Alaska Cruises

A new cruise port outside Ketchikan provides even more opportunities for travelers to explore Alaska. It may even be the formula for a bit of a cruise dilemma: skip going into Ketchikan at all and spend even more time in the Tongass National Forest, which it borders—Tongass is the largest National Forest in the United States and home to a majestic array of glaciers, salmon streams, fjords and islands. History of Ward Cove Ward Cove is at the site of the historic Ketchikan Pulp Mill, the longest operating pulp mill in Alaska, located seven miles north of downtown Ketchikan. Completed in 1954 and operated until 1997, the mill was the economic heartbeat of Southeast Alaska. In 2019, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Ltd., partnered with the Binkley and Spokely families to develop a plan to responsibly repurpose the mill site. The result? A two-berth, floating cruise ship dock, which has been recognized for its state-of-the-art design emphasizing environmental sensitivity. Alaska tourism buffs may recognize the Binkley name from Fairbanks, as this family founded the highly successful Riverboat Discovery steamboat tours, and John Binkley was the founder of the Alaska Cruise Association—adding credibility and an innate knowledge of Alaska tourism to the Ward Cove project. Norwegian Encore silently cruised into Ward Cove on August 4, 2021, as the first cruise ship to dock at Ward Cove. Now Ward Cove is growing into a must-visit destination—although as its promoters state, “Welcome to the real Alaska. You can still go downtown.” Norwegian Encore in Alaska Getting Into Ketchikan As of 2022, complimentary shuttle service at Ward Cove starts as soon as the ship arrives and provides service between Ward Cove and Berth 4 in downtown Ketchikan (downtown has four cruise ship berths). The shuttle service departs from the far end of the Welcome Center in Ward Cove. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes each direction. Buses run continuously throughout the day. We recommend that if you wish to visit downtown Ketchikan, go ashore early to catch the shuttle so that you can maximize your time in port. Annie Scrivanich, Senior Vice President of Cruise Specialists, is personally familiar with the Ward Cove area and attests, “the Ward Cove setting is truly Alaskan and it’s a beautiful drive into town.” Upon arrival at Berth 4 in Ketchikan, it is about a 15-minute walk to the center of downtown Ketchikan. For guests with limited mobility, there is also a complimentary bus that departs from Berth 4 every 20 minutes and provides access to other destinations throughout downtown Ketchikan. Ketchikan, Alaska There is an abundance of activities in Ketchikan, including visiting the Totem Heritage Center; strolling the network of raised wooden walkways and watching feisty salmon from above; and shopping for goods by local carvers, weavers, jewelry designers and more. Ketchikan, Alaska Tour Options from Ward Cove Ward Cove itself opens up new opportunities for exploration and fun. The Welcome Center features a theater where you can learn more about the lives of true Alaskans or shop for goodies from jackets and hats to locally made chocolate. Historic train cars once used in conjunction with the mill now serve as part of the unique detail of the Welcome Center, with one serving as a stop for a quick bite to eat. If you have a tour focused on Tongass National Forest, you’re in luck: you’ll now have quicker access to this area—perhaps allowing for a bit of retail therapy in Ward Cove before or after your tour. Tours taking place in or near Ward Cove include a self-drive Zodiac adventure, hiking at Talbot Lake, kayaking in Connell Lake, and a “sip and paint” experience where anyone from a beginner to advanced painter can create a beautiful keepsake. Near Ketchikan, Alaska In Closing From the economic engine of the timber industry to cruise ships bringing guests to experience the Tongass National Forest, the renovated pulp mill at Ward Cove has become a metaphor for the multiple uses of this national treasure. If you have any questions about Ward Cove or a cruise to Alaska, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Cruise Specialists Cruise Consultants.   Read more about Ketchikan here. See Norwegian Cruise Line cruises to Alaska.   ... Read more

