Fjords & Glaciers of Alaska

Ketchikan port guide.

Once colonised by Tlingit and Haida tribes, Ketchikan is a thriving fishing town with colourful stilted houses, a rich Alaskan culture and a throng of trawlers hauling in fresh crab and salmon.

Arts thrive here and museums celebrating the town’s history are abundant. Some of the best seafood you’ll sample in the Great Land will have been plucked directly from Ketchikan’s waters and served in its restaurants just hours later. A detail that only magnifies the appeal of this enchanting port call on your Alaska cruise.

While other towns have their origins firmly rooted in the region’s gold rush years, Ketchikan’s connection with its native population is still at the heart of its community. You’ll find Alaska’s largest collection of totem poles among its many welcoming attractions, along with heritage experiences expanding on the beliefs, customs and pastimes of Alaska’s earliest settlers.

Top landmarks and sights in Ketchikan.

Nestled among some of Alaska’s most arresting scenery, Ketchikan’s location is one to both admire and leverage. Hikers will love the trails that seem to venture out in all directions, while those who enjoy the thrill of fishing will find the waters here bountifully stocked.

Many visitors to Ketchikan use the city as a base from which to visit Misty Fjords National Monument, just 22 miles east of the city. Part of the Tongass National Forest, Misty Fjords is one of Southern Alaska’s most beautiful natural wonders, combining sheer sea cliffs, towering rock faces and expansive fjords.

Further top Ketchikan landmarks include the Deer Mountain trail (although the 2.5-mile ascent is not for the inexperienced), while the city’s infamous Creek Street, which operated as red-light district until the 1950s, is a Ketchikan institution not to be missed.

Things to do in Ketchikan Alaska.

Take in an Alaskan lumberjack show, snorkel among Ketchikan’s friendly marine life, or simply soak up the art, history and shopping in town. Ketchikan offers an abundance of entertaining activities to occupy thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike. 

On Creek Street, you’ll find welcoming independent galleries offering collections of native Alaskan art, as well as Dolly’s House museum where Ketchikan’s most famous resident, Dolly Arthur, once resided. Creek Street itself is populated by colourful stilt buildings jutting out of the water. It’s one of the city’s prettiest sights and a hive of local culture that lies within short walking distance of the cruise terminal.

Kayaking expeditions, guided floatplane tours and Tomcar karting in Tongass National Forest may all appeal to those looking for more adventurous pursuits in Ketchikan, while a number of fishing charters are available for guests who might like to try their hand at landing halibut or king crab.

Ketchikan also offers the chance for some exciting wildlife encounters, not least of all at its Wildlife Sanctuary and Eagle Centre, where black bears, eagles and seals all reside.

Eating and drinking near Ketchikan cruise port.

The advantage of living alongside a thriving stock of freshwater salmon and crab isn’t lost on Ketchikan’s kitchens. Around half of the city’s restaurants specialise in fresh seafood and you’ll find some of the most popular establishments just a short walk from Ketchikan cruise terminal.

Freshly caught crab is a delicacy you’ll come across on countless menus, chowder (a New England and Nova Scotia favourite) offers a hearty way to warm-up with a dollop of sourdough or cornbread, while smoked and grilled fish also feature strongly among Ketchikan’s excellent seafood options.

Besides its reputation for serving up some of the freshest seafood in Alaska, Ketchikan also offers diners dishes inspired by the U.S and Canada. Pizza parlours and hamburger bars, as well as a handful of cafés selling fresh bakes and coffees, are among the alternative choices you’ll find in Ketchikan if you’re looking to swerve fish on your visit.

Shopping in Ketchikan.

Ketchikan might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think about souvenir shopping but it’s actually a great place in Alaska to source Native crafts, canned seafood and locally made jewellery you can’t find elsewhere on your travels. In other words, if you’re looking for that cherished Alaska keepsake, Ketchikan may yet come up trumps.  

It’s this nature of product that you’ll find first and foremost in the independent galleries, museums and gift shops around town, along with items that celebrate Alaska’s native heritage and history.

Where products claim to be locally made, look for the tell-tale ‘made in Alaska’ symbol to confirm this, also donated by a silver hand emblem. Ketchikan has a few souvenir shops dotted along Creek Street together with a small community shopping centre on Tongass Avenue.

Ketchikan culture and history.

Ketchikan’s culture is some of the richest and most varied in Alaska, and the city has done a fantastic job in preserving the legacy of its Tlingit heritage. A port call here offers myriad ways in which to immerse yourself in this side of Alaska, not least in Ketchikan’s collection of totem poles, which is renowned for being the largest display in Alaska and one of the best examples the world over.

