New Alaska cruise terminal opening delayed, forcing Royal Caribbean to switch homeport

Seward's new cruise terminal has delayed its opening after an inspection uncovered structural issues requiring resolution before larger ships can safely dock. The facility, originally scheduled to welcome passengers on May 14, was pushed back to May 22, affecting multiple cruise lines operating Alaska routes during peak season. Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas and other vessels temporarily rerouted to Whittier instead. The $137 million "Port of Tomorrow" redevelopment project, developed through partnership between Alaska Railroad Company, Royal Caribbean Group, Turnagain Marine, and the Seward Company, includes a double-berth floating pier and upgraded marine facilities designed to accommodate larger vessels and growing passenger volumes. Inspectors identified large clusters of piles requiring removal before operations can commence safely. Once cleared, the terminal plans to operate using a temporary mooring system throughout the remainder of Alaska's summer cruise season.

Originally reported by Royal Caribbean Blog, Allie (May 18, 2026).