In early September, we will be starting from Seward, Alaska on a Southbound cruise ending in Vancouver, BC.This is our first trip to Alaska and we would like to spend 2 or 3 days prior to the cruise exploring the area. We need ideas for sightseeing, lodging and transportation. Any help is appreciated.

What "area", Seward??? Head to your library and take out Fodor's Alaska, loaded with information. Also request their visitor guide www.seward.com

Plenty to see and do.

Not sure what your "early" reference is, but one ways in this timeframe are superior going north. The Inside Passage, drops off significantly in the weather potential, so be well prepared.

As for transportation to Seward, there is the Alaska RR, one way rental car, Hertz, or buses. listings www.anchorage.net

If you are interested to starting in Fairbanks we can recommend a fantastic B&B, then you could take the train south to Denali Nat'l Park or all the way to Anchorage, or a bus trip from Denali to Anchorage.

There are many, many threads here on Alaska. You'll find lots of ideas. I'd stick to anchorage and the Kenai peninsula. You don't have time to go any farther into Alaska.