Exploring Seattle: A 2024 Guide to Cruise-Friendly Hotels Near the Port and Piers

Seattle, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant atmosphere, is not just a departure point for cruise adventures but also a destination worth exploring. Whether you're arriving a few days before or extending your stay after your cruise, we've curated a list of 12 hotels within easy walking distance of the port that offer a perfect blend of convenience and comfort.

Pier 66 vs. Pier 91: Choosing Your Location

Pier 66, nestled right in downtown Seattle, boasts an array of hotels across various price ranges, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in the heart of the city. Pier 66 is used primarily by NCL and other cruise lines. On the other hand, Pier 91, used primarily by Princess and Holland America, is a couple of miles away, and may lack nearby accommodations due to its primarily industrial and residential surroundings. However, a short ride with ride-sharing services can swiftly connect you to Pier 91 in about 10 minutes.

Cruise Destinations from Seattle: Expanding Your Horizon

Before embarking on your cruise adventure, it's exciting to know where your journey might take you. Seattle serves as the gateway to a variety of breathtaking destinations. Popular cruise itineraries from the Port of Seattle include:

1. Alaska Cruises:

   • Explore the pristine wilderness and stunning landscapes of Alaska. Cruises often include stops in ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, providing opportunities to witness glaciers, wildlife, and the mesmerizing beauty of the Last Frontier.

2. Pacific Northwest Cruises:

   • Discover the charming coastal cities of the Pacific Northwest, such as Victoria in British Columbia, Canada, and Astoria in Oregon. These cruises offer a mix of natural beauty and vibrant urban experiences.

3. California Coast Cruises:

   • Cruise down the scenic Pacific Coast, visiting ports like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Enjoy a blend of coastal charm and iconic city attractions.

4. Pacific Islands Cruises:

   • Some longer itineraries from Seattle may take you to the tropical paradise of the Pacific Islands, offering a perfect mix of sun, sea, and vibrant cultures.

5. Transpacific Cruises:

• For the adventurous traveler, consider a transpacific cruise that takes you across the Pacific Ocean to destinations in Asia or Australia. These cruises often provide an extended and immersive experience at sea.

Seattle Waterfront Marriott

High-End Haven Near Pier 66

1. Seattle Marriott Waterfront

   • Price: $$$
   • Distance to Port: Across the street
   • Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
   • Highlight: Unparalleled proximity to Pier 66, offering breathtaking bay views. About 1.5 miles from Pier 91.
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2. Inn at the Market

   • Price: $$$
   • Distance to Port: 0.5 miles
   • Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
   • Highlight: Nestled within Pike Place Market, a unique experience with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the waterfront.
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3. Hotel 1000

   • Price: $$$
   • Distance to Port: 0.1 miles
   • Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
   • Highlight: Five-star luxury with proximity to the Seattle Aquarium and the Seattle Art Museum, along with a golf simulator and full-service spa.
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4. The Edgewater Hotel

   • Price: $$$
   • Distance to Port: 0.8 miles
   • Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
   • Highlight: Historic charm, famously hosting The Beatles in 1964, offering picturesque waterfront views.
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5. Four Seasons

   • Price: $$$
   • Distance to Port: 0.6 miles
   • Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
   • Highlight: Epic location, just a block from Pike Place Market, featuring rooms with sweeping views of the waterfront.

Mid-Range Marvels Near the Seattle Cruise Port

6. Grand Hyatt

   • Price: $$-$$$
   • Distance to Port: 1 mile
   • Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
   • Highlight: Mainstream luxury with a Ruth's Chris Steakhouse and Starbucks within, offering a short ride to waterfront attractions.
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7. The Sound Hotel Seattle

   • Price: $$-$$$
   • Distance to Port: 0.5 miles
   • Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
   • Highlight: Modern and trendy vibe, a half-mile walk to Pier 66 with some rooms providing excellent views of the Space Needle.
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8. The Paramount Hotel

   • Price: $$-$$$
   • Distance to Port: 1 mile
   • Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
   • Highlight: Comfortable stay in the heart of downtown, although a bit far from the waterfront during the busy cruise season.
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9. Hyatt at Olive 8

• Price: $$-$$$
• Distance to Port: 1 mile
• Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
• Highlight: Next door to the Paramount Hotel, featuring an indoor pool and spa with city views, and a short ride from T-Mobile Park.
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Inexpensive Yet Inviting Hotels Near the Seattle Cruise Port

10. Ace Hotel

    • Price: $$
    • Distance to Port: 0.3 miles
    • Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
    • Highlight: Minimalist charm with an affordable price, just five blocks from the port.

11. Kings Inn

    • Price: $-$$
    • Distance to Port: 0.7 miles
    • Review Rating: 3.5 out of 5
    • Highlight: A throwback to the 1960s motor hotel, offering a budget-friendly option with a retro vibe.

