sitka shore excursions royal caribbean

Alaska cruise excursions | Royal Caribbean Blog If you happen to take a September cruise, make sure you plan time to visit theWhale Park. Sitka Private Bears, Raptors and Totem Excursion, Sitka Bears, Raptors and Totems Excursion, Sitka Whale Watching and Marine Life Excursion, Sitka Private Premium Sightseeing Excursion, Sitka Scenic and Fortress of the Bear Excursion, Sitka Private Whale Watching and Marine Life Excursion. Nature-lovers might try a visit to Tongass National Forest and/or stop at the Fortress of the Bear or Sitka Raptor Center to see some of the native wildlife. From paying baggage fees to risking lost luggage, I find, Royal Caribbean has released its Alaska cruises for 2023 season. Despite the average Ketchikan worker bringing home around $1 per day, it wasnt uncommon for Dolly to earn $75 or more each day. Ready to revisit that bucket list? While an Alaska cruise brings stunning landscapes and wildlife, there is also the opportunity to learn more about southeast Alaskas Native culture and history. The trailhead is located 1.3 miles from where cruise ships dock in Ketchikan, but it is a very steep walk through town to get there. I packed for my Alaska cruise in a carry-on suitcase. Heres a quick list of Sitka FAQs to help you out. Visitors can view bears from a large, covered viewing platform and learn about the bears from on-site naturalists. 13 IDEAL Things to Do in Sitka, Alaska for 2023 - Cruise Hive There is bound to be something for everyone as this tour visits 4 main Sitka landmarks; Harrington Centennial Hall, The Fortress of the Bear, the Alaskan Raptor Center, and the Sitka National Historical Park. Sitka Scenic Tour. On Princess - they picked them up at the pier. Description. Begin in downtown Sitka, where you'll take a motorized, rigid-hull inflatable on a 15 - to 20 -minute ride across beautiful Sitka Sound, with the massive volcano Mt. Please note: prices are per VEHICLE. The formal transfer ceremony of Alaska from Russia to the United States occurred on top of Castle Hill, making the Baranof Castle State Historic Site an integral part of Alaskas history and transformation. There's also an orca (killer whale) skeleton and several aquariums with Alaskan sea life. A top rated trail in Sitka is the Mount Verstovia Trail, a 4.5 mile out and back hike leaving near downtown Sitka and to the peak of Mt. Sitka lies on the western shore of Baranof Island along Alaskas famous Inside Passage. Their huge enclosures are repurposed water tanks at the town's former pulp mill. The Alaska Raptor Center can be visited on your own or through a shore excursion. (For those looking for a briefer walk, the first quarter-mile of this trail, which starts from the Baranof Street trailhead, is ADA-accessible.) **THIS TOUR IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE 2023 SEASON** This small-capacity privately chartered marine tour takes guests to some of the most stunning locales for whale watching and wildlife viewing. (It's also possible to visit the brewery, located 1.5 miles from downtown. Get up close with Alaskan wildlife on a 2-hour whale watching tour from Sitka. CRUISE HIVE LTD 2008-2023. Located a short walk from the cruise ship, Bawden Street Brewery is the only microbrewery in Ketchikan and focuses on ales, saisons, and sours. During World War II, the United States Navy constructed an air base on the neighboring Japonski Island. Explore a private island with lush forests, two secluded beaches, hiking trails, and a gourmet boxed lunch. Then, after the Russians handed over Alaska to the US government, the first Alaskan flag flew on Castle Hill in 1867. A wonderful way to experience Sitkas cultural melting pot is through food and drink. Look for marine wildlife on your way to a . Skill levels of all ages are welcome, as you will receive specialized instruction that will have you feeling at ease on your kayak in no time! Friendly local, and trained Sitka shore excursion guides! If you would like to exchange one tour for a different one, you must create a new reservation for the new tour and send us an email to cancel the other tour. Two-hour private boat excursion for your party of up to six! Learn from your resident guide who was a former commercial fisherman in the area and has many stories and local knowledge to share. Full-day Tours. While a challenging hike, hard work will be rewarded at the top of Deer Mountain, with panoramic views of surrounding islands and mountains, the city, lakes, and rainforest. Amazing places deserve to be shared with others - why not Write a Review! A well-rounded introduction to all things Sitka awaits on this best of tour. The food truck trend has also hit town, a boon to