Date: June 30, 2025
Ports of Call: Seattle, Sitka, Skagway, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier/Juneau, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary
ALASKA CRUISES
Cruises to Sitka
Take a memorable Alaska cruise adventure to Sitka, Alaska. Sitka, located on Baranof Island in southeastern Alaska, is a breathtaking port of call known for its rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Positioned between the Pacific Ocean and the stunning Tongass National Forest, Sitka offers cruise passengers dramatic coastal landscapes and lush forests teeming with wildlife. Visitors to Sitka can expect a mix of scenic views, from towering mountains to serene waters, perfect for outdoor exploration and wildlife spotting. Known for its unique blend of Tlingit and Russian influences, this charming town also provides a fascinating cultural experience. As you disembark, you'll be greeted by awe-inspiring surroundings that embody the rugged allure of Alaska.
Cruise ships dock directly at Sitka's harbor, allowing passengers easy access to the town's many attractions. The port area is well-equipped with facilities, including transportation options for exploring the surrounding region. Ships generally arrive in the early morning, allowing ample time for passengers to enjoy the sights and sounds of Sitka before departing in the evening. From the harbor, visitors can catch shuttle buses to downtown Sitka or arrange tours to local landmarks and natural sites. Nearby, the harbor area also offers shops, cafes, and a visitor center where travelers can gather information on the best activities and excursions.
Sitka
Sitka is a small yet culturally rich town that reflects both Alaska's indigenous Tlingit heritage and its historical Russian influence. Downtown Sitka is compact and easily walkable, with historic sites, galleries, and local shops along the way. Highlights include St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral, a landmark of the town's Russian past, and the Sitka National Historical Park, where visitors can view authentic Tlingit totem poles and learn about local history. The Sheldon Jackson Museum is another must-visit, offering fascinating exhibits on Native Alaskan culture and artifacts. Sitka's scenic waterfront and friendly atmosphere make it a delightful place to explore on foot or by bike.
Sitka has a unique cultural heritage shaped by the Tlingit people and Russian settlers, creating a vibrant blend of traditions and history. The Tlingit people have inhabited this area for thousands of years, and their culture is prominently celebrated through totem poles, art, and community events. Russian influence dates back to the 18th century when Sitka served as the capital of Russian America, and remnants of this period can be seen in architecture and local customs. The Sitka National Historical Park honors the 1804 Battle of Sitka, a significant event in Tlingit and Russian relations. Visitors can experience Sitka's cultural heritage through museums, art galleries, and interactive cultural performances.
Attractions and Activities
Sitka is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous opportunities to explore Alaska's wilderness. Wildlife tours and kayaking excursions allow visitors to observe sea otters, whales, and bald eagles in their natural habitats. Hiking trails like the Mount Verstovia Trail and the Indian River Trail provide breathtaking views and a chance to immerse in the dense temperate rainforest. Fishing charters are popular in Sitka, with opportunities to catch salmon and halibut in the surrounding waters. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, guided boat tours offer a scenic way to explore the coastline and spot marine wildlife, all while enjoying the beauty of Sitka Sound.
Local Speciality
Sitka's dining scene highlights fresh, locally-sourced seafood and traditional Alaskan flavors. Visitors can enjoy dishes featuring freshly caught salmon, crab, and halibut at local restaurants that celebrate the bounty of the sea. Many restaurants also incorporate wild berries, mushrooms, and other local ingredients, creating unique flavors that reflect the region. For a taste of Tlingit culture, some eateries offer traditional indigenous foods, allowing travelers to sample authentic Alaskan dishes. Cozy cafes along the waterfront serve up coffee and pastries with scenic views, while local breweries provide craft beers that pair well with Sitka's seafood specialties.
Sitka's local shops offer a variety of unique Alaskan-made products, making it easy to take home a piece of Sitka's culture and craftsmanship. Handcrafted jewelry, carved totems, and Tlingit artwork are popular souvenirs that showcase the town's indigenous heritage. Visitors can also find beautiful items made from locally-sourced materials, such as sea glass jewelry and carved antler pieces. For those looking for an edible memento, Sitka offers smoked salmon, wild berry jams, and locally-produced honey, which make great gifts. Supporting Sitka's artisans and small businesses not only provides travelers with special keepsakes but also contributes to the town's vibrant local economy.
Best time to visit Sitka
The best time to visit Sitka on a cruise is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is mild and the days are long. July and August are particularly popular for wildlife viewing, as humpback whales, sea otters, and other marine animals are frequently seen in the area. The summer months also bring the Sitka Seafood Festival, a celebration of Alaskan seafood that attracts visitors from near and far. In early spring and late fall, Sitka is quieter but still beautiful, with fewer crowds and a more serene atmosphere. These shoulder seasons offer a different experience, with opportunities to enjoy the town's natural beauty and cultural attractions in a peaceful setting.
