| Sitka, Alaska |
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| Step back to the days of Russian Alaska as you watch lively performances of the New Archangel Dancers and view holy paintings of the Czarists' days. | ||
| Shore Excursions | ||
| Advanced Mountain Bike Tour | Sitka Bike & Hike Tour | |
| Harbor Mountain & Starrigavan River | Sitka Highlights & Russian Dancers | |
| Historic Nature Walk | Sitka Sportfishing | |
| Historic Russian America, Raptor Center & Dancers | Sitka Tongass Forest Nature Hike | |
| Passport to Knowledge--The Alaska Raptor Center | Sitka Wilderness Sea Kayaking Adventure | |
| Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest | Teens' Wilderness Kayak Adventure | |
| Silver Bay Nature Cruise & Salmon Hatchery | ||
| Harbor Mountain & Starrigavan River at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| Board a comfortable van and start this narrated tour with a drive through historic Sitka and north skirting the shores of Sitka Sound. About five miles from downtown Sitka you will come to Harbor Mountain Road--the only road in Southeast Alaska extending from sea level up to the alpine level. Climb the mountain through dense forests of spruce and magnificent, gnarled mountain hemlock. Enjoy spectacular vistas across islet-studded Sitka Sound toward Mt Edgecumbe. Near the road's summit, emerge into a mosaic of lush sub-alpine meadows--home to a fascinating array of alpine plants and colorful wildflowers. This sub-alpine area will provide an opportunity to look more closely at the plant life and see bald eagles and ravens soaring on the mountain thermals. A short boardwalk and trail lead to a view-point overlooking Sitka. The dramatic vista 2,500 feet down the mountain is unforgettable. Descending the mountain, you will drive north to the mouth of the Starrigavan River--site of an ancient Tlingit Indian settlement and a fine opportunity to view wetland birds and plants. Massive shoals of spawning salmon are an impressive sight from late July through September. Visit Old Sitka, the site of the original Russian settlement, dating from the 1700s, and destroyed by Tlingit Indians in 1802. The tour concludes with a stop at Sitka National Historical Park. Displays inside the museum include totem poles and house-fronts from Sitka, Tlingit mask-making, Tlingit artifacts, Russian artifacts, and an interpretive video of Sitka's history. | ||
| Moderate Activity | ||
| Fairly active requiring intermittent effort throughout. The tour may involve recurring physical movement including walking medium distances over uneven surfaces and climbing staircases. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 2 1/2hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $49 Child: US: $29 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: This tour requires walking on a boardwalk and some uneven terrain. Closed-toe, comfortable shoes are recommended.Ê Limited Capacity | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Historic Nature Walk at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| Become immersed in the fascinating history and natural beauty of Sitka on this exploration by foot, in the company of a knowledgeable Sitka guide. You will receive a snack of juice and a snack bar to enjoy during your 2 1/2-mile walk. You begin walking around the base of Castle Hill, where Alaska was purchased from Russia. Continuing through the historic district, you pass through Totem Square and the grounds of the pioneer home. See the Prospector Statue and Russian Blockhouse centered in the old Russian Cemetery where gravesites of early Russian missionaries and royalty can be found. Pass St Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the Russian Bishop's House en route to Sheldon Jackson College (home to James Michener during the writing of his book, Alaska.) Ahead lies the Sitka National Historical Park where flat walking trails, lined with authentic totems guide you through the lush Tongass National Forest. Crossing the bridge at Indian River, you will hear interesting facts about the rain forest ecosystem as well as identify the local plant and animal life. Spawning salmon are seen here, usually late in the summer. Ascending the trail to the Raptor Center, you encounter the swamp-like muskeg that is home to most of Alaska's bird, plant and wild berry life. Explore and photograph the Raptor Center's open bird habitat and clinic area with great views of bald eagles, owls, hawks and other birds of prey are found throughout the grounds. Staff wildlife interpreters from the Center are stationed in strategic areas to answer questions and explain the Raptor Center's mission. Those wishing to continue to explore Sitka will be dropped in the center of the historic downtown area at the Cathedral, about two blocks from the dock. | ||
| Moderate Activity | ||
