We will be flying into Anchorage 6 days early. I've planned on spending 2 nights in Anchorage than rent a car. We will drive up to Denali and have rented a car for 3 nights. We need to catch the Criuse in Whittier. Where should we spend the night before the cruise? We could spend it in Anchorage and drive in Whittier the morning of the cruise. Is it stressful having to time the tunnel and then drop off the car? OR should we drop the car off in Anchorage the night before and take the Train or Bus? If so, is train or bus more convienent? It would be nice to stay close or in Whittier the night before, but hotel choices don't look too good. Can anyone recommend a convienant hotel near the cruiseship port in Whittier?
Any input would be appreciated....Thanks

OOps, we will be renting a cabin for 3 days in Daneli, not another car!!

First off there is ONLY one rental option for Anchorage/Whittier cars- AVIS. Expect a $125 drop off fee. AND no I wouldn't suggest you stay near there, it's only an hour 15 min. drive from Anchorage- stay there- far more lodging choices. As for the tunnel- have a copy of the schedule- simple, it's open on average 15 min each hour. But I would suggest you also consider the Alaska RR- leaves at 10 am for Whittier. Exact same scenery as the bus which will run about the same cost for the cruise contracted bus.

You are right, the additional cost to drop the car in Whittier was almost $200. cdn. Not worth it, even for a family of 4. Thanks,

If you take the rail you are also looking at $200US so the car drop fee is a cheaper option.