Uber to Anchorage Airport
Does anyone have current information whether there are Uber drivers based in or near Seward? Our cruise ship bus transfer service will not get us to the airport with sufficient time for check-in on 31 July. We have submitted an Uber booking request however no driver has been allocated.
Good question. Short answer: calling an Uber from Seward all the way to Anchorage Airport is very risky / unreliable, and most people strongly recommend booking a shuttle or private transfer instead. Here’s a breakdown of what the current situation seems to be and your better alternatives.
What Does the Current Info Say About Uber in Seward?
- On the Uber website, Seward, AK *is listed* as a place where you can request a ride. But Uber itself notes that “pickup times in Seward may be longer than in bigger cities,” and suggests “reserving a ride in advance” (up to 90 days ahead).
- According to Seward City Tours’ local guide, though: “No Uber or Lyft in Seward.” This contradiction suggests that while Uber *technically* operates, in practice drivers may be very scarce or not available for long-distance trips.
- On Reddit, users have reported that relying on Uber for a long ride from Seward to Anchorage is not a good idea:
> “Definitely don’t Uber … most just decline those rides.”
> “No, uber is nonexistent in Kenai/cooper landing … Book a shuttle or look … for a charter.”
> “Find either a bus, train or a private car transport in advance … don’t rely on an Uber.”
Better (More Reliable) Alternatives to Get from Seward to Anchorage Airport
- Red Eye Rides Shuttle: This is a well-used shuttle service. They run from Seward to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Their one-way rate is $125, according to their pricing.
- Seward-Anchorage Direct Bus: Seward Alaska Bus / Transportation service offers a direct bus from Seward to Anchorage (airport included). They note a 2.5–3 hour travel time.
- Private Transportation with Alaska Transfer: This is a private car / van / SUV service that you can pre-book. They pick up from cruise port or local Seward hotels, and can take you directly to Anchorage Airport on your schedule.
My Assessment & Recommendation
Given what you reported — that no Uber driver has accepted your ride request — the most likely issue is that there simply aren’t many (or any) Uber drivers in Seward who are willing to drive the long route to Anchorage Airport. Even if there *were*, it's a very long trip (2.5–3 hours), which makes it less attractive to rideshare drivers.
For reliability and peace of mind (especially with a flight to catch), I would strongly recommend booking either:
- The Red Eye Rides shuttle (affordable, fixed schedule) or
- A private transfer with Alaska Transfer, which gives you more control on timing and comfort.
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