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NTSB Determines Cause of a Cruise Ship Striking a Pier in Alaska

​​Radiance of the Seas pictured before the contact in St. Thomas. (Source: NTSB)​

​​WASHINGTON (June 13, 2023) — Overreliance on an electronic chart, miscommunication and an outdated navigational chart were all factors in a cruise ship damaging a cruise terminal pier last year near Sitka, Alaska, the National Transportation Safety Board said Tuesday.

The cruise ship Radiance of the Seas was docking at the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal on May 9, 2022 , when it struck and damaged a mooring dolphin. The cruise ship sustained a minor hull indentation. The mooring dolphin sustained damage to three of the four pilings supporting it. There were no reported injuries to the 1,375 passengers, 782 crew and four pilots on board. The contact resulted in $2.1 million in damages to the pier and impacted cruise ship traffic to the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal for the remainder of the 2022 season. 

​In April 2021, the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal pier was extended by 395 feet, including adding two mooring dolphins connected by a walkway and a 410-foot-long floating dock next to the existing dolphins. The Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal did not inform the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the agency in charge of updating U.S. coastal nautical charts, of the extension. NOAA had no record of the construction until NTSB investigators informed them of the pier’s extension after the contact. At the time of the contact, the electronic navigation chart (ENC) the cruise ship was using did not show the extended pier or added dolphins. 

​​The Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal pier is shown on June 9, 2022, with barge alongside the damaged dolphin for repairing (with catwalk removed). (Source: NTSB)

The crew of the Radiance of the Seas relied heavily on the vessel’s electronic chart and information system (ECDIS) to plan and execute their docking. The master and bridge team had other navigational technologies, including radars and cameras, available to assist them with the approach to the terminal. Even with these tools available, the crew relied solely on the ECDIS, which showed an inaccurate ENC.

While docking, the bosun and master did not confirm the type of distances that were being communicated during the docking. The bosun was relaying accurate distances to the pier’s northernmost dolphin, but the master incorrectly assumed the bosun was calling out how much clearance the ship would have as the stern passed the dolphin. 

The NTSB determined the probable cause of the contact was the master and bridge team’s overreliance on an electronic chart to identify the pier’s position relative to their planned rotation location, and the master’s misunderstanding of the clearance distances to the pier being called by the crewmember on the stern while the vessel was rotating. Contributing was the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal not reporting the extension of the pier into the waterway to the appropriate hydrographic authority in order to update the relevant navigational chart.

NTSB investigators cited two lessons learned as a result of the investigation, voyage planning and reporting port or terminal modifications. 

“Proper voyage planning includes developing a complete plan for every phase of the voyage—from the vessel’s starting port to its end port (berth to berth), including leaving the dock and mooring,” the report said. “Reference points for maneuvering should be identified, measured precisely, and reported clearly. Vessel bridge teams should also ensure that they have the most up-to-date data before getting underway and consult with the local pilot(s) on the accuracy of navigation charts to ensure depictions of ports and/or terminals are correct.”

“Ports and terminals should immediately report significant modifications to port or terminal configurations to the appropriate hydrographic authority (for example, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) so that charts can be updated and the changes made readily available to vessel owners, operators, and crews/bridge teams,” the report said.

Marine Investigation Report 23-10 ​ is available online.​      ​

To report an incident/accident or if you are a public safety agency, please call 1-844-373-9922 or 202-314-6290 to speak to a Watch Officer at the NTSB Response Operations Center (ROC) in Washington, DC (24/7).

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Princess cruise ship from Alaska with thousands onboard damaged after hitting San Francisco pier

The princess cruise ship made contact with the dock and passengers and crew got off, a cruise spokesperson said.

Woman rescued after falling off a Royal Caribbean cruise ship

A woman was rescued after falling out of the 10th deck of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship near the Dominican Republic. It is unclear whether the woman accidentally fell from the ship or intentionally jumped. (Credit: @matthew_kuhn/LOCAL NEWS X /TMX)

A cruise ship docking in San Francisco crashed into Pier 27 as passengers and crew were on board, Princess Cruises said. 

The Ruby Princess was arriving in the port just after 6 a.m. when it made "unexpected contact with the dock" at the pier, a Princess Cruises spokesperson told Fox News Digital. 

"We had gotten up and we were in our stateroom and I just felt a bump and thought, ‘here we are,’" Melinda Van Nort, a passenger on the Ruby Princess, told Fox San Francisco . "Just felt like a little nudge that we'd run into something."

MAN FALLS FROM CRUISE SHIP OFF FLORIDA COAST: 'LIFE OF THE PARTY'

A Princess Cruises ship was damaged when it crashed into a San Francisco pier Thursday morning.   (KTVU)

A dent in the port side rear was visible, according to images of the damage. Other photos showed that there were some black, circular smudges on the bottom of the white ship.

There were no injuries and everyone was asked to disembark the ship, the cruise line said. An assessment of the damage to the ship and pier was being conducted.

The front of the Ruby Princess is seen damaged in San francisco.  (KTVU)

The cruise ship was sailing with 3,328 guests and 1,159 crew members, according to the news outlet. 

"While the specific departure time for the upcoming 10-day roundtrip voyage to Alaska is still being determined, embarkation of passengers will begin at 11:30am PT" the cruise said. 

The Ruby Princess docked in San Francisco.  (KTVU)

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The ship had just completed its 10-day journey to Alaska, which left San Francisco on June 26, the news station reported.

Louis Casiano is a reporter for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to  [email protected] .

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Ruby Princess leaves SF for Alaska 4 days after crash at Pier 27, nearly 600 passengers fewer

The ship has been sitting at Pier 27 in San Francisco since colliding with the dock Thursday morning.

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- After colliding with the dock and sitting at Pier 27 in San Francisco since Thursday, the Ruby Princess cruise ship finally embarked on its journey to Alaska.

The U.S. Coast Guard announced Sunday morning repairs to the Ruby Princess have been completed and the cruise ship is "free to depart" for Alaska.

The coast guard said it lifted the Captain of the Port order at 1 a.m. Sunday.

Now, the cruise line said it was expected to depart the Bay Area at 2:30 p.m. Our ABC7 cameras saw the Princess ship move around 3:40 p.m.

Passengers had until 11 a.m. to decide whether they will stay on the ship to to continue the trip or leave.

Cruise passenger Anita Lawhon from Reno captured the moment the Ruby Princess finally set sail from San Francisco Sunday afternoon, she thought her "bon voyage" would never happen.

"Who would've thought we'd be sitting here in San Francisco for four days? I'm so excited go out toward the Golden Gate for the first time in my life, exciting," said Lawhon.