| Fairly active requiring intermittent effort throughout. The tour may involve recurring physical movement including walking medium distances over uneven surfaces and climbing staircases. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 2 1/2hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $49 Child: US: $24 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: Although this tour does not include a stop at St Michael's, you will have the opportunity either before or after the tour to visit the church. This tour covers walking over uneven ground, trails and stairways. Sturdy, comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended, as well as layered clothing for changing weather. The order of the stops may vary.Ê Limited Capacity/Highly Recommended | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Historic Russian America, Raptor Center & Dancers at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| This unique excursion visits the historical highlights of this former "Russian Capital" city and includes a tour through the Bald Eagle Raptor Center. The Eagle Center operates a program staffed mostly by volunteers who rescue the birds, provide rehabilitative care for them and hopefully release them back to the wild. After your introduction to the Center, time will be available to view the clinic, outside deck habitat area, and photograph the educational birds from close vantage points. Upon leaving the Center, your local Sitka guide will provide a narrative recap of life in Sitka when it was the capital of Russian America, as well as living life in Sitka today. A stop will be made at St Michael's Cathedral, home of the first Russian Orthodox cathedral in America, where you will view priceless icons and religious artifacts. You will also visit the Sitka National Historical Park where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska" was fought. Ample time is allowed to view and photograph totems and exhibits. A brief drive through the historic district is included. See the Russian Cemetery, Blockhouse, and Castle Hill, site of the 1867 land transfer ceremony. End your tour with an authentic Russian Folk Dance performance presented by the New Archangel Russian Dancers. At the conclusion, you will have the option of returning to the ship's tender pier or the downtown shopping area. | ||
| Easy Activity | ||
| Very light activity including short distances to walk over relatively even surfaces with few stairs to climb. Some of these tours may be accessible to wheelchairs. Passengers in wheelchairs must be able to walk a few steps to negotiate their way on and off transportation, as wheelchair lifts are not readily available in most ports. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 3 1/2hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $49 Child: US: $21 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: Tour involves walking on level, wide gravel pathways. The order of stops may vary.Ê Highly Recommended | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Passport to Knowledge--The Alaska Raptor Center at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| Join us for an amazing adventure of learning and excitement. Take a two-hour trek through this wild bald eagle hospital. Travel to each of 12 stations and learn about bald eagles, owls and other raptors. Visit the clinic and learn how veterinary staff treat some of the injured patients. Touch eagle and owl feathers and feel the difference between bird and mammal bones at the artifact table. Walk through the temperate rain forest, learn about medicinal plants and trees, and experiment with some tasty treats. You'll visit the muskeg, a spongy moss environment, and learn about its many uses while watching and listening for wildlife. Meet each of the wonderful raptors-in-residence and discover how their species survive in the wild. The Alaska Raptor Center provides medical treatment for injured bald eagles and other birds of prey, educates people about Alaska's birds and environmental conservation, and conducts bald eagle research. For each station you visit, you'll earn a stamp for your passport booklet and learn what you can do to make a difference for wild birds. Your completed "Passport to Knowledge" booklet--with your passport photo and all--makes the perfect take-home keepsake. The ship's Club Hal Director, or a staff member, will accompany this tour. | ||
| Easy Activity | ||
| Very light activity including short distances to walk over relatively even surfaces with few stairs to climb. Some of these tours may be accessible to wheelchairs. Passengers in wheelchairs must be able to walk a few steps to negotiate their way on and off transportation, as wheelchair lifts are not readily available in most ports. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 2 hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Child: US: $39 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Outdoor activities will be dependent on weather and at the discretion of the tour guide and youth conselors. This tour is available to our junior cruisers June through August. These tours cannot be pre-requested. Please visit the onboard Shore Excursion Office or the Club HAL Director for reservations. For kids ages 6-12 years | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| This exciting cruise guarantees wildlife viewing. YouÕll have the opportunity to observe sea otters, whales, Steller sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, brown bears, Sitka blacktail deer, bald eagles and a variety of marine birds. An on-board naturalist will explain the workings of this remarkable ecosystem. YouÕll also learn about the sea