Sitka, a small town on Alaska’s Pacific coast and borough near Juneau, is known for its breathtaking scenery between the Tongass National Forest and Sitka Sound.
This city offers a stunning mix of various activities and is a perfect stop for cruise passengers looking for unforgettable shore excursions.
From guided hikes in the Tongass National Forest to whale watching, kayaking, and visiting historic sites, this charming town will give you the true essence of Alaska.
In this article, we recommend the best shore excursions to help you make the most of your time in Sitka during your Alaskan cruise.
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Sitka scenic city tour
Sitka offers amazing scenery, fishing, hiking, wildlife, as well as a rich history.
You have two tour options to get those incredible views of the city, making the activity unforgettable.
The premium Sitka scenic tour gives you 2.5 hours of sightseeing in an air-conditioned vehicle, with stops at Silver Bay, the Fortress of the Bear, and the Alaska Raptor Center.
This tour is perfect for a more personalized experience with a maximum of 10 travelers.
If you want a slightly shorter adventure, opt for the Sitka scenic tour, which takes only two hours.
This adventure includes highlights like the Sitka National Historic Park, where you’ll see totem poles and spawning salmon, and a visit to the Fortress of the Bear.
Totem park and Raptor center tour
Totem Park and the Raptor Center in Sitka are famous for their rich cultural and natural experiences, drawing visitors interested in Alaska’s indigenous heritage and wildlife conservation.
While you are in Sitka, these two spots must be visited. Here are the tour options for you to explore.
On the general tour, you’ll spend 2.5 hours visiting the iconic Alaska Raptor Center, followed by a stop at the Fortress of the Bear, where you can observe rescued Alaskan brown bears up close.
You’ll also explore Totem Park, where towering totems tell the rich history of Native Alaskan culture.
If you prefer a smaller group, the private tour offers the same itinerary with a more intimate group of up to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Whale-watching and wildlife tours
For those eager to experience Sitka’s incredible marine life, the whale-watching and wildlife shore excursion tours offer unforgettable adventures.
On the private whale watching and wildlife tour, you’ll explore Sitka Sound and the stunning Baran of Islands, with only six travelers per tour.
The premiere whale watching and marine life tour focuses on spotting humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and more.
If you only want to explore Sitka’s wildlife, two private tours are available.
For an intimate and premium experience, the 2-hour private wildlife tour offers breathtaking views of Sitka’s wildlife.
At the same time, Sitka’s private wildlife boat trip provides an exclusive, all-encompassing journey to view majestic whales and coastal animals.
Both these tours will allow only six travelers per trip. The whale-watching and wildlife tours take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours to complete.
Metal art class experience
The metal art class experience in Sitka offers a fun and creative way to bring home a unique piece of Alaskan craftsmanship.
In this activity, you will learn how to use a 2″ die grinder to smoothen a metal salmon or halibut.
There is no room to fear since it is safely suited up in provided safety gear.
Then, you will shape your fish with a mallet, which is a hammer with a huge wooden head.
After this step, you will use a propane torch, a tool normally used to apply flame or heat, to apply stunning bronze, purple, and blue hues, creating a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
With breathtaking views of Sitka Sound as your backdrop, this hands-on class is perfect for those seeking a memorable and artistic adventure in Alaska.
Kayaking adventure
Gliding through the Pacific with stunning scenery for every kayaker would be a dream moment.
Whether you are a beginner wanting to learn kayaking or an experienced kayaker looking for the most exciting adventure, Sitka is the right place.
There are two tour tickets to make your kayaking adventure a memorable one.
If you have some extra time to explore and need a private tour, opt for the 3-hour kayaking adventure tour.
This tour begins at the Sitka port and includes a fast boat ride through Sitka Sound.
There’s also a 2.5-hour kayaking tour of Sitka that offers you a shorter but different tour experience.
On this tour, you will travel through the town’s sheltered waterways and enjoy unforgettable views of wildlife, such as whales, eagles, and harbor seals.
Both tours are great for all experience levels, and you’ll be provided with all the necessary gear.
After kayaking, enjoy refreshments or visit local spots like salmon hatcheries, giving you a well-rounded Alaskan adventure.
Guided walking tour of historic downtown
Sitka, a small town in Alaska, has many key attractions within easy walking distance for people.
For tourists, walking tours would be an ideal way to explore the city’s central area, along with its charming streets, local shops, and waterfront views.
The guided walking tour of Sitka offers a unique, one-hour stroll through this Alaskan town’s rich history and culture.
Led by a local guide, you’ll explore significant sites like the picturesque Crescent Harbor, the Sitka Fine Arts Camp, and the historic St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral.
Along the way, you’ll gain insights into the life of a fishing town, the role of the Sitka Sound Science Center, and the legacy of the Sitka Pioneers’ Home.
The tour wraps up at the iconic Castle Hill, where Alaska’s transfer from Russian to U.S. control took place.
Guided hike in Tongass National Forest
Hiking at Tongass National Forest gives you the unique experience to immerse yourself in Alaska’s stunning wilderness.
The guided hike of Sitka allows you to explore the largest national forest in the U.S. in a 2-hour hike on a gravel trail.
On this hiking adventure, you will learn about Russian Sitka at the Russian Bishop’s House and Bishop’s scenic stops at Crescent Harbor.
You will admire Tlingit totem poles along Sitka’s Seawalk.
For a more private and tailored experience, you can opt for a private hiking tour that includes snacks, water, and transportation, plus the possibility of a boat ride to more remote trails.
This tour offers a half-day hike or a full-day trek. You can choose which suits your schedule better and lets you appreciate Sitka’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
