Royal Caribbean Group, in partnership with Alaska Railroad Company, has officially opened the new Dale R. and Carol Ann Lindsey Alaska Railroad Terminal in Seward, Alaska. The modern facility marks a significant milestone in Alaska’s continued development as a leading global cruise destination, improving access to both coastal regions and inland destinations across the state.
The opening was celebrated with a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by project partners, local authorities, and representatives from across Alaska. The terminal represents nearly a decade of planning and collaboration between public and private stakeholders and is a long-term investment in Seward’s tourism and economic development.
According to Josh Carroll, Senior Vice President Deployment, Destination Development and Port Operations at Royal Caribbean Group, the project represents far more than new infrastructure. He emphasized that it will create long-term economic opportunities for Seward and surrounding communities, crediting the success of the project to strong collaboration between partners, government stakeholders, and the local community.
The new cruise terminal replaces aging harbor facilities dating back to the 1960s and positions Seward as a leading turnaround port for Alaska cruises. Its modern design enables faster and more efficient embarkation and disembarkation, significantly improving the overall guest experience.
With a total footprint of approximately 1,500 square feet of enclosed space and 27,000 square feet of open, pass-through luggage transfer area, the terminal is now the largest cruise facility in Alaska. The design prioritizes optimized passenger movement, sheltered waiting areas, and efficient processing systems.
A key advantage of the terminal is its direct connection to the Alaska Railroad network. This allows cruise passengers to continue their journey seamlessly to destinations such as Anchorage, Fairbanks, and other communities throughout Alaska. By integrating sea and rail travel, the terminal strengthens Alaska’s appeal as a multi-destination travel region.
Sustainability plays an important role in the development. The upgraded pier includes a shore power system developed with support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Ports Grant program. This system allows vessels to connect to shore-based electricity while docked, reducing air pollution and noise emissions. Any excess energy generated during winter months can be stored in battery systems and used as backup power for Seward during extreme weather conditions.
Bill O’Leary, President and CEO of Alaska Railroad Company, highlighted during the opening ceremony the broader importance of the project for Southcentral and Interior Alaska. He noted that cruise passengers not only visit Seward but also travel deeper into the state, generating additional economic benefits for multiple communities.
The terminal has also been designed for year-round use. Outside the cruise season, it will serve as Seward’s largest indoor public venue, hosting sports events, concerts, festivals, and community gatherings throughout the winter months.
To strengthen local engagement, Royal Caribbean Group hosted a community celebration during the opening and highlighted its Port Partners program. As part of this initiative, local business Exit Glacier Greenhouses received a $20,000 grant to support expansion efforts, reinforcing the company’s commitment to economic development in coastal communities.
With this opening, Seward further solidifies its position as a modern gateway to Alaska and a strategic hub for the future of global cruise tourism.
Pictures Royal Caribbean Group.
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