Wrangell Alaska Cruise Port Guide 2026

Quick Reference

Port Type	Dock
Walk to Town	2-5 minutes (0.1-0.3 miles) from main dock
Typical Hours in Port	7:00 AM - 5:00 PM (times vary by itinerary)
Population	Approximately 2,500
Best Month to Visit	July (warmest temperatures, long daylight hours, peak wildlife viewing)
Wi-Fi	Wrangell Public Library, coffee shops, and some restaurants offer free Wi-Fi
Currency	US Dollar (USD)
Uber/Lyft Available?	No - not available in Alaska cruise ports
Passport Required?	No - Wrangell is in Alaska, a US state, for US citizens. Non-US citizens should check visa requirements.
Cell Service	Verizon and AT&T generally have good coverage. T-Mobile coverage can be spotty.

Why Visit Wrangell

Wrangell, Alaska, often called "Alaska's Petroglyph City," offers a unique and authentic Alaskan experience, far removed from the bustle of larger cruise ports. It's a place where you can still feel the spirit of the frontier, interact with locals, and explore stunning natural beauty without the overwhelming crowds. Expect a laid-back atmosphere, friendly faces, and opportunities for genuine cultural immersion.

Unlike some ports that feel heavily touristed, Wrangell retains its small-town charm and working-port character. You'll find fishermen mending nets, local artists displaying their work, and a deep connection to the Tlingit culture. This is a place to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the real Alaska.

Did you know that Wrangell is the only city in Alaska to have been governed under four different flags: Tlingit, Russian, British, and American? Also, Wrangell boasts the largest concentration of petroglyphs in Southeast Alaska, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the area's indigenous people.

Where Ships Dock & Getting to Town

Cruise ships in Wrangell typically dock at the main cruise ship dock located near downtown. This is a single, long dock.

The walk from the dock to downtown Wrangell is very short, generally taking only 2-5 minutes (0.1-0.3 miles). It's an easy, flat walk, making it accessible for most people.

There is no free shuttle service available in Wrangell.

Taxis are available, but limited. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a ride within town limits. Arrange for a taxi in advance or upon arrival at the dock, as they are not always readily available for hailing.

There is no Uber or Lyft service in Wrangell.

Rental cars are available from Wrangell Car Rentals (check availability and book well in advance, especially during peak season). Having a car allows you to explore areas outside of downtown at your own pace, such as the Stikine River.

Holland America and Princess Cruises ships frequently use the Wrangell dock, but schedules and berthing assignments can change.

Top Free & Budget Things to Do

• Petroglyph Beach State Historic Park: (Free; 5-minute walk from dock) Explore ancient rock carvings left by the Tlingit people. Allow 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the site.
• Wrangell Museum: ($5 admission; 2-minute walk from dock) Learn about Wrangell's rich history, including its Tlingit, Russian, and American influences. Plan to spend 1-2 hours.
• Chief Shakes Island Tribal House: ($5 admission; 5-minute walk from dock) Visit a reconstructed Tlingit tribal house and learn about Tlingit culture. Guided tours available for a small additional fee. Allow 1-2 hours.
• City Park & Harbor: (Free; 2-minute walk from dock) Stroll along the harbor, watch the fishing boats, and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains. A great spot for photos. Allow 30-60 minutes.
• Rainbow Falls Trail: (Free; 15-minute walk from dock) A short, easy hike to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and accessible for most fitness levels. Allow 1-2 hours.
• Stroll Downtown Wrangell: (Free; Starts at the dock) Explore the shops, art galleries, and local businesses in Wrangell's charming downtown area. Pick up an Alaska cruise t-shirt or funny Alaska cruise shirt as a souvenir. Allow 1-2 hours.
• Attend a Local Event: (Price varies; Check local listings) Check the Wrangell Sentinel newspaper or bulletin boards around town for local events, such as potlucks, craft fairs, or community gatherings.
• Volunteer Park: (Free; 10-minute walk from the dock). A tranquil park with walking paths and benches overlooking the harbor. Great for a quiet moment of reflection. Allow 30-60 minutes.

Best Shore Excursions

Booking excursions well in advance is crucial, especially for peak season (July). Aim to book 6-12 months ahead to secure your spot. Consider booking directly with local operators for potential savings of $50-$150 per person compared to cruise line prices, but weigh the convenience and guarantee of returning to the ship on time that comes with cruise line excursions. If it rains, many boat tours will still operate, but dress accordingly. Land-based tours are generally unaffected by rain.

