Find answers to common questions about visiting Chugach Glacier Gateway. Whether learning about excursions, transportation, or seasonal highlights, we’ll help you prepare for your journey.
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Q: Where is Chugach Glacier Gateway?
Chugach Glacier Gateway is located in Whittier, Alaska, a small port town on the western edge of Prince William Sound. Other than by cruise, it’s accessible by car, rail, or bus through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel—North America’s longest combined rail and highway tunnel.
Whittier’s naturally protected harbor, tucked deep within the sheltered waters of Prince William Sound, offers a calmer, more reliable docking experience compared to more exposed ports. It’s this consistent shelter from rough seas that makes Chugach Glacier Gateway Terminal a preferred choice for cruise lines and day tours and a safer, more dependable gateway for guests.
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Q: What is there to do in Whittier?
Whittier offers a variety of activities and tours! Book everything from a
glacier boat tour, kayaking, jetskiing, fishing, or a historic walking tour. If you haven’t made arrangements for a specific tour, Whittier has miles of beautiful trails, shoreline with waterfalls and beaches to explore, the Prince William Sound Museum, and a walkable harbor front. The harbor front features Alaska made gifts, coffee, ice cream, and local cafes for fresh seafood, burgers, or cocktails.
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Q: Do I have to book excursions through my cruise line?
Although not a requirement, be advised that businesses operating in Whittier are local, and thus have group size limitations. You can book directly with the business, but you will typically need to do so ahead of time.
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Q: How do I get around Chugach Glacier Gateway if I’m not doing an excursion?
There is a locally owned shuttle for $10 USD per person for unlimited riding for the day. Tickets can be purchased in the Chugach Glacier Gateway terminal before boarding the shuttle bus. The shuttle runs from 7am until All Aboard. Once in town, Whittier is very walkable.
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Q: Is Chugach Glacier Gateway ADA-Accessible?
The facilities are ADA accessible, with sidewalks and ADA compliant restrooms. If you have booked transportation, please check with the transportation provider to ensure they can meet your needs.
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Q: Is there shopping available?
Most every business in Whittier opens by 10am daily. The harbor front features local shops and cafes for shopping, and the Anchor Store on the residential side of town will also have basic necessities and gift options.
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Q: Are there places to eat?
Whittier is a small but diverse community. Whether craving homemade lumpia at the Anchor Inn, fresh seafood at the harbor front from Swiftwater and the Inn at Whittier, burgers at Wild Catch Café, or coffee or ice cream from Crazy Shack, Lazy Otter, or Oceanfront, there’s something for everyone!
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Q: What’s the weather like?
Whittier’s weather is cool and coastal, with frequent cloud cover, light rain, and refreshing sea air, typical of Alaska’s maritime climate. Summer temperatures usually range from the mid-40s to low 60s°F, so layered clothing and rain gear are recommended.
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Q: What types of wildlife is on or around Chugach Glacier Gateway?
Those visiting Whittier may see a wide range of wildlife, including: bears, goats, eagles and shorebirds, otters, seals, sea lions, and whales. Keep an eye out for our frequent wildlife visitors!
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Q: Which cruise lines travel to Chugach Glacier Gateway?
As of the 2025 season, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceana Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
*Check our free the
Whittier 2025 Chamber Map for more in depth directions and business listings.
