Plan a CruiseSitka Cruise Port Guide
Sitka, located on Baranof Island, is a truly picturesque fishing village offering stunning views of Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano, and a harbor dotted with small islands. Known for its distinct blend of Tlingit Indian, Russian, and American cultures, Sitka is a unique treasure in the Alaskan wilderness. Cruise ships generally utilize a floating dock situated approximately 6 miles north of downtown Sitka. From here, a complimentary shuttle service, provided by the port, transports passengers to and from Harrigan Centennial Hall downtown. The shuttle journey takes about 10 to 15 minutes, with buses departing every 10 minutes. Some ships may also anchor and tender passengers directly to downtown. The cruise terminal building offers amenities like large restrooms, gift shops, high-speed WiFi, and a covered outdoor terrace to observe activity in the adjacent boatyard. Visitors can find information at the desk inside Harrigan Centennial Hall or the Sitka Convention and Visitors Bureau near O'Connell Bridge when ships are in port.
Getting Around from the Port
From the floating dock, a free shuttle bus service is provided, taking you directly to Harrigan Centennial Hall in downtown Sitka. The ride is 10-15 minutes, and buses run every 10 minutes. Once downtown, most attractions are within easy walking distance. For exploring further, Sitka offers a public bus system with three routes:
- Red Route: Travels along Halibut Point Road (1-hour loop).
- Blue Route: Travels along Sawmill Creek Road (1-hour loop).
- Green Route: Circulates through town and over the bridge (30-minute loop). A one-way ride costs $2.00 for adults, and $1.00 for seniors or persons with disabilities. At the downtown dock, you'll find local skippers offering boat tours. These excursions are highly recommended for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot sea otters, seals, porpoises, whales, puffins, and other seabirds. Skippers often know where to look for bears on land too.
Attractions and Activities
Sitka offers a rich array of cultural and natural attractions:
- Sitka National Historical Park (106 Metlakatla St.): Explore the confluence of Tlingit, Russian, and American cultures. The Visitor Center (Mid-May to September: daily 8 AM-5 PM; October to Mid-May: Mon-Sat 8 AM-5 PM, closed Federal holidays in winter) costs $4 for ages 12 and over (under 12 free) and is wheelchair accessible. It houses the Southeast USA Indian Cultural Center, totem poles, and museum exhibits.
- Russian Bishop's House: This original log structure from 1843 is one of the last remaining buildings from the Russian colonial period. Open Mid-May to September: daily 9 AM-5 PM, with ranger-led tours every 30 minutes. October to Mid-May: open by appointment only. Admission is $4 for ages 12 and over (under 12 free), but it is not wheelchair accessible.
- Park Trails: Wander through a temperate rainforest, observe migrating salmon, and study wildlife. The trails are free and open Mid-May to September: daily 6 AM-10 PM; October to Mid-May: daily 7 AM-8 PM.
- USA Raptor Center (1000 Raptor Way): Witness bald eagles and other raptors up close at this 17-acre facility. Open May to September: Sun-Fri 8 AM-4 PM. Admission is $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12.
- St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Church (240 Lincoln St.): Though rebuilt after a fire, many original artifacts and icons were preserved.
- New Archangel Dancers: When cruise ships are in town, these dancers perform lively, authentic Russian folk dances at the Harrigan Centennial Building.
- Wildlife Boat Tours: Independent boat tours departing from the downtown dock are an excellent way to see local marine wildlife, including sea otters, seals, whales, and various seabirds. Many cruise lines also offer combined excursions that typically include visits to the Raptor Center, Sitka National Historic Park, a New Archangel Dancers performance, a drive by Castle Hill, and a stop at St. Michael's Cathedral.
Dining & Shopping
While specific local restaurant and shop details are not provided, Sitka offers general shopping opportunities typical of a small Alaskan town, with souvenirs and local crafts.
Safety
Sitka is generally a safe port for independent cruise passengers. No specific safety concerns or areas to avoid have been noted.
Currency and Language
The official currency in Sitka is the United States Dollar (USD). Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted for most transactions. ATMs are readily available throughout the town. Be aware that sales tax in the U.S. is typically 4-6% (ranging from 2.9% to nearly 10%) and is almost never included in posted prices, except for gasoline and alcoholic beverages consumed on-premises. This tax will be added to your total at payment. Tipping is customary and expected in the United States. General guidelines include:
- Full-service restaurants: 15-20% (often a primary source of income for staff).
- Taxi drivers, hairdressers, personal services: 10-15%.
- Bartenders: $1 per drink for inexpensive drinks, or 15% of the total bill.
- Bellhops: $1-2 per bag ($3-5 minimum).
- Hotel doormen: $1 per bag (if assisting) or $1 for calling a cab.
- Tour guides: $5-10 per person for half-day tours or less; $10-20 per person for longer tours.
- Private car/limousine drivers: 15-20%.
- Housekeeping (hotels): $1-2 per day for longer stays, or $5 minimum for very short stays (optional).
- Food delivery: $2-5, potentially more for large orders. The standard language is English. For emergencies, dial 911.