Ketchikan Alaska Cruise Port Guide 2026

Quick Reference

Port Type	Dock
Walk to Town	1-10 minutes (0.1-0.5 miles depending on dock)
Typical Hours in Port	6:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Varies by itinerary)
Population	Approximately 8,000
Best Month to Visit	July (warmest temperatures, long daylight hours, peak salmon run)
Wi-Fi	Ketchikan Public Library, coffee shops downtown
Currency	US Dollar
Uber/Lyft Available?	No — not available in Alaska cruise ports
Passport Required?	No — cruises to Alaska from the US are considered domestic travel for US citizens. However, it's always wise to carry a government-issued photo ID. Non-US citizens should check their visa requirements.
Cell Service	Verizon and AT&T have good coverage in Ketchikan. T-Mobile coverage can be spotty.

Why Visit Ketchikan

Ketchikan, known as Alaska's "First City" and the "Salmon Capital of the World," is a vibrant port offering a potent mix of stunning natural beauty, rich Native Alaskan culture, and a thriving fishing industry. Unlike some Alaskan ports that feel tourist-centric, Ketchikan maintains a genuine, working-town atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience authentic Alaskan life alongside the attractions.

Expect to find colorful buildings perched along the waterfront, historic totem poles standing proudly, and the aroma of fresh seafood wafting from local restaurants. While Ketchikan embraces tourism, it hasn't lost its character. Be prepared for rain – it's part of the charm and keeps the surrounding rainforest lush. You’ll want to dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket.

Many first-time visitors are surprised to learn that Ketchikan receives over 150 inches of rain annually. They are also often surprised to find Creek Street, a former red-light district, now home to quaint shops and galleries, built directly over the creek on wooden pilings.

Where Ships Dock & Getting to Town

Cruise ships in Ketchikan typically dock at one of several berths along the waterfront. The locations are:

• Berth 1, 2, 3, and 4: These are the main docks in downtown Ketchikan. They are all within a very short walk of the city center.
• Ward Cove Dock: Located approximately 7 miles north of downtown Ketchikan.

Walking Distances:

• Berths 1-4: 1-5 minutes (0.1-0.3 miles) to downtown.
• Ward Cove Dock: Walking to downtown is not practical.

Free Shuttle Service (Ward Cove): When ships dock at Ward Cove, a free shuttle service typically operates to downtown Ketchikan. The shuttle runs frequently, approximately every 30 minutes, and the ride takes about 20-30 minutes. Check locally for the exact shuttle schedule and operating hours, as these can vary slightly. In 2024, the shuttle operated roughly from when the first ship arrives until the last ship departs.

Taxi Options: Taxis are available at all dock locations. A taxi from Ward Cove to downtown Ketchikan costs approximately $30-$40. From Berths 1-4, taxis are readily available, but walking is usually the more convenient option. Expect to pay around $10-15 for a taxi ride within the downtown area.

There is no Uber or Lyft service in Ketchikan.

Rental Cars: Rental cars are available in Ketchikan, primarily at the airport and downtown. If you're docking at Ward Cove and want to explore independently, renting a car is a good option. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season. Companies like Avis, Hertz, and Budget have locations in Ketchikan.

Cruise Line Docking: Princess Cruises and Holland America Line often use Berths 3 and 4. Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean frequently use Berths 1 and 2. Ward Cove is often used when the downtown docks are full. These are not hard-and-fast rules, so check your specific cruise itinerary for the most accurate information.

