Ketchikan, Alaska Cruise Port Guide & Information - Maps, Transportation, Attractions, & More
Ketchikan, Alaska is one of the most popular Alaska cruise ports and a staple destination on many Inside Passage cruise itineraries. With its rich Native heritage, colorful waterfront, fresh seafood, and easy to navigate downtown, Ketchikan offers cruise passengers a convenient and rewarding port day. Whether you are planning independent sightseeing or booking Alaska shore excursions, this Ketchikan cruise port guide covers everything you need to know before your ship arrives.
About Ketchikan
Ketchikan is located in Southeast Alaska on Revillagigedo Island and is often the first Alaska cruise port for ships sailing north from Seattle or Vancouver. The city has a permanent population of around 8,000 residents, but during cruise season that number increases significantly as major cruise lines dock at the busy waterfront.
Often called the Salmon Capital of the World, Ketchikan is known for its strong fishing industry, commercial canneries, and salmon runs that draw visitors each summer. The town also has deep roots in Alaska Native culture, especially among the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Totem poles, clan houses, and cultural centers are a major part of the visitor experience.
Downtown Ketchikan is compact and walkable, making it easy for cruise passengers to explore on foot. Historic buildings, wooden boardwalks, seafood restaurants, and locally owned shops line the streets near the cruise docks.
Download the full PDF Map of Ketchikan
Where is the Cruise Port Located in Ketchikan?
The Ketchikan cruise port is located directly in downtown Ketchikan. Most large cruise ships dock at one of several piers along the waterfront, including Berths 1 through 4 and the Ward Cove dock area, which is a short shuttle ride from downtown.
If your ship docks in the main downtown area, you can step off the ship and immediately access shops, tour operators, restaurants, and attractions. The Ketchikan Visitors Bureau is also nearby, offering maps and information for cruise passengers.
Ships docking at Ward Cove provide complimentary shuttles that run regularly into downtown Ketchikan. The ride typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
PDF Map of Ketchikan Cruise Berths | PDF Map of Ward Cove Cruise Berths
Getting Around in Ketchikan
One of the best things about visiting Ketchikan on an Alaska cruise is how easy it is to get around. The historic downtown area is very walkable, and many of the top attractions in Ketchikan are within a short distance of the cruise docks.
For destinations farther out, such as Saxman Totem Park or certain wildlife tours, you can book organized shore excursions through your cruise line or independent tour operators. Taxis are available near the cruise piers, and local shuttle services operate during the cruise season.
If you plan to explore on your own, comfortable walking shoes and a rain jacket are recommended. Ketchikan is known for frequent rainfall during the summer cruise season, and weather conditions can change quickly.
Creek Street and the Salmon Ladder
Creek Street is one of the most famous attractions in Ketchikan. This historic boardwalk is built on pilings over Ketchikan Creek and is just a short walk from the main cruise ship docks. From Berth 2 or Berth 3, it typically takes less than 10 minutes to reach Creek Street on foot.
In the early 1900s, Creek Street was the city’s red light district. Today, it is home to gift shops, art galleries, and small museums. The wooden buildings and colorful storefronts make it one of the most photographed spots in Ketchikan.
Near Creek Street you will also find the Ketchikan Creek Salmon Ladder. During salmon season, usually from late July through early September, visitors can watch salmon swim upstream and use the fish ladder to bypass the rapids. The viewing platforms are free and open to the public, making this one of the best free things to do in Ketchikan.
The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is one of the most popular Ketchikan shore excursions and is located directly across from the cruise docks. This live competition style show features professional lumberjacks competing in events such as log rolling, axe throwing, and chainsaw carving.
The show highlights the logging history of Southeast Alaska and provides family friendly entertainment in an outdoor arena. Performances typically last about an hour, making it an easy activity to fit into a cruise port day. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or through your cruise line.
Saxman Totem Park & Native Village
© Ketchikan CVB
Saxman Totem Park is located about two miles south of downtown Ketchikan and is one of the best places to see authentic totem poles in Alaska. The park features a large collection of hand carved totem poles created by Tlingit and Haida artists.
Visitors can walk through the park at their own pace or join a guided tour to learn about the meaning and history behind each pole. Many cruise lines offer shore excursions to Saxman Totem Park that include cultural demonstrations, traditional dance performances, and visits to the carving shed.
