Hi, we are planning a southbound cruise from Seward to Vancouver on 18th September. We will reach Anchorage on 17th evening. Can anyone suggest some budget accommodation for 1 night in Anchorage that is convenient for transfer to the Seward port next day. And also train or bus? A little bit of sightseeing, probably half day at Seward or Anchorage? Thanks in advance.

The last run on the Alaska Railway from Anchorage to Seward leaves Sept. 18. It departs at 6:45 and arrives in Seward at 11:05am. IMO, it merits the place of an Alaskan cruise excursion all on its own. Link: https://www.alaskarailroad.com/

There are also be buses, which may or may not be less expensive.

Ask your cruise line or agent about transfers. There are several ways to go about this, from cruise line buses, the train, or you could rent/hire a car and drive (very scenic.)

You might want to consult the Alaska board on Cruise Critic - http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=55 - where this question comes up regularly.

There are a few shuttles, but need to booked ahead, they may sell out.

Here's one company (the one I used)

http://www.akcruiseshuttle.com/seward/

Another one I saw recommended was A Alaska

You can find others on the official website, such as Park Connection

http://www.alaskacoach.com/routes/anchorage-seward.html

www.anchorage.net

The lodging I wound up at was Guest House, included pickup from the airport. It was fine, the neighborhood is downtown so can be a little sketchy after dark but they security seemed good and I didn't need to park a car there!.

http://www.redlion.com/anchorage

I did Anchorage to Seward by bus, and Seward to Anchorage by train.
Both rides were pleasant and scenic, but the train ride was spectacular, and I would recommend it.

As for accommodations in Anchorage, I stayed at the Days Inn, which is walking distance to the train station. It was convenient and reasonable. It also had an airport and train station shuttle.

I just did a search for availability and it keeps landing me on "Guest House Suites", so maybe it has changed. The prices were under $100, which is very reasonable for Alaska.

As for sightseeing, Exit Glacier at Seward is worth a visit.
Also, the waterfront is pleasant to walk along, and there is an aquarium at the edge of town that was interesting.