17 Exciting things to do from the Sitka Cruise Port

Sitka is a beautiful small town on the west side of Baranof Island in southeastern Alaska. 

While not every cruise through Alaska’s Inside Passage visits here, those that do will find a unique small town that’s full of history and character, perfect for exploring during a day in port.

From kayaking through pristine waters to exploring centuries-old totem poles, there are plenty of things to do in Sitka. 

Whether you want to explore the area on an excursion or just take some time to relax and enjoy your surroundings, here are the top things to do in Sitka Alaska from a cruise ship

Sitka Alaska Cruise Port

Most cruise ships dock just north of town at Old Sitka Dock, recently renamed Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal. There’s a free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes from the Old Dock to the center of town, 6 miles away.

The trip takes about 12 minutes, but it’s a scenic drive and you’ll be dropped off in the heart of downtown, right in front of Harrigan Centennial Hall.

Some of the smaller cruise ships dock at Crescent Harbour and the ships’ lifeboats will bring you to shore, which is right in front of Harrigan Centennial Hall. 

The hall has an information desk, washrooms and free WiFi and is where most shore excursions meet. You can also pick up a map here if you wish to explore the town on your own.

Things to do in Sitka

When visiting a cruise port, it can be a tough choice to decide what to do with limited time ashore. And while it isn’t the busiest cruise port, there are still plenty of things to do in Sitka.

Choose from various Sitka Alaska excursions and tours, or just wander around the beautiful town on your own.  

1. Explore the Town of Sitka 

Many of Sitka’s attractions are within walking distance from downtown. Lincoln Street is the main street in town and it connects the lookout at Castle Hill in the southeast to Sitka National Historic Park in the north.

As you walk along the street, you’ll pass some of Sitka’s notable landmarks, including the Russian Bishop’s House and St. Michael’s Cathedral, as well as the Sheldon Jackson Museum and Tlingit Clan house. 

➡️ Book an Audio Tour to Explore Sitka

2. See Baranof Castle 

Baranof Castle State Historical Site, also known as Castle Hill, is one of Alaska’s most important historical sites and a must-see for visitors to Sitka.

The hill was home to an important fortification built by the Tlingit people until the Russian settlers arrived and took control. It’s also the spot where Alaska was officially transferred from Russia to the U.S. in 1867.

Today, a wide pathway takes you to the top, or you can opt for the more challenging staircase. From the lookout at the top, there’s a beautiful view of Sitka Sound, and it’s especially stunning at sunset.  

3. Visit Sitka Historical Museum 

On the harbor, the Sitka Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Sitka and the surrounding area.

The museum includes over 8, 000 artifacts from the past, as well as works of art and historic photos that explore the lives of early Russian settlers, native Alaskans, and other groups who call this area home.

It’s a great way to learn about Tlingit, Russian, and American history. 

4. See St. Michael’s Cathedral 

Built-in 1848, St. Michael’s Cathedral was the first orthodox cathedral in North America.

The current Russian orthodox cathedral, with its green onion domes and golden crosses, is a replica of the original that was destroyed by a fire in 1966.

Weekly services are open to the public, however, at other times, there is a donation required to enter the church, which is used to repair and maintain the structure. 

5. Explore Tlingit Clan House 

Tlingit clans inhabited this area long before the Russians began to settle there. This house, also called the Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Tribal Community House, offers a look into their culture and how they lived off the land.

Live performances are held in the summer months, with drumming and the chance to join native dance around the fire pit. 

6. Visit Sheldon Jackson Museum 

The oldest museum in Alaska also holds the honor of being the first concrete building in the state.

The Sheldon Jackson Museum houses a collection of Alaskan artifacts, including masks, carvings, tools, and toys, from each of Alaska’s native groups; Tlingit, Haida, Aleut, Alutiiq, Yup’k, Inupiat, and Athabascan. 

7. Learn at the Sitka Sound Science Center 

Further along Lincoln Street, the Sitka Sound Science Center is another great place to visit in town.

Their mission is to increase understanding and awareness of the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems of Alaska through education and research. Inside, you can explore the Molly O. Ahlgren aquarium and reach into the touch tanks to feel the creatures that inhabit tidal pools.

You can also listen to whale songs, or see enormous whale bones from killer whales. There’s also a gift shop and the best seafood chowder in town.