time-constrained visitors trying to see all that Sitka has to offer. A popular trail at the park is the Totem Trail, a mile long walkway through the forest that has eighteen hand carved Tlingit and Haida totem poles. If you continue out of Creek Street into the woods, youll run into Married Mans Trail. Take a free guided tour to learn about the homes art, architecture, and historical artifacts. Its also host to various cultural events throughout the summer. Alaska Excursions Review - Shore Excursions - Royal Caribbean Blog ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Dollys House is still filled with Dollys belongings and furniture just as she left it when she moved into a nursing home. With your support, we can create more exciting content and share with everyone! Before you leave town to explore the nature surrounding Sitka, you have one more stop to make: theSheldon Jackson Museum. Today, cultural influences from all three groups remain. Enjoy the fragrant scent of burning cedar while you watch a live performance by theSheetka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Dancers. But we know you probably have a few questions about your visit as well, such as thebest time of yearto plan your cruise. Canada's decision to ban all cruise ships for a year is not sitting well with the state of Alaska.Following Canada's, If I had to pick between cruising the Caribbean or cruising Alaska, I would pick Alaska every time. The rescue center is supported entirely by visitor donations and is open to family members of all ages. The location is perfect for snapping pictures of the town and surrounds. We offer the absolute best options for your tours and cruise shore excursions in Sitka! It commemorates the 1804 Battle of Sitka that took place between the Russian settlers and the Tlingit tribespeople. THE 10 BEST Sitka Shore Excursions (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor A $5 entry fee allows you to explore the historic icons inside the church. If you are planning on staying for longer than just a cruise visit then here are the best hotels to stay in Sitka. This shore excursion is one of the most popular in it shows the best of Sitka, the former "Russian" capital city of Alaska Taking safety measures. A: The best Shore Excursions in Sitka according to Viator travelers are: Sitka Shore Excursion: Bears, Raptor Center, & Totem Park Tour (Small Group) PREMIUM Sitka Scenic Tour. IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE The excursions and guided tours designed to take your getaway to the next level from locally-taught culinary classes and land tours infused with culture and history, to adrenaline amping outdoor thrills and off-the-grid exploration. Sitka Shore Excursion: Whale-Watching and Marine Life Tour - Viator All rights reserved. For something different, try a brew flavored with spruce tips. Visiting Fortress of the Bear is an excellent activity for those hoping to catch a glimpse of Alaskas brown bears and support an organization working to improve the lives of young bears that have been orphaned. After receiving a comprehensive lesson on how to navigate your kayak as a team with your paddling partner, launch in a 2-person kayak from a dedicated dock at the cruise ship terminal. You asked your most pressing Alaska cruise questions, and today, we're answering each and every one. All rights reserved. 2-3 hours. A two-hour excursion shows you why Sitka is one of the most charming ports in Alaska. Get outfitted by your professional guides in all necessary kayaking gear and rainwear to keep you safe and warm on your kayak adventure. The hall features restrooms, WiFi, and an information desk. It includes nature trails, a visitor center, and a theater showing a video about Sitkas history. Another popular spot to visit is St. Michael Cathedral. Fortress of the Bear has a three-quarter acre habitat in the Tongass National Forest, and visiting the facility offers the opportunity to get within just 25 feet of Alaskas brown bears in a natural setting. As a former crew member for Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival Cruise Line I can continue my passion by sharing my experiences with readers. If you dont want to plan an organized excursion while in Sitka, consider walking around town on your own. This small capacity (up to 6 guests) marine tour takes guests to some of the most stunning locales for whale watching and wildlife viewing. Visits to the Saxman Totem Park are recommended as well, home to one of the largest collections of authentic and handmade totem poles in the world. Icy Strait Point ??? - Shore Excursions - Royal Caribbean Blog In order to receive a refund, changes and cancellations must be made more than 7 days prior to your tour date. Seaplane tours include a water landing, sure to be a unique experience for most passengers. (Each vehicle accommodates up to 7 passengers). From viewing traditional dancing to hiking a totem-lined trail through the rainforest, visitors still experience the cultural richness that inspired Sitka's 19th century nickname, the "Paris of the Pacific". 