Sitka, Alaska Port Guide
What You Need to Know about the Sitka Cruise Port: Shuttle, Excursions & Weather
The Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal in Sitka, Alaska is a modern port that greets cruisers from many of the major cruise lines. The Sitka dock is a premier port of call on Alaskan itineraries, accommodating two cruise ships, and it features a beautiful wood building, opened in 2011, that fits perfectly into the glacial carved mountains of the area. While you may not realize it while exploring the touristic areas, Sitka is the largest US city by size, at a whopping 2,870 square miles.
This port is unique in that it can only be accessed by air or sea. It offers unique local shops and restaurants and a free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes to downtown Sitka, which is about six miles from the port and a 10-15-minute ride. Cruisers who purchase excursions will meet with their tour operator and group at the port entrance.
Free Things to Do in Sitka, Alaska
There are many great free activities in Sitka, from staying at port to enjoying the local shops and restaurants at the terminal, to taking the free shuttle downtown to explore there. The town of Sitka is unique and charming, and just walking around is a fun experience.
There are several historic sites in Sitka, many of which are free, such as the Sitka National Historical Park, where cruisers can see 20 different totem poles throughout the park and learn about the Tlingit (pronounced “Kling-it”) culture.
Related: Watch all my Sitka video content
Sitka Port Taxis
Sitka is a rare cruise port where Uber is not an option, but it’s not generally necessary given the accessibility of the free shuttle service. Cruisers who want private transportation or to venture off the beaten path can hire a taxi service, where fares are set.
Best Excursions in Sitka, Alaska
Alaska cruise excursions are generally more expensive than other itineraries. While this is a great port to explore on foot and shuttle, here are some of the best things to do in Sitka. Before booking on your own, though, be sure to check out my post on the pros and cons of independent versus cruise line-provided excursions.
- Sitka Small-Group Scenic Tour
- Whale Watching Tour
- Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Sitka
- Electric Bike Rental
- Sitka Sound Kayak Adventure
- Snorkel Tour at Magic Island I personally did this excursion, and it was a unique experience. However, it’s better for more active individuals, and while it’s called “dry snorkeling,” you will get wet.
Weather in Sitka
Sitka has an oceanic climate, meaning a temperate climate with moderate but generally cool temperatures and ample precipitation (think gray and drizzly). As with most Alaskan ports, dressing in layers is advised. During peak Alaskan cruise season (May-September), the daily mean temperature generally ranges from 48-57 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sitka Cruise Port Ship Schedule
CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) Alaska provides a regularly updated Sitka cruise schedule.
Sitka, Alaska Time Zone
Keeping track of time zones can get complicated when cruising, especially for Alaskan cruise itineraries where multiple time zone changes can occur on one sailing. Your captain will make announcements during the cruise to update you on these changes, but it’s good to be aware of these differences ahead of time when making plans for your stop at port, especially for excursions.
Sitka’s time zone is Alaska Daylight Time (ADT), which is one hour behind Pacific Time.
