Seattle Q&A/FAQ

[SeattleCruiselover]

Hi, Karen. I am hoping you can help me decide something regarding transfers. We are flying in on 9/11 and will be booking a town car service from SEATAC to the Sheraton Seattle Downtown ($45) We will also book the same town car service on our return on 9/19 back to the airport ($40 using coupon on internet).

 

On 9/12 we need to go from the Sheraton over to Pier 66. The Sheraton suggested we just go by cab because it is not very far.... they said around $6??? But then I've been reading about cab lines being long at the hotels going over to the port, so I don't know if that will be a good option for us or not. There will be 4 of us going from the hotel to the pier, so I considered a stretch limo from hotel to port.... I was quoted $50 for that little jaunt. Of course, we would be splitting the cost with the other couple. I did not, however, get a quote for a town car from the Sheraton to Pier 66...do you know what that runs?

 

I guess all that explanation was to just ask: what do you think our best option is to get from the Sheraton to Pier 66 the day we sail (9/12)?

Thanks,

Marsha

 

It is costing me $35 from my apartment in South Lake Union to Terminal 30, which is a considerably longer distance than you are being taken. From the Sheraton to Pier 66 is, literally, walking distance.....about 1.5 miles give or take a few yards. I think that $50 is too much for that run. I would take a taxi......just plan on leaving early enough to get out before the cruise lines transfer buses pull in and tie up the front entrance for an hour or more (usually they leave between 10 and 11 am).

[marsda]

It is costing me $35 from my apartment in South Lake Union to Terminal 30, which is a considerably longer distance than you are being taken. From the Sheraton to Pier 66 is, literally, walking distance.....about 1.5 miles give or take a few yards. I think that $50 is too much for that run. I would take a taxi......just plan on leaving early enough to get out before the cruise lines transfer buses pull in and tie up the front entrance for an hour or more (usually they leave between 10 and 11 am).

Put in that perspective, $50 sounds ridiculous...limo or not:eek: I think we'll go the cab route and use the $$ saved for more wine on board:D

I sailed on the Mercury last fall from Pier 66, and my sister and I got there around 10:30. There were no lines, very little traffic. We had to wait upstairs for about 30 minutes to board the ship. However, since the rooms would not be open until 1:00 we did not have a staff member handle our carry-ons and escort us to the cabin. I thought this time we would arrive around 1:00 pm... is it just horribly hectic at that time? We are concierge class as well as Platinum level, so we have the advantage of a separate waiting area, but I'm concerned about length of security lines getting in.

Marsha

[SeattleCruiselover]

Put in that perspective, $50 sounds ridiculous...limo or not:eek: I think we'll go the cab route and use the $$ saved for more wine on board:D

I sailed on the Mercury last fall from Pier 66, and my sister and I got there around 10:30. There were no lines, very little traffic. We had to wait upstairs for about 30 minutes to board the ship. However, since the rooms would not be open until 1:00 we did not have a staff member handle our carry-ons and escort us to the cabin. I thought this time we would arrive around 1:00 pm... is it just horribly hectic at that time? We are concierge class as well as Platinum level, so we have the advantage of a separate waiting area, but I'm concerned about length of security lines getting in.

Marsha

 

I don't think that X has the same two hour policy that NCL does, but I would encourage you to check before deciding what time to arrive (with NCL, you must be checked in and aboard the vessel by 2 pm for a 4 pm sailiing, due to the new Customs laws in effect). If you have to be aboard at 2 pm, arriving at one is risking still being in line when they close boarding.

 

Last year, our worst lines at Pier 66 were between 10 and 12 and again from about 2 to 3, and that was before the law change.

[wrp96]

I don't think that X has the same two hour policy that NCL does, but I would encourage you to check before deciding what time to arrive (with NCL, you must be checked in and aboard the vessel by 2 pm for a 4 pm sailiing, due to the new Customs laws in effect). If you have to be aboard at 2 pm, arriving at one is risking still being in line when they close boarding.

 

Last year, our worst lines at Pier 66 were between 10 and 12 and again from about 2 to 3, and that was before the law change.

 

 

Karen, X's time is 90 minutes before sailing.

[SeattleCruiselover]

Karen, X's time is 90 minutes before sailing.

 

Thank you, Ms. Wrona. How are things down in Arkansas?

[wrp96]

Thank you, Ms. Wrona. How are things down in Arkansas?

 

 

Not good, not good at all. Gustav has come and parked himself here like an extremely unwelcome visitor. Roads flooded, power lines down on roads, trees down and blocking roads. Entergy just recalled all our linemen they had sent down to Louisiana - but even if they were here the winds are too high so they can't get anyone up in the bucket trucks to fix the poles and lines. Several schools had to close due to no power and/or flooding. At least one of the places that was acting as a shelter for Gustav evacuees lost power.

 

Of course it doesn't help that I've had a cold since late last week and this weather just makes it worse!

 

On the whole, I wish I was in Seattle this week!