12. La Quinta Inn

    • Price: $$
    • Distance to Port: 0.7 miles
    • Review Rating: 4 out of 5
    • Highlight: Cozy stay near the port, including Wi-Fi and breakfast, with a straightforward walk to major attractions.
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13. Moore Hotel

    • Price: $$
    • Distance to Port: 0.5 miles
    • Review Rating: 4 out of 5
    • Highlight: Trendy and hip on a budget, located minutes away from Pike Place and the port.

Note: Prices are approximate, and review ratings are sourced from Google and rounded to the nearest half point. This article contains affiliate links to TripAdvisor and more, and we may earn a commission for clicks made on their websites at no extra cost to you.

Distance from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA):

High-End Hotels Near Piers:

1. Seattle Marriott Waterfront: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.
2. Inn at the Market: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.
3. Hotel 1000: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.
4. The Edgewater Hotel: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.
5. Four Seasons: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.

Mid-Range Hotels Near Piers:

Grand Hyatt: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.

The Sound Hotel Seattle: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.

The Paramount Hotel: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.

Hyatt at Olive 8: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.

Inexpensive Hotels Near Piers:

Ace Hotel: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.

Kings Inn: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.

La Quinta Inn: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.

Moore Hotel: Approximately 15 miles from SEA.

While these hotels are not directly at the airport, Seattle has various transportation options such as shuttles, taxis, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), and public transportation, making it convenient to travel between the airport and downtown Seattle where the cruise port is located. Travel times can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions.

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Navigating the Storm: How Royal Caribbean Handled Voyager of the Seas' Recent Encounter with a Storm

Cruising enthusiasts are well aware that even the most meticulously planned voyages can encounter unexpected challenges. Recently, Royal Caribbean International faced such a situation when Voyager of the Seas experienced severe weather conditions during its January 26 sailing in the Gulf of Mexico. This incident led to flooding, water damage, and a flurry of challenges for both the crew and the upcoming group of passengers slated to board the ship the very next day. Look for a video of the storm at the end of this post! 

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Voyager of the Seas Takes a Hit:

On that fateful Friday, Voyager of the Seas battled strong winds, heavy rain, hail, and turbulent waves as it returned to Texas. The aftermath included flooding in various areas, from guest staterooms to public spaces, with images of tossed deck chairs and toppled slot machines in the casino making waves across headlines. Carnival's Dream may have experienced the worst of this storm.

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Options for Embarking Guests:

Despite the challenges faced by the crew in mitigating the damage before the next sailing, Royal Caribbean International demonstrated its commitment to guest satisfaction. The cruise line promptly reached out to the affected passengers with a heartfelt email, transparently addressing the situation.

In the email, guests were informed about the damage, residual odors, and the ongoing cleanup efforts. To ensure an enjoyable experience, the cruise line presented two options for those booked in the affected cabins on the upcoming sailing.

1. Enjoy the Cruise as Planned: Guests were given the choice to proceed with their original booking, acknowledging the condition of their stateroom. To compensate for the inconvenience, a 30% refund of the cruise fare was provided to their onboard accounts, with any remaining amount refunded to the card on file.

2. Cancel for a Full Refund: Alternatively, passengers could opt to cancel their sailing for a 100% refund, devoid of fees or penalties. Those choosing this option were also awarded a 100% future cruise credit (FCC) for the impacted booking, valid for any alternative cruise setting sail by February 1, 2025.

   
   

   

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The Show Must Go On:

Remarkably, while some guests had to make tough decisions about their bookings, the overall sailing schedule remained unaffected. Voyager of the Seas set sail for its next cruise on January 27, embarking on a 5-night Western Caribbean adventure with stops at Costa Maya and Cozumel before returning to Galveston on February 1.

As the ship continues its journeys, it's evident that Royal Caribbean International is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for its passengers, even in the face of unexpected challenges.

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Exclusive Video Footage:

For a look at how Voyager of the Seas weathered the storm and the subsequent cleanup efforts, check out our video on YouTube. Witness firsthand the resilience of the crew and the measures taken to ensure a seamless experience for future passengers.

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Conclusion:

Cruise enthusiasts understand that every journey comes with its share of adventures, and Voyager of the Seas' recent encounter with nature is a testament to the cruise industry's resilience. Royal Caribbean International's response showcases a commitment to passenger satisfaction and safety, ensuring that the show goes on, even after weathering a literal storm.

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Cunard's Queen Victoria Illness Outbreak, Enhanced Safety Protocols, and CDC's Health Tips for a Smooth Sailing Experience

In an unexpected turn of events, Queen Victoria, a distinguished Cunard Line ship, has become the center of attention as an outbreak has affected over 100 passengers and crew members during its 111-night voyage from Hamburg to Sydney. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is actively investigating the situation, with symptoms primarily manifesting as diarrhea and vomiting.  As we delve into the details of the incident, we'll also explore the enhanced safety measures implemented by Cunard Line and, crucially, review the invaluable recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure a seamless and health-conscious sailing experience for all passengers.

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CDC Investigates Health Incident:

The CDC, responsible for safeguarding public health, has reported an outbreak on Queen Victoria, operated by Carnival Corporation-owned Cunard Line. The incident unfolded during the ship's current journey, which commenced in Fort Lauderdale on January 22, 2024. Out of the 1,824 passengers and 967 crew members on board, 120 passengers and 15 crew members have reported illness.

