Your Ultimate Guide to the Sitka Cruise Port
The Sitka cruise port is easily one of the most picturesque in Alaska. The stunning scenery, the outdoor adventures, and the cruise excursions make this gem of the Inside Passage spectacular.
Whether you want to spot whales and otters in the Sitka Sound, learn about the Tlingit Native culture, or hike through the Tongass National Forest, Sitka has an activity for every interest.
With only a few short hours in port, the most difficult part will be deciding how to spend your time. But with some insider tips and this cruise port guide, you can make the most of every moment in this coastal paradise.
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I first heard about the picturesque town of Sitka, Alaska, through one of my favorite movies, The Proposal starring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds. Have you seen it?
Surprisingly, on our zodiac adventure tour to Fin Island Lodge, I learned that most of the movie isn’t filmed in Sitka but in Rockport, Massachusetts.
It didn’t matter, though; Sitka still is worthy of any movie set and definitely worth exploring.
I’m sure you will love the Sitka, Alaska, cruise port and all its exciting activities as much as I do.
How to Get Around the Sitka Cruise Port
At least eight cruise lines use the brand-new Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, formerly known as the Old Sitka Dock. This port is served by cruise ships such as Holland America and Norwegian Cruise Line.
Inside the Sitka Cruise Terminal, there are shops and restaurants.
Cruise passengers on a water tour will often board shore tours directly from the adjacent dock.
However, all other cruise ship passengers must take a free shuttle bus to the Visitor’s Center in the city center.
Luxury motorcoaches serve as your free shuttle and take you on a ten-minute ride directly from the cruise port to downtown Sitka, where you will be dropped off at the Harrigan Centennial Hall, a multi-function venue.
You can’t miss the shuttles. There are signs everywhere.
Inside Harrigan Centennial Hall, there are restrooms, an information desk that serves as the Visitor’s Center during the summer, and the Sitka History Museum.
This is also where many land tours and shore excursions meet their guides.
Sitka Port Excursions
The Sitka cruise port is very walkable, and there is plenty to do without booking an excursion. However, some of our favorite Alaskan excursions were taken in Sitka.
The Fortress of the Bear
One place we enjoyed visiting in Sitka was the Fortress of the Bear.
The Fortress of the Bear is an educational bear rescue center that offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
At the Fortress of the Bear, you’ll have the opportunity to see orphaned brown and black bear cubs up close from an elevated walkway. You’ll learn how the bears came to the rescue and the efforts being made on behalf of the Alaskan bear population.
You can get to the complex via a taxi, renting a bicycle, or booking this tour: Premium Sitka Scenic Tour: Alaska Raptor Center, Fortress of the Bears, and Totems!
If you choose to book the tour, you will also visit the Alaska Raptor Center, where you’ll have the opportunity to see various birds of prey up close, including eagles, owls, and hawks.
Much like the Fortress of the Bear, these animals have been saved and provided with a secure, caring habitat where they can heal and flourish.
Our Holland America Line Alaska cruise featured a special on-board presentation in partnership with the Raptor Center, so you may want to check whether your cruise offers something similar.
A Sitka Wildlife Adventure
Sitka, located on Baranof Island and nestled in the heart of the Tongass National Forest, is an ideal spot to see wildlife.
We have taken two water tours in Sitka and highly recommend both. The first was the Wildlife Quest & Zodiac Tour, and the second was the Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest.
Not only will you likely see whales, but other creatures in the Sitka Sound are abundant, such as harbor seals, sea lions, and otters.
Besides wildlife, you will also see Mount Edgecumbe, an active volcano.
Make sure to take your wildlife binoculars with you on these tours.
Glassblowing in Sitka
If you’re looking for something different than hiking trails or wildlife tours, this is a great Sitka surprise.
My sisters took a glassblowing class right in downtown Sitka and loved every minute of it.
They learned how to pull molten glass and made their own glass coasters, which were later shipped home.
The technique is similar to what you’ll see in Murano, Italy, which made it feel extra special and a little unexpected for Alaska.
It’s hands-on, creative, and a fun break from the usual cruise port activities. If this sounds like your ideal experience, check out Wild Arts Gallery & Glass Studio on Facebook to learn more and see which classes are available.
What to Do in Sitka
As mentioned, Sitka is a highly walkable cruise port with plenty to do in Downtown Sitka.
Before heading out to explore the charming town, stop to look around the Sitka History Museum inside the Harrigan Centennial Hall, where your shuttle dropped you off.
Its engaging exhibits and convenient location make it an excellent addition to your list of things to do in Sitka, AK.
Don’t miss the chance to explore this educational attraction before leaving the Visitor’s Center.
Before you leave the Visitor’s Center, walk around the back for a great view of the Sitka lighthouse.
Stroll Through Downtown Sitka Alaska
The downtown area is very walkable. You can easily visit St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral, check out the shops, and walk to Sitka National Park.
Look for the posted Sitka maps throughout this area.