For travelers interested in Alaska Native culture and history, Saxman Totem Park is a meaningful and educational stop during a Ketchikan cruise visit.
Crabbing and Fishing Tours from Ketchikan
Crabbing and Fishing tours are among the most unique shore excursions in Ketchikan. These tours often take place aboard working style boats that demonstrate how Alaskan crab pots or Salmon lines are hauled from the sea floor.
Passengers learn about commercial fishing in Alaska and may see species such as king crab, snow crab, salmon, pacific cod, and prawns brought onboard. Some tours also include wildlife viewing, with chances to spot bald eagles, sea lions, and whales.
A Ketchikan crabbing or fishing tour is a popular option for cruise passengers looking for an authentic Alaska experience that combines education, scenery, and hands on demonstrations.
Shopping in Ketchikan
Shopping in Ketchikan is easy and convenient thanks to the town’s compact downtown layout. Souvenir shops, jewelry stores, art galleries, and local markets are located just steps from the cruise port.
Popular items include Alaska Native art, carved totem replicas, smoked salmon, locally made candles, and gold nugget jewelry. Creek Street and the streets surrounding the cruise berths offer the highest concentration of stores.
If you are looking for authentic Alaska gifts, be sure to check labels and ask shop owners about locally made products. Many stores clearly mark items that are made in Alaska.
Food and Dining in Ketchikan
Ketchikan is one of the best Alaska cruise ports for fresh local seafood, and many dining spots are located just steps from the downtown cruise docks as well as the Ward Cove port. Waterfront seafood stalls are especially popular with cruise passengers looking for an authentic Alaska food experience. Here you can order specialties like fish and chips made with wild Alaska cod or halibut, steamed king crab legs, fresh grilled salmon, and other classic Alaska seafood favorites while enjoying views of the harbor.
For something sweet, stop at Jellyfish Donuts. This locally loved donut shop offers creative flavors and fun designs, making it a great quick stop during your Ketchikan port day. Don’t forget to try their world-famous salmon donut if you’re brave enough!
If you are craving a casual lunch, Burger Queen is a local and crew favorite and is known for burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a laid back setting near the cruise port. Portions are generous, so come hungry.
For a sit down seafood meal, the Alaska Fish House restaurant serves authentic Alaska seafood including salmon, halibut, and crab dishes that highlight local ingredients. It is a convenient and popular choice for cruise visitors who want to sample traditional Alaskan flavors.
Things to Do in Ketchikan
There are many popular things to do in Ketchikan for cruise passengers, whether you are interested in history, wildlife, culture, or outdoor adventure.
Top activities include walking along Creek Street, visiting the local totem park, taking a floatplane tour over Misty Fjords National Monument, booking a whale watching excursion, or joining a crabbing tour in the waters of the Inside Passage.
Fishing charters are also popular, especially for salmon and halibut. For those who prefer a slower pace, exploring downtown shops and waterfront restaurants is an easy and enjoyable way to spend your port day.
Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show with Crab Feast
Experience Alaska’s logging history at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show with thrilling competitions like log rolling and axe events, followed by a fresh local crab feast near the cruise port.
Misty Fjords National Monument Floatplane Tour
Take to the skies on a Ketchikan floatplane tour over Misty Fjords, soaring past waterfalls, cliffs, alpine lakes, and New Eddystone Rock before returning to the city.
Rainforest & Wildlife Walk
The Rainforest & Wildlife Walk is a guided small-group tour through Tongass National Forest, highlighting Alaska’s plants, animals, and native wildlife like bears, eagles, and deer.
Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour
Embark on a guided Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour to explore calm inlets, spot wildlife like eagles and seals, and enjoy Southeast Alaska’s lush rainforest.
Conclusion
Ketchikan, Alaska is a convenient cruise port with a mix of history, culture, wildlife, and outdoor adventure. Its downtown cruise port location makes it easy for passengers to explore independently, while a wide range of Alaska shore excursions provides options for every interest level.
From walking along Creek Street and watching salmon climb the ladder, to visiting Saxman Totem Park or attending the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, there are many memorable things to do in Ketchikan. With a little planning, you can make the most of your Alaska cruise port day and experience the best that Ketchikan has to offer.