[SeattleCruiselover]

Not good, not good at all. Gustav has come and parked himself here like an extremely unwelcome visitor. Roads flooded, power lines down on roads, trees down and blocking roads. Entergy just recalled all our linemen they had sent down to Louisiana - but even if they were here the winds are too high so they can't get anyone up in the bucket trucks to fix the poles and lines. Several schools had to close due to no power and/or flooding. At least one of the places that was acting as a shelter for Gustav evacuees lost power.

 

Of course it doesn't help that I've had a cold since late last week and this weather just makes it worse!

 

On the whole, I wish I was in Seattle this week!

 

Geez, that sucks (pardon ma francais). Originally, I believe he was supposed to visit TX instead, but all y'all got the "lucky" draw instead. Here is hoping he leaves you alone sooner than later. Feel better.

[mrchips14]

How is the area around the needle. We are looking at the

Best West. Ex inn. and have seen very mixed reviews.

 

thanks

[SeattleCruiselover]

How is the area around the needle. We are looking at the

Best West. Ex inn. and have seen very mixed reviews.

 

thanks

 

Mark/Jackie:

 

As I said above, it is a typical downtown area. Vigiliance is necessary after dark (few problems during the day, and just ignore those, more or less). If you don't act like a tourist (I know, sometimes it's hard NOT to), but rather as if you know exactly where you are going and just proceed to get there, you likely won't be bothered.

 

There have been some problems in Belltown in the past few months, but they have been primarily in the areas where the clubs/bars are. If you avoid those areas (mostly on 1st Av) after dark. The area is undergoing massive gentrification, and that always has kind of a negative effect on some of the former denizens for a time.

 

Again, more or less stop, look, and listen, and all will be well. (I lived across the street from the Space Needle for more than three years, and I survived quite well, and I was out on the streets alone at 4:00 am to walk downtown to work).

[Lois R]

Hi Karen:) hope you are doing well. I have changed my

transportation plans again;)

I decided to use the Downtown Airporter to get to the

Westin.

Its only 11.00 one way:D and I feel like that is a big

savings from what would end up being about 65.00.

I went to the Seatac website and chatted on line with

a really nice Customer Service Rep. She told me the

downtowner leaves every 30 mintues so really not much

of a wait either.

I arrive about 11am so its not like I will be getting there

late at night or anything.

I only have one checked bag and one carry on so it should

be just fine:)

[SeattleCruiselover]

Hi Karen:) hope you are doing well. I have changed my

transportation plans again;)

I decided to use the Downtown Airporter to get to the

Westin.

Its only 11.00 one way:D and I feel like that is a big

savings from what would end up being about 65.00.

I went to the Seatac website and chatted on line with

a really nice Customer Service Rep. She told me the

downtowner leaves every 30 mintues so really not much

of a wait either.

I arrive about 11am so its not like I will be getting there

late at night or anything.

I only have one checked bag and one carry on so it should

be just fine:)

 

The Airporter is great. They let you off right downstairs at the Westin. All you have to do is take the escalator or elevator up to the lobby to check in.

 

We're in single digits today my friend......9 days and counting for me. I know it's still 10 for you, but, actually, it is 8 days 23 hours 3 minutes and 20 seconds for me. And 9 days 23 hours 3 minutes and 20 seconds for you. Whoopee!

[St. Louis Sal]

Karen, do you know if there is any way to find out if the Space Needle is closed for a private event for a particular evening? We will be in Seattle on Sept 19 & 20. I would love to go up at night but last time I was there the Needle was closed in the evening for a private party. I don't want to get my hopes up if there is no chance this time.

 

Thanks for your response (and for this whole wonderful thread)

St. Louis Sal

[Lois R]

The Airporter is great. They let you off right downstairs at the Westin. All you have to do is take the escalator or elevator up to the lobby to check in.

 

We're in single digits today my friend......9 days and counting for me. I know it's still 10 for you, but, actually, it is 8 days 23 hours 3 minutes and 20 seconds for me. And 9 days 23 hours 3 minutes and 20 seconds for you. Whoopee!

 

Oh good, glad you had a positive reply about the Airporter:D

 

And yes, we are in single digits now:)

[SeattleCruiselover]

Karen, do you know if there is any way to find out if the Space Needle is closed for a private event for a particular evening? We will be in Seattle on Sept 19 & 20. I would love to go up at night but last time I was there the Needle was closed in the evening for a private party. I don't want to get my hopes up if there is no chance this time.

 

Thanks for your response (and for this whole wonderful thread)

St. Louis Sal

 

Sal: Unfortunately, they do not seem to have an online "calendar of private events" kind of thing like some clubs and restaurants do. You might try calling them, I'm sure they would tell you.....(206) 905-2180.

 

Sorry I could not be of more help.

[noj]

I lost contact with you after PVSA thread stopped. I am glad to find you again. Its also fun to see others here that I lost contact with. I have a question I don't know if you can help with. I enjoy seeing the Vancouver Port webcam often during the day and I would like to know about the company that services the cruiseships with those barges that come along side there and probably Seattle too. Do you know which company it is? Are they public? and how can I get that info without violating any CC rules? Also I saw a listing of maybe~100 webcams around Seattle but I need one I can watch for the Port area. Can you help there too?

