Welcome to the magnificent world of Ketchikan, Alaska—often called “Alaska’s First City,” “The Salmon Capital of the World,” and “The Rain Capital of Alaska.” If you’re planning an Alaskan cruise, Ketchikan is likely to be one of your stops, whether it’s your first taste of the Last Frontier or your final farewell.
This Ketchikan Port Guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from where the cruise ships dock to the best local attractions, hidden gems, and practical tips that will help you explore this charming town like a pro.
As someone who has spent a lot of time in Ketchikan, I’m excited to share insider knowledge that goes beyond the usual tourist spots. Let’s dive into the heart of this vibrant coastal city and uncover what makes it such a special destination on your Alaska cruise itinerary.
Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Ketchikan?
Ketchikan’s cruise ship docking setup is pretty straightforward but offers a few options depending on your cruise line. Downtown Ketchikan has space for four cruise ships to dock, giving you easy access to the town’s core attractions.
- Berth 1: This spot is located downtown.
- Berth 2: Also downtown and right across from the Ketchikan Visitor Center, a perfect first stop when you disembark.
- Berths 3 and 4: These are tucked behind Berth 2 and still within easy reach of downtown.
- Ward Cove: About 8 miles from downtown, this area can accommodate one or two ships. Norwegian Cruise Line often docks here and provides shuttle buses to town.
Additionally, some ships anchor in the bay near Berths 1 and 2 and use tenders to ferry guests ashore. Knowing where you’ll dock ahead of time helps you plan your day better.
Discover Ketchikan’s Iconic Totem Poles
One of the highlights of visiting Ketchikan is its rich Native Alaskan heritage, beautifully represented through totem poles scattered around town and nearby parks. Totem poles are more than just striking art—they tell stories, honor ancestors, and preserve cultural traditions.
Here are some prime spots to see totem poles:
- Whale Park: Located in downtown Ketchikan, this small traffic island features a totem pole that you might recognize—it’s the one featured on the pages of the U.S. passport. It’s a great quick stop for a photo and a glimpse into Alaska’s native art.
- Saxman Native Village: Just 2 miles down the coast, Saxman offers an authentic totem park and cultural experience. It’s a short trip from downtown and well worth the visit.
- Totem Bight State Park: About 10 miles in the opposite direction, this park has an impressive collection of restored totem poles along with a beautiful walking trail.
Getting Around: Ketchikan’s Public Bus System
Ketchikan’s public bus system is surprisingly robust for a small town and makes exploring these totem parks and other attractions convenient—even if you don’t have a rental car.
- Free Downtown Shuttle: This shuttle loops around downtown, hitting spots like the Tongass Historical Museum, the Totem Heritage Center, and other main attractions. It’s a perfect way to get around if you want to avoid walking.
- Regular Bus Routes: For just a few dollars, you can catch buses that go out to Saxman Native Village or Totem Bight State Park. Buses stop near the Visitor Center, so it’s easy to hop on and off.
Using the bus system is a great option, especially if you want to maximize your time and see more without worrying about parking or taxis. Just keep in mind that coordinating bus schedules can take some planning if your time in port is limited.
Explore the History: Tongass Historical Museum
If you’re curious about how Ketchikan evolved from a humble fishing village into the vibrant city it is today, the Tongass Historical Museum is a must-visit. Located right downtown on the banks of Ketchikan Creek, this museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s past.
The museum covers:
- The early days of the Tlingit people and when Ketchikan was a fishing camp.
- The rise of the timber industry, which played a pivotal role in Ketchikan’s growth.
- The development of tourism and how it shaped the town’s modern identity.
Its prime location means you can easily combine a visit here with a stroll along Creek Street, right next door.
Strolling Through History: Creek Street
One of Ketchikan’s most famous landmarks is Creek Street, a charming boardwalk built on stilts above Ketchikan Creek. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Visitor Center and offers a colorful, picturesque experience that’s earned the nickname “the most photographed street in Alaska.”
