Whittier to Anchorage Airport

We will sailing from Vancouver to Whittier on Carnival's Spirit in May 2006.

Our flight back home on 5/24 doesn't leave until around 9:15 P.M., which leaves a whole day to see Anchorage and the surrounding area. Would it be cheaper to rent a "one-way" rental, or book one of those 5 1/2 hour tour packages from the ship? Has anyone booked one of these tours, and if so, how much did they cost? I can't get any information on the price from Carnival's website since they state that they can only be booked aboard the ship, the Saturday before we disembark. We have another couple traveling with us, so they would share the cost of the rental, if that is what we decide to do.

What Anchorage tour are you referring to? There would be the Portage Glacier cruise and the Native Museum usually. But definately rent the car. Only option is Avis and expect in the $200/day range with the drop off.

This is your best use of time and ease of storing luggage and making your own plans. I suggest you plan out your interests and do them, as a suggestion, you may want to consider heading north to Hatcher Pass, You would do a cheap glacier Trek if of interest- with a 2 hour drive each way from Anchorage. There have been conflicting reports on Avis opening at the Harbor Store, was 8am some days last year, reports have been 10am?? Confirm this directly. But I would be at the door when they open and in line for the next tunnel opening. Just a nice ride along the Arm is worthwhile with frequent stops, plenty to see and do in Anchorage if of interest. Request their visitor guide. http://www.anchorage.net Allow a 2 hour window at Anchorage airport, very busy and congested on cruise days.