Budget Excursions (Under $100/person)

• City & Petroglyph Tour: ($50-$75; 2-3 hours) A guided tour of Wrangell's highlights, including Petroglyph Beach and the Wrangell Museum. *Insider Tip:* Ask the guide about local folklore and legends.
• Anan Creek Bear Observatory Shuttle (Transport Only): ($75-$99; Variable duration depending on stay at Anan) Round-trip transportation to the Anan Creek trailhead. You are responsible for purchasing a permit and hiking on your own. *Insider Tip:* Permits sell out months in advance, so book immediately.

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

• Anan Creek Bear & Wildlife Observatory Tour: ($200-$300; 4-6 hours) A guided tour to Anan Creek to view bears feeding on salmon. Includes transportation, permits, and a knowledgeable guide. *Insider Tip:* Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for the best viewing.
• Zodiac Boat Tour of the Stikine River: ($150-$250; 2-3 hours) Explore the Stikine River Delta in a small, inflatable boat, searching for wildlife like seals, eagles, and bears. *Insider Tip:* Dress warmly, as it can be chilly on the water.
• Tlingit Cultural Immersion Tour: ($125-$200; 3-4 hours) Learn about Tlingit culture through storytelling, demonstrations, and visits to cultural sites. *Insider Tip:* Participate in the Q&A sessions to gain a deeper understanding of Tlingit traditions.
• Fishing Charter (Half-Day): ($200-$300; 4 hours) Head out on a fishing charter to try your luck at catching salmon, halibut, or other Alaskan fish. *Insider Tip:* Ask the captain for tips on the best fishing spots and techniques.

Splurge Excursions ($300+/person)

• Helicopter Tour & Glacier Landing: ($400-$600; 1-2 hours) Soar over the Tongass National Forest and land on a glacier for breathtaking views and photo opportunities. *Insider Tip:* Wear sunglasses, as the glare from the ice can be intense.
• Stikine River Jet Boat Tour: ($350-$500; 4-6 hours) A high-speed jet boat tour up the Stikine River, exploring the wilderness and searching for wildlife. *Insider Tip:* This tour is fast-paced and exciting, but may not be suitable for those with back problems.
• Photography Workshop & Wildlife Viewing: ($300-$400; 4-5 hours) A professional photographer will guide you on a tour to capture stunning images of Wrangell's wildlife and scenery. *Insider Tip:* Bring extra batteries and memory cards for your camera.
• Floatplane Tour to LeConte Glacier: ($450-$650; 2-3 hours) A scenic floatplane flight to LeConte Glacier, one of the southernmost tidewater glaciers in North America. Includes aerial views of icebergs and wildlife. *Insider Tip:* Request a window seat when booking for the best views.

Where to Eat & Drink

• Stikine Inn Restaurant: ($, 2-minute walk) Order the Halibut Fish and Chips. This casual spot offers classic Alaskan fare at reasonable prices. Expect a wait during peak lunch hours.
• The Hungry Beaver Pizza: ($$, 5-minute walk) Try the "Lumberjack" pizza with reindeer sausage. A local favorite for pizza, sandwiches, and salads.
• Garnet Ledge: ($$, 3-minute walk) Try the salmon burger. A casual spot with a good selection of burgers and sandwiches.
• Diamond C Cafe: ($, 2-minute walk) Order the reindeer chili. A local diner serving breakfast and lunch. Good for a quick and affordable meal.
• Rayme's Bar: ($$, 3-minute walk) Enjoy a local Alaskan Amber beer. A casual bar serving drinks and pub fare.
• Wrangell Elks Lodge: ($, 5-minute walk) Check to see if they are having a Friday night fish fry. A local lodge that welcomes visitors for some meals.

Wrangell doesn't have a distinctive "local food specialty" beyond the fresh seafood available everywhere in Southeast Alaska. Look for halibut, salmon, and crab dishes.

Shopping Guide

The main shopping area in Wrangell is located along Front Street and the surrounding blocks. You'll find a mix of gift shops, art galleries, and local businesses.

• Alaska Made Gifts: Look for items made by local artists and craftspeople. Common souvenirs include jewelry, carvings, and artwork. Be sure to check for the "Made in Alaska" emblem.
• Tlingit Art: Purchase authentic Tlingit art from local artists. This may include carvings, weavings, and prints.
• Alaskan Amber: A popular local beer. Pick up a six-pack to enjoy back on the ship or at home.
• Alaska Cruise Shirts: Many travelers pick up Alaska cruise t-shirts or funny Alaska cruise shirts as affordable souvenirs or group cruise wear.
• Photography Prints: Purchase prints of Wrangell's stunning scenery from local photographers.

Be wary of mass-produced souvenirs that are marketed as "local." Look for the "Made in Alaska" sticker or the Silver Hand logo to ensure you're buying genuine Alaskan products. Wrangell does not have tax-free shopping benefits.