Princess Cruises is no newcomer to Alaska, but their new ship certainly is. Having just recently made her big debut Spring 2022, Discovery Princess is the cruise line’s final Royal-Class ship and the third vessel specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with Princess MedallionClass® technology. We were fortunate enough to join one of the first Alaska sailings of the season aboard Discovery Princess. With this exciting new ship returning to an iconic destination, keep reading to learn more about our firsthand experiences both onboard and ashore. Discovery Princess Back in Alaska We glide along the shoreline, waiting for the last of our group to collect their kayaks before setting out for the islets across the bay from Clover Pass, just north of Ketchikan. The clear water shimmers in the morning sun. “I think he’s posing for a photograph,” our guide Peter points to a bright orange, almost cartoon-looking starfish clinging to the rocks beneath me. This was Peter’s first tour in nearly three years. The excitement was palpable. He went on to explain how tourism is the primary source of income for a lot of locals. “I’ve got friends who run whale-watching tours, fishing charters, kayak trips—the cruise lines are what keep us all afloat out here,” he rocks his kayak a little, chuckling at his own pun. Kayaking excursion on a Princess Cruise He explained how their first tour of the season was mid-April, just a couple weeks prior (our cruise departed May 4). His colleague led a small group of kayakers into the bay when a pair of humpback whales breached right before them. I’m immediately envious. A humpback sighting this early in the season would be exceptionally rare, especially this far into the bay. I’m on high alert for the remainder of our excursion, hoping for a whale sighting of my own. We spot a bald eagle returning to her giant treetop nest and a pair of bumbling black bears lolling along the shoreline, but no whales. Ketchikan was our only port of call on this quick, 3-night itinerary. I already can’t wait to return to experience more native wildlife and stunning Alaskan landscapes. Later that day, I was relaxing on my balcony, soaking up the last moments of sun as our ship drifted toward its final destination. A mist on the horizon catches my attention. Suddenly, a giant tail rises into the air—was that an orca?! The tail quickly descends back below the surface. I stand there stunned and motionless before it hits me. We got our whale sighting after all. Soaking in the views The Onboard Experience Carrying just over 1,600 guests on this departure, Discovery Princess was well under its 3,660-guest capacity; presenting the unique opportunity for us to explore the space and mingle with staff before things really ramp up for the summer season. Our waiter beams as he leads us to our table at Bistro Sur la Mer, one of more than 25 restaurants and bars on the ship. Bistro Sur la Mer With views overlooking both the water and the ship’s open promenade—plus a menu crafted by three-Michelin-star Chef Emmanuel Renaut—it’s the perfect location to soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful new vessel. Over the course of our cruise, we’d go on to try nearly all the restaurants on the ship, from the elegant Crown GrillSM steakhouse to the charming Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and each of the three main dining rooms. One of many tables with a view on board Discovery Princess But the restaurants aren’t the only draw of this new ship. There’s a whole spectrum of attractions to experience, from the world-class Lotus spa and the tranquil spaces at the exclusive, adults-only retreat at The Sanctuary to the spirited Princess Live! Café, Broadway-caliber entertainment at Princess Theater and late-night dancing at the Vista Show Lounge. There’s also a fully equipped medical center offering 24/7 care from a full staff of doctors, nurses and paramedics to keep you safe and healthy throughout your voyage. The many spaces of the ship flow seamlessly from bow to stern yet are distinct enough to feel like different neighborhoods entirely. Whether you prefer something fast-paced or quiet and relaxing, you’re sure to find a space to match your mood aboard this beautiful new ship. Cruise Specialists can help you plan your own Alaska Cruise. Contact us today to learn more. See more about Princess Cruises here.   ... Read more

When people think of places they want to visit, many think of Alaska. After all, the breathtaking expanse of untamed terrain calls to many adventurers. From wanting to snap photos of Alaska’s wildlife to learning more about the locals and their history, the Last Frontier has plenty to offer. Sitka is a quaint port town on the state’s Baranof Island. Learn more about what this beautiful port has to offer people from all walks of life before setting sail to its welcoming shore. Activities in Sitka As with any thriving port town, Sitka has a variety of fun things to do for everyone in your traveling group. From engaging multicultural centers to active adventures like ATV tours and more, you’ll find your ideal activity in Sitka. History & Culture The three largest groups that call Sitka home are people who descend from either Russian or American settlers, or who come from the original inhabitants, the Tlingit. This unique combination enables the city to recognize the traditions of many cultures. Visit the Alaska Native Brotherhood building, which was built in 1914 and is a National Historic Landmark. This building resides in the center of the Tlingit village, making it an important Alaska Native community center. Another significant building in Sitka is St. Michael’s Orthodox Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox house of worship erected in 1848 when the land was still under Russian control. After a fire consumed the church in 1966, the church was rebuilt and has treasures from the previous church on display. To take a look into the past, the Sitka Pioneer Home houses a range of information and other cultural treasures for visitors to admire. This is another icon on the National Register of Historical Places. The home’s bronze statue designed by Alonzo Victor Lewis was dedicated in 1949 and depicts William “Skagway Bill” Fonda, a gold prospector whose legacy helped create the Alaska we know today. The gift shop is full of handmade souvenirs created by the home’s residents, who are ready to tell tales of Sitka as they remember, so make sure to take time to chat with them about this historic town. Outdoor Adventure Whale breaching near Sitka, Alaska. For visitors who can’t wait to get their adrenaline pumping, Sitka has plenty of opportunity for adventurous activities. This island town is filled with spectacular sights, which isn’t surprising given this beautiful port is graced with mountainous background and forest surroundings. What better way to get out and see them than by taking an ATV or bike tour? Boat and kayak rentals are also available for those who prefer water-based sightseeing. There are also a variety of whale-watching activities available. Alaskan Rainforest The state of Alaska is a true enigma. Its almost 700 million square miles of land encompasses everything from glaciers to volcanoes to rainforest. When you’re in Sitka, be sure to leave time to visit the Tongass National Forest. Visiting this rainforest is one of the best things to do in Sitka, as it comes with plenty of incomparable activities and sights. This Inside Passage attraction is the largest national forest in the United States and serves as the habitat for many animals, including graceful black-tailed deer and bright-eyed bald eagles. Additionally, as the forest is home to all five species of Pacific salmon it should come as no surprise that many brown bears call the forest home. When you’re out sightseeing in this national treasure, keep an eye out for other flora and fauna, too. Delicious Cuisine Like many Alaskan hubs, Sitka is full of tasty options for visitors to enjoy. Being right on the coast means it has plenty of Pacific Northwest cuisine, which includes a variety of seafood and other favorites inspired by regional ingredients. There are plenty of creative spins on these choices, as well. Ashmo’s food truck has staples such as salmon mac and cheese and beer battered halibut, whereas Captain JuJu’s focuses on gourmet seafood tacos and nachos. Head to Sweet Sisters Caramels to satisfy your sweet tooth—their caramels are all small-batch, hand-stirred creations guaranteed to melt in your mouth. Needless to say, there are many ways to indulge in Sitka’s delightful local cuisine. Ready to Visit? The town of Sitka, Alaska, appeals to a variety of travelers and adventure-seekers and it’s never too early to begin planning for one. Browse Alaska cruises here. Contact one of our Cruise Consultants today. They are all experts in Alaska!       ... Read more