Where to Stay in Seattle Before a Cruise: A Detailed Guide
Planning a cruise out of Seattle? You’re in for an incredible trip whether you are heading up to Alaska, down the Pacific Coast, or out across the ocean! But before you start thinking about embarkation day, there is one important detail you’ll want to nail down: where to stay in Seattle before a cruise.
As someone who lives right in downtown Seattle and has personally taken three cruises out of both Pier 66 and Pier 91 myself, I know firsthand how much smoother your departure feels when you pick the right hotel. I’ve helped plenty of visiting friends and family figure out the best places to stay near the cruise terminals, and over the years, I’ve gotten familiar with which hotels are truly convenient, which neighborhoods feel safe and walkable, and which spots offer those little extras like shuttles to the port or easy access to Pike Place Market that can make your pre-cruise stay feel like a mini vacation of its own.
In this guide, I am breaking down everything you need to know about where to stay in Seattle before a cruise. From budget-friendly hotels near the waterfront to splurge-worthy properties with stunning Elliott Bay views, you will find options that fit your style and help you start your trip off feeling relaxed and stress-free. Plus, keep reading for my top recommendations on how to spend 24 hours in Seattle before a cruise!
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Best Hotels Near Seattle’s Pier 66 (Bell Street Cruise Terminal)
The Edgewater Hotel at sunset
The Edgewater Hotel lobby, a perfect spot for morning coffee and marine life watching!
The bathrooms inside the rooms at the Edgewater Hotel are well-appointed and stunning!
The over water suites have ample seating with a fireplace!
Gorgeous clawfoot bathtubs in the rooms at the Edgewater Hotel!
Seattle downtown skyline view from one of the over water suites at the Edgewater Hotel
The Edgewater Hotel has bikes available to use for guests!
🌟 The Edgewater Hotel
Without a doubt, The Edgewater Hotel is my all-time favorite hotel in Seattle. The only downside is that, because it’s so beloved, it’s often fully booked well in advance. If you can snag a room here, even just for one night, you won’t regret it.
Perched right over Elliott Bay, The Edgewater is actually Seattle’s only over-water hotel! You can literally wake up and watch ferries sail past your window with epic mountain views in the distance. It’s the kind of place where you wake up to sea air and fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the water below.
One of my favorite things about The Edgewater is its quirky rock-and-roll history. The Beatles famously stayed here during their first U.S. tour in 1964 and even fished right out of their window! Over the years, music legends like Led Zeppelin, Pearl Jam, and The Rolling Stones have all called this place home base while visiting Seattle. And if you’re an Anthony Bourdain fan like me, you’ll appreciate knowing he stayed here, too!
Inside, the vibe is cozy and rustic Pacific Northwest: think river-rock fireplaces, warm wood beams, and luxe cabin-inspired decor. It feels equal parts upscale and relaxed, which is exactly how a pre-cruise stay should feel in my opinion.
The hotel is an easy walk to Pier 66, so if you’re cruising from Bell Street Cruise Terminal, you can roll your suitcase over without needing a cab. Plus, you’re steps from Pike Place Market and the waterfront restaurants (perfect for grabbing a last Seattle meal before you sail away!).
If you want a memorable start (or end) to your cruise, The Edgewater Hotel is hands down my top pick.
The Seattle Marriott Waterfront Hotel is located directly at Pier 66!
I highly recommend eating at Hook and Plow, located inside the Marriott Waterfront Hotel in Seattle directly across from Pier 66!
Fish and chips at Anthony Fish Bar Pier 66 in Seattle!
🌟 Seattle Marriott Waterfront Hotel
The Seattle Marriott Waterfront’s location just simply can’t be beat. It’s literally right across the street from Pier 66, making this a fabulous option if you’re sailing on a cruise out of Seattle.
Beyond the unbeatable proximity to the terminal, this hotel offers spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Elliott Bay or the downtown skyline. If you’re lucky enough to score a waterfront view, you can actually see your ship dock and feel the pre-cruise excitement build before you ever leave your room!
Inside, the vibe is polished and modern without feeling stuffy. There is a heated outdoor pool, which is one of the only ones in the area with views of the bay, and a bright, open lobby that is great for relaxing after a day of exploring.
One of my favorite things about staying here is how walkable everything is. You’re just steps from Pike Place Market, where you can grab fresh pastries, local coffee, or a quick lunch before boarding. The Seattle Aquarium is also only a couple of minutes away on foot, and if you feel like eating a meal, you’ll find excellent seafood right next door at Anthony’s Fish Bar or The Crab Pot.
If you prefer to dine at the on-site restaurant, Hook & Plow, you’ll find Pacific Northwest classics that are perfect for a laid-back dinner without ever leaving the hotel!
🌟 Inn At The Market
If you want to experience a classic Seattle stay before your cruise, Inn at the Market is such a special spot. It is tucked right inside Pike Place Market, which makes it the only hotel that is actually part of the market itself. You can walk out the door and be surrounded by flower stalls, seafood vendors, and all the energy that makes this area so iconic.