➡️ Click Here to Book Sitka Sightseeing Tour including Fortress of the Bear and Totem Poles

8. Explore Sitka National Historical Park 

Still within walking distance from downtown, at the end of Lincoln Street is Sitka National Historical Park, Alaska’s oldest national park.

Stop in at the visitor center to learn about Haida and Tlingit cultures, or take a guided walk through the park. The main attraction is Totem Park, with 20 beautiful hand-carved totem poles set along nature trails.  

➡️ Click here to book a small group tour to Fortress of the Bear, Raptor Center and Totem Park

10. Visit the Fortress of the Bear 

One of the top things to do in Sitka is to visit a rescue center. Set in Tongass National Forest, the Fortress of the Bear provides a home for orphaned bears who otherwise wouldn’t be able to survive on their own.

It’s run by volunteers who lead half-hour guided tours, where you’ll learn about the history of the rescue center, as well as the names of the bears and a bit about their personalities.

Visitors also have the chance to watch the brown bears play, swim and eat from the safety of an observation deck. There’s a gift shop on-site and proceeds go directly back to the rescue center. 

12. See Birds of Prey at the Alaska Raptor Center 

Another rescue center in Sitka is the Alaska Raptor Center, which is a refuge for sick or injured bald eagles, owls, falcons, hawks, and other birds of prey from across Alaska.

Visitors can peek into the Flight Training Center through a large glass barrier and watch birds fly past as they prepare to return to the wild.

After rehabilitation, many of the birds are released back into the wild, but others who aren’t able to live in the wild continue to stay at the raptor center as permanent residents. 

13. Take a Boat Tour 

Sitka Sound is home to a wide variety of marine life, and the best way to get a closer view of local sea life is to book a boat tour. While you’re not guaranteed to see any whales, you can see seals, sea otters, porpoises, and various types of birds. 

14. Go Kayaking 

One of the best ways to see the beauty of the area and explore the islands and coves of Sitka Sound is to get out on the water.

Kayak tours are available for beginners and experienced paddlers, and include all gear and instruction. There’s also an option to choose a tour that visits an abandoned WWII fort on Causeway Island. 

➡️ Kayak to Rockwell Lighthouse!

15. Book a Fishing Charter 

Sitka is one of the best spots in Alaska for saltwater fishing. In fact, Sitka is known for its commercial fishing and there are plenty of half-day or full-day tours available for cruise ship passengers. 

16. Visit Sitka Whale Park 

While you’re not guaranteed to see whales in Sitka, there is a pretty good chance during certain times of the year. The Sitka Whale Park has a gazebo area, perfect for picnics, where you can sit and watch humpback whales in the bay.

The best time of year to see whalesd is between September and December when they migrate to Hawaii.

Unfortunately, most cruises visit Sitka earlier in the summer months, but while you might not see whales, you can still see sea lions, harbor seals, and sea otters. 

17. Shop Local Stores 

There are plenty of shops in downtown Sitka, so be sure to set aside some time for shopping during your visit. Unlike other Alaskan cruise ports, you won’t find the same souvenirs in every shop.

In Sitka, you’ll find a variety of souvenirs and local goods, such as traditional native artwork, hand-made knitted items, and other handcrafted items. Support local artisans by buying items made in Sitka. 

➡️ Book a Whale Watching Tour in Sitka

What is the best month to visit Sitka?

The best time of year to visit Sitka is from late May to mid-September. During this period, temperatures are mild and the days are long and sunny.

The summer months offer the best opportunities for kayaking and other outdoor activities. 

The cruising season, fortunately, coincides with this, and most cruises visit Sitka from June to September. 

Which Cruise lines offer Cruises to Sitka?

There are a number of cruise lines that offer cruises to Sitka. 

Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America, Princess, Viking Ocean, Carnival, Norwegian, Disney, Seabourn, Silversea, Scenic, and Cunard Line are among the most popular. 

Sitka Cruise Port Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Top Things to Do from the Sitka Cruise Port

Sitka is a great destination for any cruise visitor looking to explore the true beauty of Alaska. As you can see, there are so many great things to do in Sitka, Alaska!

With its rich history and abundant wildlife, there’s plenty to do and see. From kayaking and fishing in the bay to visiting historic sites and experiencing native culture, there are plenty of things to do from the Sitka cruise port on your next Alaskan cruise. 

Happy sailing!