Seattle Embarks on a Milestone Alaska Cruise Season with Norwegian Bliss
The Port of Seattle has set sail into the 2025 Alaska cruise season, marking a significant milestone as the Norwegian Bliss departs from the Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal.
This year commemorates the 25th anniversary of Seattle’s pivotal role as a launch point for Alaskan cruises, promising enhanced port facilities and an anticipated boost in economic impact thanks to hundreds of scheduled voyages over the coming months.
In line with its commitment to environmental stewardship, the Port aims to offer pristine, sustainable cruising experiences for future generations.
The Norwegian Bliss, a Breakaway-Plus class vessel, tailored for the Alaskan market, leads the charge with its initial voyage of the year.
This 168,028-gross-ton ship boasts expansive observation lounges and viewing areas, ensuring passengers miss none of the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife Alaska has to offer.
Scheduled for 7-night journeys until mid-October, the Bliss will grace ports such as Sitka, Juneau, and Victoria, offering a scenic cruise through the stunning Glacier Bay.
Following the Norwegian Bliss, over 275 sailings are planned from the Port of Seattle this season, featuring ships from Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, and others, contributing to an expected 800,000 unique visitors.
This growth from the inaugural season in 2000, which saw just 36 ship calls, underscores the evolving partnership between the cruise lines and Seattle, transforming the city into a premier homeport for Alaska-bound adventures.
David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, lauds the enduring partnership with the Port of Seattle, recalling the inaugural voyage of the Norwegian Sky in May 2000.
The city’s efforts, alongside those of the cruise lines, have not only made Seattle a critical hub for Alaskan cruises but also an extended vacation spot for travelers eager to explore the Emerald City’s revitalized waterfront and vibrant neighborhoods.
The cruise season is poised to deliver nearly $900 million in economic benefits to the Seattle region, signaling direct tourism spending, ship provisioning, and the support of approximately 5,500 jobs.
Rich Austin, President of ILWU local 19, highlights the vital family-wage jobs generated each season, thanks to the industry’s reliance on the local, skilled workforce.
At the heart of Seattle’s cruise industry expansion lies a deep commitment to environmental sustainability.
Efforts are underway to reduce the environmental footprint of cruising through initiatives like the establishment of a green corridor for sustainable sailing and the implementation of shore power across all Seattle cruise berths, significantly ahead of schedule.
These measures aim to preserve the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest for future cruisers while demonstrating the viability of greener maritime practices.
As Seattle embarks on this landmark cruise season, it reinforces its position not only as a gateway to the rugged beauty of Alaska but as a leader in the sustainable evolution of the global cruise industry.