Here’s what makes Creek Street special:
- Historical Significance: Once the city’s red-light district during Prohibition, Creek Street was outside city limits, so laws didn’t apply there. Today, it’s a lively area full of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
- Wildlife Viewing: Depending on the season, you can see salmon swimming upstream in the creek, seals hunting for a snack, and even bears wandering nearby looking for salmon.
- Scenic Walks: At one end of Creek Street, you’ll find access to Married Man’s Trail that leads through the forest to Park Avenue and a small waterfall.
The waterfall at Park Avenue is especially magical during the salmon run, which peaks from late summer into early fall. You might see salmon jumping as they make their way upstream to spawn, with some opting to use a nearby fish ladder. It’s a natural spectacle you won’t want to miss.
Totem Heritage Center: Preserving Native Art and Culture
For a deeper dive into Alaska Native culture and totem pole art, the Totem Heritage Center is an incredible stop. Situated across a pedestrian bridge from the Deer Mountain Fish Hatchery, this museum showcases historic totem poles rescued from abandoned native villages throughout Southeast Alaska.
Here’s why the Totem Heritage Center is special:
- It houses some of the few surviving historic totem poles after many were lost due to vandalism, theft, or decay in the region’s temperate rainforest.
- The center is actively involved in preserving and promoting the art of totem pole carving, keeping this important tradition alive.
- Managed by the same organization as the Tongass Historical Museum, you can purchase a combo pass to visit both at a discounted rate, making it a great value.
The free downtown shuttle also stops here, making it an easy and convenient visit.
Experience the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
Ketchikan’s rich timber industry comes alive at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. Located just a couple blocks from the Visitor Center, this lively show features competitive lumberjack events that are both thrilling and entertaining.
Highlights include:
- Log rolling competitions in the water.
- Climbing tall poles with speed and agility.
- A dozen different lumberjack events showcasing skill and strength.
It’s a family-friendly experience that combines history, sport, and a bit of good-natured fun. While it has a bit of a cheesy charm, it’s a fantastic way to connect with the local culture and history of Southeast Alaska’s timber industry.
Discover the Tongass National Forest at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
Much of Southeast Alaska, including Ketchikan, sits within the Tongass National Forest—the largest national forest in the United States and the world’s largest temperate rainforest. The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center is a fantastic place to learn about this incredible ecosystem.
Key features of the Discovery Center include:
- Interactive exhibits that are perfect for families and kids.
- Information about the wildlife, plants, and history of the Tongass National Forest.
- A gift shop where you can browse local crafts and souvenirs.
Admission is just $5, but if you have a public lands pass (also known as the America the Beautiful or National Park Pass), you get in for free. It’s a great rainy day option, especially since Ketchikan is known as the rain capital of Alaska.
Why Is Ketchikan Often the Shortest Stop on Alaska Cruises?
If you’ve noticed that your time in Ketchikan feels shorter compared to other ports, there’s a reason for that. It mostly comes down to maritime law and geography.
Most cruise ships sailing from the U.S. aren’t registered in the U.S., so they can’t just visit U.S. ports and return directly without making a foreign port stop. To comply, itineraries usually include a brief stop in Canada—either Prince Rupert or Victoria on Vancouver Island.
This means that many Alaska cruises offer only a morning in Ketchikan before moving on to the Canadian port.
If you want more time in Ketchikan, consider cruises that depart from Vancouver, Canada. These cruises often give you a full day in Ketchikan since they don’t need to stop in another country for legal reasons.
Final Thoughts: Keep Coming Back to Ketchikan
Ketchikan is a city that invites exploration, whether you have a few hours or a full day. From its colorful Creek Street and fascinating museums to the rich Native heritage and stunning natural beauty, there’s always something new to discover.
Whether you’re watching salmon leap upstream, cheering on lumberjacks, or admiring ancient totem poles, Ketchikan offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature that captures the spirit of Alaska.
For those looking to dive even deeper, my book Sea More: Alaska is packed with tips, insights, and detailed guides to help you make the most of your Alaskan cruise experience.
So next time your cruise ship docks at Ketchikan, step off with confidence—you’re ready to explore one of Alaska’s most captivating ports.
