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Whittier On Your Own |
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The 9 Top Things to do in Whittier |
Orientation
Your ship--either the Island Princess, the Coral Princess or the Diamond Princess--will make port at the Whittier cruise ship dock, located at the southern end of the town. Whittier is about 60 miles away from Anchorage, so you've got to make arrangements to get to Anchorage from Whittier if you're arriving, or from Anchorage to Whittier if you're headed south on your cruise.
Anchorage to Whittier Shuttles
You have three options if you're transiting from Anchorage to Whittier for your cruise: taking the Alaska Railroad, taking a shuttle bus, or driving a rental car. Make sure to make reservations for your transit well in advance. The trip is an especially scenic one, so enjoy it!
Alaska Railroad's Glacier Discovery train The Alaska Railroad's Glacier Discovery train leaves Anchorage daily at 10:00 am, arriving in Whittier at noon. The return leg departs Whittier at 6:45 pm arriving in Anchorage at 9:30 pm. This service is available seasonally from mid-May to mid-September.
There are a number of shuttle operators that ferry passengers from Anchorage to Whittier, and return. The scenic trip takes approximately 1½ to 2 hours. These include:
Avis Rent-A-Car offers one-way rentals from Anchorage to Whittier, or vice versa. You've got to plan your journey to ensure your time through the Whittier Tunnel. Here's the tunnel schedule. Tel: (800) 331-1212.
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Shopping in Whittier
If you're looking to stock up on some last minute provisions before your cruise, the most convenient spot in Whittier is at the Anchor Inn's store, located in downtown Whittier. Another place to find provisions is the Whittier Harbor Store, located at Lot 8, in the Small Boat Harbor.
Port of Call Gallery This little shop, run by Meagan Zimplemann, is a fun place to visit if you'll spend some time in Whittier before your cruise departs, or before you head off to Anchorage and your flight home. Features an interesting collection of Alaskan craft products (soap, syrup, honey), Alaska books and post cards, Alpaca and Llama Wear, jewelry and art works from local artists.
Located on Harbor Loop Drive, next to the Inn at Whittier
(907) 440-8840
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Whittier offers a limited dining scene, due to its size. Nonetheless, good food can be found in Whittier
To see the locations of recommended Whittier restaurants, see our Whittier restaurant map.
Recommended restaurants in Whittier
Varly's Swiftwater Seafood Cafe
Seafood
"Home of the Left Handed Halibut." Featuring the freshest shrimp, halibut and rockfish of any coastal town, straight from the icy waters of Prince William Sound. Each order is hand battered with their own secret recipe. They also make delicious home-made clam and seafood chowder; try their home-made rhubarb crisp for dessert. Open Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 am to 9:00 pm; Friday and Saturday 11:30 am to 10:00 pm.
Located at the end of the triangle in downtown Whittier
(907) 472-2550
Anchor Inn
Seafood
The Anchor Inn offers breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. This is a cozy place to eat if you want to get a feel for the town. You may find fisherman, locals or visitors from out of town in here for a bite to eat as most any time of the day.
Located in downtown Whittier
(907) 472-2354
The Inn at Whittier
Seafood
The Inn at Whittier's 150 seat dining room and lounge looks out upon the scenic Whittier harbor with unparalleled views of Prince William Sound. Relax and enjoy our diverse menu featuring fresh seafood from the Sound.
Located at 5A Harbor Loop Road
(907) 472-3200
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Recommended Hotel in Whittier
Inn at Whittier
5A Harbor Loop Road
Whittier
Tel: (907) 472-3200
At the mouth of the harbor in Whittier stands Alaska's newest luxury lodging & dining establishment, the Inn at Whittier. The Inn is a four story structure, the centerpiece of which is a lighthouse tower standing some 70 feet above ground and boasting spectacular views of Prince William Sound. There are three main floors, the first of which houses the restaurant and bar, as well as other comfortable public spaces. Additional restaurant seating can be found on the second level of the dining room with guest rooms on both the second and third floors. The Inn features 25 lavishly-appointed guest rooms, including two townhouse suites.
Recommended Hotels in Girdwood
Alyeska Resort
Girdwood
Tel: (907) 754-2111
Reservations: (800) 880-3880
Alyeska Resort is Alaska's premier year-round destination, and features the 304-room Hotel Alyeska. Nestled in a a lush valley surrounded by mountain peaks, hanging glaciers and ocean views, The Hotel Alyeska offers guests luxurious accommodations and convenient access into the Alaskan wilderness. Having recently gone through a comprehensive renovation, the hotel features plush new carpets, Serta Presidential Pillow Top Mattresses, luxurious interior decor, as well as complimentary high-speed internet access in all guest rooms and wi-fi access in all public areas on the second and third floors. Hotel amenities include a 60-passenger aerial scenic tram, a saltwater pool, whirlpool & fitness center, easy access to open space, nature trails & walking paths, the Seven Glaciers Restaurant, the Spa at Alyeska, unique dining & shops and Starbucks in-room coffee.