22 miles east of Ketchikan is the Misty Fjords National Monument, a natural array of cliffs, fjords, and 3,000 ft. mountains emerging straight up from the ocean. Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features. Originally founded by the Tlingit people over 10,000 years ago, this Alaska town now offers a peek into the life of both cultures. It took two years for Russia to return with a large force and bombard the Tlingit fort, forcing the Tlingit people to eventually surrender and desert their stronghold. This private group excursion offers just that in a setting that is indescribably beautiful! A free, self-guided trail leads through a lovely temperate rainforest of Sitka spruce and hemlock trees, past numerous carved and painted totem poles to the site where the Tlingit fort once stood. Learn more 2 hours (approx.) Air-conditioned and licensed round-trip transportation from your Sitka Alaska cruise ship tender pier! Started in 2010, Royal Caribbean Blog offers daily coverage of news and information related to the Royal Caribbean cruise line along with other relevant topics of cruising, such as entertainment, news, photo updates and more. This private offer allows you to plan your time in port your way and at your pace. As it is located right over a creek, youll also have the chance to spot wildlife such as salmon and otters playing in the water. When youve had your fill of history and culture in Sitka town, its time to explore the stunning nature that surrounds you. Keep your eyes out for a multitude of wildlife sightings that are possible along the way. This park is also the site of a battle between the Sheetka Kwan Kiksadi Clan and Russian American troops, during the 19th century. Whale watching, sea lions, otters, seals, dolphins, birds, and more are possible! The Tatoosh Islands Wilderness Kayak Adventure takes guests on a guided kayak tour of the Tatoosh islands with the chance of encountering bald eagles, seals, whales, sea lions, and otters. Here are our recommendations for the best things to see in Sitka, Alaska. Kayak excursions to Sitka Sound even give visitors the chance to kayak with views of Mount Edgecumbe, a 3,201 foot volcano west of Sitka. (834 Lincoln Street; (907) 747-8878; during cruise season open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), Naa Kahidi Dance Show: Watch a traditional dance performance at the Tlingit Clan House. If youre not interested in seafood, Ketchikan offers other types of cuisines. We'll send you the latest cruise updates daily to your inbox. Free shuttles run between the dock and downtown Sitka. A beautiful and scenic location originally settled by the Russians and the Sitka Tribe of Alaska, Sitka is a perfect place to relax and explore the outdoors when your cruise ship is docked in port. Of course, these are only a sample of the incredible things to do in Sitka, Alaska. Take control of your vacation and see and do exactly what you wish while in beautiful Sitka, Alaska. While prices might seem high at first glance, they include the gratuity, so factor that in. The area is a dense rainforest complete with waterfalls and glacial lakes, as well as abundant wildlife. The first stop of our tour was the Alaska Raptor Center. This education and rescue center reside on an exquisite three-quarter acre habitat for orphaned brown bear cubs complete with covered viewing areas in a natural habitat setting which replicates Southeast Alaska. Check out Ernies Old Time Saloon for a variety of beers on tap or a cocktail. More information on what to do in Alaska's cruise ports: Have our travel agency partner get you a free quote for a Royal Caribbean cruise. Toronto. This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Fishing excursions can also be booked through Royal Caribbean directly. Best of Sitka | Sitka Shore Excursion | Alaskan Cruise Tours Prepare to be captivated by the stunning views at Silver Bay, and Thimbleberry Waterfall Hike, or the serene ambiance of Whale Park, and the cultural richness of the Totem Park National Historic Site. Seafood is a staple of this thriving fishing community, with Dungeness crab, halibut and salmon served up as fresh as can be. Edgecumbe providing a dramatic backdrop. Tickets can be purchased via a Royal Caribbean shore excursion or at the door. What to Budget. You can also learn about native culture and music at the Sheetka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Tribal Community House. Keep an eye out for seals, otters, and birds in addition to whales. You can also find Tongass National Forest tours deparing from Sitka. Your ship has docked, and youre surrounded by the stunning mountains and waters of Sitka Sound. 