If your cruise itinerary includes Ketchikan, Alaska, get ready for an unforgettable adventure! This charming coastal city offers a variety of shore excursions that cater to every kind of explorer. From breathtaking wildlife encounters to enriching cultural experiences, Ketchikan has something special for everyone. Let’s dive into the top Ketchikan excursions that will leave you with lasting memories and amazing stories to share.
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Great Ketchikan Excursions to Explore
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Highlights of Ketchikan: A Walk Through Ketchikan’s History
Start your Ketchikan City Highlights Totem Parks and Sightseeing Adventure, by meeting your guide in town and then taking a drive to visit a relaxing Rotary Beach. This serene coastline offers stunning views and a peaceful connection to Ketchikan’s natural beauty. Continue your journey to Herring Cove, where you can enjoy pristine landscapes and perhaps spot some Alaskan wildlife in their natural habitat.
Next, visit Saxman Village, a cultural treasure trove with its traditional totem park. Wander through the village and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Tlingit people. Marvel at the intricate totem poles that tell the stories of this vibrant community.
Choosing a highlight tour like this gives you a great taste of an area and let’s you experience a little bit of everything that the port is famous for.
Finish off your adventure with a leisurely walk along Creek Street. This iconic boardwalk, with its quaint wooden buildings perched over the water, offers a glimpse into the past. Let the historical ambiance captivate you as you explore this picturesque setting.
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Rainforest Sanctuary Center and Totems
Ready for an unforgettable trek on this Ketchikan Rainforest Sanctuary and Totem Park excursion? Lace up your boots and prepare for a refreshing hike in the Rainforest Sanctuary. As you wander through the sanctuary, the crisp air and vibrant sounds of nature will invigorate your senses. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like bald eagles, bears, and even moose.
We saw a bear, bald eagles and salmon all through the back open picture window of this Sawmill when we were there, it was amazing!
After your hike, visit the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company Sawmill. Step back in time and learn about Ketchikan’s timber industry while enjoying the stunning views from the sawmill’s open picture window – you might even spot a bear or an eagle!
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Wrap up your adventure by witnessing the skill of a native totem carver. Each totem tells a unique story and reflects the rich cultural heritage of Ketchikan. Don’t forget to visit the General Store for a coffee and some unique souvenirs to remember your trip.
Saxman Village and Lumberjack Legends: Cultural Delights and High-Flying Axe Action
The Saxman Native Village Ketchikan Highlights & Lumberjack Show starts with a visit to the Saxman village, where you can learn about some of Ketchikan’s rich history. This vibrant community is a treasure trove of traditional Tlingit culture and art. Wander through the village and marvel at the intricately carved totem poles that stand as silent storytellers of the Tlingit people. Each totem pole is a masterpiece, capturing the history, legends, and spirit of this remarkable community.
After soaking in the cultural heritage at Saxman Village, head over to the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show for an exhilarating experience. Picture a stage filled with burly lumberjacks showcasing their impressive skills in axe throwing, log rolling, and chainsaw action. The crowd’s energy is infectious as you cheer for your favorite logger, making it an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
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This perfect combination of cultural enrichment and thrilling entertainment highlights what makes Ketchikan so special. Whether you’re fascinated by the craftsmanship of the totem poles or thrilled by the lumberjack competition, this Ketchikan excursion promise a day filled with excitement and discovery.
Cast Away: A Private Halibut and Salmon Fishing Charter
This is a classic excursion in Ketchikan, Alaska, which is known for it’s world-class fishing experiences. Book a Private Salmon and Halibut combination Fishing in Ketchikan Alaska for an unforgettable day on the pristine waters of the Inside Passage. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-timer, this personalized fishing adventure offers the perfect opportunity to reel in some of Alaska’s most prized catches.
Don’t worry about not getting to enjoy your catch! They can also process and ship your fish back to your home for an additional cost
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Spend the day surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, casting your line and feeling the thrill of the catch. With expert guides at your side, you’ll have the best chance to land a trophy halibut or a prized salmon. The calm waters and stunning scenery create a peaceful and exhilarating experience, making this fishing charter a must-do on your Ketchikan itinerary.
Floatplane Flightseeing: A Feast for the Eyes
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The Misty Fjords Flight Tour is a 1 hour flight tour where your will be soaring high above the misty fjords of Alaska. The breathtaking views of towering cliffs, mirror-like lakes, and lush greenery create a scene straight out of a dream. Keep an eye out for wildlife below as you glide through this misty wonderland.
Know that Flightseeing is not always a sure thing, it can be cancelled because of weather, so it’s a good idea to have a second option ready if the weather isn’t favorable for flying the day of your excursion.