Purchase a combined ticket to gain entry to both the Totem Heritage Center at Ketchikan cruise port and Tongass Historical Museum, where you can experience totem poles being carved in front of your eyes, together with many fascinating exhibits expanding on Tlingit culture.

For a more interactive experience, seek out Saxman Native Village and Totem Row Park or Kasaan Totems Historic District. Both locations offer the chance to embark on a guided tour through a thriving native community and deepen your appreciation for the traditions and practices that underpin Tlingit life.

Ketchikan port facilities and location.

Ketchikan has four berths for cruise ships. Berths one and two are located on Front Street and the waterfront promenade, and are the most centrally located. Three and Four are just a few minutes’ walk into town. You’ll find a visitors’ centre offering information and maps, opposite berth two. A self-guided walking tour begins from here, which you can follow at your leisure. If all four berths are occupied your ship will tender and transport you from your ship to shore by shuttle.

Sitka port guide.

A city that appears to have sprung up in the most unlikely of locations, Sitka is one of Alaska’s most picturesque port calls.

Its location celebrates everything that makes this otherworldly US state unique: snow-encrusted mountains, densely forested wilderness and intensely sapphire waters that radiate with glass-like shine. Yet the city is more than a basecamp for outdoor adventurers.

Sitka enjoys a blended history as diverse as its scenery. Russian, Tlingit and American settlers have all imprinted on the city. Art and culture thrive as richly as Pacific salmon here, and while small compared to other Alaskan communities, Sitka boasts countless treasures for visitors to admire.

Top landmarks and sights in Sitka.

In truth, a few hours in Sitka probably won’t feel like enough. On top of myriad outdoor pursuits, the city boasts some two dozen attractions, several of which are national landmarks.

Katlian Street is a good place to start your exploration, with cultural institutions such as Totem Square, Mariner’s Wall, Sitka Pioneer Home and the Alaska Native Brotherhood Building (ANB Hall). The area is the heart of Sitka’s Tlingit community, offering the chance to observe native dance displays alongside crossing off many of the city’s must-see sights.

On Lincoln Street you’ll also find a succession of Sitka’s Russian-era buildings, while Sitka Historical Society and Museum offers a good all-round insight into the city’s cultural evolution.

Things to do in Sitka.

With only 22 miles of paved roads, Sitka is a magnet for travellers looking to escape it all. Civilisation here certainly isn’t how most visitors know it, and it’s this contrast to the bustle of modern society that lends Sitka such enduring appeal.

That being said, there’s no shortage of things to do on a port call here. Take a walking tour to discover more about the city’s history or enjoy a leisurely browse of its independent bookshops, galleries and gift shops.

Over 20 of Sitka’s buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places, including its oldest intact dwelling, the Russian Bishop’s House, constructed in 1843. This rare example of Russian colonial architecture is among just four buildings of its kind in North America, so well worth seeking out on your travels.

Sitka’s Whale Park also presents one of the best opportunities for whale spotting in Alaska. Whales are frequent visitors to shore here (as the park’s name suggests) and, as well as boardwalks leading out to sea, the grounds come equipped with binoculars to give you a fighting chance of seeing these majestic creatures up close.  

Eating and drinking near Sitka cruise port.

High-quality seafood sets the bar for Sitka’s restaurants. The waters surrounding the city offer some of the best fishing in Alaska, and every year visitors descend on Sitka for a chance to hook king salmon or an infamously weighty halibut. It's little surprise then that you’ll find menus celebrating ingredients of Alaskan provenance all around town, much of which is plucked locally from land and sea.

But while the seafood here is top class, it’s not the only string to Sitka’s culinary bow. Alongside the restaurants serving five types of Pacific salmon, freshly caught crab, clams and cod, you’ll also find eateries specialising in stone-baked pizza, tacos, and organic smoothies. Perfect if seafood isn’t something you enjoy.

Some restaurants offer excellent views of the Sitka Sound and harbour, while others let you select your own shellfish from a fresh tank. If you’re in the mood for something strong with your meal, locally brewed and imported beers are served alongside international wines in most restaurants, and a steaming cup of hot coffee can be tracked down in a handful of cafés.  

Shopping in Sitka.

Sitka’s shopping is a reflection of the cultures that have helped to shape the city over the years. You’ll find Russian nesting dolls sharing shelves with traditional Tlingit masks and miniature totem poles sold alongside decorative lacquer boxes in most gift shops.

Some Sitka jewellers will sell Alaskan gold nuggets as well as handcrafted silverwares, while pure Alaskan salt is another proud export it’s possible to source on a port call to the city.