The ship's captain told passengers the green light was given overnight to sail.

"Actually, I just walked down because I wanted to see the state of repairs and was pleasantly surprised it looks great to me," said passenger Alexandra Shannon.

In a statement, the cruise line said, "Princess Cruises can confirm that repairs on Ruby Princess have been completed, and following inspection and certification by the United States Coast Guard the ship is safe and fit to sail."

"I got off the ship I decided to take the deal they offered," said Simon from Rio Vista, who declined to give his last name.

Ruby Princess had 3,256 guests and 1,161 crew onboard. Now, they are departing with 2,677 guests and 1,161 crew onboard. A difference of 579 passengers.

The delayed 10-day sailing will now be a 7-day cruise returning to San Francisco on Sunday, July 16.

RELATED: 'Go with the flow': Ruby Princess passengers anxious to leave as ship repairs continue

"The Ruby Princess is about 950 feet long and about 115,000-tons," Captain Allan Post with the Texas A &M Maritime Academy pointed out. "With that much weight and that much sail area, the vessel is affected by wind, by current, and by the technical abilities of its design," he said on Friday as repairs were being made.

On Friday, ABC7 saw crews from the Port of San Francisco and Coast Guard inspecting the hole in the vessel and repairs which have been done so far.

"Our main concern is the vessel able to transport passengers and operate safety," said U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Levi Read on Friday.

Passengers who boarded the ship Thursday have been asked to stay on board and not come ashore. Originally, there were 3,256 guests and 1,161 crew onboard as the ship remains docked at Pier 27.

Princess Cruises says guests who elect to cancel their cruise will receive a 100% refund of their cruise fare, post-cruise hotel packages and transfers booked through Princess, prepaid shore excursions and other prepaid items and taxes, fees and port expenses. Each guest will also receive a 50% Future Cruise Credit of the cruise fare paid on this voyage, which may be applied to any future Princess cruise that is booked by February 1, 2024 and sails by February 1, 2025. They may remain onboard until 1100 local time on Sunday, July 9 to better assist with alternative plans they may be making.

Guests who continue with their Princess vacation will receive a 75% refund of the cruise fare paid as well as unused pre-paid shore excursions booked through Princess and the refundable portion of the taxes, fees and port expenses for the missed ports. Each guest will also receive a 75% Future Cruise Credit equal to the cruise fare paid on this voyage, which may be applied to any future Princess cruise that is booked by February 1, 2024 and sails by February 1, 2025.

VIDEO: Cruise ship hits iceberg in Alaska, returns to Seattle for repairs

Investigation into the bar pilot

We learned more about the Ruby Princess pilot. In some ways, this is an elite group. There aren't many bar pilots, 52 at the moment with four trainees in the pipeline according to the Board of Pilot Commissioners Executive Director.

The investigation into what went wrong with the Ruby Princess during docking at San Francisco's Pier 27 Thursday morning is in the early fact-finding phase.

"It appears the port quarter of the Ruby Princess made contact with Pier 27," said U.S. Coast Guard Lieutenant Commander William Williams.

The Coast Guard which is assisting in the investigation says the pilot is being drug and alcohol tested which is standard in a serious marine incident.

"The Coast Guard has sent two teams, an investigations team and an inspection port state control team to the vessel and will be conducting those inspections and investigations," said Williams.

The San Francisco Bar Pilots are responsible for safely navigating ships they board over the offshore sand bar to docks throughout the Bay Area.

A Spokesperson working with the San Francisco Bar Pilots told ABC7 News on Thursday, "We can confirm a pilot was involved in a hard landing at Pier 27 this morning. We are cooperating with all necessary agencies in looking into this matter and cannot comment further."

The Board of Pilot Commissioners tells ABC7 News the pilot is on the Pilot Evaluation Committee which is responsible for trainees and that anyone on that committee would have to be a pilot more than 10 years.

The investigation is now in the hands of the U.S. Coast Guard and other federal agencies who were notified about the early morning incident.

ABC7 News reporters Tim Johns, Suzanne Phan, Melanie Woodrow, Amanda del Castillo and Cornell Barnard contributed to this report.

If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live

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Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruise ship hits iceberg in alaska, returns to seattle for repairs.

SEATTLE (KABC) -- A cruise ship that struck an iceberg in Alaska has docked in Seattle for repairs.

Video shows the moment the ship hit the iceberg on Saturday.

The ship was turned around to Juneau, where it underwent inspection. It was cleared to travel at lower speeds to Seattle by authorities.

The Norwegian Sun arrived in Seattle Thursday. It hit part of the iceberg near Hubbard Glacier in Alaska.

Passengers said the impact was so hard that it caused some of them to fall over.

A Nevada family who was onboard says the impact sounded like a loud door being slammed.

Benjamin Talbott was hanging out with family when his brother, Anthony Romo, noticed something in the water and told him to take out his phone. Talbott recorded as the cruise ship struck the big chunk of iceberg.

"Then all sudden, boom, the whole ship shakes. And I'm like, 'Well, what's going on?' And then I had to start recording and I looked at the front of the ship and all I see is this an iceberg just turning over and coming down. And I was like, Oh my God, we hit an iceberg," he said.

The voyage was cut short and guests disembarked in Seattle due to necessary repairs for the ship, a spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Line said.

No injuries were reported.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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NTSB says cruise ship navigational team to blame for $2 million docking mistake

Doug Parker

• June 15, 2023

We now know what caused a Royal Caribbean ship to hit an Alaska docking structure last summer.

An investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) concluded that the impact happened due to miscommunication among the ship’s crew, their failure to use all their navigational equipment and an outdated navigational chart.

On May 9, 2022, the pier in the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal near Alaska sustained over $2 million in damages when Radiance of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, collided with one of its mooring dolphins.

Though no one was hurt, three of the mooring dolphin’s pilings were damaged, while the ship’s hull suffered a minor dent.

Dock changes weren’t communicated to NOAA

Over a year before the accident, the pier underwent renovations that entailed extending its length by 395 feet, the installation of two mooring dolphins, and the addition of a 410-foot floating dock.

After the improvements were made, the Sitka terminal failed to communicate the changes to the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the body responsible for keeping US nautical charts updated. 

After all, technology is only as good as the data programmed into it.

How the accident happened

When Radiance of the Seas tried to dock on the morning of May 9, the crew was unaware that its electronic nautical charts (ENCs) had yet to reflect the construction work in 2021, which included the new dolphins.

The crew began backing the ship into the berth for mooring, a joint effort between the staff captain, chief officer, pilot 1, bosun, and first officer, who each had different vantage points and navigation equipment.

