Ketchikan, Alaska
Ketchikan, Alaska, is a city of stunning natural beauty and a rich Native culture. As the "Salmon Capital of the World" and Alaska's "First City" on the Inside Passage, it offers a perfect blend of rugged wilderness and a charming, historic downtown. The city is famous for its lush rainforests, teeming with wildlife, and the largest collection of standing totem poles in the world, which tell the stories of its indigenous people. For a cruiser, Ketchikan is an ideal destination for those who want to experience the best of Alaska's culture, history, and natural wonders.
⛵ Port Introduction
Ketchikan has five main cruise terminals. Berths 1-4 are conveniently located right in downtown, making it easy to step off the ship and start exploring. The fifth terminal, Ward Cove, is a bit further out and primarily serves Norwegian Cruise Line ships. If you are docked at Ward Cove, a complimentary shuttle service will take you downtown. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes and can have a short wait.
⚓ Terminal Information
The downtown docks are an open-air setup with a lively atmosphere. While there is no large, permanent terminal building at the main docks, you'll find a variety of small shops, kiosks, and vendors right on the waterfront. The Ward Cove terminal has a more formal setup with a terminal building.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
At the downtown docks, you'll find a variety of small shops selling souvenirs and local crafts, as well as cafes and a tourist information point. The docks also have restrooms and other basic facilities. The Ward Cove terminal is a modern facility with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. You'll find a welcome center and restrooms as well. Free Wi-Fi is available in some cafes and restaurants in town, but it may be slow on a busy day.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. While you'll encounter a distinct Alaskan dialect, you will have no problem navigating, communicating, or exploring the area.
💰 Money
The currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and contactless payments are very common. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases from street vendors or for the public bus. ATMs are easy to find in the city, with a Wells Fargo within walking distance of the downtown docks.
🚗 Transportation
Ketchikan's downtown is very walkable, and its main attractions are clustered in the city center.
· Walking: The best way to explore downtown is on foot. The historic Creek Street, shops, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance of the main cruise docks.
· Shuttle Bus: If your ship docks at Ward Cove, a free shuttle bus will take you to the downtown area. A free downtown shuttle also runs regularly between the docks and key downtown locations.
· Public Bus: Ketchikan has a public bus system, Capital Transit, which is a very affordable way to get around the city. The bus can take you to attractions like Totem Bight State Park and Saxman Native Village.
· Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal, but they are limited and can be expensive.
· Ride-Sharing: Uber is not available in Ketchikan.
♿ Accessibility
Ketchikan has an accessibility rating of 4 out of 10. The downtown area is generally compact and the main streets are level. Many of the streets have sidewalks with curb cuts that make it easier to navigate. The public bus system is also wheelchair accessible. However, the historic Creek Street boardwalk can be a bit challenging to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
If you are docked at the downtown piers, the best way to get to town is to simply walk. You are already in the heart of the city. If you are at the Ward Cove terminal, the best way to get to town is to take the free shuttle bus provided by the port.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Ketchikan, especially at major tourist attractions, shopping centers, and museums. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
· Walmart Pharmacy: 4230 Don King Rd, Ketchikan, AK 99901. This is a short taxi or bus ride from the cruise port.
· Safeway Pharmacy: 2417 Tongass Ave, Ketchikan, AK 99901. This is also a short taxi or bus ride from the cruise port.
✨ Authentic Experience
1. Walk the Creek Street Boardwalk and Visit Dolly's House: For a taste of the city's unique history, walk the Creek Street boardwalk, a historic district of colorful buildings on stilts over the water. Once a notorious red-light district, it is now a charming area of shops and galleries. You can also visit Dolly's House, a historic museum that tells the story of the area's past.
2. Dine on Local Alaskan Seafood: Ketchikan is the "Salmon Capital of the World," so it is a must to try some local seafood. Seek out a local spot like the Alaska Fish House for delicious halibut fish and chips or the Ketchikan Crab & Go for fresh crab legs.
3. Visit Saxman Native Village and Totem Bight State Park: For a deep dive into the region's rich Native culture, take a bus or a pre-arranged tour to Saxman Native Village or Totem Bight State Park. These parks have some of the most impressive collections of totem poles in the world, which tell the stories of the Tlingit and Haida peoples.
