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The oldest national park in Alaska covers 113 acres just outside the town of Sitka. It commemorates the 1804 Battle of Sitka that took place between the Russian settlers and the Tlingit tribespeople. When you’ve had your fill of history and culture in Sitka town, it’s time to explore the stunning nature that surrounds you. Lace-up your hiking boots and get ready for a six-mile hike into the Alaskan rainforest.
Local Bars & Pubs
You can also pick up a map here if you wish to explore the town on your own. We work with reputable, local tour operators to offer you a wide variety of excursions to choose from, in every port you’ll visit. Surrounded by the Tongass National rain forest, nature abounds in Sitka, Alaska. A walk up Castle Hill offers the ideal vantage point to take in Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano.
Shopping Near the Sitka Cruise Port
Most cruise ships dock just north of town at Old Sitka Dock, recently renamed Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal. There’s a free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes from the Old Dock to the center of town, 6 miles away. When your cruise ship docks at the Sitka Cruise Port, add the Fortress of the Bear to your list of possible shore excursions in Sitka, AK. This educational bear rescue center offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Since the cruise terminal is located 6 miles north of town, a complimentary shuttle is provided for cruise passengers.
Sitka Alaska Cruise Port Profile and City Guide with Map
Sail to Sitka on an Alaska Cruise today and you’ll see vestiges of Russia’s influence. Stroll past the onion dome of St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House, both National Historic Landmarks. Your cruise ship will dock at the island’s Old Dock at Halibut Point, about five miles north of Sitka town. A free shuttle bus service runs between the dock and downtown Sitka every minutes. Most cruise ships that visit Sitka arrive at the “Old Dock” at Halibut Point, outside of Sitka town. At least eight cruise lines use the brand-new Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal.
See Birds of Prey at the Alaska Raptor Center
Sitka is definitely worth visiting if you are looking for a uniquely Alaskan experience. Its historic sites, native culture, and small-town feel make it a great place to explore. Unfortunately, most cruises visit Sitka earlier in the summer months, but while you might not see whales, you can still see sea lions, harbor seals, and sea otters. For something a little different, be sure to stop at Harry’s Soda Shop in downtown Sitka. This old-fashioned soda shop serves milkshakes, and ice cream sodas, just like they used to. It’s a great spot to stop for a snack and refreshments during a day of sightseeing.
Must-Have Alaskan Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Secrets
There’s a gift shop on-site and proceeds go directly back to the rescue center. You can also listen to whale songs, or see enormous whale bones from killer whales. The hall has an information desk, washrooms and free WiFi and is where most shore excursions meet.
This park seeks to preserve that history and features some original pieces from the area, along with details on how they were made. Downtown Sitka is the main hub of the area and where you’ll find many people exploring when ships are in port. You’ll also see the influence of all the different cultures that have called this area home. As you exit the ship, you’ll see the signs for the shuttle into port. During a cruise that we took, we stood in line for about minutes before boarding the shuttle.
THE 25 BEST Cruises to Sitka, AK 2024 (with Prices) - Sitka Cruise Port Terminal on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic
THE 25 BEST Cruises to Sitka, AK 2024 (with Prices) - Sitka Cruise Port Terminal on Cruise Critic.
Posted: Mon, 23 Oct 2023 15:46:00 GMT [source]
Restaurants in Sitka Alaska
The current structure is a replica of the original after an accidental fire destroyed the cathedral in 1966. The church requests a donation for visitors who wish to enter, which is used for repairs and maintenance of the building. Sitka isn’t the most popular destination for Alaskan cruises, but the town is full of history and character. If you find yourself in this small town, here are some suggestions to make the most of your trip.
CCL-Carnival repositions 3 ships for Alaska, Europe seasons
Even if you wait til the last minute, shore excursion operators are lined up at Centennial Hall, where the port-to-town bus ends. Or you can simply walk through Sitka using a map you’ll receive at the dock. But if you want to be sure to see a bear, then Sitka offers the Fortress of the Bear — a rescue center for orphaned bears. Today there are eight bears that live here on a permanent basis. From viewing decks into the oversized pens, you can watch the bears eat, play, and relax much closer than you’ve likely ever been (while still being in a safe spot!).
Sitka’s waters are also home to some of the best saltwater salmon fishing in Alaska, and the area’s protected bays and inlets make it a prime sea kayaking destination. Located off the Pacific Ocean and within the Tongass National Forest, you will some of the best marine wildlife viewing in North America. Larger vessels may anchor in Crescent Bay and tender passengers to one of the two docks located downtown. Sitka offers a variety of regional foods that reflect the area’s coastal location and cultural influences and is known for its abundance of fresh seafood.
See brown and black bears up close and learn about their rehabilitation at this fascinating bear cub orphanage. Abandoned cubs are taken in and reared in conditions as close to their natural habitat as possible, with the ultimate goal of releasing bears into the wild. Sitka has two cruise ports, and both require transportation to reach the downtown area. Another rescue center in Sitka is the Alaska Raptor Center, which is a refuge for sick or injured bald eagles, owls, falcons, hawks, and other birds of prey from across Alaska. Visitors also have the chance to watch the brown bears play, swim and eat from the safety of an observation deck.
It’s not uncommon for kayakers to see whales breaching in the water, eagles soaring in the sky, or grizzly bears lumbering along the coast. If you want another chance to see wildlife up-close, book an appointment to visit the Alaska Raptor Center. Like the nearby Fortress of the Bear, this facility provides medical treatment and rehabilitation to injured birds of prey. The rescue center is supported entirely by visitor donations and is open to family members of all ages. Forget the zoos you’ve seen back home — you’re about to get closer to grizzly bears than you ever thought possible!
Alongside Tlingit carvings, woven baskets, silverware, herbal soaps, and masks, you’ll find Russian lacquer boxes, nesting Russian dolls, and recreations of Russian icons. There are plenty of edible gifts, too, from smoked salmon to berry preserves. Spend time browsing the local galleries; this is a very creative community, and you’ll find original paintings, photographic art, prints, mosaics, and ornaments. Buying from a gallery supports local artists, but always look for the “Made in Alaska” mark to ensure the authenticity of goods.
Take in the surrounding natural beauty while hiking through a national park and by cruising Sitka Sound on a custom-built expedition vessel made for adventure. Whether you sit inside the vessel or out on deck, you will enjoy spectacular coastal views with majestic mountains as a backdrop. As you pass densely forested islands and glacially carved fjords, the guide will provide commentary that describes the geological, natural and cultural history in fascinating detail. Don’t be surprised if you spot, Harbor porpoise, sea otters and whales along the way. Another side of Alaska awaits you in Sitka National Historical Park, where you will hike through the temperate rainforest.
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