Ketchikan Cruises

Discover Ketchikan, Alaska, USA

Ketchikan, often referred to as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” is a vibrant coastal town nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Southeast Alaska. Visiting Ketchikan with a cruise allows you to experience its rich native culture, stunning scenery, and exciting adventures in the great outdoors. Fun fact: Ketchikan is known for its beautiful totem poles, some of the largest collections in the world can be found at the Totem Heritage Center!

Activities and Attractions in Ketchikan

When your cruise ship docks in Ketchikan, you’ll find a variety of engaging activities and attractions to explore:

• Discover the Totem Heritage Center: Explore Ketchikan’s indigenous culture at the Totem Heritage Center, which houses a remarkable collection of totem poles and artifacts. Learn about the stories behind each totem through informative displays.
• Take a scenic floatplane tour: Experience Ketchikan from above by taking a floatplane tour to see stunning landscapes, charming islands, and maybe even some wildlife like seals and eagles. This is an unforgettable way to capture the beauty of Alaska!
• Visit the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary: Explore the lush rainforest and get up close with local wildlife, including eagles and salmon. This sanctuary offers guided tours through beautiful trails and educational exhibits about the ecosystem.
• Experience the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show: Enjoy a fun and entertaining show demonstrating traditional lumberjack skills, featuring ax throwing, log rolling, and chain sawing competitions, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
• Explore Creek Street: Wander along this historic boardwalk area filled with charming shops, restaurants, and galleries. It was once the red-light district in the early 1900s, adding to Ketchikan’s colourful history!

Common Harbours to Explore Before and After Your Cruise

As you cruise to Ketchikan, consider adding these nearby harbours to your itinerary:

• Juneau, Alaska, USA: Alaska’s capital city, Juneau, is known for stunning glacial scenery and outdoor adventures. Explore the Mendenhall Glacier, take a scenic tram ride, or enjoy whale watching tours that cater to cruise passengers.
• Skagway, Alaska, USA: This historic gold rush town offers charming streets and exciting excursions. Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, take a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, or explore local shops and eateries.
• Sitka, Alaska, USA: Rich in history and natural beauty, Sitka is famous for its Russian heritage. Visit historical sites like St. Michael’s Cathedral or take a scenic walk through the Sitka National Historical Park.
• Icy Strait Point, Alaska, USA: A great place to experience native Alaskan culture, Icy Strait Point offers adventure activities like zip-lining and whale watching, along with beautiful scenery and wildlife encounters.
• Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska, USA: Known for its spectacular glaciers and wildlife, Glacier Bay offers stunning landscapes and the chance to see tidewater glaciers up close. Guided boat tours provide an immersive experience for guests.

Regions to Explore While Visiting Ketchikan

Your cruise to Ketchikan opens the door to explore these incredible regions:

• Alaska & West Canada: This region is renowned for its breathtaking national parks, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife. Experience outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and kayaking in destinations such as Banff and Jasper National Parks.
• Australia: Home to stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cities, Australia offers unique adventures. Explore the Great Barrier Reef, hike through national parks, and indulge in cultural experiences in cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
• Hawaii: A tropical paradise filled with beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Discover lush rainforests, relax on pristine shores, and taste traditional Hawaiian cuisine at local luaus.
• USA West Coast: This iconic region offers diverse attractions from stunning coastlines and bustling cities to lush wine country. Experience landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Disneyland, and Seattle’s Space Needle while enjoying local cuisine.
• Central America: Known for its biodiversity and ancient civilizations, Central America features destinations rich in culture and heritage. Explore Mayan ruins, pristine beaches, and vibrant markets across countries like Costa Rica and Panama.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Ketchikan

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess features Ruby Princess and Coral Princess on itineraries to Ketchikan. Known for their exceptional onboard experience and diverse excursions, these cruises often depart from Vancouver or San Francisco.
• Holland America Line: Operating 12 ships, Holland America includes Noordam and Westerdam for cruises visiting Ketchikan. Renowned for their premium service and immersive shore excursions, these cruises typically depart from Sydney or Vancouver.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet size of 20, Norwegian includes Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Spirit on itineraries that visit Ketchikan. Known for their freestyle cruising concept, these cruises often depart from Seattle or Vancouver.
• Carnival Cruise Lines: Operating 27 ships, Carnival features Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Spirit on trips to Ketchikan. Known for their fun, family-friendly atmosphere, these cruises typically depart from Seattle or San Francisco.
• Royal Caribbean: With 29 ships, Royal Caribbean includes Serenade of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas for journeys to Ketchikan. Famous for their thrill-seeking activities and onboard experiences, these cruises most often depart from Vancouver or Seattle.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet size of 11, Viking includes Viking Orion and Viking Venus on itineraries visiting Ketchikan. Known for their exceptional cultural immersion and luxury experiences, these cruises usually depart from Seward or Vancouver.
• Oceania Cruises: Operating 8 ships, Oceania features Riviera for itineraries to Ketchikan. Their focus on culinary experiences and intimate ship environments make them a great choice, with departures typically from Seattle or Vancouver.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6, Seabourn offers Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Encore for trips to Ketchikan. Renowned for luxury and personalized service, these cruises often depart from Vancouver or Yokohama (Tokyo).

Visiting Ketchikan Throughout the Year

Understanding seasonal changes can enhance your travel experience while visiting Ketchikan:

• Winter (December, January, February): Winter temperatures in Ketchikan typically range from -3°C to 9°C. It’s a chillier season, ideal for winter sports and cozying up in local cafés, though some cruises may not operate during this time.
• Spring (March, April, May): Spring brings mild temperatures, usually between 3°C and 15°C. This is a wonderful time for outdoor activities as nature awakens, providing delightful sightseeing opportunities.
• Summer (June, July, August): Summer is warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 20°C. This is peak tourist season, perfect for exploring local attractions, hiking trails, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Autumn features temperatures from 5°C to 16°C. As the leaves turn, visitors can enjoy the stunning fall colours while indulging in local harvest festivals and events.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ketchikan, Alaska, USA

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

Cruises to Ketchikan generally range from $2,000 to $4,000 for a one-week itinerary, while luxury options may start around $5,500, depending on the cruise line and selected accommodations.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from $30 to $80 for casual meals, while specialty dining can exceed $100 per person.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Onboard, you can find a range of dining options that cater to various tastes. In Ketchikan, explore local restaurants serving fresh seafood and shops offering handcrafted souvenirs and native art.

What are transportation options?

After docking, local taxis and transport options are easily accessible for moving around. Many attractions are within walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to explore.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for small local purchases.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Ketchikan is typically safe for tourists. Following standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, is advisable.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The primary language is English, and locals are generally friendly and welcoming. Familiarising yourself with a few local customs or phrases can enhance your overall experience.

Ready to embark on a unique Alaskan adventure in Ketchikan? Book your cruise holiday through CruiseAway today and explore the stunning beauty and culture of this beautiful port city!