Sitka, Alaska Cruise Schedule 2025
Sitka is a remarkable port of call on an Alaska cruise, offering a harmonious blend of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the town's history, scenic beauty, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're exploring the town's Russian and Tlingit landmarks or embarking on outdoor adventures in the surrounding wilderness, Sitka offers a unique and memorable Alaskan experience. With its warm hospitality, diverse wildlife, and fascinating heritage, Sitka promises an enriching journey into the heart of Alaska's Pacific coast. A stop in Sitka is sure to leave visitors with lasting memories of Alaska's untamed beauty and vibrant cultural tapestry.
Date: June 30, 2025
Ports of Call: Seward, Seward, Valdez, Yakutat Bay, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary
Date: July 1, 2025
Ports of Call: Sitka, Baranof Island/Chichagof Island, Icy Strait/Inian Islands, Haines, Tracy Arm, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: July 2, 2025
Ports of Call: Whittier, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary
Date: July 3, 2025
Ports of Call: Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary
Date: July 3, 2025
Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Icy Bay, Valdez, Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Haines, Sitka, Wrangell, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary
Date: July 4, 2025
Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier, Seward; View Itinerary
Date: July 5, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Haines, Glacier Bay, Inside Passage, Sitka, Inside Passage/Frederick Sound, Petersburg, Wrangell, Wrangell Narrows, Tracy Arm, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: July 5, 2025
Ports of Call: Seattle/Puget Sound, Stephens Passage/Juneau, Glacier Bay/Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary
Date: July 5, 2025
Ports of Call: Seattle, Sitka, Juneau/Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan Ward Cove, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary
Date: July 5, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Tongass National Forest, Glacier Bay, Icy Strait, Chichagof Island, Baranof Island/Peril Strait, Krestof/Nakwasina Sound, Sitka; View Itinerary
Date: July 5, 2025
Ports of Call: Sitka, Southeast Alaskas Islands, Icy Strait/Inian Islands, Glacier Bay, Frederick Sound/Chatham Strait, Petersburg, Tracy Arm, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: July 6, 2025
Ports of Call: Seattle/Puget Sound, Stephens Passage/Juneau, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Sitka, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary
Date: July 6, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Tracy Arm, Haines, Icy Strait/Inian Islands, Baranof Island/Chichagof Island, Sitka; View Itinerary
Date: July 6, 2025
Ports of Call: Seward, Seward, Valdez, Yakutat Bay, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary
Date: July 6, 2025
Ports of Call: Sitka, Southeast Alaskas Islands, Icy Strait/Inian Islands, Glacier Bay, Frederick Sound/Chatham Strait, Petersburg, Tracy Arm, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: July 6, 2025
Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Sitka, Tracy Arm/Juneau, Haines, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary
Date: July 7, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Tracy Arm, Haines, Icy Strait/Inian Islands, Baranof Island/Chichagof Island, Sitka; View Itinerary
Date: July 7, 2025
Ports of Call: Seattle, Sitka, Skagway, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier/Juneau, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary
Date: July 7, 2025
Ports of Call: Vancouver, Ketchikan, Stikine Icecap, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Victoria, Vancouver; View Itinerary
Date: July 8, 2025
Ports of Call: Seattle, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary
Date: July 8, 2025
Ports of Call: Whittier, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, Klawock, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary
Date: July 10, 2025
Ports of Call: Seattle, Ketchikan, Glacier Bay, Haines, Tracy Arm, Juneau, Sitka, Misty Fjords, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary
Date: July 10, 2025
Ports of Call: Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Haines, Sitka, Wrangell, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary
Date: July 10, 2025
Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Hubbard Glacier, Seward; View Itinerary
Date: July 10, 2025
Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Yakutat Bay, Valdez, Seward, Seward; View Itinerary
Date: July 11, 2025
Ports of Call: Seattle, Sitka, Skagway, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier/Juneau, Victoria, Seattle; View Itinerary
Date: July 11, 2025
Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Skagway, Hubbard Glacier, Seward; View Itinerary
Date: July 11, 2025
Ports of Call: Vancouver/Seymour Narrows, Queen Charlotte Sound, Ketchikan/Snow Pass/Decision Passage, Sitka, Yakutat Bay/Hubbard Glacier, Inian Islands/Icy Strait Point, Haines/Lynn Canal, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: July 11, 2025
Ports of Call: Sitka, Baranof Island/Chichagof Island, Icy Strait/Inian Islands, Haines, Tracy Arm, Juneau; View Itinerary