[kluv2cruz]

Hi there - does anyone know if there is a free shuttle from Pier 66 to Seattle Premium Outlets? If I was to take the bus, about how long would it take? Is there a free shuttle to the casino and then maybe I can get over to the premium outlets? Or is there another bargain clothing shopping mecca to consider on a Saturday when arriving by cruiseship. Bargain is the word! Thanks.

[kluv2cruz]

Are there any hotels that offer free parking and free shuttle to the cruise ship pier in Seattle? Not sure what pier this potential cruise that I'm considering will be at 66 or 30. Doesn't really matter - just trying to figure out how to get from Vancouver to Seattle & back the most econcomical for me and my 2 boys for next fall.

 

Sorry if these are duplicate questions to others - the search tool is down!

[SeattleCruiselover]

I lost contact with you after PVSA thread stopped. I am glad to find you again. Its also fun to see others here that I lost contact with. I have a question I don't know if you can help with. I enjoy seeing the Vancouver Port webcam often during the day and I would like to know about the company that services the cruiseships with those barges that come along side there and probably Seattle too. Do you know which company it is? Are they public? and how can I get that info without violating any CC rules? Also I saw a listing of maybe~100 webcams around Seattle but I need one I can watch for the Port area. Can you help there too?

 

Do you mean the fuel barges? Here in Seattle it is a private concern, not the Port of Seattle, so far as I know, but I cannot find a name listed for them. I'm leaving a week from today, and my stateroom will be on the water side. I could look down and see if I can find out a name if you like...

 

The Space Needle Webcam will give you something of a view of the harbor and the ships.

[SeattleCruiselover]

Hi there - does anyone know if there is a free shuttle from Pier 66 to Seattle Premium Outlets? If I was to take the bus, about how long would it take? Is there a free shuttle to the casino and then maybe I can get over to the premium outlets? Or is there another bargain clothing shopping mecca to consider on a Saturday when arriving by cruiseship. Bargain is the word! Thanks.

 

No free shuttles to either the casino or the Tulalip Outlet Mall that I am aware of. It is about 35+ miles north of downtown in the Marysville area, and by bus is about a 1.5 hour trip each way if there is good traffic.

 

Nordstrom Rack is downtown at 2nd and Pine, but I don't really classify that as a budget clothing outlet. The SuperMall and Southcenter are 15-20 miles south of downtown. None of them are really conducive to post-cruise shopping if you have to make the airport in any kind of a hurry.

[SeattleCruiselover]

Are there any hotels that offer free parking and free shuttle to the cruise ship pier in Seattle? Not sure what pier this potential cruise that I'm considering will be at 66 or 30. Doesn't really matter - just trying to figure out how to get from Vancouver to Seattle & back the most econcomical for me and my 2 boys for next fall.

 

Sorry if these are duplicate questions to others - the search tool is down!

 

Free? No. There are some park and cruise hotels down by the airport that will let you leave the car there if you stay for a specified period of time, but none of the airport area hotels have shuttles downtown. You can use the Cruise Express from the airport to Terminal 30 if you sail HAL or Princess, but not RCI, X or NCL.

[noj]

I'll take you up on looking over the side for the company names of the barges. But only if you are very very careful! I did'nt think they were fuel barges though but that is how you know the ship is well docked. I will try out the Space Needle webcam again. Thank you and have a great cruise!

[SeattleCruiselover]

I'll take you up on looking over the side for the company names of the barges. But only if you are very very careful! I did'nt think they were fuel barges though but that is how you know the ship is well docked. I will try out the Space Needle webcam again. Thank you and have a great cruise!

 

Big, flat, black or dark barges with hoses running out of them? Fuel barges are the only ones I've ever seen alongside, but will keep my eyes open and let you know.

[Sailorgirlseattle]

Are there any hotels that offer free parking and free shuttle to the cruise ship pier in Seattle? Not sure what pier this potential cruise that I'm considering will be at 66 or 30. Doesn't really matter - just trying to figure out how to get from Vancouver to Seattle & back the most econcomical for me and my 2 boys for next fall.

 

Sorry if these are duplicate questions to others - the search tool is down!

 

Is this the same trip as your first question, about hitting the outlet mall? If I'm understanding correctly, you're wanting to drive from Vancouver to Seattle, cruise, then drive back again ... plus looking to stop at an outlet mall? Is that right? If so, the Premium Outlets are right off I-5 about an hour north of Seattle in Marysville ... you'll go right by on your way to Seattle.

[St. Louis Sal]

Sal: Unfortunately, they do not seem to have an online "calendar of private events" kind of thing like some clubs and restaurants do. You might try calling them, I'm sure they would tell you.....(206) 905-2180.

 

Sorry I could not be of more help.

 

You were a great help. I called them right away but they keep regular business hours so I left them a message and if I don't hear back I'll call them again on Monday.

 

Thanks

St. Louis Sal

[SeattleCruiselover]

You were a great help. I called them right away but they keep regular business hours so I left them a message and if I don't hear back I'll call them again on Monday.

 

Thanks

St. Louis Sal

 

If you don't get through to them timeley, let me know the date you are interested in, and I will call them.