Top Free & Budget Things to Do

• Creek Street: (Downtown) Stroll along the historic boardwalk of Creek Street, a former red-light district built on pilings over Ketchikan Creek. Free. Allow 1-2 hours.
• Totem Heritage Center: (1 mile from downtown) See a collection of original, unrestored totem poles rescued from abandoned Native villages. Admission: ~$6. Allow 1-2 hours.
• Deer Mountain Hatchery & Eagle Center: (1.5 miles from downtown) Observe salmon spawning and potentially see bald eagles. Admission: ~$15. Allow 1-2 hours.
• Self-Guided Walking Tour: Pick up a free map at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau (Berth 2) and explore downtown's historic buildings and points of interest. Free. Allow 2-3 hours.
• Rainforest Hiking Trail: (Various locations, easily accessible by taxi or local bus) Take a short hike on a nearby rainforest trail, such as the Rainbird Trail. Free. Allow 1-2 hours.
• Ketchikan Public Library: (Downtown) Relax, read, and access free Wi-Fi. Free. Allow 30 minutes - 1 hour.
• Thomas Basin Harbor: (Downtown) Walk around the harbor and observe the fishing boats and floatplanes. Free. Allow 30 minutes.

Best Shore Excursions

Budget Excursions (Under $100/person)

• Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show: ($40-$50, 1.5 hours) Watch skilled lumberjacks compete in thrilling events. Included: Show. Insider Tip: Book in advance as shows often sell out.
• Saxman Native Village Totem Park: ($50-$70, 2 hours) Explore a collection of totem poles and learn about Tlingit culture. Included: Guided tour. Insider Tip: Check for demonstrations of traditional carving techniques.

Mid-Range Excursions ($100-$300/person)

• Misty Fjords National Monument Flightseeing Tour: ($200-$300, 2 hours) Soar over stunning fjords, waterfalls, and alpine lakes. Included: Flightseeing tour. Insider Tip: Request a window seat for the best views. Weather dependent.
• Wildlife Viewing and Rainforest Walk: ($150-$250, 3 hours) Search for bears, eagles, and other wildlife on a guided rainforest walk. Included: Guided walk, transportation. Insider Tip: Wear waterproof boots.
• Salmon Fishing Charter: ($200-$300, 4 hours) Try your luck at catching salmon in Ketchikan's rich waters. Included: Fishing gear, instruction. Insider Tip: Check the salmon run schedule for the best chances of catching fish.

Splurge Excursions ($300+/person)

• Exclusive Floatplane Fishing Adventure: ($400-$500, 6 hours) Fly to a remote fishing location for a personalized fishing experience. Included: Floatplane transport, fishing gear, guide. Insider Tip: This offers a secluded experience away from the crowds.
• Bear Viewing at Neets Bay: ($350-$450, 3 hours) Fly to Neets Bay to observe bears feeding on salmon. Included: Floatplane transport, guided bear viewing. Insider Tip: This is a prime location for seeing bears in their natural habitat.
• Helicopter Glacier Tour: ($400-$500, 2 hours) Fly by helicopter to a glacier for a unique perspective and glacier walk. Included: Helicopter transport, glacier walk. Insider Tip: Dress warmly, as it can be cold on the glacier.

Booking Independently vs. Through the Cruise Line: Booking excursions independently can often save you $50-$150 per person compared to booking through the cruise line. However, cruise line excursions offer the guarantee of returning to the ship on time. Independent operators may offer smaller group sizes and more personalized experiences. If booking independently, choose reputable operators and allow ample time to return to the ship.

Booking Timeline: For peak season (July), book excursions 6-12 months in advance, especially popular tours like flightseeing and bear viewing. Less popular excursions may still be available closer to your cruise date.

Weather Contingency: Ketchikan is known for its rain. Many excursions operate rain or shine. Flightseeing tours are weather-dependent and may be canceled or rescheduled. Check the cancellation policy before booking. Bring a waterproof jacket and embrace the rainforest environment!

