rushed, while accounting for luggage and the 2.5-3 hour drive north to Anchorage. Here’s how you can plan your day efficiently.

Travel Options from Seward to Anchorage:

Private Shuttle or Car Service: Several companies operate private or shared shuttles between Seward and Anchorage. A private shuttle can pick you up on your schedule and drop you off at the airport. Companies like Seward Shuttle and Major Marine Tours provide options.
Rental Car: If your cruise line allows, you could pick up a rental car for the day. This gives you flexibility to stop along the way for sightseeing and lunch. Make sure you leave enough time to return the car at Anchorage airport by 6:00 PM.
Cruise Line Transfer: Convenient but inflexible. You’ll arrive at the airport early and will have to wait several hours before your flight.

Things to Do on the Way or Near Seward:

Exit Glacier: A short drive from Seward, with easy trails to the glacier viewpoint. This is a great quick stop that won’t take much time.
Kenai Peninsula Scenic Drive: Take the Seward Highway north along Turnagain Arm. Stunning vistas, wildlife viewing, and pullouts for photos. You can make brief stops at Beluga Point or Potter Marsh for birdwatching and scenery.
Lunch in Girdwood or Anchorage: If driving yourself, you could stop in Girdwood for a scenic meal at Alyeska Resort, then continue to Anchorage.
Anchorage Options Before Airport: If you have luggage, consider quick stops like the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (short walk), or a drive around downtown Anchorage to see sights like the Anchorage Museum or Earthquake Park. Since you need to be at the airport by 6:00 PM, keep sightseeing short.

Suggested Itinerary:

Morning: Depart Seward after breakfast, stopping briefly at Exit Glacier.
Midday: Drive north along the Seward Highway with photo stops.
Lunch: Quick meal in Girdwood or Anchorage.
Afternoon: Optional short walk or scenic drive in Anchorage.
Late Afternoon: Arrive at Anchorage Airport by 6:00 PM for your 9:00 PM flight.

This plan balances sightseeing with travel logistics and ensures you’re not stuck at the airport for hours while still getting to experience some of Alaska’s stunning landscapes on your way to Anchorage.

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