What's the difference between Seattle and Vancouver

Categories

Most people cruise out of Vancouver and Seattle for Alaska cruises.  There are others, but by far Alaska is the dominant itinerary.

Here are some factors that might influence your decision. 

From Vancouver your itinerary will be the "Inside Passage" which means on the way to Alaska ports you will cruise between Vancouver Island and the coast of Canada on the way to the ports of call.  Some feel this is more scenice than those that depart Seattle and sail west of Vancouver Island to the ports.  Some also feel the sailing is smoother in the passages than the ocean.

From Seattle most roundtrip itineraries will include a port call to Victoria on the way back to Seattle.  Victoria has often been described as the most beautiful city in the world and I would not argue against that.

From Seattle it is still possible to cruise on a closed loop cruise, which means you are departing and returning to the same US port.  This currently means you can cruise without a US Passport as long as you can meet the other requirements for proof of citizenship.  It may not last much longer and all the cruise lines as well as ourselves recommend a passport but if you do not have a passport of some of your family and do not want to go to the expense or do not have the time, it can be done.

Airfares.  While we all know the prices change by the minute, and depending on where you are travelling from, generall for US residents it is a littel less expensive to fly to Seattle than Vancouver.  On the Canadian side it can be just the reverse, and if you are a Canadian resident, Vancouver represents one of two less times in customs and immigration in order to get to and from Canada.

Both cities have great tourism and activities right in the city so I would make that a toss up as to which to spend a pre or post cruise stay.  Both are scenic, both have great dining, and great ports.