Weather by Month

Month	Avg High (°F)	Avg Low (°F)	Rainfall (inches)	Rain Days
May	53	38	5.5	19
June	60	44	5.0	17
July	64	48	6.0	18
August	63	49	8.0	20
September	57	44	11.0	22

Wrangell's weather is typical of Southeast Alaska: mild, wet, and unpredictable. Even in the summer, temperatures can fluctuate, and rain is always a possibility. September is generally the rainiest month, while June and July tend to be the sunniest.

Pack layers to adjust to changing conditions. A waterproof jacket and pants are essential, as is a warm fleece or sweater. An Alaska cruise hoodie or Alaska cruise sweatshirt is perfect for cooler mornings on deck. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and consider bringing waterproof boots if you plan on hiking.

Wildlife You May See

• Black Bears: (Likelihood: Moderate) Often seen along the Stikine River and at Anan Creek during salmon season (July-August). Keep a safe distance and never feed them.
• Brown Bears: (Likelihood: Low) Less common than black bears, but occasionally sighted in remote areas. Follow the same safety precautions as with black bears.
• Bald Eagles: (Likelihood: High) Abundant throughout Wrangell, often seen perched on trees or soaring overhead.
• Seals: (Likelihood: High) Frequently spotted in the harbor and along the Stikine River.
• Sea Lions: (Likelihood: Moderate) Can be seen hauled out on rocks or swimming in the harbor.
• Salmon: (Likelihood: High in season) During the summer months, salmon return to spawn in Wrangell's rivers and streams.
• Humpback Whales: (Likelihood: Moderate, on excursions) Occasionally seen on boat tours in the surrounding waters.
• Sitka Black-Tailed Deer: (Likelihood: Low to Moderate) May be seen on hikes in the surrounding forest.

Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never attempt to feed them. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to get a closer look. The Anan Creek Bear Observatory is the best excursion for guaranteed bear viewing.

History & Culture

Wrangell's history is rich and diverse, shaped by its Tlingit heritage, Russian influence, and American settlement. The area has been inhabited by the Tlingit people for thousands of years, and their culture remains a vital part of Wrangell's identity. The Tlingit name for Wrangell is Ḵaach.aan, meaning "fortified place" or "fortified house people."

In the early 19th century, the Russians established a trading post at Wrangell, followed by the British. In 1867, Alaska was purchased by the United States, and Wrangell became an American town. The gold rush era brought an influx of prospectors and settlers to Wrangell, further shaping its development.

Wrangell is unique in having been governed under four different flags: Tlingit, Russian, British, and American. Today, Wrangell is a vibrant community that celebrates its history and culture through museums, cultural events, and the preservation of historical sites.

Key cultural sites to visit include Chief Shakes Island Tribal House and the Petroglyph Beach State Historic Park. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the Tlingit people.

Practical Information

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at the Wrangell Public Library and at some coffee shops and restaurants downtown.
• Cell Service: Verizon and AT&T generally have good coverage in Wrangell. T-Mobile coverage can be spotty.
• ATMs: ATMs are located at the First Bank branch and the Alaska USA Federal Credit Union branch near the cruise dock.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms are available at the Wrangell Museum, the Wrangell Visitor Center, and at City Dock.
• Tipping: Standard tipping rates apply in Wrangell. Tip $5-$10 per person for half-day tours and 15-20% at restaurants.
• Emergency: In case of emergency, dial 911. The local Coast Guard station can be reached at (907) 874-3700.
• Drinking Water: Tap water in Wrangell is generally safe to drink. You can refill water bottles at the Wrangell Visitor Center or at some restaurants.

Accessibility

The main cruise ship dock in Wrangell is generally wheelchair accessible, but check with the cruise line for specific details about gangway conditions on your ship.

There are accessible paths from the dock to downtown Wrangell, making it relatively easy for wheelchair users and those with mobility devices to explore the town.

Some excursions, such as the city tour and the Wrangell Museum, can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices. Contact the tour operator in advance to confirm accessibility.

Wrangell is not a tender port.

Gangway inclines depend on the tide and can sometimes be steep. Check with cruise staff for assistance if needed.

Sample Itineraries

Half-Day Itinerary (6 Hours in Port)

• Hour 1: Walk from the ship to the Wrangell Museum and explore the exhibits.
• Hour 2: Visit Chief Shakes Island Tribal House and learn about Tlingit culture.
• Hour 3: Stroll along Petroglyph Beach and search for ancient rock carvings.
• Hour 4: Have lunch at the Stikine Inn Restaurant.
• Hour 5: Browse the shops and art galleries in downtown Wrangell.
• Hour 6: Relax by the harbor and enjoy the views before returning to the ship.