The ever-popular Sitka Public Market is a great one-stop-shop for souvenirs such as handmade soap and clothing, and the town’s independent liquor stores are your best bet if looking to stock-up on Alaskan beer.

Sitka culture and history.

Tlingit, Russian and wartime history abound in Sitka. If it’s the latter you’re looking for, make your way to Japonski Island, headquarters for the military forces during World War One. Connected to Sitka by the 1970’s O’Connell Road Bridge, the area is surrounded by offshore bunkers and gunning sites, which visitors can access by boat. Though time has inevitably taken its toll on the structures, the visit will resonate with anyone interested in wartime history.

The 107-acre Sitka National Historical Park is another worthwhile excursion to make while on shore, particularly if you’re keen to learn more about Sitka’s North American inhabitants. The site of Russian and Tlingit battle in 1804, the park contains a fine collection of totem poles and artefacts which you can discover on a mile-long trail walk. The area is ripe with towering trees, while a flat walking trail emerges next to a former Tlingit fort.

The Tlingit Clan House (back in town) offers yet another opportunity to deepen your appreciation of Sitka’s Tlingit settlers. Here, you’ll be treated to live re-enactments of native dance performances; a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the traditional culture of Alaska’s first people.

Sitka port facilities and location.

Cruises calling at Sitka tend to stop at the Old Sitka Cruise Terminal, located at Halibut Point Marine, unless there’s already a large ship in berth and it’s necessary to tender offshore. From port it’s just a five-mile trip into downtown Sitka and a free shuttle bus is provided to help you make the roundtrip journey to and from the terminal.

On arrival at the port you’ll find a selection of gift shops selling native Alaskan wares, as well as a large outdoor area where you can relax and watch the boats bobbing in the harbour. There’s also high-speed Wi-Fi available, perfect if you’re wanting to upload some of your Alaska cruise photos to Instagram or keep in touch with friends and family back home. 

Venture into the genuine wilderness as you sail to the towering mountain peaks at the entrance to Tracy Arm Fjord, located in the southeastern strip of Alaska bordering British Columbia.

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, getting to Tracy Arm Fjord itself is part of the adventure. Discover this hidden delight on your Alaskan cruise.

Tracy Arm Fjord port guide

One of the most dramatic locations in the USA, Tracy Arm Fjord is an impressive tourist attraction southwest of the Alaskan city of Juneau.

This impressive fjord is surrounded by cascading waterfalls and granite cliffs for as far as the eye can see. Deep within undisturbed nature, this attraction sits in an almost magical atmosphere.

Appreciate scenic views of mountain peaks, emerald waters, tremendous glaciers, and Alaskan wildlife.

Here’s our guide on everything you need to know about exploring Tracy Arm Fjord.

Top landmarks and sights in Tracy Arm Fjord

The Tracy Arm Fjord is part of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness region that covers over 30 miles of glacier walls and mountain landscape. Witnessing glacial calving in Tracy Arm can be a spectacular experience as huge chunks of ice plummet into the freezing sea below.

Wildlife is also common in the Tracy Arm-Fords region and cruise guests can often catch a glimpse of some of the most mesmerising marine and land mammals on the planet. Brown and black bears, mountain goats, wolves, black-tailed deer, and dall sheep regularly roam close to the Tracy Arm Fjord as do harbour seals, orcas, humpback whales, and sea lions.

Whale-watching tours, glacier ice adventure treks, and guided icefield walks are all available to enable you to get the best views of the fjord and its coastline and the interesting wildlife that inhabit the area.

Things to do in Tracy Arm Fjord

Sea kayaking is popular along the coastline of the Tracy Arm-Ford Terror Wilderness region and day trips can be easily arranged. Motorised boats can drop keen kayakers to Harbor Island for a world-class paddling experience.

Along the coast, there are a few primitive camping sites where you can retreat for the night at one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders.

Experience nature at its most unspoilt and compelling, spotting wildlife as you go, while you explore parts of the largest temperate rainforest in the world, Tongass National Forest not far from the Tracy Arm Fjord in Juneau.

Eating and drinking around Tracy Arm Fjord

Restaurants flank the shore of the waterfront towns surrounding the adventure-bound Alaskan Tracy Arm Fjord. Great food establishments with cosy atmospheres are easy to find after a day of exciting excursions and sea discoveries.

Great lakes and thriving shores make the Tracy Arm-Ford Terror Wilderness region an angler’s paradise. It’s home to over forty species of fish so be sure to taste the freshly caught Alaskan dishes during your stay. King crab, oysters, and salmon are among the many seafood delicacies to try in this region.