As you glide through the misty wonderland, keep an eye out for wildlife below – from playful otters to majestic eagles. It’s like having a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s own show, with surprises waiting at every turn. After your flight, your guide will provide transportation back to your cruise ship.
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Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour: A Seafood Safari
Take the Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour from Ketchikan and get ready to sail on the Aleutian Ballad, the very boat you’ve seen on Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch.” Don’t worry though, no rough waters, only the calm waters of the Inside Passage.
As you set sail, you’ll meet a crew of seasoned fishermen who will share the ins and outs of life as a commercial fisherman. Their thrilling stories from the high seas will captivate you, giving you a true sense of the adventure and danger they face.
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Experience the on-board live tank, which offers a front-row seat to the ocean’s finest residents. Watch as curious sea creatures swim around, and even get the chance to touch some of them—it’s an up-close encounter you won’t forget.
The highlight of the tour is watching the skilled crew in action. Feel the excitement as they haul and set long lines, barrel pots, and massive 700-pound king crab pots. You’ll feel the adrenaline rush as each pot emerges from the depths, revealing the catch of the day.
Grab some snacks, including delicious crab legs, right on board – perfect for you to enjoy during the tour!
If you’re up for a day of sea adventures, captivating tales, and incredible marine life, the Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour is calling your name. Get on board, set sail, and let the sea stories unfold right before your eyes—an experience that will leave you hooked!
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Backcountry Jeep and Canoe Safari: Thrills in the Heart of Nature
The Ketchikan Jeep and Canoe Safari excursion starts by hopping into a Jeep, ready to tackle off-road trails winding through misty mountains and lush forests. Each turn reveals another stunning view of Ketchikan’s untamed beauty. Feel the thrill as you navigate these wild trails, surrounded by the natural symphony of the wilderness.
Next up, swap the Jeep for a canoe and glide across the serene waters of Lake Harriet Hunt. Picture-perfect reflections of the Alaskan wilderness surround you, making every paddle stroke feel like you’re drifting through a living painting.
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But there’s more—get ready for a guided hike through an old-growth forest. Along the way, stop to take a break and enjoy some snacks while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
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If you’re looking for a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility, the Backcountry Jeep and Canoe Safari is just what you need. Gear up for a journey where wheels roll, paddles dip, and each step brings you closer to the heart of Ketchikan’s wild paradise!
Ziplining in Ketchikan: Soar Through Alaska’s Treetops
Looking for an unforgettable adventure and one of Ketchikan’s best excursions? The Ziplining with the The Rainforest Zip, Skybridge & Rappel Adventure in Ketchikan excursion near the Tongass National Forest is a must-try. This place is perfect for thrill-seekers who want to experience the rush of flying through the treetops and soaking in some incredible scenery.
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We decided to go ziplining during our Ketchikan excursion, and it was one of the best choices we made! Seeing the forest from up high was amazing, and zooming through the trees was a total blast—even with a bit of drizzle, we had a fantastic time.
The day we went was a little drizzly, which the guides told us made us go a little faster on the lines, so if you go on a rainy day, you are in luck for a little more speed on your excursion!
The staff were fantastic with teaching us how the course worked and showing us before each line what we would need to do. There were multiple lines with different lengths and inclines, giving us a variety of experiences. Our time in Ketchikan was short and this was the perfect way to spend our time there!
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After ziplining, we checked out some cool totem poles and an old sawmill. And while we were there, we got lucky and spotted a bear, some salmon, and even a couple of bald eagles! We saw them all in the same spot together – it was the perfect Alaskan moment!!
Things to Consider When Ziplining
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- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you can move around in easily.
- Bring a waterproof jacket, as it can be cool and rainy in the rainforest.
- Listen carefully to your guides’ instructions and follow their safety rules.
- Relax and have fun! Ziplining is a great way to experience the beauty of the Alaskan rainforest and get a thrill at the same time.
- Book your tour in advance, especially if you are visiting during the summer season.
- Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
- If you are pregnant or have any medical conditions, be sure to talk to your doctor before going ziplining.
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Tips for visiting Ketchikan
- Ketchikan is a relatively small city, so it is easy to get around on foot. However, there is also a public bus system and a number of taxi companies.
- Ketchikan has a temperate climate, but it can be rainy year-round. Be sure to pack an umbrella and a raincoat.
- While exploring nature trails or engaging in outdoor activities, keep an eye out for bears, eagles, and other local fauna. Maintain a safe distance and follow local guidelines for wildlife encounters.
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Ketchikan promises an adventure like no other. Whether you’re diving into history, exploring cultural treasures, or connecting with nature, your Ketchikan excursion will be unforgettable. Get ready for an incredible journey in this charming Alaskan city!
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