As they carefully rotated the vessel, the first officer stopped calling out the vessel’s position relative to the mooring dolphin, leaving the captain to rely strictly on the electronic chart display and the bosun’s callouts regarding the ship’s distance from the pier. 

However, the captain misinterpreted the information. He ended up pivoting the ship too late, leaving no clearance between the ship and the dolphin.

The misinterpretation caused the ship to make a contract causing substantial underwater damage to the docking structure.

NTSB’s analysis: Reasons for th e collision

Based on the NTSB’s assessment , updating the navigational charts would have helped the ship avoid the accident.

But the crew also failed to rely on other navigational equipment such as radar which would have shown a discrepancy with the electronic charts. The report also noted that the weather was clear and there was good visibility which would have allowed the crew to spot the longer pier and the new dolphins.

Go Deeper: 25 Things to Do When Visiting Sitka, Alaska

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Princess cruise ship hits port while docking

The ruby princess was wrapping up a 10-day round-trip cruise to alaska and was attempting to dock when it smashed into a san francisco pier thursday morning., july 7, 2023, what’s next for russia, what comes next after texas school shooting, what's next for abortion rights in america, the new battle for voting rights, how we can build a clean and renewable future, the fight for kyiv, examining extremism in the military, gun violence: an american epidemic, border crisis: what’s happening at the us-mexico border, remembering george floyd: a year of protest, the source of covid-19: what we know, how did the gamestop stock spike on wall street happen, why are people hesitant to trust a covid-19 vaccine, how climate change and forest management make wildfires harder to contain, disparity in police response: black lives matter protests and capitol riot, 2020 in review: a year unlike any other, examined: how putin keeps power, why don’t the electoral college and popular vote always match up, us crosses 250,000 coronavirus deaths, 2nd impeachment trial: what this could mean for trump, presidential transition of power: examined, how donald trump spent his last days as president, how joe biden's inauguration will be different from previous years, belarus’ ongoing protests: examined, trump challenges the vote and takes legal action, 2020’s dnc and rnc are different than any before, what is happening with the usps, voting in 2020 during covid-19, disinformation in 2020, abc news specials on, impact x nightline: on the brink, impact x nightline: unboxing shein, the lady bird diaries, impact x nightline: it's britney, impact x nightline: natalee holloway -- a killer confesses, impact x nightline: who shot tupac, impact x nightline, power trip: those who seek power and those who chase them, the murders before the marathon, the ivana trump story: the first wife, mormon no more, leave no trace: a hidden history of the boy scouts, keeper of the ashes: the oklahoma girl scout murders, the orphans of covid: america's hidden toll, superstar: patrick swayze, the kardashians -- an abc news special, 24 months that changed the world, have you seen this man.

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Cruise ship that hit iceberg arrives in Seattle for repairs

Las Vegas resident Benjamin Talbott poses with his phone at the home of a relative in Renton, Wash., on Thursday, June 30, 2022. Talbott and his family were on the Norwegian Sun when the ship struck an iceberg, forcing it to return to dock for repairs in Seattle. Talbott recorded the collision on his phone and his video garnered millions of views. (AP Photo/Manuel Valdes)

A man walks by the Norwegian Sun docked in Seattle on Tuesday June 30, 2022. The ship is in Seattle for repairs after hitting an iceberg June 25 off Alaska. (AP Photo/Manuel Valdes)

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SEATTLE (AP) — A cruise ship that struck an iceberg in Alaska has docked in Seattle for repairs.

The Norwegian Sun arrived in Seattle on Thursday. It hit part of an iceberg on Saturday near Hubbard Glacier in Alaska.

The ship was turned around to Juneau, where it underwent inspection. It was cleared to travel at lower speeds to Seattle by authorities.

A Nevada family who was onboard says the impact sounded like a loud door being slammed.

Benjamin Talbott was hanging out with family when his brother, Anthony Romo, noticed something in the water and told him to take out his phone. Talbott recorded as the cruise ship struck the big chunk of iceberg.

“Then all sudden, boom, the whole ship shakes. And I’m like, ‘Well, what’s going on?’ And then I had to start recording and I looked at the front of the ship and all I see is this ... iceberg just turning over and coming down. And I was like, ‘Oh my God, we hit an iceberg,’” he said.

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Damaged mooring dolphin leaves cruise ship terminal at half capacity

Posted by Tash Kimmell | May 12, 2022

The newly expanded Sitka Sound Cruise Ship terminal welcomed its first seven sailings last week, commencing what’s expected to be a record breaking year in cruise travel. While a majority of dockings went without a hitch, the terminal sustained damage to its inside berth on Monday (5-9-22), after a cruise ship struck an outer mooring dolphin. 

A mooring dolphin is an off-shore steel structure that large boats can tie up to. In an interview with KCAW on Wednesday (5-11-22) owner and terminal manger, Chris McGraw says the 2100 passenger Radiance of the Seas hit the dolphin, damaging all four pilings, while backing into its berth Monday morning. The damage to the inside berth means the dock can no longer safely accommodate two ships, effectively cutting the dock’s capacity in half. McGraw says they’re currently working to notify incoming cruise lines. McGraw says the damage will affect future dates where two ships were scheduled.

While it’s still unclear exactly what the damage means for future cruise dates, McGraw says tendering passengers directly into town is a possibility in the meantime. McGraw says, some ships this year have already begun doing this when the dock is full.

A contractor from Anchorage based construction company Turnagain Marine will begin repairing the damaged dolphin over the weekend. McGraw says the timeline on repairs is unclear, but it could be anywhere from weeks to months before the berth is functional again. 

“Right now, it’s a lot of unknown. We’re going to try to figure out schedule changes and repairs. Who pays for it? You know, all of that is in process,” said McGraw.

Despite damaging the berth, the ship was left unscathed. McGraw says they successfully had 4000 passengers move through the facility on Monday, and the ship was able to moor and leave safely.

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15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

F or many, an Alaska cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You don't want to screw it up because you might not get the chance for a do-over. Unfortunately, it's easier than you think to make Alaska cruise mistakes that can ruin a trip or prevent you from experiencing Alaska to the fullest.

While cruises to the Last Frontier are not polar-cruise-level adventures, they require more careful planning than for a Mexico or Caribbean sailing. You need to get all the details right, from booking the cruise and packing your bags to what to do and see during your cruise.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here's a list of things you should never do on an Alaska cruise. Avoid these Alaska cruise mistakes, and you'll be on your way to a smooth sailing.

