Princess Cruises uses the Bell Street Cruise Terminal in downtown Seattle

Princess Cruises ships dock at Pier 66 (Bell Street Cruise Terminal), located at 2431 Alaskan Way in Seattle's waterfront district. This is the primary terminal for Princess vessels sailing Alaska itineraries and other routes from Seattle. The terminal sits directly on Elliott Bay, about a mile north of Pike Place Market and the downtown core.

The Bell Street terminal is one of two major cruise facilities in Seattle, but it is the one Princess uses consistently. The terminal building itself has ticketing, baggage handling, and passenger processing areas. Parking is available on-site, though it fills quickly during peak cruise season (May through September).

Key Takeaways

  • Princess Cruises departs from Pier 66 (Bell Street Cruise Terminal) at 2431 Alaskan Way on Seattle's waterfront.
  • The terminal is about one mile north of downtown Seattle and accessible by car, taxi, rideshare, or public transit.
  • Parking at the terminal costs money and fills during peak season, so arriving early or using alternative transportation is wise.
  • The terminal opens for passenger check-in typically four to five hours before departure, with final boarding one hour before the ship leaves.
  • You will need a valid passport or passport card for Alaska cruises, and a government-issued photo ID for closed-loop cruises.

How to reach Pier 66 by car and where to park

From Interstate 5 northbound, take the Mercer Street exit and follow signs toward the waterfront. From I-5 southbound, take the Denny Way exit and head toward the water. Once you reach Alaskan Way (the waterfront road), follow it north until you see signs for the cruise terminal. Parking is available in the terminal lot and in nearby garages, but spaces are limited during summer months.

Parking rates at the Bell Street terminal vary by length of stay. A typical seven-day cruise parking fee runs between $70 and $100, though some passengers choose off-site lots a few blocks away that charge less. If you are parking for more than a few days, calling ahead to reserve a space is a good idea. The terminal's website lists current parking rates and reservation options.

Public transit and rideshare options to the terminal

King County Metro Bus routes 62 and 70 stop near the cruise terminal on Alaskan Way. Route 62 runs from downtown Seattle and the University District; Route 70 connects to the Ballard neighborhood. Both routes drop passengers within a short walk of Pier 66. Check the King County Metro website for current schedules, as service times change seasonally.

Uber and Lyft both serve the Bell Street terminal. Rideshare pickup and dropoff zones are clearly marked outside the terminal building. If you are arriving from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac), a rideshare trip typically costs $35 to $50 depending on traffic and time of day. Taxis are also available from the terminal, though they are less common than rideshare services.

What to bring and when to arrive at the terminal

For Alaska cruises, bring a valid U.S. passport or passport card. For closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to Seattle), a government-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or passport card) are required. Princess sends detailed instructions with your cruise documents about what identification you need for your specific itinerary.

Arrive at the terminal at least three to four hours before your scheduled departure time. The terminal opens for check-in typically four to five hours before the ship leaves. Arriving early gives you time to park, check baggage, clear security, and find your cabin without rushing. During peak season, lines can be long, so extra time is worthwhile.

Baggage handling and what happens when you arrive

When you enter the terminal, you will find baggage drop-off areas near the main entrance. You can check up to two bags per person on most Princess itineraries (weight and size limits explore). Baggage is transported to your cabin and usually arrives by early evening on embarkation day. Keep medications, valuables, and documents with you rather than checking them.

After baggage drop, you will proceed through security screening similar to airport security. Have your cruise documents and ID ready. Once you clear security, you will check in at a ticket counter, receive your room key card, and proceed to the ship. The entire process typically takes 45 minutes to two hours depending on how busy the terminal is.

Disembarkation and returning to your vehicle or hotel

When your cruise ends, you will disembark at the same Pier 66 terminal. Passengers typically leave the ship between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. on the final day, though Princess provides specific times in your onboard documents. If you parked at the terminal, you can retrieve your vehicle from the lot. If you used rideshare or public transit, those services are available from the terminal area.

The terminal has a baggage claim area where you will collect any bags that were checked at embarkation. This process can take 30 minutes to an hour depending on how many passengers are disembarking. Plan to stay in the Seattle area an extra night if you want time to explore the city before or after your cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drop off my car at the terminal and pick it up when I return?

Yes. The Bell Street terminal has a parking lot where you can leave your vehicle for the duration of your cruise. You pay the parking fee at the lot, and your car remains there until you return and retrieve it. Rates vary by length of stay, so check the terminal's website for current pricing before you arrive.

What if I arrive at the terminal too early?

The terminal does not open for check-in until four to five hours before departure. If you arrive earlier, you can wait in the terminal building, which has seating areas, or explore the nearby waterfront. Arriving too early is better than arriving late, since you cannot board after the final boarding time (usually one hour before departure).

Is there food or shopping at the terminal before I board?

The Bell Street terminal has limited food and retail options. Pike Place Market is about a mile south and has restaurants and shops if you have time to walk. Most passengers eat breakfast before arriving at the terminal or wait to eat onboard the ship.

Do I need to print my cruise documents or can I show them on my phone?

Princess accepts both printed documents and digital copies on your phone. Bring your cruise documents (either printed or on your phone), your ID, and your passport. Having a printed copy as a backup is wise in case your phone battery dies or you have connectivity issues.

What is the closest hotel to the cruise terminal if I want to stay the night before?

Several hotels are within one to two miles of Pier 66, including properties in the Belltown and Lower Queen Anne neighborhoods. The Edgewater Hotel is directly across the street from the terminal. Staying nearby means you can arrive at the terminal without rushing and avoid early-morning traffic from farther away.