4.6 (36) Experienced local guides will share their knowledge of the beautiful Sitka region and wildlife with guests on this 2-hour tour. If youre looking to break a sweat while in Ketchikan, consider hiking to the peak of Deer Mountain. A cruise to Sitka, much like other Alaska cruise ports, brings the opportunity to spot majestic wildlife, particularly in the ocean waters. The most popular time to visit Sitka is summer, when most cruises run and when the weather is more temperate. Next we went to Fortress of the Bear which is an impressive facility. If youre looking for something easier, consider Sitkas Cross Trail, an accessible gravel-paved trail for cycling and walking. Mobile ticket Offered in: English Explore our promoted experiences Likely to Sell Out Sitka, Alaska From the safety of secure observation decks, you can watch the bears eat, play, and swim in their natural habitat. If you have further questions please email [emailprotected] or if it is an urgent matter you can call 1-888-586-8489. Lets take a look at the best activities to do on a cruise to Sitka. Have our travel agency partner get you a free quote for a Royal Caribbean cruise. Do you know about when you'd like to sail? Your cruise line will likely offer sea kayaking as a shore excursion. Guided walking trip at Sitka National Historical Park! St. Michaels Cathedral (arguably one of the most popular Sitka attractions) is a perfect example. Visit the rescue center for Alaskan brown and black bears then travel to the Alaskan Raptor Center, a rehabilitation center for birds of prey. This protected area of temperate rain forest stretches out to a peninsula and offers multiple, easily accessible trail loops that contour Indian River and the Eastern Channel waters. (1000 Raptor Way, off Sawmill Creek Road; 907-747-8662; open daily May to September, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Most tours booked with the ship that use buses will pick you up on or near the pier. If youre interested in a fancier sit-down meal while in Sitka, consider dining at Ludvigs Bistro, the highest rated restaurant in town. Weather permitting, take in the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Edgecumbe, Sitkas majestic stratovolcano. The lunch menu includes salmon chowder, rockfish tacos, reindeer sausage, salmon burgers, kale salad and salmon mac and cheese. The full cancellation policy can be found here. Sitka is unique amongst towns in Southeast Alaska due to its location on the Outer Coast. Details. You'll discover areas of the Sound which are only accessible by kayak and your guide will help to identify all of the wildlife above and below the sea! They contain sea urchins, anemones, huge foot-wide starfish and more. Amazing Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Shore Excursion - Viator A two-hour excursion shows you why Sitka is one of the most charming ports in Alaska. If your Alaska cruise visits Sitka, its a great idea to learn about what activities are offered in town so you can make the most of your day in port. Book Now. In the waters between the Tongass Rainforest and the Alexander Archipelago, set out to explore coves and islands in search of a vast array of Alaskan wildlife. You can learn more about the history of the site from the many plaques that line the ascending walkway. Top 10 things to do in Sitka, Alaska | Royal Caribbean Blog Difficult/Significant Physical Activity: A large amount of walking and or climbing is required, often over unpaved and uneven terrain. Escape the cruise ship shore excursion crowds and enjoy the unique sights of Sitka and the surrounding area! Hundreds more arrive each year and are re-released into the wild once theyre healthy enough. You will enjoy approximately 2 hours of kayaking with gorgeous views of the Sitka coastline as well as panoramic views of Sitka Sound with its accompanying small island systems and estuaries. This small group adventure offers just that in a setting that is indescribably beautiful! Clouds and rainfall are abundant, though, so be sure to include a waterproof jacket in yourcruise packing list. Known by the locals as Castle Hill, this is one of the most important historical sites in all of Alaska. An intimate look at some of Alaska's most revered wildlife, this tour is set up comfortably for guests to learn from local guides as they take in the best Sitka has to offer. (200 Katlian Street; 907-747-7137; check