Recommended Hotels in Anchorage
Expensive (more than $200/night)
Anchorage Marriott Downtown
820 West 7th Avenue
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 279-8000
Reservations: (800) 228-9290
The Anchorage Marriott is the only full-service luxury hotel in Anchorage. Guest rooms have oversized picture windows that frame striking views of downtown Anchorage, the city Parkstrip, the Chugach Mountain Range and the Cook Inlet. Located in the heart of the city, the Anchorage Marriott Downtown is within walking distance to businesses, shopping, dining, the Anchorage Convention District, the Performing Arts Center, the Anchorage Museum and more.
Crowne Plaza Anchorage Mid-Town
109 West International Airport Road
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 433-4100
Reservations: (877) 348-2424
Located in midtown Anchorage, the Crowne Plaza Mid-Town hotel is just minutes from downtown, shopping, the Alaska Railroad Station, H2Oasis, the Convention Center, the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Zoo. A complimentary shuttle is offered to the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, sited just 2 miles away. On-site amenities include the Juno restaurant and lounge, fitness center, indoor saline pool and spa. The rooms are appointed with generously-sized work desks, free wireless and wired high-speed Internet access. The hotel also includes a business center and a concierge floor.
Hilton Anchorage
500 West 3rd Avenue
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 272-7411
Reservations: (800) 245-2527
Located in the heart of downtown Anchorage, the Hilton Anchorage hotel is just a 10 minute drive from Ted Stevens International Airport, one block from the Alaska Railroad Depot and within walking distance of over 100 dining options in and surrounding the downtown area. Amenities include a Starbucks Coffee Kiosk, fitness center, an indoor heated swimming pool and steam rooms. The guest rooms are appointed with comfortable furniture including work stations and high speed internet access. All rooms also feature "The Bed by Hilton," with luxurious top mattress sets, down comforter and plush pillows. Most rooms feature magnificent views of the Chugach Mountain Range, Cook Inlet or cityscape.
Historic Anchorage Hotel
330 E Street
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 272-4553
Reservations: (800) 544-0988
Elegantly restored and furnished, the Anchorage Hotel is the only hotel among Anchorage historic properties and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This boutique hotel offers 26 recently-refurbished rooms and suites. Its amenities include a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast, high-speed internet access, and a 24-hour concierge. The hotel is a 100% non-smoking facility.
Hotel Captain Cook
935 West 5th Avenue
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 276-6000
Reservations: (800) 843-1950
The Hotel Captain Cook--Alaska's only member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts Worldwide--is Anchorage's only true luxury hotel. Each of the hotel's 547 rooms and suites offer a stunning view, whether it's of the neighboring Cook Inlet or the Chugach Mountains. The hotel is located near Anchorage's best cultural, retail and natural highlights, including the 5th Avenue Mall, the Alaska Center for Performing Arts, the Convention Center and the scenic, 10+ mile Coastal Trail. Hotel amenities include four outstanding and distinctive restaurants, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, separate men's & women's Athletic Club and martini, wine and gourmet coffee bars.
Millennium Alaskan Hotel Anchorage
4800 Spenard Road
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 243-2300
Reservations: (800) 544-0553
Situated on the shores of scenic Lake Spenard, just one mile from Anchorage International Airport and four miles from downtown Anchorage, the Millennium Alaskan Hotel is the perfect starting point to explore the many wonders Alaska has to offer. The hotel's spacious accommodations include Alaskan decor in each of their 248 guest rooms, including Club Level rooms. Amenities include a health club with sauna, whirlpool and steam room, as well as complimentary shuttle service to the airport and downtown shopping.
Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa
401 East Sixth Avenue
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 276-8700
Reservations: (800) 325-3535
The recently-remodeled Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa boasts some of the finest lodging in Anchorage. The Sheraton is an ideal base for exploring the city, with businesses, restaurants and shopping within easy walking distance. The hotel's 370 guest rooms each feature 42" flat screen TVs, refrigerators and High Speed Internet Access. The 100% smoke-free hotel's amenities include a complimentary 24-Hour Fitness Facility, a large variety of spa and massage services, shuttle bus and a business center.
