A colorful Alaskan town rich in heritage.
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Overview
Ketchikan, located in the Tongass National Forest in Southeast Alaska, is renowned as the "Salmon Capital of the World" and is the first major port of call for many Alaska-bound cruise ships. Built on a steep hillside with colorful houses perched on stilts over the water, Ketchikan boasts a unique charm that blends its rich Native Alaskan heritage, its booming fishing industry, and its lush temperate rainforest environment.
The city is famous for having the world's largest collection of standing totem poles, showcasing the vibrant artistic and cultural traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Beyond its cultural attractions, Ketchikan offers abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure, from sport fishing and bear viewing to exploring the majestic Misty Fjords National Monument. Its compact downtown, historic Creek Street, and easy access to wilderness make it a quintessential Alaskan experience.
Wander along Creek Street, the historic red-light district turned boardwalk. Don't miss "Dolly's House," a restored historic brothel museum, and watch for salmon spawning in the creek during late summer.
Tip: Walk to the "Salmon Ladder" to see salmon leaping upstream during the spawning season (late summer).
Immerse in Native Alaskan culture and art at Saxman Native Village or Totem Bight State Historical Park. Both sites feature totem poles and offer insights into the heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.
Tip: If time allows, visit both for a comprehensive experience.
Experience why the area is the "Salmon Capital of the World" by embarking on a sport fishing charter. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, try your hand at catching salmon or halibut.
Tip: Book charters well in advance, especially during peak salmon runs.
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Misty Fjords National Monument with a floatplane or seaplane flightseeing tour. Glide over pristine wilderness, granite cliffs and fjords, landing on one of the lakes or inlets for a perspective.
Tip: This is a weather-dependent activity but offers unparalleled views.
Learn about Alaska's historic fishing industry on a tour to George Inlet Cannery. Discover the process of salmon canning, explore the historic cannery buildings, and enjoy a fresh crab feast as part of the experience.
Tip: This tour typically includes transportation from here and offers a good combination of history and a delicious meal.
Explore the lush Tongass National Forest, America's largest national forest, surrounding the area. Numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels lead through the temperate rainforest, offering opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and experiencing the unique ecosystem.
Tip: Trails like the Rainbird Trail offer good views near town.
Aboard
Crown Princess
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
1 Sailing
Apr 27, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Silver Muse
From
Incheon, South Korea
1 Sailing
May 2, 2029
Aboard
Silver Muse
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Vancouver, British Columbia
6 Sailings
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Aboard
Silver Muse
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1 Sailing
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Aboard
Silver Muse
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Incheon, South Korea
1 Sailing
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Aboard
Silver Moon
From
Yokohama, Japan
1 Sailing
Apr 29, 2029
Aboard
Silver Moon
From
Tokyo, Japan
1 Sailing
May 11, 2029
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per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Encore
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
1 Sailing
Aug 10, 2029
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Encore
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
1 Sailing
Aug 10, 2029
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Encore
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
1 Sailing
Jun 8, 2029
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
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