Where to Eat & Drink

• Annabelle's Famous Keg and Chowder House: (Downtown, $$) Order the Alaskan King Crab Legs. Worth visiting for its lively atmosphere and waterfront views.
• The Alaska Fish House: (Downtown, $) Try the Fish and Chips. A casual spot perfect for a quick and tasty seafood meal.
• Cape Fox Lodge - Heen Kahidi Dining Room: (Downtown, $$$) Order the Halibut. Offers panoramic views and a fine dining experience showcasing local ingredients.
• Bar Harbor Restaurant: (Downtown, $$) Order the Seafood Pasta. A local favorite with a diverse menu and friendly service.
• New York Cafe: (Downtown, $) Try the reindeer sausage. This diner-style cafe is a Ketchikan institution, serving up hearty breakfasts and lunches.
• Bawden Street Brewing Company: (Downtown, $$) Sample the Spruce Tip IPA. A local brewery with a rotating selection of craft beers.

Local Food Specialties: Ketchikan is known for its fresh seafood, especially salmon, halibut, and crab. Don't miss the opportunity to try smoked salmon, salmon chowder, or a grilled halibut sandwich.

Wait Times: Popular restaurants can get very busy during peak cruise ship hours (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM). Consider eating earlier or later to avoid the crowds.

Shopping Guide

The main shopping areas in Ketchikan are along Front Street, Main Street, and Creek Street. These streets are all within easy walking distance of the cruise ship docks.

Items Worth Buying:

• Alaska Native Art: Look for totem poles, carvings, and jewelry made by local Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian artists.
• Smoked Salmon: A classic Alaskan souvenir. Many shops offer samples before you buy.
• Alaska-Made Crafts: Find unique gifts such as knitted items, pottery, and handmade soaps.
• Alaska Gold Nugget Jewelry: A unique and valuable souvenir.

Identifying Genuine Alaska-Made Products: Look for the Silver Hand logo, which signifies that the product was made by an Alaska Native artist. Also, look for the "Made in Alaska" sticker, which indicates that the product was made in Alaska. Be wary of mass-produced tourist souvenirs that are not actually made in Alaska.

Ketchikan does not offer tax-free shopping benefits.

Weather by Month

Month	Avg High (°F)	Avg Low (°F)	Rainfall (inches)	Rain Days
May	54	41	7	20
June	60	47	7	18
July	64	51	9	19
August	64	52	11	21
September	59	48	15	23

Ketchikan's weather is typically cool and wet, even in the summer months. July and August are the warmest months, but rain is still common. September is the rainiest month. Expect overcast skies and occasional showers.

What to Wear/Pack: Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket, waterproof pants, and waterproof shoes or boots. A hat and gloves can also be useful, especially for boat tours. Don't forget sunscreen, even on cloudy days, as the sun can still be strong.

Wildlife You May See

• Bald Eagles: Common. Spot them perched in trees or soaring overhead, especially near salmon streams. Likelihood: Very High.
• Salmon: Visible in streams and rivers during the salmon run (July-September). Likelihood: High.
• Black Bears: Can be seen in the surrounding forests and along salmon streams. Likelihood: Moderate. Best seen on a bear viewing excursion.
• Seals and Sea Lions: Often seen in the harbor and along the coastline. Likelihood: Moderate.
• Whales: Occasionally seen on whale watching tours. Humpback whales are the most common species. Likelihood: Low to Moderate (depending on the tour).
• Dall's Porpoise: These small, fast-moving porpoises are sometimes seen from boats. Likelihood: Low.

Wildlife Safety: Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. Never feed animals. Store food properly to avoid attracting bears. Follow the instructions of your tour guides.

Best Wildlife Excursion: The Bear Viewing at Neets Bay excursion offers the best chance of seeing bears in their natural habitat.

History & Culture

Ketchikan is located on the traditional lands of the Tlingit people, who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. The Tlingit thrived on the abundant natural resources, developing a rich culture expressed through totem poles, art, and oral traditions. The Haida people also have a strong presence in the region.

European contact began in the late 18th century, and the area became a center for fishing and logging. Ketchikan was officially founded in 1887 and quickly grew as a supply center for miners during the Klondike Gold Rush. The town's name comes from the Tlingit word "Kitschk-hin," meaning "Thundering Wings of an Eagle."