ottersÕ recovery following their near-extinction at the hands of Russian fur hunters in the early 1800s. The Sea Otter Express and her jet-driven sister ships are specially designed to navigate Southeast AlaskaÕs narrow island passages, allowing for spectacular wildlife viewing at close range. Each vessel features a warm and comfortable cabin with enclosed seating, large windows, a snack bar, and restrooms. Visit the topside observation deck for unparalleled photo opportunities and to fully enjoy the experience with all of your senses. This trip guarantees you will see an otter, or a whale, or a bear. If not, youÕll receive a $100 cash refund ($50 refund per child) at the end of the voyage. The tour includes complimentary admission into St MichaelÕs Russian Orthodox Cathedral, should you choose to explore the area on your either before or after the tour. | ||
| Easy Activity | ||
| Very light activity including short distances to walk over relatively even surfaces with few stairs to climb. Some of these tours may be accessible to wheelchairs. Passengers in wheelchairs must be able to walk a few steps to negotiate their way on and off transportation, as wheelchair lifts are not readily available in most ports. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 3 hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $109 Child: US: $79 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: Dress warmly and bring a rainproof jacket to wear on the observation deck. Guests on afternoon departures will want to visit the Cathedral prior to the tour--just show your Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest tour voucher at the Cathedral for admission.Ê Limited Capacity/Highly Recommended | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Silver Bay Nature Cruise & Salmon Hatchery at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| Cruise through a beautiful glacier-carved fjord; learn about Sitka's unique maritime heritage, and enjoy an exclusive tour of a working salmon hatchery. The scenic splendor of a mist-shrouded fjord serves as the backdrop for stories about native culture, early explorers, and Alaskan fortune seekers. You'll also learn about the rain forest's natural history as the boat glides so close to shore that you can almost touch the branches. If you spot an eagle, deer, seal or sea lion, the Captain will maneuver the boat to give the best possible view. Step ashore at the remote Medvejie Salmon Hatchery in Bear Cove to learn how Southeast Alaskan fisherman are successfully working with fisheries biologists to raise chinook, coho and chum salmon to supplement wild salmon stocks. See how eggs are collected, fertilized and incubated, and learn how salmon fry are raised and tagged to aid research. Depending on the phase of the season you will see millions of juvenile salmon swimming in floating pens being prepared for release, or adult salmon gathering in the cove to ascend the fish ladder. On the cruise back to Sitka, youÕll get a close-up view of the Liberty Prospect Gold Mine and see the beach where, in 1804, Tlingit warriors fought a valiant but futile battle against a Russian warship for control of their ancestral home. Approaching the harbor, your guide will point out the spires of St MichaelÕs Russian Orthodox Cathedral and other Sitka landmarks. Before returning to your ship, take a walk through downtownÑa ticket to St MichaelÕs Cathedral is included in the tour. | ||
| Easy Activity | ||
| Very light activity including short distances to walk over relatively even surfaces with few stairs to climb. Some of these tours may be accessible to wheelchairs. Passengers in wheelchairs must be able to walk a few steps to negotiate their way on and off transportation, as wheelchair lifts are not readily available in most ports. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 2 1/2hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $54 Child: US: $24 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: Vessel restroom and hatchery facilities are not wheelchair accessible. Dress warmly and bring a rainproof jacket to wear at the Salmon Hatchery. Guests on afternoon departures may want to visit the Cathedral prior to the tour--just show your Silver Bay Nature Cruise & Salmon Hatchery tour voucher at the Cathedral for admission.Ê | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Sitka Bike & Hike Tour at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| Take a guided tour of a magnificent section of Sitka that is rarely seen by visitors. The tour focuses on local history, flora and fauna. Photograph opportunities abound as the route meanders along a bike path between the Pacific Ocean and captivating mountains. Participants will be treated to an excellent view of an estuary in Starrigavin Meadow with a crystal-clear salmon-bearing stream running through it. Part of the tour will consist of a hike to Mosquito Cove on a 1 1/2-mile loop trail that gains 200 feet of elevation, through the beautiful Tongass National Forest, the world's largest temperate rain forest. Guides are local residents who are enthusiastic naturalists familiar with both history and current events in Sitka. Riders can anticipate a gently rolling, five-mile ride, and a 1 1/2-mile walk on a maintained trail. A snack will be provided. All riders will be required to wear a helmet. This tour is geared for those who want to get outside and get some exercise. You'll go rain or shine! Be sure to bring an extra roll of film. | ||