Alaska cruise planning mistakes to avoid

No matter how many times you've cruised before, you might be shocked at how much planning you need to do for an Alaska sailing. Get these things wrong, and you might miss out on your big Alaska cruise experience.

Assume all Alaska cruises are the same

This is an easy mistake to make on your first Alaska cruise. However, matching your ship and itinerary to your expectations and travel style is crucial for a successful trip.

Are you looking for a full day of glacier time? Try a midseason sailing that visits Glacier Bay National Park . Early and late-season cruises might be unable to access the glaciers on their itineraries due to ice floes.

Want to see whales? A round-trip Alaska cruise in June is ideal. Do you want to fish for salmon? You'll want to book at the peak of the salmon fishing season, from mid-June to mid-August. Ketchikan is the salmon capital of the world, and while most cruises stop there, a few don't, so make sure it's on the itinerary if you wish to fish.

Are you taking kids on your Alaska cruise? Big ships often have more for kids to do on board, which might be more important than where the ship goes. Expedition-style cruises may have less for youngsters but appeal to independent teens. These voyages offer a more intimate and close-up Alaska experience, with outings on kayaks and Zodiac boats that launch directly from the ship.

Wait to book excursions

You don't have to worry about booking tours in advance in some cruise destinations. Alaska cruises are not like that.

Alaska shore excursions fill up fast. It's worse in midsummer, but even on shoulder season sailings, you may not find space on the excursions you hoped to do if you wait until you're on the ship to book. The only solution is to sign up for tours as early as possible.

Does this mean you shouldn't take advantage of last-minute Alaska cruise deals if you find them? Of course not. Snap those babies up — just come prepared with a list of second and third choices of excursions, just in case.

Related: Tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

Overlook independent excursions

You don't have to stick with ship-sponsored shore excursions in every port in Alaska. On my last Alaska cruise, we booked kayaking independently for our stop in Ketchikan. It was one of the best experiences of the entire cruise. The company picked us up and dropped us off at the cruise ship. We were guaranteed an on-time return to the ship and paid far less than for the ship's kayaking excursions.

If you want to check out independent tours , you can find several Alaska excursion aggregators online or deal directly with independent businesses. Make sure you inquire about tour timing and leave a buffer so you won't miss your ship even if there's traffic or a delay.

Book same-day flights on embarkation day or early flights home

You don't want to find yourself stuck in an airport because of a flight delay when you should be boarding your cruise. To avoid this problem, book your flights to arrive the day before your cruise departs rather than the same day.

If you think it can't happen to you, listen to my most recent flight horror story. I was on not one but two flights on the same day, where minor mechanical problems caused deplaning and two-hour delays. I should have landed at my destination at 11:30 a.m. but didn't arrive until after 5 p.m. Had that been embarkation day, my ship would have sailed without me.

Similarly, it's always best to book departing flights home for the afternoon in case the ship is delayed returning to port or is not cleared by authorities on time. If you're flying in or out of Anchorage, know that all transportation options include several hours of travel from the ports of Seward and Whittier; you might consider overnighting in Anchorage either pre- or post-cruise to play it safe.

Skip the travel insurance

Airline issues aside, Alaska can be a wee bit hazardous. You will encounter slippery slopes and rocky roads — and that's just walking through Alaska port towns. You might be participating in more daring activities than normal, such as flying in helicopters, hiking across glaciers, kayaking icy waters or zip lining through forests. It's easy for something to go wrong.

On my last Alaska cruise, I heard about two passenger emergencies. A kid broke an arm on the ship and needed surgery, so a family of five disembarked in Ketchikan — not exactly a cheap end to their vacation, I'm guessing. Later in the sailing, a sick passenger was airlifted directly off the ship by the Canadian Coast Guard before we made it to Victoria.

If you live in the U.S., your health insurance is most likely valid in Alaska. You'll be covered for medical expenses but not the other expenses associated with any injury that interrupts your cruise. Travel insurance is the way to go unless you want to pay for flight changes and medical evacuation out of pocket.

Related: The best cruise travel insurance plans

Alaska cruise packing mistakes to avoid

Packing for an Alaska cruise can be tricky. The region's unpredictable weather means it can be rainy and 50 degrees one day, then sunny and 85 degrees the next. Mix in boat rides and glacier watching from the ship at 6 a.m., and you have a complicated packing job ahead of you. Don't make these Alaska cruise packing mistakes.

Forget your rain gear

Rule No. 1 on Alaska cruises: Pack rain gear. It might not rain one drop on your cruise, but chances are good that the weather will be wet at some point on your trip. When it does, you'll want the right gear to stay dry and not be drippy and miserable.

Waterproof shoes or boots are a must. For extra protection, spray them with a water-repellant sealer before you pack. You can stow lightweight raincoats or ponchos and pull-on rain pants in your backpack during excursions when you don't need them.

Skimp on layers

Layers are the only way to dress on an Alaska cruise. Start with thin, base-layer undergarments that won't bulk up your clothes and are comfortable even if the day turns out warmer than expected. The final layers of outerwear should be lightweight because you may need to stuff them in your backpack for half the day as the temperature rises.

I especially like puffy vests and jackets for Alaska. You can shed the jacket as temperatures allow, then lose the vest if it gets even warmer. Top everything with caps, knit hats, earmuffs and gloves. Those things might be excessive for a stroll through town but important in the wind on a whale watching boat.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Overpack on eveningwear

The dress code on most Alaska cruises is more relaxed than in other cruise destinations. Days are long and outdoorsy, leaving people less enthusiastic about rushing back to the ship to put on fancy clothes and dress shoes.

Trade out your hiking shoes for comfy flats or dress sneakers. Jazz up casual, neutral-colored slacks (even jeans) or skirts with jackets or scarves. You can leave the formalwear and high heels at home.

Cheap out on insect repellant

Mosquitoes in Alaska aren't always a nuisance, but they can be horrendous. Pack insect repellant and full-coverage clothing as though you were planning to visit a rainforest ... because you are.

If you don't plan on checking a bag, pick up bug spray in your departure city or first port of call.

Leave the binoculars and cameras at home

One question I get asked often is whether you can see whales and other wildlife from the ship. The answer is a resounding yes. Unfortunately, much of what you will see is from a distance.

You can solve that problem with a pair of lightweight binoculars. They're also useful for getting a close-up view of glaciers or spotting eagles in port. Consider bringing a pair for everyone in your group because you don't want to fight over one pair when a pod of whales comes into view.

As for cameras, I recommend that everyone in your travel group has a water-resistant camera or a waterproof smartphone case or pouch. I lean toward cameras rather than phones for two reasons. One, most cameras dropped into the depths of an Alaskan bay pose a less traumatic loss than most smartphones. My second reason is in the next section.

