Sitka Premium Sightseeing Excursion

Description

• Air-conditioned (and heated) and licensed vehicles!
  
• English-speaking, local, and trained Sitka shore excursion guides!
  
• Visit and entrance fee to Fortress of the Bear!
  
• A 35-minute hike along the Sitka National Historical Park!
  
• Escape the cruise ship shore excursion crowds and enjoy the unique sights of Sitka and the surrounding area!
  

This exclusive small-group experience allows you to explore the beauty of Sitka and its breathtaking surroundings in a peaceful and intimate setting, away from the large crowds. Your day begins when you take the free shuttle to the meeting point, upon arriving, you will meet the local vendor and off you go to this exciting adventure!

Your adventure begins as you take the free shuttle from your Sitka cruise ship to town, where you’ll meet your local guide at the Visitor's Center. As a true Alaskan resident, your guide will provide insider knowledge about the area, rich in history and natural beauty. Sitka, located on Baranof Island, has been home to the Tlingit people for over 10,000 years.

After boarding your comfortable 10-passenger van, you’ll journey south to Silver Bay, a striking deep-water fjord framed by dramatic cliffs. As you take in the stunning scenery, your guide will share stories of modern-day Sitka. A stop for photos may even bring a chance to spot local wildlife such as whales, eagles, sea lions, and salmon.

Next, you'll arrive at the Fortress of the Bear, nestled within the Tongass National Forest. Here, you'll get an up-close encounter with magnificent brown bears in a natural habitat, standing just 25 feet away from them! These rescued bears have been given a second chance at life in North America’s largest bear sanctuary. You’ll hear the heartwarming stories of their rescues, including Toby, the only female, who arrived with her two brothers after their mother tragically died from ingesting plastic waste. Learn about the dedicated caretakers who ensure these bears thrive.

From land to sky, your next stop is the Alaska Raptor Center, where injured bald eagles and other birds of prey receive rehabilitation with the goal of returning to the wild. Discover how Alaska played a crucial role in helping bald eagles recover from near extinction. You’ll also have the chance to see owls, ravens, hawks, and other incredible birds up close.

Your final stop is the Sitka National Historical Park, the oldest national park in Alaska. This scenic site was once the battleground of the Tlingit people and Russian invaders. Walk beneath towering spruce, red alders, and hemlock trees as you admire the stunning totem poles that tell the stories of Alaska’s native cultures. Your guide will lead you along a path overlooking the Indian River, a breathtaking sight. Home to around 30 species of mammals and over 200 species of birds, the park offers an ever-changing glimpse into Alaska’s wildlife. If you visit mid-season, you may even witness the remarkable salmon spawning process and learn about their life cycle.

After this incredible and personalized experience, you will be dropped off at the original meeting point, where you can choose to ride back to the Sitka cruise terminal on the free shuttle or take a leisurely 15–20 minute stroll along the scenic Sea Walk, leading you back to the pier. This exclusive adventure promises awe-inspiring sights, fascinating history, and unforgettable encounters with Alaska’s wildlife—truly the perfect way to explore Sitka!

What is included?

• Air-conditioned (and heated) and licensed vehicles
  
• English-speaking, local, and trained Sitka shore excursion guides
  
• Visit and entrance fee to Fortress of the Bear
  
• A 35-minute hike along the Sitka National Historical Park
  
• Escape the cruise ship shore excursion crowds and enjoy the unique sights of Sitka and the surrounding area
  

Excursion Notes

• We recommend wearing layers with the top layer being waterproof.
• Please wear sensible walking/hiking shoes that may get wet.
  
• Guests must be able to navigate the tender pier ramp, which may be quite steep at low tide. There are railings on either side to assist. Walking on the tour includes over paved, rock, and packed dirt surfaces.
• We suggest you have cash for refreshments, excursion staff gratuities, shopping, etc.
• Guests weighing 250 pounds (113 kilograms) are required to purchase an additional seat to reserve adequate space in the vehicle or vessel.

Where we meet

For Sitka Premium Sightseeing Excursion, you will meet your guide after a short shuttle ride. All necessary details will be printed on your Electronic Shore Excursion Ticket.

Excursion Restrictions

• This excursion is not wheelchair accessible.
• Guests must be able to step into and out of transportation.
  
• Guests must be able to walk approximately 450 yards (411 meters) over paved, gravel, boardwalk, and uneven surfaces, some on inclines.
• Lightweight, layered clothing that will keep you warm even in wet weather, and sturdy, comfortable shoes are suggested.
• Children under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
• Guests weighing 250 pounds (113 kilograms) will have to purchase an additional seat to reserve adequate space in the vehicle or vessel.
  

Excursion FAQ

Cancellation

• Your ship arrives into port late and you cannot make it in time to the meeting location (we will verify with the tour operator).
• Your ship skips/misses the port.
• Weather conditions or equipment failure prevents the operator from running the excursion.
• A medical problem prevents you from safely participating in the excursion (we will verify with the excursion operator and the guest may send doctor's note). This applies to individuals only and not the remainder of the group.
  
• Cancellations/deposit refund requests that do not comply with the above may not be subject to refund.
• Refunds may be subject to a service charge fee as determined by the payment processor, please refer to Terms and Conditions for more information.