Creek Street, once a bustling red-light district, reflects Ketchikan's colorful past. Today, the Totem Heritage Center preserves and showcases the art and history of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people. The Saxman Native Village is another important cultural site where visitors can see totem poles and learn about Native traditions.

Visitors should see the Totem Heritage Center and Saxman Native Village to learn about the area's rich indigenous history and culture. A walk through Creek Street offers a glimpse into Ketchikan's more recent, and somewhat notorious, past.

Practical Information

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at the Ketchikan Public Library (629 Dock Street) and at many coffee shops and cafes in the downtown area, such as Starbucks and local coffee houses.
• Cell Service: Verizon and AT&T generally have good coverage in Ketchikan. T-Mobile coverage can be less reliable.
• ATMs: ATMs are located at various banks and businesses throughout downtown, including Wells Fargo and First Bank.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms are available at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau (Berth 2) and at various locations downtown, including City Park.
• Tipping: Standard tipping rates apply in Ketchikan. Tip $5-10 per person for half-day tours and 15-20% at restaurants.
• Emergency: In case of emergency, call 911. The local Coast Guard station can be reached at (907) 225-4496.
• Drinking Water: Tap water in Ketchikan is generally safe to drink. You can refill water bottles at various locations, including the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau.

Accessibility

The downtown docks (Berths 1-4) are generally wheelchair accessible. There are accessible paths from the docks to downtown Ketchikan. The terrain is mostly flat.

Some excursions accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices. Check with the tour operator in advance to confirm accessibility. The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is generally accessible.

Ward Cove dock is also accessible, and the shuttle to town is wheelchair accessible. Ensure to confirm this with the tour operator.

Tender Port Warnings: Ketchikan is not a tender port.

Gangway Notes: The incline of the gangway can vary depending on the tide. Those with mobility issues may require assistance.

Sample Itineraries

Half-Day Itinerary (6 Hours in Port)

• Hour 1: Arrive in Ketchikan and walk to Creek Street. Explore the historic boardwalk and browse the shops.
• Hour 2-3: Visit the Totem Heritage Center to learn about Native Alaskan culture and see original totem poles.
• Hour 3-4: Enjoy lunch at The Alaska Fish House for a taste of local seafood.
• Hour 4-5: Stroll along the waterfront and visit Thomas Basin Harbor to see the fishing boats and floatplanes.
• Hour 5-6: Return to the ship, allowing time for souvenir shopping along Front Street.

Full-Day Itinerary (10+ Hours)

• Hour 1: Arrive in Ketchikan and take a taxi or shuttle to Saxman Native Village.
• Hour 2-4: Explore Saxman Native Village, see the totem poles, and learn about Tlingit culture.
• Hour 4-5: Have lunch at a local restaurant in downtown Ketchikan, such as Annabelle's Famous Keg and Chowder House.
• Hour 5-7: Take a wildlife viewing tour or a rainforest walk.
• Hour 7-9: Visit the Deer Mountain Hatchery & Eagle Center.
• Hour 9-10: Explore Creek Street and shop for souvenirs.
• Hour 10+: Return to the ship, allowing ample time for any last-minute shopping or exploring.

Budget-Friendly Itinerary

• Hour 1: Walk to Creek Street and explore the historic boardwalk.
• Hour 2-3: Visit the Ketchikan Public Library to relax and access free Wi-Fi.
• Hour 3-4: Take a self-guided walking tour of downtown Ketchikan, using a free map from the Visitors Bureau.
• Hour 4-5: Stroll along the waterfront and visit Thomas Basin Harbor.
• Hour 5-6: Hike a portion of the Rainbird Trail.