Related: Can you use your cellphone on a cruise?

Mistakes to avoid during your Alaska cruise

Once you're on board your ship, it's time to put all the stress of planning and packing behind you. You've made it, and you don't want to let anything get in the way of enjoying your cruise.

Stare at your phone too much

An Alaska cruise is the ideal time to hit pause on your digital life. Sure, you want to capture the amazing scenery, but you know what? Few of the pictures you take will accurately portray the scale of the beauty of Alaska.

The photos you'll enjoy most when you look back next year are the ones of your travel partners enjoying the trip. Take those, then spend your time soaking up the enchantment of this place. The news, the email correspondence and your Instagram followers can take a back seat until you're back home.

Assume the seas will be smooth

Don't be surprised if you feel seasick in Alaska's waters, even if no other cruise has made you feel that way. Cruising through the Inside Passage is generally calm, but the open waters of the Pacific Ocean can be choppy. Even the bays can churn up quickly during summer storms.

Ships also do a lot of maneuvering, including turning complete circles designed to give everyone on board access to the amazing views. Unfortunately, those tight turns can contribute to nausea for some people.

Prepare by packing motion sickness relief bands you place on pressure points on your wrists, prescription scopolamine transdermal patches, ginger candies, over-the-counter seasickness medications and herbal motion sickness patches. I've used these for years, with only one failure on a rather small ship.

You can also treat the woozies with seasickness tablets, which are often available free at the medical center or guest services, green apples from the buffet and ginger ale from your ship's friendly bartenders.

Related: How to avoid seasickness on your next cruise

Spend all your time indoors

You packed all those clothing layers — now's the time to use them. The coldest part of your Alaska cruise will likely be while the ship cruises through can't-miss scenery. Don't wimp out in an observation lounge. Bundle up and head outside to fully take in the view. Your balcony may give you an edge over the folks in interior rooms, but you won't get a 360-degree vista unless you're out on the top deck.

The best souvenir advice I've received is to buy a cozy throw or blanket at your first port stop. It won't cost a fortune and will serve a purpose for the rest of the cruise. Picture yourself cozy and warm in your fuzzy Alaska souvenir blanket, sipping hot chocolate while watching glaciers calving. Once home, you'll remember your epic vacation every time you snuggle up on the couch.

Sleep through your vacation

This is not a cruise you want to sleep through — and even if that's your plan, you may have difficulty accomplishing it. Long hours of daylight, excursions and glacier viewings that start early and even your own fear of missing out can have you out of bed early and staying up later than you might on any other cruise.

Sleep apps and eye masks may help with the daylight situation. I also find that Alaska cruises are ideal for ordering room service meals. It definitely saves time before morning excursions and can provide a bit of downtime in your cabin for lunch or dinner on occasion.

Fail to try something new

Your Alaska cruise offers many opportunities to try things you might never have the chance to do again. You could walk on glaciers, snorkel in a dry suit in the frigid Alaska waters or play with sled dog puppies. Or, how about riding in a sled pulled by sled dogs? We already mentioned salmon fishing, which is surprisingly fun, even if you'd never go fishing at home.

The array of things to try in Alaska can be as tame or as adventurous as you want — it's the joy of discovery that's key. I once kayaked in Ketchikan with a woman on her first solo cruise in Alaska. She'd never kayaked before. When our marine biologist guide pulled a sea cucumber from the crystal-clear waters to show us, she squealed with delight when he offered to let her hold it. That's the kind of joy you cruise to Alaska to experience.

Bottom line

You can avoid the most common Alaska cruise mistakes with a little extra planning.

The goal is to have the Alaska cruise experience you and your travel companions long for. Achieve that by choosing an itinerary that gets you to the things you want to see and do, shopping early for excursions (especially the ones you have your heart set on) and packing gear and clothes that will keep you comfy during your Alaska adventure.

Everything else is about stepping outside, breathing in the shockingly clean air and enjoying the cruise.

Planning an Alaska cruise? Start with these stories:

• Everything you need to know about booking a trip to Alaska with points and miles
• The 9 best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler in 2024
• 6 best Alaska cruises for families
• 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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A dock project in Seward will bring even bigger cruise ships to Southcentral Alaska

Royal Caribbean's cruise ship Radiance of the Seas is docked in Seward on May 13, 2022. Alaska Railroad is planning a $100 million expansion project for Seward. (Marc Lester / ADN)

The Alaska Railroad plans to spend $80 million to replace and expand the old cruise ship dock in Seward, setting the stage to bring larger cruise ships and more tourists to Southcentral Alaska. A $25 million freight dock expansion is also in the works.

The new dock will extend close to a quarter of a mile into Resurrection Bay, about 500 feet longer than the existing dock that must be replaced because of its age, railroad officials said.

The longer dock will enable cruise companies to bring in ships that can haul around 4,500 passengers, more than the roughly 2,500-passenger ships that now reach Seward, said Bill O’Leary, Alaska Railroad president.

Those big ships currently visit Southeast Alaska, but they don’t cross the Gulf of Alaska to visit Southcentral Alaska, he said.

O’Leary said the bigger ships will mean more visitors not just for Seward, but for destinations such as Anchorage or Fairbanks, he said.

Alaska Railroad CEO Bill O'Leary speaks about the railroad's $100 million projects planned for Seward on May 13, 2022, at the Seward Chamber of Commerce. (Marc Lester / ADN)

“It’s a critical project for not only the cruise industry, but also the entire visitor industry in Alaska,” O’Leary said.

Business and political leaders in Seward said they support the plans. But the prospect of a bigger footprint for the cruise industry has some residents in the bayside town of 2,800 closely watching developments.

[Earlier coverage: Tourists and cruise ships are ready to return to Seward. But is Seward ready for them? ]

The project will be mostly complete in two summers, and finalized in 2025, railroad officials say.

The cruise ship dock upgrade is part of a bigger effort to upgrade the railroad’s infrastructure in the community. An expansion of the freight dock is up next, to be finished in 2027.

The docks are vital transportation links for the state, O’Leary said. He said the improvements will also support industries such as construction that send materials to Seward for distribution across Alaska.

“It’s a significant amount of money for a town of that size and for a railroad of our size,” O’ Leary said.

The heart of the plan is the replacement of the passenger dock. It was originally a freight dock, built in 1966 as the railroad upgraded its facilities following the Great Alaskan earthquake two years earlier.

The dock is still safe, but its pilings are corroding, said Clark Hopp, the railroad’s chief operating officer. It has passed the standard design lifetime for a marine project.

