The Port of Seattle kicks off a record-breaking 2026 Alaska cruise season, with a projected 2.1 million passengers, expecting to boost the local economy.
SEATTLE — The Port of Seattle is launching its 2026 Alaska cruise season this week, setting a new record for both ship visits and passenger volume.
The season begins Friday, with the first in-transit arrival and is expected to include 330 vessel calls and about 2.1 million passengers this year, the highest totals in the port’s history.
Port officials say the region has spent more than two decades building its cruise industry, with continued expansion this year. A total of 16 ships will operate from Seattle during the 2026 season, including two cruise lines making their debut in the market.
“We are fortunate to call the Puget Sound region home,” said Port of Seattle Commission President Ryan Calkins. “It’s no wonder that more than a million travelers from around the world will begin their Alaska journeys here this season, supporting thousands of jobs and sustaining local businesses and farms across Washington state.”
Environmental efforts remain a key focus as the season ramps up. Eleven ships are expected to connect to shore power while docked, reducing emissions by plugging into cleaner electricity sources. Additional infrastructure is already in development, with plans to expand shore power access by 2027.
The 2026 cruise season is expected to continue to play a major role in the local economy. A 2025 Port of Seattle impact analysis found cruise activity in Elliott Bay generates nearly $1.2 billion in business revenue annually and supports more than 5,000 jobs across Washington. The Port of Seattle saw about 1.9 million passengers in 2025.
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