Insider Tips

• Beat the Crowds: Go ashore early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds from other cruise ships.
• Hidden Gem: Visit the St. John's Episcopal Church, a historic church with beautiful stained glass windows. It's a short walk uphill from downtown.
• Money-Saving Hack: Pack your own snacks and drinks to avoid paying high prices for tourist food.
• Photo Spot: Get a panoramic view of Ketchikan from the top of the stairs leading up to the Cape Fox Lodge tram.
• Local Custom: Don't be surprised if locals strike up a conversation with you. Ketchikan is a friendly town.
• Rain Gear is Essential: Even if the forecast looks clear, pack a waterproof jacket and pants. The weather can change quickly.
• Salmon Run Timing: If you're visiting during the salmon run (July-September), check the local fishing reports to see where the salmon are running. This will increase your chances of seeing wildlife.
• Free Shuttle Alternative: If docking at Ward Cove, consider using a local bus to reach downtown. It's cheaper than a taxi, but it may take longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ketchikan walkable from the cruise ship?

Yes, Ketchikan is very walkable from the downtown cruise ship docks (Berths 1-4). These docks are located right in the heart of the city, and most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a 5-10 minute walk. If your ship docks at Ward Cove (7 miles north), a free shuttle service is available to downtown.

Where do cruise ships dock in Ketchikan?

Cruise ships primarily dock at Berths 1, 2, 3, and 4, located in downtown Ketchikan. These berths are all within easy walking distance of the city center. Some ships may also dock at Ward Cove, which is about 7 miles north of downtown. A free shuttle is provided from Ward Cove to downtown.

How much time do you need in Ketchikan?

To get a good feel for Ketchikan, plan to spend at least 6-8 hours in port. This allows you time to explore Creek Street, visit a cultural site like the Totem Heritage Center or Saxman Native Village, enjoy a seafood meal, and do some souvenir shopping. A longer stay of 10+ hours allows for a more in-depth excursion, such as a flightseeing tour or bear viewing.

What is there to do for free in Ketchikan?

Ketchikan offers several free activities. You can stroll along Creek Street, take a self-guided walking tour of downtown, visit Thomas Basin Harbor, hike a portion of the Rainbird Trail, or relax at the Ketchikan Public Library. Simply walking around and enjoying the scenery is a great way to experience the city.

What is the best excursion in Ketchikan?

The "best" excursion depends on your interests, but the Misty Fjords National Monument Flightseeing Tour is consistently rated highly. It offers breathtaking views of the fjords, waterfalls, and alpine lakes. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Bear Viewing at Neets Bay excursion is a fantastic option.

What is the weather like in Ketchikan in summer?

Ketchikan's weather in summer (June-August) is typically cool and wet. Expect average high temperatures in the low to mid-60s (°F) and frequent rain. Even on sunny days, it's a good idea to be prepared for showers. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket.

Is there Uber or Lyft in Ketchikan?

No, there is no Uber or Lyft service in Ketchikan. The primary transportation options are taxis, rental cars, and the free shuttle service from Ward Cove. Walking is also a great way to get around downtown.

Do I need a passport for Ketchikan?

For US citizens, a passport is generally not required for cruises to Alaska that begin and end in the United States, as these are considered domestic travel. However, it is always recommended to carry a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license. Non-US citizens should check their visa requirements.

What should I wear in Ketchikan?

Dress in layers. A waterproof jacket and pants are essential, along with waterproof shoes or boots. Bring a hat and gloves, especially for boat tours. Even in summer, the weather can be cool and damp. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

Is Ketchikan good for families with kids?

Yes, Ketchikan is a great destination for families with kids. The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is a popular attraction for all ages. Kids will also enjoy exploring Creek Street, visiting the Deer Mountain Hatchery & Eagle Center, and taking a wildlife viewing tour. Many excursions are family-friendly.

Read More About Ketchikan

• Best Ketchikan Shore Excursions
• Ketchikan Walking Tour: Creek Street Guide
• What to Wear in Ketchikan
• Alaska Cruise Packing List 2026
• Best Alaska Cruise Ports 2026

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Gear Up for Ketchikan

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