Kayaking in Alaska
Sitka is a popular port for those taking an Alaska cruise. Luckily, the city has much to offer in terms of interesting things to do, from sea kayaking adventures to wildlife experiences to learning about Native American culture. To help you plan your itinerary, here is a guide to Sitka for cruise visitors.
Sea kayaking
One great shore excursion for those visiting Sitka is a Sea Kayaking Adventure. Beginning from the cruise port dock you’ll board a custom-built vessel for a sightseeing tour on the Sitka Sound. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, especially whales as they are prevalent in this area. Once at the floating base camp, you’ll learn how to use a two-person kayak, the vessel from which you’ll enjoy the pristine beauty of Sitka’s bays. Along with taking in postcard views in a tranquil setting, you’ll be able to spot wildlife like sea life, eagles, harbor seals, black-tailed deer and possibly even brown bears. After kayaking, re-energize with a complimentary snack of clam chowder, crackers and hot apple cider.
Sitka National Historic Park
There are many great things to do in Alaska for cruise visitors, especially in Sitka. No trip to this city would be complete without visiting the Sitka National Historic Park, Alaska’s oldest national park. Sitka is home to a rich Native American heritage, and the park was established in 1890 to commemorate the 1804 Battle of Sitka. It also serves the purpose of preserving Native totem art, and visitors can explore this by strolling along the coastal trail. Don’t leave without watching a native artist at work in the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center. Other highlights of the Sitka National Historic Park include the Russian Bishop’s house, which is one of the last remaining examples of Russian colonial architecture in North America, as well as the Tlingit Fort and battlefield.
Alaska Raptor Center
As Alaska is renowned for its abundant wildlife, it’s a good idea to add a wildlife experience into your Sitka itinerary. At the Alaska Raptor Center, a 17-acre (7-hectare) reserve bordering the Tongass National Forest, visitors can see and learn about injured hawks, eagles, owls, falcons and other birds of prey. The goal of the Alaska Raptor Center is to care for these birds and then release them back into the wild, although some become permanent residents and a part of the family. For example, you can meet Volta, an American Bald Eagle, and Glaucus, a Barred Owl, both of whom have lost their ability to fly.
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