online calendar for show times, which are often around midday), Harris Aircraft Services: This local company operates a floatplane business that takes visitors on flightseeing tours over the scenic backcountry and glacier ice fields of Baranof Island. A beautiful and scenic location originally settled by the Russians and the Sitka Tribe of Alaska, Sitka is a perfect place to relax and explore the outdoors when your cruise ship is docked in port. Sitka, Alaska. The only Inside Passage community that fronts the Pacific Ocean, hugging Baranof Island's west shore in the shadow of the impressive Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano with a graceful cone reminiscent of Japan's Mount Fuji. Kayaking is a sport popular for visitors to Alaska, allowing the chance to explore the states breathtaking scenery and wildlife from the water. Following a canoe ride is a nature hike where visitors can learn more about the native flora and fauna of Tongass National Forest. What makes Sitka so special? Visiting the Misty Fjords is a popular tour in Ketchikan, as it allows passengers to get a closer look at Alaskas nature and scenery in a small vessel. Depending on the cruise company, your ship may drop anchor offshore instead of pulling into the port. Be one of the special few who gets to experience a marine adventure and see marine life with a whale expert in a small intimate group. Following the Battle of Sitka, the Russians established New Archangel as a permanent settlement where they continued to control the land until the Alaska Purchase in 1867. The towns infamous red-light district in the past is now a scenic walkway, offering the chance to learn about Ketchikans history. Here guests can learn about the Tlingit peoples history, culture, and ways of life through a local guide, dance performance, and visit to the Beaver Clan House. Expert guides will lead your snorkel from Magic Island for an hour of snorkeling fun. Depart from Harrigan Centennial Hall and begin your journey to three Sitka highlights with your local guide. 5/5 4 Reviews. Craft a metal salmon or halibut at a local Sitka workshop. Fortress of the Bear & Raptor Center Premium Tour - Alaska Shore Excursions (Accessible from Lincoln Street. Buses run from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with three route loops. Peering down at the town of Ketchikan and your cruise ship while docked is the pointy, 3001 ft. peak of Deer Mountain. Tour the Misty Fjords National Monument. Boldly existing between the mountains and the sea, Sitka is an island community where the arts flourish and an ancient native culture still thrives. Sitka offers a great place to whale watch and view other marine wildlife in one of the most picturesque settings in Alaska. Either way, the dropoff point in Sitka town is likely to beHarrigan Centennial Hall. Today, you can learn more about this part of Sitkas history with tours like our Sitka Island Paddle and Lost Fort Trek which takes you on a scenic guided kayak paddle through the Sitka Sound and explores abandoned WWII forts. She was very informative and had loads of personality too! 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Q&A: Cruise Insurance with Steve Dasseos of the TripInsuranceStore.com - Summer Session '23, ANNOUNCEMENT: Regent Seven Seas Cruises 2025-2026 Voyage Collection Debut. There are standard 20-, 40- and 60-minute tours. Lace-up your hiking boots and get ready for a six-mile hike into the Alaskan rainforest. Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos. Come experience and get to know Alaska's first capitol on a small group private tour! Sitka probably isnt as cold as you imagine. Visit the top three asked about sites in Sitka! Overa million touriststake an Alaskan cruise every year. Explore the breath-taking beauty of Sitka on this private 2.5-hour scenic tour to the city's most sought-after landmarks. On top of the totem park visit, scope out Russian Bishop's House, Crescent Harbor, Sitka Sound Science Center, and more. Explore and discover the city's historic streets and landmarks while gaining a deeper appreciation for its Indigenous Tlingit culture, bustling fishing industry, and unique history as the former capital of Russian America. