Sitka Tours: Top 5 Sightseeing & Cruises (2024 Guide)

Planning a trip to Sitka, Alaska? It’s almost certain that you are seeking some ways to uncover its stunning natural landscapes and history, is that right? Well, I’ve scouted out the top five Sitka tours, so you can get ready for sightseeing and cruises that show off what this place has to offer. You’ll be able to see everything, from wildlife encounters to deep dives into local stories. I want to get you prepared with some pretty helpful recommendations, which are really great for your travel itinerary.

1. Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures: A Wildlife Quest

Really hoping to spot some marine critters? Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures tends to be your go-to choice. As a matter of fact, this tour specializes in wildlife viewing expeditions, which are ideal for anyone who adores marine animals. Expect to see, sometimes, humpback whales breaching, playful sea otters lounging, and maybe even some seals. The boats are, typically, pretty comfy and the guides are full of knowledge. In some respects, they make the adventure that much better.

On my last trip, anyway, I actually took a tour with them. I got close, pretty close to a pod of whales, it was something. Honestly, these were moments I’ll always remember. What really sticks out is that the crew knows how to find the animals without really disturbing their environment, so that’s super. That respects nature.

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2. Fortress of the Bear: Up Close with Alaska’s Giants

Fortress of the Bear is, maybe, just a rescue center, is that right? Anyway, they give orphaned bear cubs a home. Very possibly, for wildlife buffs, this visit offers something beyond the norm, which you will appreciate. This gives you the opportunity to view these, in a way, big animals from a safe distance, like really close up.

Last summer, I took my family. Frankly, we were amazed. So we watched those bears play and swim. The staff shared lots of details relating to the bears’ habits. Plus, frankly, regarding their stories too. To be honest, the money that you spend visiting Fortress of the Bear goes to support their work. This makes it more meaningful, naturally.

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3. Sitka National Historical Park: A Walk Through History

So interested in history? Sitka National Historical Park usually is where you should visit, that. As a matter of fact, this park gives insights into the Tlingit people’s history, just a bit. So in addition, there’s Russian colonization too.

You can, just a little, wander along trails adorned, sometimes, with totem poles. Anyway these display Tlingit art. You might learn about the Battle of Sitka. Now this shaped the region. This is more than just a pretty stroll, which might be pretty impressive. I mean, in some respects it really tells tales of conflict and culture.

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4. Saint Michael’s Cathedral: Glimpse into Russian Heritage

Very possibly, with Russian history a topic of interest for you, is that right? Saint Michael’s Cathedral probably will give you a closer look, more or less. To be honest, the cathedral is still in service. But then too, you are able to take in its architectural beauty. In a way it displays pretty significant cultural importance.

Back when I came to visit, basically, the light streamed through those windows, you know? To be honest, I was coloring the interiors, yet these felt frozen in another moment, yet, so majestic. Taking some moments allows one to reflect, might be really worth doing when considering Sitka’s, now gone by, varied roots, just a bit.

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5. Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest: Small-Group Tour

Pretty much hoping for an excursion which can offer something less crowded? I would suggest a small-group tour. It seems like Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest provides, very possibly, just what’s needed, maybe. You can expect a calmer tour, naturally.

On a smaller boat, actually, you may get to visit remote spots along the coast. If you have been wanting to see sea otters up-close, definitely, you might enjoy this more. That said, this offers plenty of chances to view several different types of, very, wildlife in their settings.

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