🌲 Ketchikan, Alaska – Cruise Port Review
Ketchikan feels like stepping into a postcard. Colorful buildings line the waterfront, bald eagles soar overhead, and the whole town is just a few steps from your ship. It’s one of those ports where you can do a lot without ever needing a long excursion transfer.
🚢 Right Off the Ship
As soon as you step off the gangway, you’re basically in town. Shops, little cafes, and excursion stands line the dock. You’ll likely spot a few eagles perched on nearby pilings before you even leave the pier—so keep your camera handy!
🪓 The Lumberjack Show
This one’s a classic. The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is part history, part comedy, and a lot of impressive skill. You’ll see axe throwing, tree climbing, and log rolling in a fun, high-energy show. It’s a super easy walk from the ship, so no long transfers—just grab a seat and enjoy.
👕 Coolest Souvenir Ever: Fire Dept T-Shirt Vending Machine
You have to check out the Ketchikan Fire Department’s T-shirt vending machine. Yep, an actual vending machine that spits out an authentic fire department shirt. It’s quirky, easy to get to, and one of the most unique souvenirs you’ll find in Alaska.
🏠 Creek Street
Creek Street is pure Ketchikan charm. It’s a historic boardwalk built on stilts over a salmon stream, and during spawning season you can actually see the salmon swimming upstream. It used to be a red-light district, but now it’s all about galleries, shops, and local history. Watch for eagles circling above—there are tons in this area, especially if salmon are running.
✈️ Go Big: Seaplane Adventure
If you want a “wow” moment, a Misty Fjords seaplane tour is it. Taking off from the water and flying over rugged fjords, waterfalls, and untouched wilderness is absolutely unforgettable. It’s a splurge, but it’s pure Alaska.
🐟 What to Eat
Salmon, Salmon, Salmon: Smoked, grilled, or in chowder, you can’t go wrong.
Halibut Fish & Chips: Hot, fresh, and perfect for a quick bite before heading back onboard.
Local Beer: Ketchikan has a few breweries that are great if you want to sample Alaskan craft brews.
🌟 Tips for Cruisers
The Lumberjack Show sells out on cruise days—book early if it’s on your list.
The fire department vending machine takes cards and cash, so no scrambling for change.
Seaplane tours are weather-dependent, so have a backup plan (Creek Street is perfect for a rainy day).
Bring a light rain jacket—Ketchikan is famously damp, but that’s part of its charm.
⭐ Overall Vibe
Ketchikan is one of those ports that feels like a real Alaskan town, not just a cruise stop. It’s easy to walk, full of personality, and offers everything from fun shows to bucket-list seaplane rides. Add in salmon chowder, quirky souvenirs, and bald eagles everywhere, and you’ve got a port day you’ll remember long after you sail away.