Jerky is a traditional Alaskan favourite and the ideal snack that lasts forever in cold conditions. Typically made with reindeer meat, Alaskan jerky carries a taste of the wild.

Wild berries are also big in Alaska as the wildland breeds many berry varieties each season. From blueberries and raspberries to lesser-known salmon berries and watermelon berries, you can try them all. Jams, jellies, pies, smoothies, and ice cream are all fun ways to taste the outdoor delicacy.

Getting around, Tracy Arm Fjord transport

The Tracy Arm Fjord is only accessible by boat and seaplane. Smaller boats can get close to the fjord however it is advised you only choose to do so under experienced supervision.

Cruise ships will not stop directly at the fjord, but you can enjoy the surroundings while on board from the outdoor deck.

The city of Juneau has a port where ships intent on cruising the Alaskan Tracy Arm-Ford region will call. Boat tours can be easily arranged from the city.

If you plan to stay in Juneau during your stay, public transport and taxis are widely available. Juneau is very walkable with many landmarks located within close proximity to each other.

Tracy Arm Fjord quick tips

Currency

The American dollar is the local currency in Alaska. All major debit and credit cards are accepted in Alaska and local cash can be obtained at ATMs or at banks and money marts in the city.

Tipping in Alaska is customary but not obligatory like in many other US states. The average tip for great service or outdoor excursions is between 10 per cent and 20 per cent of the tour price or total.

Weather

Alaska has an Artic climate with long very cold winters and short cool summers. During the summer Alaska receives very little to no sunlight hours.

On average, temperatures reach highs of 19°C during the summer in Alaska while the winter months reach lows of -9°C.

Alaskan summer is considered the best time to visit to experience Tracy Arm Fjord in dry, warm weather.

Skagway port guide.

Skagway is Alaska’s gateway to the Klondike where in the late 1890s more than 100,000 prospectors arrived in search of gold. Even today, frontier-style saloon-style buildings still line the town’s streets, an enduring reminder of this key period in Alaska’s gold rush history.

While feeling as though you’ve somehow fallen through time and into the Wild West is undoubtedly part of Skagway’s appeal, there’s so much more to admire, discover and experience on a port call to this southerly part of the Great Land.

John Wayne’s classic motion picture “Into Alaska” was filmed nearby and the area has inspired several novels (see our Alaska cruise book recommendations for some suggested reading).

Then there’s the scenery.

Skagway’s surroundings are nothing short of magnificent. The piercing waters hugging its shores outdone only by the frosted peaks painted on the horizon. It’s a vista best savoured from a vintage passenger car on the area’s famous White Pass and Yukon Route railway.  

Top landmarks and sights in Skagway.

Skagway’s gold rush era buildings are part of the National Klondike Historical Park and among the most photographed in Alaska. They remain one of the biggest draws for visitors to the area and you’ll find the cream of the crop around State Street and Broadway Street, including the town’s famous Red Onion Saloon (a former brothel) and the Arctic Brotherhood Hall.

A five-minute drive from town also brings you to another of Skagway’s most popular tourist attractions, Alaska 360. A historical re-enactment of an authentic prospector town, here you can tour a genuine gold dredger, meet Dredge Town’s ‘residents’ or brave the cold in the Chilkoot Chill experience. The latter offers you a true taste of an Alaskan winter, exposing you to sub-zero conditions of minus 40, in an innovative temperature-controlled chamber.

Things to do in Skagway.

Whether you want to try gold panning, pull up a stool in a 19th Century saloon, or take a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route railway, you’ll get the opportunity in Skagway.

The railway is an experience you won’t want to miss. Offering exceptional scenic views on clear and bright days, the journey mimics the route prospectors made more than a century ago at the height of the Klondike gold rush. You’ll travel to the summit of the White Pass (an elevation of almost three thousand feet) passing by several noteworthy points of interest as you make your ascent.

Gold panning is one of the highlights you can enjoy on a visit to Alaska 360 (along with the aforementioned Chilkoot Chill experience) while in Skagway town you can take a tour of what was once The Red Onion Brothel from one of the resident ‘madams’.

The gold rush cemetery, located on the edge of town, offers a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives in search of fortune, and a visit to the City Museum and Sculpture Garden is your opportunity to learn more about Skagway’s fascinating history, including its gold rush connection.

Eating and drinking near Skagway cruise port.

Skagway’s dining scene is considerably more varied than most Alaskan communities although rest assured fans of the region’s exquisite seafood won’t be disappointed.