The rooms are pretty calm and modern with big windows that look out over the rooftops or the bay. Some of them have views of the ferry and the Great Wheel, and it feels pretty surreal to wake up to inside the Market!
Even though you are in the middle of everything, the hotel has a really peaceful vibe. There is a rooftop deck where you can have coffee or a glass of wine while you watch the sun set over the water. I personally think it’s one of the best hidden spots downtown.
This hotel is especially convenient if you’re sailing out of Pier 66. It is about a 10-minute walk down to the cruise terminal, or you can grab a quick Uber if you don’t feel like walking. If you want a stay that feels like a hidden little slice of Seattle, Inn at the Market has always been one of my favorite picks.
Macrina Bakery in Belltown near the Hotel Crocodile is a great spot to grab a pastry or breakfast!
One of my favorite bars, Navy Strength, is located a block away from the Hotel Crocodile!
Navy Strength Bar has a wide variety of fun cocktails to try! It’s one of my favorite bars in the city.
🌟 Hotel Crocodile
Located just up the hill a couple blocks from Pier 66, Hotel Crocodile is a great, affordable option that’s surrounded by excellent restaurants and fun nightlife.
This place has a quirky, music-inspired personality that feels very true to the Seattle 90’s aesthetic. The hotel is connected to The Crocodile, which is one of the city’s most iconic live music venues. If you’re a music fan, it’s pretty cool to stay somewhere with that kind of history. Over the years, the stage here has hosted everyone from Nirvana to Soundgarden.
The rooms are simple and clean with playful little touches in the decor. You’ll find music posters and pops of bright color that make it feel different from a typical chain hotel. It isn’t fancy, but it is comfortable and has everything you need for a night or two before your cruise.
One of the things I love most about this hotel is the neighborhood it’s in. Belltown is packed with great places to eat and grab a drink. You can easily walk to Macrina Bakery for breakfast, stop by Navy Strength for a cocktail (one of my favorite bars in the entire city!), or pop down to the waterfront to visit Olympic Sculpture Park.
🌟 Palihotel Seattle
Palihotel Seattle is located across the street from Pike Place Market and not far from Pier 66, making it a good option for visitors wanting to be near all the major attractions without paying waterfront prices.
This hotel has a boutique feel with a mix of vintage details and modern touches that make the space feel both stylish and comfortable. Rooms are cozy and thoughtfully designed. Some even look out over the Market or Elliott Bay, so you still get a sense of being close to the water.
One of the highlights here is the on-site restaurant, The Hart and The Hunter. It’s a friendly spot to grab breakfast or unwind after a day of exploring. I especially recommend trying the Eggs Benedict (my favorite!) at least once before you leave.
From the hotel, it is an easy 10 to 15-minute walk to Pier 66, which means you can take your time in the morning and stroll down to the terminal when you are ready to board. You’re also surrounded by restaurants, shops, and some of the most popular sights in downtown Seattle, so there is plenty to keep you busy. Plus, you can easily hop on the monorail to get to Seattle Center and see the Space Needle!
For travelers who want a comfortable stay in a central, well-connected location, Palihotel Seattle is a great pick that balances convenience, personality, and value.
Best Hotels Near Seattle’s Pier 91 (Smith Cove Cruise Terminal)
Unlike Pier 66, there aren’t any hotels located directly at Pier 91 in Seattle. However, catching a taxi or Uber from your hotel to Pier 91 is very easy from anywhere in the downtown area. If you’re hoping to see the classic Seattle highlights (Space Needle, Pike Place Market, etc.) while still being close to Pier 91, I recommend staying at one of the following hotels!
🌟 Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown
Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown is a solid choice if you want a little extra space to spread out before your cruise. Every room here is a suite with a full kitchen and separate living area, which can make a longer stay feel a lot more comfortable. This is also a great option if you’re traveling with a group or a family!
The location is in Lower Queen Anne, just north of the main downtown core but still close to everything. You can walk to the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Olympic Sculpture Park in about 10 minutes. Getting to Pier 91 is easy, too, with a quick taxi or rideshare taking less than 10 minutes most days.
The hotel has a relaxed, residential feel that is great for families or anyone who likes having more room. Some suites have views of Elliott Bay, and there is a little convenience store on site if you need snacks or essentials.
If you are looking for a place with extra amenities, like complimentary breakfast and kitchen space, Homewood Suites is a reliable option that still keeps you close to all the major sights!
🌟 Mediterranean Inn
Nestled in Seattle’s Lower Queen Anne neighborhood, the Mediterranean Inn is a great hotel to stay at for a night or two before your cruise.
This independent hotel has a relaxed, neighborhood feel that makes it stand out from the bigger chains. Rooms are simple and clean, with kitchenettes that come in handy if you prefer to keep snacks or prepare something quick. The beds are comfortable, and many rooms have large windows with good natural light.
Similar to Homewood Suites, the Mediterranean Inn is a short taxi ride away from Pier 91. I’d recommend calling a taxi or rideshare about 15-20 minutes prior to you desired arrival time to be on the safe side, though!
🌟 Hyatt House Seattle Downtown
In terms of proximity to Seattle’s most iconic landmark (the Space Needle!), this hotel is literally right across the street! You truly can’t get any closer.