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Cunard's Response:

As Queen Victoria embarks on its 111-night voyage, Cunard Line has risen to the challenge posed by the recent outbreak with a swift and comprehensive response. The cruise line, under the Carnival Corporation umbrella, has implemented enhanced safety protocols to safeguard the well-being of the 1,824 passengers and 967 crew members aboard. In the face of gastrointestinal concerns affecting 120 passengers and 15 crew members, Cunard has initiated rigorous cleaning and disinfection procedures. High-touch surfaces and communal areas are receiving meticulous attention, ensuring a thorough eradication of potential contaminants. Passengers who have reported illness are promptly isolated, not only to facilitate their recovery but also to prevent further transmission. Cunard's commitment to the health and safety of all on board is evident in these decisive actions, which aim to contain and manage the situation effectively. In a statement provided to FOX Business, a Cunard spokesperson emphasized the immediate activation of enhanced health and safety protocols. The cruise line is working diligently to create an environment where passengers can continue their journey with confidence, even in the face of unexpected challenges.

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Potential Causes:

While the precise causative agents of the outbreak are yet to be identified, suspicions point towards norovirus, a common illness on cruise ships and other crowded spaces. Norovirus is known for its rapid spread in enclosed environments, and the CDC is closely monitoring the situation, reviewing the ship's response, and evaluating sanitation measures.

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Similar Incidents:

Notably, the Celebrity Constellation reported the first norovirus outbreak of 2024 on its 9-night roundtrip cruise from Tampa, Florida, which departed on January 12. Sixty-eight passengers and seven crew members reported symptoms similar to those on Queen Victoria. Thirteen norovirus incidents were reported in 2023 across various cruise lines.

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Preventative Measures for Passengers:

Amid the outbreak, cruise travelers are urged to take precautionary measures to stay healthy and prevent the spread of illness. The importance of good hygiene practices, such as frequent hand washing, is emphasized. Passengers are advised on key practices like isolation, rest, hydration, opting for a bland diet, and using over-the-counter medications like meclizine if symptoms arise.

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CDC's Guidelines for Gastrointestinal Health on Cruise Ships

In light of recent outbreaks on cruise ships, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has outlined key measures to help prevent gastrointestinal illness and ensure the well-being of passengers and crew members. These recommendations are not only relevant to the current situation on Queen Victoria but also serve as valuable guidance for cruise travelers in general.

1. Frequent Hand Washing:

   • Emphasize the importance of regular and thorough hand washing with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom.

2. Use of Hand Sanitizers:

   • Encourage the use of hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are not readily available. Cruise ships typically provide hand sanitizing stations throughout the vessel.

3. Practice Good Respiratory Hygiene:

   • Remind passengers and crew members to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.

4. Isolation and Reporting of Illness:

   • Urge individuals experiencing symptoms of gastrointestinal illness, such as diarrhea and vomiting, to promptly report it to the ship's medical staff and voluntarily isolate themselves to prevent the spread of the illness.

5. Enhanced Cleaning and Disinfection:

   • Highlight the importance of cruise lines implementing enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures, targeting high-touch surfaces and common areas to minimize the risk of contamination.

6. Precautionary Measures for Food Handling:

   • Stress the significance of safe food handling practices to prevent foodborne illnesses. Passengers should be cautious when consuming raw or undercooked seafood, fruits, and vegetables.

7. Stay Informed and Follow Crew Instructions:

   • Encourage passengers to stay informed about health advisories and follow instructions from the ship's crew regarding health and safety protocols.

8. Medical Consultation for Pre-existing Conditions:

   • Remind passengers with pre-existing health conditions to consult with their healthcare providers before embarking on a cruise, ensuring they are adequately prepared for the journey.

9. Cruise Travelers' Responsibility:

   • Reinforce that preventing the spread of illness is a shared responsibility among passengers and crew. Each individual plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy and safe environment on board.

By adhering to these recommendations, cruise travelers can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable experience while minimizing the risk of gastrointestinal illness during their voyage.

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About Queen Victoria:

Queen Victoria, the smallest of Cunard's operational ships, accommodates up to 2,061 guests. Despite the recent setback, the ship, refurbished in 2017, is on a "111-Night Full World Voyage" from Hamburg, Germany, to Sydney, Australia. Stops include Bermuda, Florida, Aruba, Mexico, California, Hawaii, Fiji, and New Zealand. The cruise is proceeding as planned, underlining the commitment to the health and safety of passengers and crew as a top priority.

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In conclusion, while the unfortunate outbreak has raised concerns, the cruise industry is taking prompt and thorough measures to address the situation. The ongoing CDC investigation will likely shed light on the root cause, providing valuable insights for future preventative measures in the cruise industry. This has been an interesting week in cruise events, like the storm that Carnival Dream cruise ship experienced in the Gulf of Mexico! 

 

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