While you’ll no doubt encounter locally caught crab, halibut and other delicacies plucked from the icy depths, Skagway’s dining offer extends far beyond the sea. You’ll find smokehouse BBQ, Mexican street food, pizzerias and even some Asian flavours among the intimate restaurant offer.

A couple of independent coffee shops complete the food and drink lineup, while a native Alaskan beer is easy to source at one of Skagway’s saloon bars or its namesake brewing company.

Shopping in Skagway.

Even shopping in Skagway feels like stepping back in time.

Most of the town’s independent shops now occupy the quintessential cladded buildings that lend Skagway its unique character, and it’s difficult to avoid the temptation to pop in as you venture around.

If jewellery is your Achilles heel, then Skagway is guaranteed to delight. The town is home to multiple jewellery studios and shops selling precious stones.

Locally made artworks and produce prepared with ingredients of native origin are another of Skagway’s promising purchases. Look for the ‘made in Skagway’ mark as evidence that the product was crafted locally.

Skagway history and culture.

Cruise ships have been calling at Skagway since the 1920s and a port call here offers ample opportunity to experience some typically Alaskan pursuits native to this part of the world.

A half-hour drive along the coastal road brings you to Dyea (a boomtown in the Alaska gold rush) and the site of a historical settlement established by Tlingit natives.

Although the town has long since been lost to the landscape the remnants of a few ghostly structures still remain, together with a graveyard where an avalanche caused nearly all those buried to lose their lives on the same day. Dyea is also a breeding ground for wild salmon and it’s not uncommon for visitors to spot a brown bear by the water’s edge in July and August when peak spawning season occurs.

Of course, with its enchanting mountains and waterside location, a port call to Skagway also offers the chance to experience some exhilarating high-octane adventures. You may choose to have a go at ocean rafting on the Lyn Canal, zip-lining over treetops, or navigating hairpin turns on a dog sled powered by huskies.  

Skagway port facilities and location.

Alaska cruises calling at Skagway tend to dock either at the end of Broadway or Main Street. Both are centrally located in town, allowing you to step directly off your ship and be among the bustle of Skagway in minutes.

The town’s streets are numbered, making Skagway refreshingly easy to navigate on foot. You’ll also find maps available at the local visitor’s centre to help guide you. Skagway’s most historic buildings occupy the area between Second and Eight Avenue, and it’s here that you’ll find the majority of restaurants, shops and places of interest whilst in port.

Icy Strait Point port guide.

Picture Alaska and you’ve more or less conjured Icy Strait Point. This natively owned cruise port on Chichagof Island offers the best of what makes this region unique; piercing blue waters, emerald green forest and myriad ways to enjoy the outdoors.

You may decide to spend the afternoon whale watching, join a fishing expedition or take in the scenery on a guided kayaking experience. Then there are the nature hikes, offering the chance to spot native brown bears and eagles in their natural habitat. For the truly brave, Icy Strait Point is also home to the world’s largest zip rider, which propels you over 5000 feet from a 1,300 vertical drop. It is an adrenaline-fuelled experience, perhaps not one for everyone, but definitely something you won’t forget in a hurry.

Of course, there’s much for the leisurely paced visitor to enjoy on shore too. Icy Strait Point is situated just outside Hoonah, the largest Tlingit village in the world. Near to the cruise port, you’ll also find quaint shops selling local artefacts and insightful museums expanding on local history. While along the waterfront a smattering of restaurants are ready to treat you to the freshest crab plucked from Icy Strait bay, an Alaskan delicacy you won’t want to miss.

Top landmarks and sights in Icy Strait Point.

A port call to Icy Strait Point means a choice between whether to spend your time on land, sea or in the air. The island is a natural playground; its waters as dense with whales as its forest is with brown bears.

If you harbour a desire to see either, now’s your chance. So abundant is the population here that tour guides as good as guarantee a sighting. In fact, Icy Strait Point even has its own resident whale who bucks the migration trend to stay put year-round. Nicknamed Freddy by locals, the sight of his colossal tail rising from the water or spray shooting skyward is a common sight on a port call here.

Icy Strait Point’s other claim to fame is its ZipRider, hailed as the largest zip line in the world. The descent takes you from Mount Hoonah’s summit at speeds of 60 miles per hour as the rainforest rushes by below. If you can keep your eyes open for the experience you’ll be treated to stunning views out to the bay as you descend from the mountaintop towards your beach landing.

Things to do in Icy Strait Point Alaska.

Icy Strait Point has any amount of activities to create outstanding memories. Explore the Spaaski River Valley, learn about the history and heritage of Alaska’s native Tlingit people on a tour of Hoonah village, or take a flight-seeing excursion over the UNESCO World Heritage site of Glacier Bay.