Hyatt House Seattle Downtown rooms all feel extra spacious, as it’s technically an extended stay hotel. This setup is especially nice if you are staying a few nights or just like having a little more space to spread out before your cruise. Some rooms even have views of the Space Needle right outside your window, which makes it feel extra special.
For travelers who want modern suites, free breakfast, and an unbeatable location right next to the Space Needle, Hyatt House Seattle Downtown is a great choice!
Map of Seattle Cruise Port Hotels
Tips for Choosing a Hotel Before Your Cruise
FAQs About Seattle Cruise Port Hotels
When should I arrive in Seattle before my cruise departs?
I always recommend arriving in Seattle at least one day before your cruise if you can swing it. Flight delays, missed connections, or travel hiccups happen more often than you think, and the last thing you want is the stress of racing to the port. Showing up a day early gives you time to settle in, explore a bit, and get a good night’s sleep before boarding.
How far is Seattle’s cruise port from the airport?
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) is about 10 to 15 miles from both cruise terminals, depending on traffic. In normal conditions, you can expect the drive to take about 30 minutes, but it can be longer during peak times, especially in summer. There was one time it took me 1.5-hours to get from the airport to downtown… Make sure to pack in extra wiggle room just in case!
Taxis, rideshares, and shuttles are all easy options to get you from the airport to your hotel or directly to the cruise port. A cheaper option is to take the Link Lightrail directly from the airport to Westlake Station, and walk or Uber from there to your hotel.
Which Cruise Lines Use Seattle as a Port?
Seattle is a popular home port for Alaska cruises and West Coast cruises, so you have quite a few options. Some of the major cruise lines that sail from Seattle include:
- Royal Caribbean
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Holland America Line
- Princess Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Celebrity Cruises
There are also several other cruise lines that occasionally embark from Seattle including Oceania Cruises, Cunard Line, Hapag Lloyd Cruises, and Fred Olsen Cruise Lines. Most of these lines operate from late spring through early fall, though schedules can vary year to year.
Are there hotels that offer shuttle service to the cruise port?
A handful of hotels around Seattle offer cruise shuttle packages, but it is less common than in some other big cruising cities like Miami. I recommend calling the hotel you’re interested in directly prior to booking to double-check.
If your hotel doesn’t provide a shuttle, it’s usually just as easy to take a taxi or rideshare to the terminal, especially since the ports are both close to downtown.
After you return from your cruise, I highly recommend booking a shuttle transfer from the cruise port to the airport if you’re flying out on the same day. This will make things a million times less stressful when you’re trying to exit the cruise port area. You can check out some shuttle options to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport below depending on which pier you’re going to or from.
Do Seattle hotels offer parking while I’m on my cruise?
Some hotels do offer park and cruise packages that let you leave your car in their garage while you’re sailing, though it’s not universal. If you plan to drive, look for hotels with secure long-term parking options or consider using one of the dedicated cruise parking lots near the terminals. These lots often have shuttles that will take you right to the ship and pick you up when you return.
Based on my local knowledge, I know that the Seattle Marriott Waterfront Hotel has a “park and cruise” option for the 2025-2026 cruising season. You can add this onto your reservation after booking.
One of my favorite things to recommend people visiting Seattle is to do a food tour of Pike Place Market!
Sailing away to Alaska from Pier 91 in Seattle
View of downtown Seattle from onboard a cruise ship sailing from Pier 91 to Alaska
What should I do in Seattle the day before my cruise?
There is so much to see in Seattle, even if you only have one day to explore. One of my favorite ways to spend the day is starting at Pike Place Market, where you can grab fresh pastries, watch the fish throwers, and browse all the little shops and stalls. From there, you can walk down to the waterfront to visit the Seattle Aquarium or take a spin on the Seattle Great Wheel for views over Elliott Bay.
If you want to fit in more sightseeing without worrying about logistics, consider booking a guided tour that shows you the highlights in just a few hours. You can check out this popular Seattle city tour or this food tour of Pike Place Market if you love trying local bites.
I also put together a detailed guide on how to spend one day in Seattle that is packed with ideas and itinerary options. Whether you prefer museums like the Chihuly Garden and Glass, classic views from the Space Needle, or just wandering neighborhoods and trying good coffee, you’ll have no trouble filling the day before you sail!
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Seattle Before a Cruise
I hope this guide on where to stay in Seattle before a cruise helps you find the perfect spot to kick off your trip. Whether you are picturing a room with waterfront views, a cozy boutique hotel near Pike Place Market, or something budget-friendly but still central, there are plenty of great options to choose from!
Arriving a day early is such a good way to take the stress out of travel and give yourself time to explore a little before you board. You can spend the day wandering the market, checking out the Space Needle, or just relaxing at your hotel and watching the ferries go by.
If you’re searching for more ideas to round out your plans, feel free to take a look at my other Seattle travel guides or my tips on how to spend your port days in Alaska. I hope you have the best time exploring my city and enjoy every minute of your cruise!
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➡️ Read Next: You can read more about how to spend your time in Seattle before your cruise by checking out my “What to Do in Seattle” blog post!