“It has served us well,” Hopp said. “But as we like to say at the railroad, it’s in hospice care. It’s going to die.”

Passengers arrive in Seward on an Alaska Railroad train on May 12, 2022. (Marc Lester / ADN)

The railroad is working on an agreement with Royal Caribbean for that cruise company to serve as the new dock’s long-term anchor tenant, O’Leary said.

Wendy Lindskoog, a Royal Caribbean vice president for West Coast operations, said the agreement, still under negotiation, could cover two or three decades.

The dock expansion will support Royal Caribbean’s plans to bring its new Quantum-class ships to Seward, she said. The ships are larger and more energy-efficient than earlier ships, she said. Two of the ships visiting Southeast this year are the Quantum of the Seas , with capacity for 4,900 guests and Ovation of the Seas , with capacity for 4,200 guests.

Alaska and Seward are popular with guests, she said.

“Our company has a great interest in growing in Alaska,” she said. “Our guests love the destination.”

In 2019, about 230,000 people disembarked in Seward. They were part of the 1.3 million cruise guests to visit the state that year.

Industry officials have said that statewide record could be broken this year, after large cruise companies faced two years of zero-to-limited calls in Alaska during the COVID-19 pandemic.

[ Tourists are returning to Alaska this summer. Will there be enough workers to manage them? ]

As part of the passenger dock expansion, the railroad is also planning a new terminal building, where cruise guests gather as they prepare for their land journey in Alaska.

Customers line up inside the Seward cruise ship terminal to board the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Radiance of the Seas on May 13, 2022. (Marc Lester / ADN)

If needed, the railroad will look at increasing its capacity to transport more guests from Seward to Anchorage and elsewhere, O’Leary said.

The Alaska Legislature advanced the cruise dock project this session, approving a bill for a $60 million bond.

The railroad will cover the rest of the cost with cash, railroad officials say. The bonds will be repaid over time with dock user fees.

Seward is largely excited about the opportunity for more visitors in the community and modernized facilities at the port, said Kat Sorensen, head of the Seward Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center.

“It will be a boon for Seward in general,” she said.

Trent Gould, owner of Kayak Adventures Worldwide, a local kayak guiding business, said he’s concerned that bigger and more cruise ships could hurt Seward’s small-town charm.

“As a tour operator, we recognize the importance of tourism and we want to manage it in a sustainable way with people having a say in that growth,” he said. “When the cruise ships come in, those values don’t always align.”

Seward Vice Mayor Sue McClure said many cruise guests often head straight to Anchorage by rail or bus. That reduces the need for more seasonal workers or housing to support them, an especially urgent issue now as Seward deals with ongoing labor shortage issues.

While some cruise guests will spend time in Seward, she said the community can adapt to any labor issues or other complications that might arise.

One benefit is that the larger cruise ships, if they come, will create more work for the local longshoremen that support them, she said.

“I have no worries about what they’re proposing,” she said of the railroad’s plans.

As for the railroad’s plans to expand the freight dock in Seward, it will more than double in size after it’s widened and lengthened. It will be about 1,000 feet long when the work is done.

The freight dock expansion is part of a $25 million project, with a 2020 grant from the U.S. Maritime Administration paying for most of it.

The expansion will allow more efficient movement of the freight that arrives in Seward, such as fracking sand and pipes for the oil industry, officials said.

From left, Alaska Railroad CEO Bill O'Leary, Royal Caribbean captain Marek Slaby and Alaska Railroad vice president for real estate and facilities Jim Kubitz walk on the Seward cruise ship dock on May 13, 2022. (Marc Lester / ADN)

The railroad says it will focus on building the passenger dock first, then the freight dock.

The phased approach is needed in part to avoid disrupting cruise ship activity in summer, the railroad officials said.

Anchorage Daily News journalist Marc Lester contributed to this report.

Alex DeMarban

Alex DeMarban is a longtime Alaska journalist who covers business, the oil and gas industries and general assignments. Reach him at 907-257-4317 or [email protected].

Cruise Maven

Cruising the World One Port at a Time

Sitka Alaska Cruise Port Profile and City Guide with Map

By: Sherry Laskin · Updated On: September 2, 2021

If you’re expecting tiny Sitka to be another Alaska cruise port lined with the same glaring jewelry and watch stores that you find in the Caribbean, you’ll be wonderfully surprised. Located on the western edge of Baranof Island, one visit and you’ll understand why this town was once nicknamed the “Paris of the Pacific.”

This small community of barely 8,000 people is keenly intent on keeping Sitka as a small town. Shop owners know the locals and everyone is pretty darn friendly. So friendly that many cars will stop for pedestrians at clearly-marked designated crosswalks. But always check before stepping off the curb!

After you read through this Sitka overview, dive right in to my 21 Best Things to Do in Sitka post. With knowing a little bit more about Sitka first, it’ll be easier to plan your day.

Sitka, Alaska Overview – Getting Around Town

This overview article will get you familiar with how to get to downtown from the Sitka cruise port, what to around town on your own, wifi, dining and shore excursion suggestions.

Sitka’s Colorful and Diverse History

Sitka’s native history dates back thousands of years. Home to the Kiksadi clan of the indigenous Tlingit people until the mid-18th century, when Russian explorers ventured across the Pacific. What they found was an inhabited island rich in natural resources from sea to mountains. Graced with a temperate climate, teeming with salmon and other fish, the Russians set their sights on the sea otter trade.

For 135-years, the town of Sitka became known as the capital of the Russian Empire in Alaska. The territorial Russian governor, Alexander Baranof, with an agreement with the Tlingit chief, aggressively built a fort and out-buildings in hopes of financial gain from the fur trade and other endeavors.

This didn’t sit well with the Tlingit people and a bloody uprising took place. In 1804 Russian reinforcements stormed ashore in revenge for the attack two years prior. Russian forces succeeded in driving the native Tlingit from their ancestral home, to resettle on the other side of the island.

It wasn’t long before the prosperous Russians had depleted much of what they fought to claim; plush sea otter pelts. The furry creatures were nearly wiped out from over-hunting. 

With no hope for economic gain, Russia decided to sell Alaska to the United States. The sale price was $7.2 million or roughly two-cents an acre. The land transfer was finalized on October 18, 1867 and is now called Alaska Day. It’s a major celebration day in Sitka.

Visitors can meander through Sitka National Historic Park, learn more about Sitka’s history and stand at the locations where the bloody battles raged.

