Globetrotter

Royal Caribbean Opens New Cruise Terminal in Seward, Alaska

Published June 15, 2026

Royal Caribbean has officially opened its new Dale R. and Carol Ann Lindsey Alaska Railroad Terminal in Seward, Alaska, enhancing the region's cruise infrastructure and tourism capacity.

New Seward Terminal Opens for Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's new Dale R. and Carol Ann Lindsey Alaska Railroad Terminal in Seward, Alaska, officially opened on June 10, 2026. This facility is described as the largest and most innovative cruise terminal in the state. The project, costing approximately $137 million, was funded by Alaska Railroad Corporation revenue bonds (cruisehive.com).

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Increased Capacity

The new terminal features 41,500 square feet of enclosed space and an additional 27,000 square feet of exterior space. It is designed to streamline passenger flow and luggage handling. The pier in Seward now includes shore power capabilities, contributing to more environmentally friendly operations, similar to other Alaskan ports such as Juneau. The Ovation of the Seas will be the first Royal Caribbean ship to homeport in Seward, utilizing the new facilities (cruisehive.com).

Boosting Alaska Tourism and Economic Impact

This investment aims to establish Seward as a premier cruise destination and homeport in Alaska. Royal Caribbean has committed to bringing a minimum of 140,000 guests to Seward annually during the Alaska cruise season. Seward serves as a crucial entry point for Alaska tourism, offering connections for cross-gulf cruises and opportunities for land travel throughout Southcentral and Interior Alaska (cruisehive.com).

Key Takeaways

  • Royal Caribbean's new Dale R. and Carol Ann Lindsey Alaska Railroad Terminal in Seward is now open, costing $137 million.
  • The terminal, opened on June 10, 2026, is the largest and most innovative in Alaska, with 41,500 sq ft of indoor space.
  • Seward's pier now has shore power, promoting greener operations.
  • Royal Caribbean will bring at least 140,000 guests annually to Seward, positioning it as a key Alaskan homeport.

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