Besides its brown bear population, Chichagof Island is abound with wildlife, including Sitka black-tail deer, red squirrels, bald eagles and land otters. Discover this side of Icy Strait Point on an ATV or Jeep tour through the island’s old logging roads or take a helicopter ride to see the area’s outstanding natural beauty from a bird’s eye view.

The charming small community of Hoonah is also just a mile or so from where the ship docks at Icy Strait Point. Home to Alaska’s largest Tlingit village, a visit here offers the chance to see carved totem poles and voyage on an authentic Tlingit canoe.

Eating and drinking near Icy Strait Point cruise port.

As you might expect of a destination with a fresh supply of seafood on its doorstep, Icy Strait Point offers some of the freshest catch, native to Alaska. Dining here is a laid-back affair, with an emphasis on showcasing local produce, served in the surroundings from which it’s been sourced.

Cooked-to-order crab, locally smoked salmon and rich Alaskan reindeer are among the native delicacies you’ll find in abundance, each one offering an authentic taste of the Inside Passage. The emphasis is very much on allowing Alaska’s produce to sing so many dishes here are served simply, with a humble accompaniment and little fuss.

Of course, if you just want to sit and relax with a cold beer, you’ll be in good company too. Nearby to Icy Strait Point cruise port you’ll find a smokehouse restaurant with an outstanding outdoor deck. And, if you do get peckish at any point you can always order a slider (a small burger, just a couple of bites in size) to keep hunger contained until you re-join your ship for your evening meal.

Shopping in Icy Strait Point.

If you’re looking for an authentic Alaskan keepsake you could easily find it among the souvenir shops surrounding Icy Strait Point’s historic salmon cannery. While not extensive, the shopping offer here is staunchly community focussed (each shop is 100% Alaskan-owned) and for those inclined, just a five-minute stroll from the point of disembarkation.

Jewellery, fashion and homewares are among the unique finds to take back on board, while canned Sockeye salmon, Icy Strait Point’s other notable export, is available to purchase by can or by case.

Icy Strait Point culture and history.

Although it’s only been welcoming cruise ships since 2004, Icy Strait Point has been an intrinsic part of Alaskan life since 1912 when a salmon cannery was established on the island. The cannery provided employment to the local community, and even a place to live when a fire raged through nearby Hoonah village in the 1940s, leaving many residents homeless.

After changing ownership several times, the cannery was eventually bought by the Huna Totem Corporation – a collective of Alaska natives – and Icy Strait Point developed into the privately-owned Alaskan port call visitors recognise today. The former cannery, now a museum, is still an important part of the community, giving all who come here an opportunity to learn about Alaska’s culture, Tlingit customs and Icy Strait Point’s history.

Icy Strait Point Port Facilities and Location.

Alaska cruises to Icy Strait Point call at Port Frederick, a floating dock that allows for passenger disembarkation directly to shore. Once you step off your ship, everything Icy Strait Point has to offer can be reached on foot in under ten minutes. There’s also a shuttle bus that runs between Icy Strait Point and Hoonah if you prefer to visit independently rather than by organised tour.

Glacier Bay National Park Port Guide.

Spanning 3.3 million acres, as part of a 25-million-acre World Heritage Site, a Glacier Bay National Park cruise reveals some of the planet’s most remarkable tidewater glaciers.

Top landmarks and sights in Glacier Bay National Park .

There’s so much to take in on a Glacier Bay National Park cruise, it’s hard to know where to begin. Towering mountains, gargantuan icebergs and majestic glaciers stretch as far as the eye can see, disappearing onto the horizon in every direction. It’s a thrilling sight to experience from the deck of a cruise ship, or snuggled under a blanket in the warmth of your stateroom balcony, as you silently watch the world go by.

The park is home to over 1,000 glaciers, the majority of which nestle in the surrounding mountains, connecting land to sky like nature’s skyscrapers. Soaring to 15,000 feet, Glacier Bay’s ranges are the highest coastal peaks in all the world; their abundant snowfall offering the perfect breeding ground for glaciers to take shape.

One of the highlights of visiting Glacier Bay National Park is watching the prolific calving of these shimmering ice giants. Towering hundreds of feet above the water, as well as stretching a hundred feet below, huge jagged pinnacles routinely break off in thunderous explosions, resulting in flotillas of icebergs. It’s an awe-inspiring spectacle.

Things to do in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska.

There’s a reason cruising is considered the best way to explore Glacier Bay National Park. With dense rainforest, minimal trails (and even fewer roads), Glacier Bay’s natural waters offer the greatest access to the National Park’s awaiting treasures.

