Experience Ketchikan’s rich maritime history, native culture and breathtaking wilderness surroundings … by land and by sea.
Departing your ship by motorcoach, your friendly driver/guide will give lively narrative while pointing out historic Creek Street, where homes and shops are perched over the water on wooden pilings. At Saxman Village, stop to view one of the world’s largest gatherings of totem poles. Your guide will interpret the meanings of these giant sentries, which border the park and entrance to the Beaver Clan House.
Your sightseeing continues to George Inlet, where a relaxing stroll through the
rainforest brings you to the historic Libby Cannery. Beginning with a short video, this fascinating tour will take you back to the days when rugged men and women toiled day and night to harvest and process the abundant Alaska salmon. While learning about the adventurous world of fishermen and seine boats you may even have the opportunity to help haul and coil a net!
From the Cannery Dock you’ll board a water-jet powered vessel with heated
main cabin, comfortable seating, a snack bar and restroom. While exploring the coastline of glacier-carved George Inlet the onboard naturalist will explain the natural history of Southeast Alaska’s forests and ocean. Seals, porpoise, eagles and other species of wildlife are often sighted on this cruise; the captain will maneuver the boat to give the best possible view.
Entering Tongass Narrows you will pass by a fascinating variety of working vessels. A mariner’s view of Alaska’s busiest port, and your cruise ship, will provide this tour’s final backdrop for learning how Ketchikan earned its title as “Salmon Capital of the World”.
Note: This excursion is not recommended for passengers who have difficulty walking, due to the number of stops requiring embarkation of transfer equipment and walking on inclined pathways. Wildlife sightings are frequent, but not guaranteed. This tour is also conducted in reverse order.
| Port: | Ketchikan, Alaska |
| Duration: | Approximately 3.5 hours |
| Provided: | Snacks; coffee, tea, cocoa; binoculars on vessel |