READ NEXT:   What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise & Packing List

Where Your Ship Will Dock – Cruise Port Info

Sitka has two places for ships to dock; Old Sitka Dock (just renamed Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal ) and Crescent Harbor. About six miles out from the city’s downtown, Old Sitka Dock is where most large cruise ships tie-up; from Grand Princess to NatGeo expedition ships. 

Among luxury cruise lines, Seabourn will usually drop anchor at Crescent Harbor while Silversea heads to Old Sitka Dock.

The city provides clean and efficient complimentary motor coach shuttles to and from the dock to downtown. It’s about a 12 minute scenic drive and the shuttles depart from the dock every 15 minutes. You’ll be dropped off in front of Harrigan Centennial Hall in the heart of downtown.

If you’ve arranged a pre-paid shore excursion, you ticket will have the exact meeting place. You will join your excursion group as you exit the cruise terminal. The other meeting point will be in front of the Harrigan Centennial Hall.

READ MORE:  21 Things to Do in Sitka Alaska Without Buying a Cruise Line Shore Excursion

If your ship is scheduled for Crescent Harbor, that means it will be anchored offshore and you’ll use your ship’s lifeboats to come into town. Crescent Harbor is located downtown so when you debark from the tender, you’ll be at Harrigan Centennial Hall, too. In that case, you’ll join your shore excursion group there.

Transportation in Town

You can try to call a taxi to pick you up at the Old Sitka Dock but cell service out there is nearly non-existent. And trying to call a Sitka taxi service is notoriously futile. Instead, take the free shuttle into town. You’ll find taxis out front of Centennial Hall. Don’t count on any Uber or Lyft ride shares. 

There’s the Sitka bus service ( ridesitka.com ) and you can pick up a bus schedule at the Visitor’s Center in Centennial Hall or across the street at the Sitka Chamber.

Wifi and Cell Service in Sitka

Sitka offers free wifi in many downtown locations. Remember, no matter how remote Alaska feels, you’re still in the United States. Whatever phone carrier you have at home, should provide service in Sitka. AT&T has the best reception in most areas in town. The local wifi service is provided by GCI and isn’t always have the best connectivity.

Sitka Shore Excursions Overview

Nestled between snowcapped mountains and the Pacific Ocean, many of Sitka’s shore excursions are meant to bring you closer to the island’s natural beauty. Here’s a list of some of the most popular shore excursions to do in Sitka. Most shore excursions are available through your cruise ship while some others are offered by local vendors at Centennial Hall.

By now you probably realize that Alaska is expensive. Whether a cruise or a land tour, nothing’s cheap and this includes most shore excursions. On the flip side, a cruise to Alaska is quite often a bucket list experience and people save up for years so they can do all the flight-seeing and whale watching that’s offered. Don’t skimp on shore experiences if possible. 

I’m convinced there is no such thing as a bad shore excursion in Alaska. I’ve tried quite a few (and paid for most on my own dime) and there aren’t any that were a disappointment. That said, everyone has different expectations but it’s hard to find anything to complain about on an Alaska shore excursion. Here are a few of my favorite “what to do in Sitka” shore excursions.

Best Sitka Shore Excursions (through your ship or 3rd party seller)

• Anything outdoors. Unfortunately, some excursions aren’t adaptable for someone who’s mobility-impaired or requires a wheelchair. Aside from that, some of my favorite Sitka shore excursions of course involve being on the water. 
• Sea otter quests, wildlife quests and any “quest” will get you out onto a small tour boat. 
• Bike and hike, kayaking and scenic cruises are a great way to experience some of Sitka’s beauty.
• If you’re more land-based, there’s a haunted ghost walk, a pedal pub crawl, and a painting class. 
• Two attractions not to be missed are Fortress of the Bear and the Alaska Raptor Center. These two are usually included on an all-around Sitka type of tour. If you love bears, Fortress should definitely be on your list.
• Allen Marine Tours runs many of the whale-watching excursions. Family-owned and operated, try their three-hour Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest. Guaranteed to see a whale, sea otter or bear or you get a $100 refund.
• They also offer a Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge tour which includes a sumptuous all-you-can-eat crab feast at their new private lodge.

What to Do in Sitka on Your Own

Sitka is one of those small towns where you can see almost all of the sights within walking distance on one day in port. From where the complimentary bus drops you off at Centennial Hall, pick up a Sitka walking map and head out on your own. The back of the map has a list of all the attractions that are within walking distance.   

From Centennial Hall, it’s a 10 minutes walk to the Sitka Sound Science Center. From there, you can stroll through the Sitka National Historical Park.

REMEMBER! READ MORE:   21 Best Things to Do in Sitka  

Watch salmon jump right out of the water near the Sitka Sound Science Center, learn about Tlingit culture and experience their native dance at the Sheet’ka Kwaan  Naa Kahidi Community House. There’s plenty to do in town if you don’t want to purchase a shore excursion.

If hiking is your thing and if your ship is in town for a full day, there are several hiking trails to explore. Trails range from easy to difficult and consider buying a can of bear spray for your hike.

Dining and Coffee Shops

It’s not uncommon to overhear fellow cruise passengers say, “Why should I pay for a meal in port when I can have free food back on the ship?” Well, here’s why. One of my favorite activities when I’m on a cruise is the chance to experience all types of local food in port.

Maybe I’m a bit jaded but after a while, I think cruise food gets monotonous. Plus, I think that a really great way to get to know a destination is to taste their food; whatever might be the local specialty.

In the case of Alaska, and especially in communities like Sitka where fishing is top of mind, I’m always on the lookout for whichever salmon is running (there are five species of salmon), or the fresh catch of the day. For a city with such a small, year-round population, where to eat in Sitka includes over a dozen restaurants and eateries. 

Unfortunately, if you only have one day in Sitka, it’s really important to know your choices ahead of time. Or at least try to narrow down your food search. Here are some of my favorite places where to eat in Sitka.

Light Snacks

Ludvig’s Chowder Cart – Located within the Sitka Sound Science Center, this is literally a food cart. An offshoot of award-winning Ludvig’s Bistro, the food cart serves Ludvig’s renown seafood chowder by the gallons every day. Slightly spicy, not too creamy-thick, this is one of the best chowders I’ve eaten. There are also freshly-made baguette sandwiches, an assortment of cold drinks and picnic-type tables to sit at and enjoy your lunch.

Ashmo’s – One of several food trucks in town, or as they are called here, “mobile food units.” Serving fresh, local seafood, you can find Ashmo’s white food truck parked along Lincoln Street, the main thoroughfare through downtown.

Captain JuJu’s – Another seafood mobile unit, Captain JuJu’s is owned by a local fishing family and they cook up what they’ve caught that morning. Their truck is a pumpkin-orange color and sort of tucked away around the corner and across from St. Michael’s Cathedral, on Seward Street. If you like nachos, their halibut nachos are fabulous.