Full-Day Itinerary (10+ Hours)

• Hour 1: Walk from the ship to the Wrangell Visitor Center and gather information about the area.
• Hour 2-6: Take a Zodiac boat tour of the Stikine River Delta, searching for wildlife.
• Hour 7: Have lunch at The Hungry Beaver Pizza.
• Hour 8: Visit the Wrangell Museum and Chief Shakes Island Tribal House.
• Hour 9: Explore Petroglyph Beach and search for ancient rock carvings.
• Hour 10: Browse the shops and art galleries in downtown Wrangell.
• Hour 11: Enjoy a drink at Rayme's Bar before returning to the ship.

Budget-Friendly Itinerary

• Hour 1: Walk from the ship to the Wrangell Visitor Center.
• Hour 2: Explore City Park and the harbor.
• Hour 3: Walk the Rainbow Falls Trail.
• Hour 4: Visit Petroglyph Beach.
• Hour 5: Stroll through downtown Wrangell, window shopping and enjoying the atmosphere.
• Hour 6: Relax by the harbor and enjoy the views before returning to the ship. Wear comfortable layers, such as a long-sleeve shirt for the morning and switching to an Alaska cruise t-shirt when it warms up.

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 Irene Ingle Public Library.
• Money-Saving Hack: Pack your own snacks and drinks to avoid expensive tourist traps.
• Photo Spot: Head to the end of City Dock for panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding mountains.
• Local Custom: Attend a local event, such as a potluck or community gathering, to experience Wrangell's friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
• Wildlife Viewing: Ask local fishermen for tips on where to spot wildlife. They often know the best places to see bears, eagles, and other animals.
• Rainy Day Activity: The Wrangell Museum is a great place to spend a rainy day learning about the history and culture of the area.
• Transportation: If you plan on exploring areas outside of downtown, consider renting a car in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wrangell walkable from the cruise ship?

Yes, Wrangell is very walkable from the cruise ship dock. The downtown area is just a 2-5 minute walk (0.1-0.3 miles) from the main dock, making it easy to explore the town's shops, restaurants, and attractions on foot. The terrain is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for most people.

Where do cruise ships dock in Wrangell?

Cruise ships in Wrangell typically dock at the main cruise ship dock located near downtown. This is a single, long dock. Check with your cruise line for specific berthing information closer to your sailing date, as schedules and assignments can change.

How much time do you need in Wrangell?

Ideally, you'll want at least 6-8 hours in Wrangell to fully experience its highlights. This allows time for a shore excursion, a visit to the Wrangell Museum and Chief Shakes Island, exploration of Petroglyph Beach, and browsing the shops and art galleries in downtown.

What is there to do for free in Wrangell?

Wrangell offers several free activities, including exploring Petroglyph Beach State Historic Park, strolling along the harbor and City Park, walking the Rainbow Falls Trail, and visiting Volunteer Park. Simply wandering through downtown and soaking in the atmosphere is also a great free experience.

What is the best excursion in Wrangell?

The best excursion in Wrangell depends on your interests. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Anan Creek Bear & Wildlife Observatory Tour is a must-do. For those interested in Tlingit culture, the Tlingit Cultural Immersion Tour is highly recommended. A Stikine River boat tour is a great option for scenic views.

What is the weather like in Wrangell in summer?

Wrangell's weather in the summer (June-August) is mild and wet, with average high temperatures in the 60s (°F) and average low temperatures in the 40s (°F). Rain is common, so it's essential to pack waterproof clothing and layers. July is typically the warmest month.

Is there Uber or Lyft in Wrangell?

No, there is no Uber or Lyft service available in Wrangell or any other cruise port in Alaska. Taxis are available, but they are limited, so it's best to arrange for a taxi in advance or upon arrival at the dock.

Do I need a passport for Wrangell?

No, US citizens do not need a passport to visit Wrangell, as it is located in Alaska, a US state. However, non-US citizens should check their visa requirements for entering the United States.

What should I wear in Wrangell?

Layers are key when packing for Wrangell. Bring a waterproof jacket and pants, warm fleece or sweater, comfortable walking shoes, and waterproof boots if you plan on hiking. An Alaska cruise jacket or Alaska cruise sweatshirt are also helpful for cooler mornings and evenings.

Is Wrangell good for families with kids?

Yes, Wrangell can be a great destination for families with kids. Activities like exploring Petroglyph Beach, visiting the Wrangell Museum, and taking a wildlife viewing tour are all family-friendly. The short walking distances in town also make it easy to navigate with children. Alaska cruise family shirts or matching group cruise shirts are a fun way to commemorate your trip.

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