The Seward Company, along with Royal Caribbean Group and Turnagain Marine, released plans to build a new cruise terminal and pier at the Port of Seward in Alaska by the spring of 2026.
The Seward Company intends to replace the current Alaska Railroad cruise port facility with a new state-of-the-art cruise port that can welcome the largest cruise ships in the region, including Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships. The company says the current pier, built in 1965, is outdated and does not meet industry standards. In 2023, the Freight Traffic study indicated there was an urgent need for replacement due to safety issues and structural failure.
“Built in 1965, the current dock has supported Seward and the railroad for many years. Now, it must be replaced. The Seward Company brings together the experience of veteran marine construction and developer Turnagain, with two of Alaska’s leading tourism entities: the Alaska Railroad and Royal Caribbean,” said Chris Hladick, Project Manager, The Seward Company. “Together, this new dock and terminal facility will enhance the cruise passenger safety and experience, bringing much-needed infrastructure improvements benefiting all of Alaska’s tourism industry.”
The plans for the project include a state-of-the-art floating double berth pier that measures 748 feet in length and 100 feet in width. The pier is also equipped with a 140-foot-long split transfer span ensuring the safe and efficient embarkation and debarkation of cruise passengers. The new pier will be able to dock two vessels simultaneously as well as feature a portable shore-power system. Additionally, the port will include a 41,500 square foot cruise terminal to welcome passengers along with a parking lot with space for 32 buses and 48 cars.
The Seward Company, which was formed to revitalize the Seward port waterfront, contracted Turnagain Marine to oversee the entire $137 million project. The Alaska Railroad, through an agreement with Royal Caribbean Group, is bond funding the purchase of the new port development once completed. Under the agreement, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Silversea Cruises will be given preferential docking privileges.
The project is expected the benefit the region by:
- bringing the port up to industry standards, thereby ensuring more efficient ship handling and passenger transfers,
- unlocking tourism potential and opportunities for growth and development as a premier port of call for Quantum-class cruise ships, and
- ensuring the safety and security of residents by enhancing the region’s readiness for emergency situations.
“The Seward Company, along with its partners, is committed to working closely with local community stakeholders, government agencies, and tourism industry partners to ensure the successful completion of this vital waterfront project,” said Hladic. “The design process is well on its way and construction is scheduled to start in 2025 with a grand opening for the 2026 cruise season.”