Besides the tidal glaciers, for which Glacier Bay National Park is renowned, the area is also a vibrant habitat for a rich variety of wildlife. Huge humpback whales are often spotted breaching and slapping their tails, as pods of orcas silently glide by and sea lions bask in the sun on rocky outcrops. As you sail along the endless miles of pristine coastline, you may see brown bears, mountain goats, and moose, while looking up reveals hundreds of bird species, including rare puffins and majestic bald eagles.

To enrich your experience of this wilderness sanctuary, National Park Service rangers will join you on board and offer deeper insight into this fascinating region. They will present you with a host of fascinating facts about the spectacular scenery, glaciers, and wildlife you will see, and inform you about some of the conservation efforts that go on behind the scenes. They will also be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the history of this protected biosphere reserve and its many inhabitants.

Glacier Bay National Park culture and history.

It’s not just travellers who are fascinated by Glacier Bay National Park . Over the years naturalists, scientists and preservationists have all made the pilgrimage here, as equally enamoured by the secrets Glacier Bay National Park keeps as the stories it has to tell.

As recently as 200 hundred years ago, the entire area was covered by ice, some 20 miles wide and 4,000 feet thick, as documented by Captain George Vancouver when he discovered the bay (then just a Glacier) in 1794. When naturalist John Muir arrived in 1879 it was a different story. The ice had retreated and he was able to navigate Glacier Bay by Canoe. Muir was captivated by the otherworldliness of the scenery he encountered and changed perceptions of Alaska as a place of desolate isolation to one of incomparable beauty.

It was scientist, William S. Cooper, however, who petitioned for Glacier Bay to be granted protected status, when he visited to conduct a series of plant studies in 1916. Overcome by its untamed wildness, he believed nature should be left to its own devices here, and in 1925 Glacier Bay became a national monument. Fifty years on, then-US-President, Jimmy Carter, signed the Alaska National Interests Lands Conservation Act, cementing Glacier Bay as the National Park and preserve we now know it as today.

Victoria port guide.

Nestled on the southern coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia’s capital city, Victoria, is an intoxicating blend of historic streets, Victorian architecture and dramatic craggy coastlines. Here you’ll find a perfect balancing act between old and new, where the legacies left by indigenous populations are imprinted alongside fairy-tale castles and gardens that stay in bloom year-round.

Hop in a seaplane and take in the breathtaking scenery from up high, step back through time at the Royal BC museum or simply absorb the magic of meandering streets and atmospheric squares. Victoria’s character and history is sure to enchant you, while its burgeoning culinary scene offers everything from farm-to-table bistros and vegan-friendly cafés, to traditional teahouses and colourful microbreweries.

Top landmarks and sights in Victoria.

From historic houses, dedicated to legendary artists, to exquisite castles and Victorian buildings with royal connections, Victoria is awash with sights to see and experiences to savour.

Overlooking the harbour, you’ll find one of the city’s oldest and most famous hotels, the Fairmont Empress. Opened in 1908, the building is a classic example of turn-of-the-century architecture, with countless celebrities and royal visitors electing to stay here over the years.

Travelling just twenty minutes from downtown Victoria brings you to Hatley Park, an Edwardian estate that’s now a national historic site. Together with the magnificent Hatley Castle, the estate also offers beautifully manicured Italian and Japanese gardens, miles of forested walking trails and a rose garden that produces the most intoxicating scent, when in bloom.

Craigdarroch Castle is yet another national historic site that’s a must see on a Victoria, BC, cruise. Built in Victorian times by coal Baron, Robert Dunsmuir, the building is a joy to explore, with impressive period details, decorative stained-glass windows, and a tower offering incredible views over Victoria.

Emily Carr House is also a highlight of a cruise to Victoria. A Victoria artist in residence, Carr’s work draws attention to Vancouver Island’s indigenous natives, and touring her former home reveals an intimate portrait into the artist’s life that fans of her paintings won’t want to miss.

Things to see and do in Victoria, British Columbia.

Victoria is an activity-filled destination, steeped in history to uncover, architecture to admire, and outdoor pursuits that only Canada can deliver. Whether you arrive to basking sunshine or a spring shower, you’ll find no shortage of ways to while away the hours in port.

Paying a visit to the city’s Parliament Buildings should be high on your agenda. A free 45-minute guided tour is available to take you behind the scenes, providing a snapshot into Canadian parliamentary proceedings, and a look inside one of the city’s most impressive buildings.