| Considerable Activity | ||
| Very active involving constantly exerting effort. The tour may require continuous physical movement including walking long distances or climbing steep inclines. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 3 hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $69 Child: US: $49 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: Children must be a minimum of ten years old and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in order to participate in this tour.Ê Limited Capacity/Highly Recommended | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Sitka Highlights & Russian Dancers at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| For 126 years Alaska was explored and ruled by Czarist Russia, until sold to the United States in 1867. This Russian-American historical tour begins with a brief drive through Sitka's historical area. You'll see the Russian Cemetery, Blockhouse and Castle Hill--site of the official land transfer ceremony. Your local Sitka guide will provide an interesting and comprehensive narrative of the early Russian period. You will visit St Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral, the first Orthodox Cathedral in America, where you will view priceless icons and religious artifacts. Arriving at the Sitka National Historical Park, you will learn of the 1804 "Battle of Alaska". Time is allowed to view the totems and museum-quality exhibits. The tour's rousing finale is an authentic Russian-style folk dance performance by Sitka's famous New Archangel Dancers. | ||
| Easy Activity | ||
| Very light activity including short distances to walk over relatively even surfaces with few stairs to climb. Some of these tours may be accessible to wheelchairs. Passengers in wheelchairs must be able to walk a few steps to negotiate their way on and off transportation, as wheelchair lifts are not readily available in most ports. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 2 1/2hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $35 Child: US: $21 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: Tour involves walking on level, wide gravel paths.The order of the stops may vary. | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Sitka Sportfishing at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| Sitka's sportfishing is one of Southeast Alaska's best-kept secrets. Sitka Sound and the adjacent waters offer an abundant supply of King, Silver, Chum and Pink salmon. Combine this with dramatic views and opportunities to see native wildlife, and you have an exciting excursion to experience. Your skippers are Coast Guard-licensed, top-notch, experienced fishermen. They will decide whether you will be "trolling" or "mooching," based on how the fish have been behaving recently and what has proven to be more successful. All equipment, tackle, bait and rain gear are provided. Dress warmly and we recommend wearing rubber-soled shoes or boots. Naturally, fish availability cannot be guaranteed. Visit the Shore Excursion Office on board to request halibut or bottom fishing (price:$239). Bottom fishing involves a one-hour boat ride each way to get to and from the halibut grounds. This option requires a minimum of four participants to operate and is subject to weather conditions. | ||
| Easy Activity | ||
| Very light activity including short distances to walk over relatively even surfaces with few stairs to climb. Some of these tours may be accessible to wheelchairs. Passengers in wheelchairs must be able to walk a few steps to negotiate their way on and off transportation, as wheelchair lifts are not readily available in most ports. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 3 1/2hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $179 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: Alaska state law requires a valid 1-day fishing license, which can be purchased for $10.00 from your fishing boat captain along with a $10.00 King Salmon stamp. Parties of 5 or 6 must be arranged no later than the day before arrival in port. Please inform the Shore Excursion Office on board for these arrangements.Ê Limited Capacity/Highly Recommended | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Sitka Tongass Forest Nature Hike at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| Bus transportation takes you to the trailhead of the Starrigavin Muskeg Trail. This route begins with a 1/2-mile gradual walk to the surrounding muskeg area and your guide will comment on the flora and fauna of the muskeg. Enjoy great mountain views, weather permitting, as your hike resumes with a gradual 1/2-mile decent to Starrigavin Creek. From here, it is a 1/2-mile level boardwalk through the Starrigavin Estuary bird viewing area complete with restrooms. Cross the road and begin the 1 1/2-mile Mosquito Cove Loop Trail, gaining approximately 300 feet at the highest point. At Mosquito Cove you will hear a discussion about the tidal zone and the Tongass ForestÑthe largest temperate rain forest in the world. Proceed along the beach back to the campground, then walk to Old Sitka, the site of the first Russian encounter on Baranof Island. At the end of the hike, you will be transported back to the dock, with a short stop for a coffee at Theobroma Chocolate Factory. | ||
