Royal Caribbean Group and Alaska Railroad open new cruise terminal in Seward - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Royal Caribbean Group and the Alaska Railroad Company have officially opened the new Dale R. and Carol Ann Lindsey Alaska Railroad Terminal in Seward, marking a significant investment in Alaska’s cruise infrastructure and tourism economy. The new facility replaces aging port infrastructure dating back to the 1960s and is designed to enhance the arrival and departure experience for cruise passengers while supporting broader economic development across the region.

The terminal was inaugurated during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by representatives of the cruise industry, state and local government officials, community leaders and project partners.

New gateway for Alaska cruise tourism

The terminal is positioned as a key entry point for visitors exploring Alaska by sea and land. Located directly adjacent to the Alaska Railroad station, the facility offers seamless onward connections to Anchorage, Fairbanks and other destinations across the state.

“We're thrilled to celebrate the culmination of nearly a decade of efforts to unlock this world-class travel destination, bringing long-term economic opportunities to Seward and beyond,” said Josh Carroll, Senior Vice President, Deployment, Destination Development and Port Operations at Royal Caribbean Group.

According to the company, the project reflects a long-term commitment to strengthening Alaska’s tourism infrastructure while supporting local communities.

Largest cruise terminal in Alaska

The new facility is now the largest cruise terminal in the state. It features 41,500 square feet of enclosed space and an additional 27,000 square feet dedicated to baggage handling and passenger processing.

Designed to improve operational efficiency, the terminal incorporates optimised passenger flows, sheltered waiting areas and enhanced processing facilities aimed at reducing congestion and improving the guest experience during embarkation and disembarkation.

“We know how important the terminal is not just to Seward, but to communities across Southcentral and Interior Alaska as these cross-gulf cruise guests take the opportunity to explore Alaska by land as well,” said Bill O’Leary, President and CEO of the Alaska Railroad.

Sustainability and shore power integration

A key element of the redevelopment is the integration of shore power technology, supported through the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Ports Grant programme. The system allows cruise ships to connect to local electricity supplies while in port, reducing emissions, improving air quality and lowering noise levels.

The project also includes battery storage technology capable of retaining surplus energy generated during winter months. According to the project partners, this capacity can serve as a backup power resource for the Seward community during severe winter weather events.

Year-round benefits for the local community

Unlike traditional cruise facilities that operate primarily during the tourism season, the new terminal has been designed for year-round use. During the winter months, it will function as the largest indoor gathering space in Seward, hosting sporting events, concerts, festivals and community activities.

The community focus was highlighted during the opening celebrations, when Royal Caribbean Group hosted an event showcasing participants in its Port Partners small business accelerator programme. As part of the initiative, local business Exit Glacier Greenhouses received a grant of USD 20,000 to support future growth.

Investment supports tourism growth

The opening of the new terminal comes as Alaska continues to attract strong demand from the North American cruise market. By improving passenger handling capacity and strengthening transport connections between cruise operations and inland tourism experiences, the facility is expected to support both visitor growth and regional economic development.

For cruise passengers, the terminal provides a modern gateway to some of Alaska’s most popular destinations. For Seward and the surrounding region, it represents a long-term investment in tourism infrastructure, sustainability and community development.

Image Credit: © Royal Caribbean Group