Harry Race Soda Shop – I would be totally remiss if I didn’t mention Harry Race’s Soda Shop. Belly up to the soda fountain and sit down on one of the old-time swivel bar stools. How about a house-specialty – a decadent banana split?

Pel’Meni – Authentic Russian dumplings at the most inconspicuous restaurant. A mere $7 will get you a container of 16 little dumplings and your choice of four toppings.

Where to Eat in Sitka – Full Meal

If you’re getting hungry, there are plenty of diverse choices where to eat in Sitka. From cold snacks and fresh-caught salmon to a hot fudge sundae and Russian dumplings, there’s something for everyone.

Backdoor Café – Literally, the entrance is a back door, in back of Old Harbor Books, also on Lincoln Street. It’s kind of a throwback coffee shop, one in which I feel pretty comfortable. All ages congregate there. The coffee’s good, the soups are hot and there’s one or two lunch specials every day.

Bayview Pub – Upstairs in the building across from Centennial Hall on Lincoln Street. Known for their rockfish, salmon burgers and tacos. Also, one of the few places in town to get a Baranof Brew…beer made in Sitka.

Beak – Walk along Lincoln Street for about four blocks towards the end of the strip. When you see the suspension bridge in the distance, Beak is practically right in front of you, on your left.

Fisheye Organic Café – Right in back and across the street from the entrance to the Westmark Hotel, Fisheye Cafe is a favorite lunch spot for locals. If you’re missing your daily shot of wheatgrass or just long for something organic, this is your place. Aside from a couple of daily specials, they also offer made-to-order crêpes (buckwheat or white flour) with a variety of fillings.

Halibut Point Crab & Chowder – Family-owned, what looks like a big, white circus tent is actually one of the best crab restaurants in town. And out of town, in this case. As soon as you step off your ship at the Old Sitka Dock, you can’t miss it. A lot of cruisers will stop here for a late lunch after a shore excursion. Or a quick beer and chowder before sailing away.

Longliner – A little off the beaten path but well worth it. If you’re stopping to watch the Naa Kahidi Tlingit dancers perform at the Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Community House on Katlian St., Longliners is just a couple of blocks further ahead. Recently under new ownership, they’ve added a deliciously extensive brunch menu, serving until 2PM.

Ludvig’s Bistro & Wine Bar – Sitka’s only upscale Mediterranean restaurant is open for dinner at 4:30pm and is a great choice if your ship has a late departure. Reservations are necessary. Located on Katlian Street, between the Naa Kahidi Community House and Longliner.

Mean Queen – There are now two locations for casual dining. The original Mean Queen is located on Harbor Drive, just before the bridge across Sitka Sound. Great for pizza, salad and wings. The second and newer location is at Totem Square, across from Pioneer House, on Katlian. Enter through the hotel. There’s plenty of outdoor seating and a great view of the harbor. Here you can get chowders, burgers, salads and nachos.

Sitka Hotel Restaurant – You can’t miss this western-looking building with Sitka Hotel in big white letters on the old-time faux front. Fresh fish and seafood, high-quality steaks and of course, chowder are the mainstays.

This place tends to get very crowded when the big ships are in town, so plan on either an early or late lunch. It’s also popular with local Sitkans on their lunch break.

Sitka Pel’Meni –  This tiny downtown restaurant has been serving thousands of little Russian Dumplings for over 20 years. A go-to place for locals, Pel’Meni offers two varieties of stuffed dumplings:  meat or potato. They’re served in to-go boxes along with choice of different sauce toppings. 

Located diagonally across the street St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral right in the center of downtown. And surprisingly, not over-crowded on port days. Yet.

Westmark Hotel Dining – A long-time landmark, and part of the Princess Cruises and Holland America hotel collection, it’s the outdoor deck that draws a crowd. Serving fresh local seafood, burgers, salads and some really good desserts.

Where to Get Coffee in Sitka

Highliner Coffee – Local hangout with fast wifi, Highliner servers coffee and espresso, plus baked goods, soups and sandwiches.

Back Door Café – Literally located at the back door of Old Harbor Books, you can also enter around the back of the building, in the alley. In addition to terrific coffee and assorted teas, they also make fresh pies, cakes, soups and one lunch entreé.

Where to Shop in Sitka

Shopping in Sitka is pretty simple. Downtown is barely four blocks long and one block wide. From the shuttle bus drop point in front of Harrigan Centennial Hall, you’re on Lincoln Street, the main downtown drag. There are a a couple of very nice upscale shops right across from Centennial Hall, opposite the harbor. 

If you head in the opposite direction of the boat harbor, that’s where the majority of shops are located. You can find Sitka-branded souvenirs and Alaska t-shirts or head to Old Harbor Books and step back in time at this cozy book store. 

Just about every shop is locally owned. You won’t find any Diamonds International, Del Sol or Little Switzerlands. 

Feel free to simply browse but it will be difficult not to pick up some truly made-in-Sitka souvenirs. Some of these shops are Wintersong for lotions and unique gifts, Alaska Pure Sea Salt, 57 Peaks leggings. Any shop with the word “Gallery” in it, is worth a visit, too. Shopping in Sitka is simple, convenient and way too enticing.

These are just some of the reasons why I love this place. Sitka is delightfully different, curiously quirky and one of the most special places you’ll ever visit, whether on a cruise or a land-based vacation.

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About Sherry Laskin

I'm the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world without flying. I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying. Take a breath...stop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.

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August 24, 2023 at 12:03 am

Hi Cynthia, Thank you for your kind words and taking the time to ask your question. Unfortunately, the only post office in Sitka is a ways out on Sawmill Creek Road…on the way to Fortress of the Bear. It’s a do-able but a long walk from Centennial Hall where your bus will drop passengers from the cruise dock. If you are walking through Totem Park, it’s not too far from the end of that park. But if it is a package that you’d like to mail, I don’t advise walking that far with it. Taxis are not that reliable, either, but you could try. Sorry for the disappointing info. Enjoy your time in Sitka. I was just there for a month and loved it. Thanks again for your question.

August 22, 2023 at 2:37 am

help! need to know if the U.S. post office is anywhere near in walking distance from town center after shuttle drop off from ship. LOVE this website. you have done a marvelous job!

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For over twenty-five years, I've been traveling the world without flying, by only river ships, ocean ships, road trips and trains. I hope to inspire you to travel slow, explore new places, experience different cultures and taste new cuisine. Follow my solo travel adventures across the USA, North America and the world!

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