I'm taking an Alaska cruise out of Vancouver in August but am thinking of flying in and out of Seattle (I've never been to either city).

I'd arrive in Seattle on a Thursday around noon, do some sightseeing, stay overnight, sightsee more on Friday, then take the bus on Friday evening to Vancouver. I'd have all day Saturday and part of Sunday to tour Vancouver, before boarding the ship.

Does this seem too rushed?

Not at all....enjoy.

No. I think it is fine. Two really great cities.

Just be realistic about what you want to see in both cities (and get your passport well ahead of time). Do the usual web research and then check in here (US and Canada page) if you need some help narrowing your choices.

Also, if you are interested in sampling specific cuisines, both cities have great food. Chowhound.com is another great talk site that focuses on dining suggestions.

Hopefully you'll get hooked and come back to both places another time.

Thanks! How does the border crossing work on a bus? Is there a long wait?

You could also spend Friday night in Seattle then take the morning Amtrak train to Vancouver - much more pleasant and way more scenic than the bus, for about the same price or less. Leaves around 7:45, arrives around noon.

Didn't realize there was train service, so thank you. How does the border crossing work on a bus or train?

Never had to stop at the border while on the train. While on a TOUR bus (not sure about others), we had to stop at customs, lug our baggage for screening, do the immigration thing, and re-board. I'd take the train.

Didn't realize there was train service, so thank you. How does the border crossing work on a bus or train?

Both Canadian and US immigration/customs are conducted at the Vancouver station.

We did this last year and I highly recommend the train. It was a fun ride and pretty scenic!

If that train goes anywhere near the Chuckanaut (sp) drive area, it would be spectacular! I drove that drive in the late 80's. Absolutely fantastic!