St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral is just a block or two away from the Visitor’s Center.
Look inside this historic treasure, and then enjoy the many shops in the area.
There are several fun places to shop, including Russell’s, a locally owned outdoor gear shop with unique Alaskan t-shirts and gifts.
You should also pop into The Sitka Russian Christmas Store to view the holiday decorations, including the Russian nesting doll selection.
Other notable shops in this area include the Alaskan Sea Salt Co., which offers fantastic caramels, and the Alaska Salmon Shop, which offers free samples.
Visit the Sheldon Jackson Museum
For cruisers visiting Sitka for the first time, don’t miss the Sheldon Jackson Museum, the oldest in Alaska.
This small yet fascinating museum displays the 19th-century Native Alaskan artifacts collected by missionary Sheldon Jackson during his travels across the territory.
Wander through the compact exhibits of Kwakwaka’wakw masks, Chilkat blankets, Yup’ik parkas, and more. The real treasure is opening the wooden drawers throughout the museum, where you’ll discover Jackson’s extensive collection up close.
From ornate pipes to delicate dolls, pulling open each drawer reveals a new set of intriguing artifacts. It’s the perfect place to spend an hour or two exploring the history and creativity of Alaska’s Native peoples.
Explore Sitka National Historical Park
From the Visitor’s Center, you can also reach one of my favorite spots in Sitka, the Sitka National Historical Park.
Follow the map to the Sitka Sea Walk, where you will take a short fifteen-minute scenic walk along the Crescent Harbor to the park’s entrance.
Sitka National Historical Park is a special place filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. This is one of the most beautiful spots in Alaska.
Walking through the park, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful totem poles, each telling a different story about the Tlingit people. Be sure to check out a traditional Lingít dugout canoe.
If you visit between May and September, don’t forget to explore the historic Russian Bishop’s House, where guided tours teach you about the area’s Russian history.
Sitka National Historical Park is a fantastic place to learn more about Alaska’s rich history and culture.
This area has the most tranquil trails along the water, where you can take the Totem or Russian Memorial Trails. Besides the totem poles, you will often see wildlife, including bald eagles, which nest here.
I visited both in June and July, and both months had excellent weather for an enjoyable afternoon exploring the wilderness through the many beautiful rainforest trails.
Sitka Sound Science Center at the Sitka Cruise Port
On the way back to the Visitor’s Center from the park, you will pass the Sitka Sound Science Center.
At the Sitka Sound Science Center, you’ll have the chance to explore their fantastic aquarium.
Get up close and personal with marine life from the local waters, such as colorful fish, fascinating sea stars, and other unique creatures.
The aquarium offers a hands-on experience that will leave you with a greater appreciation for the diverse marine ecosystem of Alaska.
Explore Castle Hill State Park
Another addition to your list of things to do in Sitka is the Castle Hill State Park, which is a must-visit destination for anyone arriving at the Sitka Cruise Port.
Castle Hill, also known as Baranof Castle State Historic Site, is one of Alaska’s most historically significant places.
In 1867, Alaska was officially transferred from Russia to the United States on top of Castle Hill.
Today, it’s a state historic site and a National Historic Landmark.
To get to the park, take Harbor Drive to Harbor Road, where you’ll find the park at the corner of Harbor Road and Lincoln Street.
Castle Hill State Park offers a fully accessible walkway that leads visitors to the top of the hill. From there, you can enjoy outstanding views of downtown Sitka and the waterfront.
The best part about visiting Castle Hill State Park is that there is no admission fee!
You can explore this historic site and enjoy the breathtaking views for free. The park is open year-round, so you can visit whenever your cruise ship arrives in Sitka.
Don’t Miss the Sitka Cruise Port Shuttle Back to the Terminal
I’d like to give you one quick word of wisdom before you leave this post.
Give yourself plenty of time to catch the shuttle back to the cruise terminal.
Sitka uses ship shuttles, not a walk-off port, and the lines near departure time at the Visitor’s Center were insanely long.
Also, double-check that you’re standing in the line for your ship.
With multiple ships in port, you’ll want to pack your patience.
A little extra time here saves a lot of stress later, and I don’t want you breaking into a sprint while your ship casually floats away.
In Conclusion
Visiting the Sitka Cruise Port in Alaska offers a unique and memorable experience.
From exploring the rich history at Castle Hill State Park and the Sitka History Museum to enjoying breathtaking views and wildlife, Sitka provides an unforgettable adventure for every traveler. Don’t miss the chance to discover this Alaskan gem!
Lastly, if you’re a fan of The Proposal like me, you’ll be excited to learn about its connection to this location. Although the movie wasn’t filmed here, a particular aspect of the film remains in this place.
Remember Ramon, the boisterous character who played multiple roles, including the bartender and exotic dancer?
The real Ramon lives in Sitka and is a bartender at Westmark Sitka Hotel’s Kadataan Lounge.
If you visit, stop in and say hello!
