Every year, I like to include an Alaskan port of call in my port reviews, and I freely admit that I do this because it is one of my all-time favourite destinations. Almost all cruises to Alaska include Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway and an obligatory day amongst the ice and glaciers. Many cruises are just seven days, however, I’d suggest looking for a voyage of 10 days or more, allowing you to visit places like Haines and of course, Sitka, once the capital of Russian America, before it was sold to the US in 1867 for just two cents per acre.
Sitka is one of those ports where your ship will need to anchor off-shore and tender all passengers into town. Once ashore, you’re just a short walk into downtown and you’re also on an island (Baranof Island). Great shore excursions are available in this port and they all depart directly from the dock, so it’s easy.
There’s loads of history within walking distance and you’ll soon discover that Sitka has an incredible flavour unlike any of the other Alaskan ports, where the culture of the local Tlingit people who settled here over 10,000 years ago, the Russian influence, and of course the good ole’ USA have melded together. In town there’s shopping galore, of which you’ll find artistic museum quality Tlingit treasures, a delightful Russian cathedral (St. Michael’s) and a total of 24 attractions listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Wildlife abounds here including the mighty bald eagle, cuddly looking sea otters, Sitka black tailed deer, sea lions, tufted puffins, and Sitka Sound is known as a humpback whale playground.
There’s so much to do here during your day. Visit the Sitka National Historic Park and Cultural Centre where you’ll view beautiful, hand-carved totems, and then head up to the Alaska Raptor Centre, where you can see the impressive bald eagle up close and personal. One of the most popular activities is ocean fishing for salmon and halibut and in summer you’re sure to catch lunch. The Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest is a wonderful ship’s tour, along with ATV, kayak, cycling and hiking tours for more thrills. There’s even a Russian dance troupe. This is just a sampling!
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: May – Sep
Don’t Miss: Raptor display & talk at Raptor Centre
Tour or Not: Half day tour then half day on your own
Sightseeing: Alaska Raptor Centre, ocean fishing
Food: Salmon and halibut
Language: English
Shopping: Tlingit art, Russian lacquer ware
Cash or Card: Credit Card and USD
