Supporting Statewide Tourism
Tourism is one of the most important and impactful industries for King County and Washington State as it generates billions in visitor spending, supports jobs, strengthens tax bases, and delivers value to communities across the region.
The success of the Port of Seattle’s core business lines, Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA) Airport and the region’s cruise terminals, translates into shared success for residents. As the region’s global gateway, the Port has a vested interest in ensuring that travel demand is not only strong, but also responsibly managed, economically inclusive, and aligned with community values.
Recognizing the economic vitality and long-term resiliency tourism connected to Port facilities delivers, the Port of Seattle Commission approved a formal partnership with State of Washington Tourism (SWT), the state’s official destination marketing organization, beginning in 2020. This collaboration is designed to go beyond increasing visitor numbers to drive high-value, sustainable visitation that strengthens local economies, support jobs, uplift small and under-resourced communities, and advance responsible tourism practices across Washington state.
The Port and SWT continue to implement a comprehensive, global marketing program that helps ensure Washington remains competitive in global travel markets while delivering lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits for residents and visitors alike.
Tourism Department Updates
Now Accepting Applications!
The Port of Seattle’s Tourism Department is accepting applications for its 2026-2027 Tourism Marketing Support Program.
This longstanding program offers applicants a partnering opportunity to promote their destination, attraction or event to out-of-state visitors while promoting the use of Port facilities – SEA International Airport, cruise terminals, and recreational marinas.
Program applications are being accepted between Feb. 3, 2026 and March 3, 2026. Learn more about the Tourism Marketing Support Program, requirements, and eligibility.
Responsible Travel Handbook
In an effort to advance conversations around tourism's impact on the environment, destination stewardship, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), the Port led a collaborative effort with statewide partners to develop this Responsible Travel Handbook. Its contents provide practical guidance on how your organization, region, or community can help usher in a better version of the tourism industry that works for all Washingtonians.
International Tourism Development
The Port's International tourism efforts support both SEA International Airport and our cruise terminals as gateways to Seattle and Washington State. Key target markets are countries with direct air service into SEA and countries with high levels of cruising enthusiasts. Three in-market offices are currently maintained in the United Kingdom/Ireland, Germany/Mainland Europe, and Australia/New Zealand with a focus on informing and educating the travel trade and media on the benefits of cruising from Seattle to Alaska, the wide range of pre/post cruise tourism opportunities in Seattle and Washington State, and the advantages of SEA as the preferred gateway for the Pacific Northwest, Western USA, and Western Canada.
Your Cruise Adventure Begins in Seattle
As the largest and fastest growing cruise market on the West Coast, Seattle has been the natural gateway to Alaska for years. Find ideas for visiting Seattle and Washington State, the heart of the beautiful Pacific Northwest, in our Cruise and Stay Guide!