Moderate (between $100 and $200/night)
Anchorage Grand Hotel
505 West 2nd Avenue
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 929-8888
Reservations: (888) 800-0640
The Anchorage Grand Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel featuring 31 suites with fully-equipped kitchens. The hotel is located in downtown Anchorage, within walking distance of all that downtown has to offer, including the Performing Arts Center, Convention Center and the Museum of History and Art. Originally built in 1950, the hotel underwent a complete interior renovation beginning in 2000. The charm of the hotel's original structure is blended with the luxury of modern amenities, providing guests with a unique experience. Amenities include continental breakfast, morning newspaper and wireless internet access.
Coast International Inn
3450 Aviation Avenue
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 243-2233
Reservations: (800) 544-0986
A favorite Alaskan hotel for over 20 years, the Coast International Inn is renowned for its friendly hotel service, comfortable guest rooms, and dining choices. The hotel features waterfront accommodations on Lake Hood, minutes from the airport, shopping, entertainment and downtown Anchorage. The hotel also features hotel features 24 hour complimentary airport shuttle service, a 24-hour fitness facility and complimentary parking.
Inlet Tower Hotel & Suites
1200 L Street
Anchorage
Tel: (907) 276-0110
Reservations: (800) 544-0786
At every turn, postcard perfect views are just outside your window at Inlet Tower Hotel & Suites, the preferred boutique lodging choice among Anchorage hotels. Situated just south of downtown, you can take the hotel's shuttle or walk to great shopping, the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, the Convention Center, the Anchorage Museum and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail – an incredible place for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. Amenities include free in-room gourmet coffee, free local calls, complimentary high-speed Internet access, free breakfast every morning and free 24-Hour Shuttle Service to downtown and the airport.
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Tour Operators in Whittier
Lazy Otters Charters Travel aboard the Explorer with Captain Mike Bender and discover the waters of beautiful Western Prince William Sound. Whether you are interested in a personalized day cruise, scuba diving, kayak transport or viewing whales, wildlife and glaciers, Captain Mike can customize a tour for you. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Toll Free: (800) 587-6887
Tel: (907) 472-6887, from May 15 to September 14
Sound Eco Adventures Sound Eco Adventures specializes in whale watching, glacier, wildlife and nature photography tours aboard a custom-built, 30-foot 6-passenger boat. The company is run by Capt. Gerry Sanger, a long-time Alaskan marine wildlife biologist with 22 years of experience leading eco tours of the Prince William Sound. You will see awe-inspiring scenery and a variety of wildlife on all tours. Longer day tours include an optional beach stop. Captain Gerry's expertise and the boat's unique capabilities are value-added benefits not available on other tour boats, large or small. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Toll Free: (888) 471-2312
Honey Charters Honey Charters offers private, personalized kayaking, sightseeing and custom charter adventures in Prince William Sound from Whittier. The company operates three custom-built vessels to carry groups up to 30 passengers. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Tel: (907) 472-2493
Prince William Sound Eco-Charters Prince William Sound Eco-Charters was established in 2000 by a seasoned captain, familiar with the Sound and the winds and seas that affect it. Whether your interests lie in fishing, sightseeing, photography or other destinations around the Sound, Prince William Sound Eco-Charters is ready to meet your needs. Their new boat, the Eye of the Storm, is a tunnel-hull, USCG inspected boat holds up to 12 passengers. It features many new and unique systems, and is fast, roomy, smooth-riding and safe.
Toll Free: (907) 472-2581
Museum
Prince William Sound Museum Whittier is home to a small 1,000 square foot museum, located in a space in the Anchor Inn, that tells the story of Whittier's history as a military port and rail terminal as well as reflections on Alaskan military heritage during World War II and the Cold War. Open Daily from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm. Admission is $3.00 for adults and $1.50 for those under 12.
Located in the Anchor Inn
Tel: (907) 472-2354
Kayaking
Alaska Sea Kayakers Alaska Sea Kayakers is a highly-recommended company that offers four Prince William Sound guided kayak trips, ranging in time from 3 hours to full day trips. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Located at both ends of the Whittier docks.
(907) 472-2534
Prince William Sound Kayak Center The Prince William Sound Kayak Center offers Ocean Kayak Rentals, escorted trips and guided day tours of the Prince William Sound. Outfitters since 1981, Prince William Sound Kayak Center has the experience you can rely on to bring together all the elements of a successful paddling experience. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Toll Free: 877-472-2452
Local: (907) 472-2452
Fishing Charters
If you plan on going fishing, you'll need an Alaskan sport fishing license.
You can view the regulations and get your fishing License online at the State of Alaska Fish & Game Web page. You can also get a license in Whittier at Quigley's Ice Cream Parlor.
