Sitka Shore Excursion: Alaskan Wildlife by Land and Sea

Kick off your land and sea combo shore excursion with a cruise aboard a Glacier Bay catamaran. As your experienced captain navigates Sitka’s narrow passages and bays, you can watch the stunning landscapes from the spacious deck or inside a heated cabin equipped with large windows. The 26-foot-long (8-meter) vessel is built specifically to sail smoothly in most conditions.

Factoring in weather and sea conditions, the captain tries to customize the tour to your interests and take you to prime viewing locations to watch for gray and humpback whales. You might spot otters lounging in kelp, whales feeding, or perhaps even a bear on a beach.

Back on land, a comfortable 14-passenger van takes you on a sightseeing tour of Sitka. Cross over the O’Connell Bridge bridge for great views of Sitka, and visit Japonski Island, which played a role in World War II.

Inside Sitka National Historical Park, admire Tlingit and Haida totem poles and then take a pleasant stroll overlooking the Indian River. During salmon season, learn about the life cycle of the fish as you see them spawn.

Next, visit Fortress of the Bear, the largest bear reserve in North America. The habitat takes in orphaned bear cubs to live in a naturalized setting. Meet the caretaker staff and witness brown bears at play, from a distance of 25 feet (8 meters) away.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:

We will ensure your excursion ends with ample time for you to return to the Sitka Cruise Ship Dock for your ship’s departure. In the extremely unlikely event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

Let our 18 years of experience help you get an intimate view of the beautiful scenery, amazing wildlife, and historic sites of Sitka on this combination land and sea tour. First you’ll set out on a 26' catamaran boat with an expert local captain to watch whales and other marine wildlife in the waters off Sitka. Most often seen are Humpback Whales, Sea Otters, Eagles, Sea Lions and many marine birds. After two hours on the water, you’ll return to land to take a comfortable 2 hour small group van tour to see highlights that include totem poles, brown bears and historical treasures.

A maximum of 6 people (children and babies included) per booking
Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes: the weather in Sitka is always different so please dress in layers. Both the van and the boat have heated cabins for your comfort, but you will want to get out and enjoy the fresh air
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time.
ALL tours start at Harrigan Centennial Hall 330 Harbor Drive Sitka Alaska 99835.
Please note: Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed
Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
Guests must be able to step on/off boat and depending on the tide, navigate a steep wooden gangway that leads to the dock. The boat is not wheelchair accessible. Due to seat availability, as well as guest safety and comfort, passengers weighing 250 pounds (113 kilograms or 18 stone) will have to purchase an additional seat to reserve adequate space onboard the ship
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers