Alaska Cruises from Ketchikan
Ketchikan, known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," isn't just another stop on the Alaskan route. This is a town where everything feels close to nature. Wedged between the Tongass National Forest and the waters of the Inside Passage, this small coastal community thrives on fishing, storytelling, and the rhythm of the tides. Eagles perch on docks, salmon fill the streams, and rain drapes the mountains in mist. If you're setting sail from Ketchikan, you're already deep in the Alaskan wilderness, far removed from the cruise crowds of larger ports.
If you're cruising from Ketchikan, don’t rush to your departure, because this town deserves more than just a stopover. Explore the colorful waterfront of Creek Street, where wooden boardwalks wind above the salmon-filled creek, or visit the Totem Heritage Center, home to one of the largest collections of authentic totem poles. Kayaking through Misty Fjords National Monument offers an unforgettable perspective on towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Whether it's fishing for salmon in legendary waters or watching black bears hunt along the shoreline, spending extra time in Ketchikan before your cruise means experiencing Alaska at its most authentic.
Alaska Cruise Itineraries from Ketchikan
Ships departing from here take a different path. Instead of the usual big-name ports, itineraries lead into Misty Fjords, Wrangell Narrows, and Behm Canal, places so quiet you can hear waterfalls echo off the cliffs. Some routes sail through narrow passages where only small ships can go, while others head toward LeConte Glacier and Endicott Arm, where massive chunks of ice crash into the sea. Further south, certain itineraries even cross into Prince Rupert and the Great Bear Rainforest, where black bears fish along the shores and the landscape shifts from rugged peaks to dense coastal forests. No matter the route, these cruises are less about stops and more about the journey itself—moving through wild places few people ever see.
When Is the Best Time to Cruise to Alaska from Ketchikan?
Ketchikan is one of the rainiest cities in North America, but that doesn't mean there's a bad time to visit. May and June tend to have the driest weather, making it a great time for hiking and outdoor activities. Summer is peak salmon season, which means both excellent fishing and prime bear-watching opportunities. If you are planning your trip from Ketchikan, summertime guarantees a wonderful mix of cruise experiences and chances to discover the town’s sights. By September, the crowds thin, giving you a more peaceful experience in Misty Fjords and along the waterfront. For a more detailed breakdown of each season and what to expect month by month, read more on the Alaska Cruise Seasons Guide.
Ketchikan Cruise Terminals
Port Information
- 131 Front Street
- Ketchikan, AK 99901
- United States
Website: https://www.ketchikan.gov
See all options for getting to the Port of Ketchikan.
Berth 1
Berth 1 is located in downtown Ketchikan, right off the main boardwalk, is often used by larger ships.
- Latitude: 55° 20′ 28″ North
- Longitude: 131° 38′ 53″ West
Berth 2
Berth 2, also located in the center very center of the Ketchikan, is used for large ships or as a supplement when Berth 1 is occupied.
- Latitude: 55° 20′ 26″ North
- Longitude: 131° 38′ 51″ West
Berth 3
Berth 3 is located close to the first two berths, but a little further south. It is designed for ships that are medium and smaller.
- Latitude: 55° 20′ 23″ North
- Longitude: 131° 38′ 50″ West
Berth 4
Berth 4 is located a little further from the center, south of the other piers. It is often used by larger ships and provides easier access to the city's attractions.
- Latitude: 55° 20′ 16″ North
- Longitude: 131° 38′ 45″ West
Ward Cove Dock
The Ward Cove Dock is newest terminal located approximately 7 miles (11 km) northwest of downtown Ketchikan. Since ships are getting bigger every year, the Ward Cove Dock can accommodate larger ships that cannot dock at Ketchikan's central terminals.
- Latitude: 55° 24′ 37″ North
- Longitude: 131° 44′ 47″ West
Ketchikan Alaska Cruise Calendar
The Ketchikan Alaska Cruise Calendar offers a comprehensive overview of voyages departing from the port. The calendar provides detailed schedules for the current and upcoming years. This will allow you to easily explore all itineraries and departure dates by year, month, and each day. Alaska cruises from Ketchikan offer something for every traveler, from charming coastal towns with vibrant culture and history to the breathtaking natural wonders, rich wildlife, and magnificent glaciers.