Whittier Marine Charters Whittier Marine is a locally-owned and family-operated business that offers full- and half-day charters for halibut, ling cod, rockfish, salmon, and salmon sharks. Whittier Marine's boat--the Swee' Pea--is a safe and comfortable 33 foot twin diesel custom charter vessel that was the first vessel in Alaska to be rated as a U.S. Coast Guard "Five Star" vessel and continues to exceed safety equipment requirements. Onboard you'll find high quality Seeker and G-Loomis rods matched with an assortment of premium Penn and Avet two speed reels. She has the latest in sonar and GPS technology as well as bullet proof rod holders and fighting harnesses to help you reel in the big one. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Harbor Loop Drive
Tel: (907) 440-9510
Alaskan 4 Star Charters In business since 2000, Alaskan 4 Star Charters specializes in salt water trips out of Whittier. Its owner Jody Mason has been in Alaska since 1972. Their boat, AK 4 Star, is a 28 foot Sea Ray moored in the Whittier Marina. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Harbor Loop Drive
Tel: (907) 440-9510
Knot Roughin' It Charters Knot Roughin' It Charters, owned and operated by Jack Roskind, specializes in fishing expeditions for halibut, silver salmon, ling cod and rockfish in the Prince William Sound. The company operates the Patriot Express, a USCG 5 Star Safety Rated vessel. The Patriot Express is a 2008 Boulton Explorer and comfortably fishes six anglers. She is built for comfort, speed and along with the pristine calm waters of Prince William Sound, their USCG-licensed Captains will provide you with a enjoyable and memorable experience. The boat also features a heated enclosed cabin for your comfort. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Tel: (907) 529-5174
Sound Fun Charters Sound Fun Charters operates Saltwater Fishing Adventures in Prince William Sound. Their specialty is fishing charters for halibut, silver (coho) salmon, lingcod, and rockfish. We offer half-day, full-day, and custom multi-day fishing and lodge packages. Their new eco-friendly charter vessel, the M/V Sound Fun, is a 2008 Hewescraft 26 foot Pacific Cruiser with a fully-enclosed heated cabin that comfortably seats 6, plus 2 more in the cuddy (she is USCG rated for 12). In addition to lots of warm, dry space, the boat has a fully-enclosed marine head (not a honey-bucket). Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Tel: (907) 529-5174
Glacier Cruises
Phillips Cruises and Tours Spend a day cruising among 26 of the world's most spectacular glaciers and wildlife on their 26 Glaciers Cruise. You'll ride aboard the fastest, largest and most luxurious catamaran in Alaska, the Klondike Express. You'll cruise through the calm, protected waters of Prince William Sound and come face to face with towering masses of ice, migratory whales and breathtaking Alaska scenery. Professional narration is provided by US Forest Service Rangers on every cruise. The cruise operates daily May through September.
Toll Free: (800) 544-0529
Tel: (907) 276-8023
Prince William Sound Glacier Cruises Prince William Sound Glacier Cruises offers two cruise itineraries in the Price William Sound. Their Wilderness Explorer cruise enables you to explore the untamed wilderness and calm waters of the magnificent Prince William Sound. You'll visit a working salmon hatchery, and cruise the spectacular Esther Passage before exploring the numerous glaciers in the Harriman Fjord and Barry Arm. You'll stop at the majestic Surprise Glacier, where marine animals and birds flourish in these waters. A delicious Alaskan King Crab cake lunch is included, with rice pilaf and vegetables, dinner roll, cookie and a beverage. (Chicken or vegetarian options are available upon request at time of booking). Their Glacier Adventure cruise will take you up to the face of two active tidewater glaciers, where you'll see spectacular alpine glaciers and waterfalls. Participate in fun marine experiments, examine plankton under microscopes and glacier ice up close. Their 4-hour Glacier Adventure cruise is perfect for families. A delicious Alaskan King Crab cake lunch is included, with rice pilaf and vegetables, dinner roll, cookie and a beverage. (Chicken or vegetarian options are available upon request at time of booking).
Toll Free: (877) 777-4054
Major Marine Tours Climb aboard the Emerald Sea for an unforgettable cruise to the most spectacular glaciers in Prince William Sound. Expect to see breathtaking scenery, towering waterfalls, massive glaciers and wildlife such as eagles, harbor seals, otters and bird rookeries. Feel free to take pictures from the viewing decks as glaciers calve or relax in the comfort of the heated cabin in their 100-ft Coast Guard-certified ship. Additionally, you can enjoy an authentic Alaska tradition with a delicious salmon and prime rib meal, which is available for just $19. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Tel: (800) 764-7300
Whitewater Rafting
Chugach Adventure Guides Chugach Adventure Guides offers six rafting and float trips in the Whittier/Girdwood area. If you're looking for a thrill before or after your cruise, contact this tour operator. Their whitewater rafting trips range from Class I to Class V. Arrange your outing prior to your arrival or departure from Whittier.
Tel: (907) 783-4354 |
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