ROL Cruise recommends…
Exploring the local area
Get a sense of Ketchikan’s history simply by walking its picturesque streets. A short stroll from the harbour is Creek Street, a wooden boardwalk on the slopes beside Ketchikan Creek. Head here to browse galleries and tourist shops, or to discover the area’s colourful past. Beyond the creek, where salmon often swim upstream, is the Totem Heritage Center. Discover Ketchikan’s native heritage as you admire intricately carved pieces of art, some of which are more than 100 years old. Learn about the area’s commercial and natural legacy at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, catch a lumberjack demonstration or tuck into some delicious local seafood.
Outstanding natural scenery
Sculpted by ancient glaciers as they flowed over the granite, Misty Fjords National Park is a spectacularly scenic wilderness area to the east of Ketchikan. Boat and air tours are the best way to appreciate this dramatic area, which stretches more than 3,500 sq. miles across the Tongass National Forest. Float across pristine waters as you gaze in awe at the dramatic cliffs, snow-capped mountains and thick rainforests that grow on near-vertical slopes. Take to the skies to view majestic Rudyerd Bay, still-present glaciers and sparkling blue lakes which feed plunging waterfalls.
The buzz of sport-fishing
Salmon fishing is an integral part of Ketchikan’s history, due to the vast numbers of fish migrating to the protected waters that surround it. Experience the thrill of reeling in a prize catch aboard one of the many fishing charters on offer. Experienced local guides will lead you to popular biting spots where, hopefully, you’ll have your pick of king salmon, halibut, red snapper, trout and many more varieties. If you’d rather let the professionals do the hard work, consider a tour that catches king and snow crab or octopus while you enjoy the show with a hot drink in hand.
Observing the wildlife
The large quantity of fish surrounding Ketchikan doesn’t just lure fishermen to the area. Sharp-sighted ravens and Bald Eagles soar through the air, while hungry otters, sea lions, porpoise, Orcas and humpback whales search for their next meal in the water. Among the giant Cedar, Hemlock and towering Spruce trees, you can also spot black and brown bears, wolves, mountain goats and deer - the list goes on! Explore the forest nature trails by foot, enjoy the views from an electric-assisted bike, or kayak the coves and inlets of the Inside Passage with your eyes peeled.
