Plan a CruiseKetchikan Cruise Port Guide
Ketchikan, often referred to as the "Salmon Capital of the World," is a prominent cruise destination in Southeast Alaska. Cruise ships typically berth at one of the four panamax-sized docks located along the downtown waterfront, numbered sequentially from south to north. If all berths are occupied, passengers will be tendered directly into the heart of downtown. It's important to be prepared for Ketchikan's climate; known as "Misty Ketchikan," it experiences rain approximately 300 days a year. Despite the frequent precipitation, the town offers a diverse range of activities, from outdoor adventures like kayaking and hiking to exploring charming galleries and shops.
Getting Around from the Port
The downtown area of Ketchikan is easily accessible on foot from the cruise berths. For guidance, free Walking Tour Maps are available at the Visitor's Bureau (opposite Berth 2) and the Visitor's Center (opposite Berth 3). Ketchikan boasts an excellent and affordable public transportation system for destinations further afield. From May to September, a free downtown shuttle runs every 15 minutes, connecting all cruise berths with key downtown locations. For other routes, the public bus service costs just $1 per ride and provides coverage to popular tourist sites such as Totem Bight (10 miles north) and Saxman Native Village (2 miles south). The entire bus fleet is wheelchair accessible.
Attractions and Activities
Due to Ketchikan's high rainfall (300 days a year), it is strongly recommended to book weather-dependent excursions upon arrival to ensure pleasant conditions. Many local operators offer tours similar to those found on ship excursions, often at a more economical price.
- Creek Street: A historic boardwalk area featuring brightly painted wooden buildings on pilings. Once a notorious red-light district, it now houses unique boutiques and art galleries. Visit Dolly's House Museum for a glimpse into its past. This area is easily walkable from the docks.
- Totem Pole Collections: Discover the world's largest collection of Northwest totems at various locations:
- Saxman Native Village: Located 2 miles south of downtown, accessible by a $1 public bus ride, where you can observe Native carvers at work.
- Totem Bight State Park: Situated 10 miles north of downtown, also reachable via a $1 public bus fare.
- Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show: An exciting 1 hour and 15 minute performance celebrating Ketchikan's logging heritage, featuring professional log rolling, axe throwing, and pole climbing. The covered bleachers make this an ideal activity even on rainy days.
- Salmon Viewing at the Fish Hatchery & Fish Ladder: A short walk from the far end of Creek Street leads to a trail where, during summer months, you can watch salmon battling upstream to spawn, often alongside hungry harbor seals.
- Bear Watching at Neets Bay: From late July through September, floatplane excursions to Neets Bay in Tongass National Forest offer the chance to see black bears feeding on salmon. Given its reliance on good weather, it's best to book this tour once you've arrived and confirmed favorable conditions.
- Misty Fjords Kayaking/Hiking: Explore the scenic Misty Fjords via kayak or hike up Deer Mountain. Keep in mind that "kayaking in the rain is not much fun" when considering booking this activity.
- "Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour" & Ketchikan Duck Tour: These popular tours offer unique perspectives on the local environment and commercial fishing industry.
- Rain Forest Canopy Ropes & Zipline Park: For an adventurous outing, this park provides ropes courses and ziplines.
Dining & Shopping
As the "Salmon Capital of the World," Ketchikan's local specialty is undoubtedly fresh salmon. For dining with a view, the Cape Fox Lodge bar/restaurant, accessible by funicular, offers food and drinks, along with complimentary fast Wi-Fi for customers. For shopping and unique souvenirs, the most interesting area is Creek Street. This historic boardwalk, once Ketchikan's brothel district, is now home to numerous artsy galleries and boutiques. A highly recommended local souvenir is a hand-carved totem pole.
Currency and Language
As part of the United States, the official currency is the US Dollar ($). ATMs are widely available, and major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are universally accepted, often preferred even for small transactions. Visitors from outside the US should note that posted prices for goods and services typically do not include sales tax, which is calculated and added at the point of purchase (often 4-6%, but can range from 2.9% to nearly 10%). Tipping is also customary and expected for most services in the US. Standard tipping rates include 15-20% for full-service restaurants, 10-15% for taxi drivers, and $5-10 per person for half-day tour guides, with higher amounts for longer or exceptional tours.