Tucked along Alaska’s famed Inside Passage, Ketchikan is a place where the forest meets the sea—and life flows with the tides. But there’s something many first-time visitors don’t realize: Ketchikan is an island. There are no roads to the mainland. Locals take boats to shop, ferries to catch flights, and everything here revolves around the water.
That’s why the most authentic way to experience Ketchikan is not by bus or foot—but on a wildlife cruise that glides through the same waters locals travel daily.
And the best part? You’ll still have plenty of time to explore downtown Ketchikan before your cruise ship departs.
Why Ketchikan is Worth Exploring—By Sea and By Land
Ketchikan is known as “Alaska’s First City”, both because of its location at the southern tip of the state and its rich cultural heritage. It’s a town of colorful boardwalks, towering totem poles, and rainforest coastlines, where salmon jump in the rivers and bald eagles perch overhead.
On our Coastal Wildlife Cruises, you’ll journey into secluded bays and channels where larger tour boats can’t reach—quiet, pristine spots brimming with wildlife like whales, seals, sea lions, and even black bears fishing along the shore.
Then, back in town, you’ll be perfectly positioned to walk, shop, and explore Ketchikan’s most iconic attractions.
See Ketchikan's Wildlife Up Close
Here’s a preview of the incredible creatures you might encounter on the water:
Humpback Whales
These majestic giants are known for their powerful tail slaps and dramatic breaches. In summer months, humpback whales migrate to Alaska’s rich feeding grounds, often traveling in pods.
Bald Eagles
Alaska has the highest concentration of bald eagles in the U.S., and Ketchikan is no exception. Watch as they soar overhead or swoop down to catch fish—especially during our eagle feeding experiences.
Harbor Seals & Sea Lions
Often seen lounging on rocky shores or playfully diving alongside the boat, harbor seals and stellar sea lions are curious, social, and always entertaining to watch.
Black Bears
When salmon are running, black bears can sometimes be seen fishing in shallow coastal streams—especially in the hidden spots we access on our tours.
Tour Options Designed for Your Ketchikan Cruise Schedule
All of our wildlife tours are scheduled to fit comfortably within the cruise ship port calls—giving you time to explore on land as well.
We are conveniently located in downtown Ketchikan at Berth 3, just steps from where your cruise ship docks. We also guarantee on-time pickup and drop-off to accommodate your ship’s schedule, so you can enjoy your tour without any stress.
1. Ketchikan Express Wildlife Tour + Eagle Feeding (1.5 hours)
A thrilling, quick adventure ideal for visitors with limited time. Spot wildlife, witness eagles in action, and return with plenty of time to spare.
2. Ketchikan Ultimate Wildlife Tour + Wilderness Dining (2.5 hours)
A deeper dive into Alaska’s wild side. After spotting whales and eagles, enjoy a wilderness picnic with smoked salmon or reindeer sausage—all in under 3 hours.
3. Ketchikan Luxury Wildlife Tour + Fishing Charter (3 hours)
Combine a traditional Alaskan fishing experience with exceptional wildlife viewing—perfect for travelers who want a little adventure and a lot of authenticity.
If you’re looking for more than 3 hours of halibut or salmon fishing, check out Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters!
What to Do After Your Ketchikan Tour in Downtown
With time left in your day, here’s how to make the most of your Ketchikan visit before your ship departs:
Stroll historic Creek Street – Once a red-light district, now a charming boardwalk full of local shops, salmon viewing, and photo ops.
Grab a bite at Alaska Fish House – One of the town’s best seafood spots, right by the water.
Snap a photo under the iconic “Welcome to Ketchikan” sign – A must-do for any first-time visitor.
Visit the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center – Great for learning more about the Tongass Rainforest and Indigenous cultures.
See the totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center – Ketchikan has the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles.
Check out the famous rain gauge – This town gets over 13 feet of rain per year; the gauge shows you just how wet it really is!
Browse local boutiques and art galleries – Take home handmade crafts or Alaskan jade jewelry.
FAQ: Planning Your Perfect Ketchikan Day
Q: Will I have enough time to take a wildlife cruise and still explore downtown Ketchikan?
A: Yes! All of our tours are designed with cruise ship schedules in mind. You’ll return with time to enjoy downtown attractions before boarding.
Q: Can I book a Ketchikan Wildlife Tour last minute?
A: You can, but we recommend reserving in advance—especially during peak summer months when tours often sell out.
Q: Where are you located?
A: We’re at Berth 3 in downtown Ketchikan, a short and easy walk from most cruise ships.
Q: Is transportation provided?
A: No need! Our wildlife tours start steps from the dock, and we guarantee on-time pickup and drop-off so you’ll never miss your ship.
Book Now and Experience the Best of Ketchikan: Land & Sea
Ketchikan is a place unlike any other—a town shaped by the sea, and surrounded by wild beauty. Our Coastal Wildlife Cruises offer a true local experience that shows you both the natural wonder and small-town charm that make this place unforgettable.