| Considerable Activity | ||
| Very active involving constantly exerting effort. The tour may require continuous physical movement including walking long distances or climbing steep inclines. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 3 hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $59 Child: US: $34 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: The entire hike is three miles in length and offers wonderful photo opportunities. The hike is for those who are in moderate shape, and it goes rain or shine. Rain gear, a complimentary water bottle, and a chocolate bar are provided. The guides all have current first aid and CPR training, as well as being well versed in the flora, fauna, and history of Sitka and the surrounding area. Children from age eight and up are welcome with parental supervision. | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Sitka Wilderness Sea Kayaking Adventure at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| Meet your representative on the dock in Sitka and prepare for your adventure by suiting up in rain gear and life jackets. Transfer to a floating kayak base camp by motorized inflatable. The journey on these fully-licensed vessels allows for excellent views of Sitka and the surrounding mountains. Upon arrival at the base camp, you'll be instructed in the use of safe, oceangoing, two-person kayaks. These stable, yet maneuverable, boats let you enjoy the beauty of the protected bays and inlets near Sitka from a serene, natural perspective. An experienced guide, well versed in paddling techniques and the marine environment of the area, will lead small groups of kayaks. Be on the lookout for colorful intertidal invertebrates, an eagle swooping from the treetops, or the grandeur of the lush rain forest. You may even see brown bear, harbor seal, or Sitka black-tailed deer. Paddle for a fun hour and a half before returning to base for a hot beverage, snack and transfer back to town. | ||
| Considerable Activity | ||
| Very active involving constantly exerting effort. The tour may require continuous physical movement including walking long distances or climbing steep inclines. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 3 hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Adult: US: $99 Child: US: $69 | ||
| Notes | ||
| Please note: This tour will operate in all weather conditions and warm clothing is recommended. Rain jackets and life jackets are provided. Children must weigh at least 40 pounds in order to fit into the life jackets.Ê Limited Capacity/Highly Recommended | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||
| Teens' Wilderness Kayak Adventure at Sitka, Alaska | ||
| Meet your representative on the dock in Sitka and prepare for an adventure by suiting up in quality rain gear and life jackets. Transfer to a floating kayak base camp by motorized inflatable. The short and invigorating journey on these fully-licensed vessels allows for excellent views of Sitka and the surrounding mountains. Upon arrival at the base camp, you'll be instructed in the use of safe, oceangoing, two-person kayaks by our knowledgeable staff. These stable, yet maneuverable, boats let you enjoy the beauty of the protected bays and inlets near Sitka from a serene, natural perspective. An experienced guide, well versed in paddling techniques and the marine environment of the area, will lead groups of four to six kayaks. Each of the waterways traveled holds unique attractions in store, be it colorful intertidal invertebrates, an eagle swooping from the treetops, or the grandeur of the lush rain forest. You may even see brown bear, harbor seal, or Sitka black-tailed deer. Paddle for a fun hour and a half before returning to base for a hot beverage, snack, and transfer back to town. The ship's Club Hal Director, or a staff member, will accompany this tour. | ||
| Easy Activity | ||
| Very light activity including short distances to walk over relatively even surfaces with few stairs to climb. Some of these tours may be accessible to wheelchairs. Passengers in wheelchairs must be able to walk a few steps to negotiate their way on and off transportation, as wheelchair lifts are not readily available in most ports. | ||
| Duration | ||
| Approximately 3 hours | ||
| Price | ||
| Child: US: $99 | ||
| Notes | ||
| This tour will operate in all weather conditions, and warm clothing is recommended. Rain jackets and life jackets are provided. Participants must weigh at least 40 pounds in order to fit into the life jackets required. This tour is available to our junior cruisers June through August. These tours cannot be pre-requested. Please visit the onboard Shore Excursion Office or the Club HAL Director for reservations. For teens ages 13-19 years | ||
| All rates are quoted in U.S. funds. In an effort to provide a shore excursion program of the highest quality, prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. Not all excursions listed for a port are available for every cruise. | ||