Bell Street Pier Pier 66
Seattle's Bell Street Pier (Pier 66) is a key cruise terminal and a waterfront gem with a scenic rooftop terrace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Bell Street Pier Pier 66
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Seattle's Bell Street Pier (Pier 66) is a key cruise terminal and a waterfront gem with a scenic rooftop terrace.
"A clean and efficient cruise terminal with a lovely rooftop terrace offering great waterfront views."
Elevator Access is Key
Take the elevator up to the rooftop terrace for the best views! :arrow_up:
Cruise Boarding is Swift
Curbside to gangway in 15-30 mins is common. Staff are friendly and efficient. :passport_control:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rooftop Terrace Views
Pier 66 Rooftop
Enjoy panoramic waterfront vistas and city skyline views from this elevated public space.
Cruise Terminal Experience
Bell Street Terminal
A clean and well-organized terminal praised for its quick boarding and helpful staff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cruise Terminal Efficiency
Beyond the Cruise: Waterfront Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Elevator Access is Key
Take the elevator up to the rooftop terrace for the best views! :arrow_up:
Cruise Boarding is Swift
Curbside to gangway in 15-30 mins is common. Staff are friendly and efficient. :passport_control:
Rooftop Park History
The original Pier 66 had a rooftop park that closed quickly; this iteration is a lasting feature. :park:
Tour Disappointment
Whale watching tours from here can be hit or miss; manage expectations. :whale2:
Seattle cruise embarkation
Tips
from all over the internet
Elevator Access is Key
Take the elevator up to the rooftop terrace for the best views! :arrow_up:
Cruise Boarding is Swift
Curbside to gangway in 15-30 mins is common. Staff are friendly and efficient. :passport_control:
Rooftop Park History
The original Pier 66 had a rooftop park that closed quickly; this iteration is a lasting feature. :park:
Tour Disappointment
Whale watching tours from here can be hit or miss; manage expectations. :whale2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bell Street Pier is highly praised as an efficient and clean cruise terminal with helpful staff, making for smooth departures and arrivals. Visitors also enjoy the rooftop terrace for its scenic waterfront views. However, some tours originating from the pier, particularly whale watching, have been criticized for disappointing wildlife sightings and shortened durations.
"Booked the San Juan island with whale watching tour. The tour itself is beautiful but not much wildlife to see. No whales either. Was somewhat disappointing."
Saurabh
"Took a cruise to Alaska on September 22nd that departed from here. Very nice terminal, and super clean; appreciated that there was an area for passengers to sit and wait to board after going through security. Coming back through the terminal at the end of the cruise was a breeze!"
Rachel Rendahl
"Nice terminal...very busy but very quick boarding process...staff very helpful"
Gene
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bell Street Pier (Pier 66) is accessible by various public transport options in Seattle. If arriving by cruise, it's your departure/arrival point. For general visits, consider ride-sharing services or local buses that service the waterfront area.
While specific parking details for the pier itself can vary, the Seattle waterfront generally has paid parking garages and street parking available. It's advisable to check local parking apps for real-time availability and rates.
Yes, after a cruise, you can arrange transfers to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Options include booking through the cruise line, third-party shuttle services, taxis, or ride-sharing apps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The rooftop terrace at Pier 66 is generally a public space and does not require tickets for access. It's a great spot for enjoying views.
As a cruise terminal, Pier 66 operates based on cruise schedules. The rooftop terrace is typically accessible during daylight hours, but it's best to check local listings or Port of Seattle information for specific public access times.
Yes, Pier 66 is a departure point for various cruises and some day tours, including whale watching excursions. However, tour experiences can vary in quality and wildlife sightings.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop terrace offers fantastic panoramic shots of the waterfront, Elliott Bay, and the city skyline. Sunset is particularly beautiful for photography.
Yes, you can take photos of the cruise ships from the pier, especially when they are docked or departing. The rooftop provides a great vantage point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you're considering a cruise or a day tour from Pier 66, research family-friendly options. Be aware that wildlife tours, like whale watching, can be unpredictable for younger children if sightings are scarce. Pack snacks and be prepared for varying weather conditions common to Seattle's waterfront.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The golden hour around sunset provides dramatic lighting for cityscape and seascape shots. Beyond the views, the cruise ships themselves offer interesting photographic subjects. Capturing the scale and grandeur of these vessels against the Seattle backdrop can be a unique experience. Remember to check the cruise schedules if you're hoping to photograph specific ships.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Rooftop Terrace
This elevated platform provides unobstructed panoramic views of the Seattle waterfront, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. It's an ideal spot for photographers, couples seeking a romantic sunset view, or anyone wanting to simply relax and watch the maritime activity. The open space allows for a sense of tranquility away from the bustle of the cruise terminal below.
While the terrace is a wonderful spot, it's worth noting that some tours departing from the pier, particularly whale watching excursions, have received mixed reviews regarding wildlife sightings and tour duration.
The Cruise Terminal Experience
Travelers frequently mention the quick transition from curbside to the gangway, often within 15 to 30 minutes, which is a significant plus for those eager to start or end their vacation. There's also an appreciated waiting area for passengers after security checks, providing a comfortable space before boarding.
While the terminal itself is well-regarded, it's important to note that the experiences of tours departing from this location can be inconsistent. Some visitors have reported disappointment with whale watching tours, citing a lack of wildlife sightings or shortened tour times.
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