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many observation decks along the trail. Stroll throughout lofty totem poles in the Sitka National Historical Park, observe . Visiting the Misty Fjords National Monument via seaplane is an alternative tour option. For a closer look at the local sea life, you could opt for a boat tour around the harbor or charter a fishing trip. Top 10 things to do in Ketchikan | Royal Caribbean Blog Please send an email to [emailprotected] letting us know which tours you would like to cancel as we must have all cancelation requests in writing. If youve booked any tours or excursions with a local company, Harrigan Centennial Hall is probably the starting point. Nature lovers will love hiking the Harbor Mountain Trail, sea kayaking around Sitka Bay, or observing orphaned bears in their natural habitat at Fortress of the Bear. Whether kayaking, ziplining, or canoeing, getting active can be a fantastic way to explore more of what Ketchikan has to offer. You must have JavaScript enabled to use this form. Shore Excursions & Cruise Guided Tours | Royal Caribbean Cruises Get to know Alaska and experience nature up close on this amazing private shore excursion of Sitka's bears, raptors, and totems. This non-profit rescue facility is home to seven Alaskan bears. Spend two hours being introduced to Southeast Alaska and still have time left to explore, shop and taste local cuisine on your own afterwards. Showing eagles in a natural setting is always a goal along the way as guests witness the historical sights and sounds of Sitka. Walk the streets of historic downtown Sitka on your way to one of Southeast Alaska's highly-rated destinations, the Sitka National Historical Park. Sitka Shore Excursion Reviews - Cruise Critic For all tours in Alaska we recommend wearing layers, the top one waterproof. Bear-sighting tours, such as the Alaska Bear Adventure by Floatplane tour, include a floatplane ride to Neets Bay followed by a short trail to an observation deck. Your guide will be able to sculpt your tour to your preferences so you can make the most of your experience. Private round-trip transportation from your Sitka Alaska cruise ship tender pier! You can visit Forgress of the Bears and observe bears up close. Edgecumbe. Explore the forest path with towering collections of Tlingit and Haida totem poles looming large. Get to know Alaska's first capitol and experience this unique city through the eyes of a local guide, there is no better way to learn about a place you have never been. Posted 20 hours ago. Here are 8 reasons I prefer Alaska cruises over the Caribbean. Today, the Bishops House is protected as a National Historic Landmark. Named after the married men who would take a more conspicuous path to Creek Street as opposed to being seen on the walk in town, this is a short nature trail that offers nice views of town while walking through the forest. Most hikers will stop at Picnic Rock (2,550) as the trail to the top of Mt. Season: Late April-early October $189 per person 3 hrs. In nice weather, you can dine on the back porch. Always keep your eyes peeled as you might spot bald eagles in the tree-tops and Sitka black tail deer grazing on brush. Unique, funny, and entertaining, the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is sure to be something you have never seen before. Having a guide who is a long time resident of the area was a big plus. On days with particularly cold weather, spend some time in one of Sitkas coffee shops to warm up with a coffee and pastry. You may need to negotiate a few steps. Guests with mobility issues should reconsider this tour as there is some minimal walking involved. ), St. Michael's Orthodox Cathedral: The onion-domed church is impossible to miss since it sits smack in the middle of Lincoln Street. Whether or not the fish are biting, you'll take home a unique souvenir from your time in Alaska. Two-hour boat ride (built for 10) with just a maximum of 6 guests! Before the Russian settlers arrived, the Tlingit clan built a strategic fortification on this hilltop. (240 Lincoln St.; 907-747-8120; opening hours vary, depending on when ships are in port), The Russian Bishop's House: A National Historic Landmark operated by the National Park Service, this impressive structure across Lincoln Street from Centennial Hall was built in 1842. Join this once-in-a-lifetime snorkel adventure in Sitka Sound, Alaska. Ketchikan is the southernmost port in Alaska visited on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Youll find it on Lincoln Street between Harrigan Centennial Hall and the nearby Sitka National Park. (104 Barracks Street, behind Old Harbor Books on Lincoln; 907-747-8856; open Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.), Bayview Restaurant and Pub: Stop in at Bayview Restaurant and Pub for burgers, locally caught fish and craft beers from independent breweries in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, including the local Baranof Island Brewing Company. Explore Sitka without the hassle of navigating on your own on a half-day tour to the city's top landmarks, including the Fortress of Bears, National Historic Park, and Raptor Center.
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