A walk around one of Victoria’s many parks or gardens offers yet another memorable way to pass the time on a BC cruise. You’ll find more than a dozen to choose from, including the 200 acre Beacon Hill Park in Victoria’s downtown, the stunning Butchart Garden (where staying for afternoon tea is a must) and the Abkhazi Gardens, created by Prince and Princess Abkhazi in 1946.

If museums and galleries are more your speed, Victoria’s selection includes the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and the Avenue Art Gallery, while the Royal BC Museum, Wentworth Villa Architecture Heritage Museum and Aviation Museum, are among its diverse museum offering.

Victoria is also home to Canada’s oldest Chinatown – a gem in itself to seek out. You can access Chinatown via Fan Tan Alley, famous for being Canada’s narrowest street. This slither of a walkway is home to a variety of local independent shops and exudes a charm that’s impossible to resist.

Eating and drinking near Victoria cruise port.

Set amongst thriving farmlands and fish-rich waters, Victoria’s location is a chef’s dream. Hundreds of restaurants, cafés and bistros make-up the city’s superb dining offer, while its markets and microbreweries offer a taste of Victoria that ale and food fans won’t want to miss. 

One of the city’s most exciting culinary destinations is Bastion Square - the site of the old Fort Victoria. Here, in the city's downtown district, you’ll find an eclectic mix of bars and eateries, many offering outdoor seating in the summer. An artisanal market, selling local produce, also pops up here throughout the warmer months.

If seafood is what you’re seeking, you won’t find fresher than Fisherman’s Wharf. A working harbour lined with shops and food stands, a visit here offers the chance to buy today’s local catch, straight off the boat, while its kiosks serve up tasty fare you can perch to eat or walk with. Victoria Public Market, within the Hudson Building, also offers a casual dining experience, but with a wider choice of gourmet vendors.

Afternoon Tea is another of Victoria’s edible highlights. The tradition has been staunchly observed since being introduced by the British in the 1840s, and you’ll find teahouses keeping up the practice at both Butchart and Abkhazi Gardens, as well as the Fairmont Empress Hotel.  

A Victoria food and drink tour is the ideal way to appreciate the excellent calibre of the city’s farmed, fished and bottled produce. Choose from tours taking you through Vancouver Island’s vineyards, boating expeditions that blend wine and whale watching, or take a self-guided journey through Victoria’s ale trail.

Shopping in Victoria.

It’s hard to turn a corner without encountering a shopping experience of some description in Victoria. The city offers everything a souvenir-hunting could wish for, from vibrant markets and wine merchants to shopping malls and tiny boutiques hidden off the beaten track.

If fashion is your guilty pleasure, make a beeline for Market Square. Located in Victoria’s Old Town, this historic area is rife with hip and trendy shops, selling handmade fashions from local labels. You’ll also find some fun places to eat nearby.

The Bay Centre, situated in the heart of Victoria’s downtown, offers almost 100 retailers in a single block, many of which are household names. The area is a popular Victoria shopping destination, with jewellery, skincare, homeware and sports apparel among the finds you’ll unearth here.

An equally diverse selection of shops can be found within the Mayfair Shopping Centre, which unites more than 120 retailers, while Uptown offers an open-air shopping environment that blends international brands and local boutiques.

Victoria culture and history.

Indigenous, British and Asian settlers have all helped to shape Victoria over the years, while the city’s connection to British royalty (Fort Victoria was named for Queen Victoria) has also left a lasting impression.

For thousands of years, Vancouver Island was exclusively inhabited by First Nations People, until the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1778 marked the start of non-aboriginal settlers. The Fraser River Gold rush of 1858 later attracted over 30,000 prospectors in 1858, and soon after Chinese immigrants followed to work on the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Victoria was proclaimed the capital of British Columbia on July 21^st 1871 and throughout the 20^th century evolved rapidly. Today the city is home to Canada’s western naval base and educational institutions including the University of Victoria. Its location affords it a pleasant climate, and despite its modernisation, the city still retains deep historical ties with its First Nations heritage.

Victoria port facilities and location.

Victoria has been welcoming cruise ships since 1978, and is one of the busiest ports in the Alaska cruise season, hosting hundreds of ships and thousands of passengers throughout April to October, each year.

Cruises to Victoria call at Ogden Point Terminal, situated around 1.5 miles from the city’s downtown. The port has two piers for cruise ships that can accommodate up to three ships at any one time. Shuttle busses are available to ferry passengers from the terminal to downtown, or you can take a taxi if you have another destination in mind.

Rickshaw drivers and horse-drawn carriages can also frequently be found outside the cruise terminal, while gift shops, an exchange bureau, and bicycle hire are among the facilities available to those arriving into Victoria by cruise ship.