Ketchikan Cruise Ship Port Guide

Getting to and From Ketchikan Port

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Getting to Ketchikan Port is straightforward, depending on your cruise line:

Main Port (Downtown):

• You’ll dock here if you sail with Princess or Royal Caribbean
• You can walk directly to the city centre
• You’ll find free shuttles and taxis at the dock

Ward Cove:

• You’ll arrive here if you sail with Norwegian Cruise Line
• You can take NCL’s free shuttle to downtown
• The shuttle journey takes 20 minutes to Berth 4

Airport Arrivals:

• You can catch the Ketchikan Airport Ferry
• Ferries run every 15 minutes
• The ferry links you to mainland transport

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Navigating the Four Cruise Ship Berths

Your Guide to Ketchikan’s Cruise Ship Berths

The four main cruise berths in Ketchikan line up along the downtown waterfront, making it easy for you to navigate your way around.

Berth 1:

• Located at the southern end
• Features a 200-foot Daly Float
• Offers clear views of Tongass Narrows

Berth 2:

• Sits next to the Visitor’s Bureau
• Houses “The Rock” statue
• Provides central downtown access

Berth 3:

• Connects to the tunnel area
• Includes a 400-foot float
• Places you near mid-town amenities

Berth 4:

• Marks the northern end of downtown
• Gives you easy access to shopping areas

Ward Cove:

• Serves Norwegian Cruise Lines vessels
• Operates free shuttles to city centre
• Sits north of the main harbour

Essential Port Terminal Facilities

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Ketchikan offers you three key cruise terminals: the downtown berths, Ward Cove, and the airport ferry terminal.

Downtown features indoor passenger facilities at Berths III and IV. Ward Cove provides you with shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.

You can travel between locations on free shuttle buses. The Ward Cove shuttle takes you to downtown in 20 minutes. A free downtown loop connects you to major attractions like the Totem Heritage Centre.

For airport arrivals, you can catch a ferry across Tongass Narrows. The ferries run every 15 minutes, and you’ll pay a small fee to reach the cruise terminals.

Downtown Attractions Within Walking Distance

You’ll find many attractions within walking distance of your cruise ship dock in downtown Ketchikan.

Creek Street Boardwalk offers:

• Local shops and boutiques
• Dolly’s House Museum
• Views of migrating salmon (seasonal)

Key Walking Distances:

1. Southeast Alaska Discovery Centre – 2 minutes
2. Totem Heritage Centre – 15 minutes
3. Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show – 10 minutes
4. Married Man’s Trail – Direct access from Creek Street

Must-See Spots:

• Edmonds Street: You’ll get excellent harbour views
• Whale Park: You can see traditional totem poles
• Main Street Gallery: You’ll discover local Alaskan artwork

Port Schedules and Seasonal Considerations

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The Ketchikan cruise season runs from May to September, giving you plenty of options to plan your visit.

You’ll experience the best weather and wildlife viewing in July, when temperatures range from 8-19°C. During this month, you can watch whales and bears as they gather for the salmon runs.

May offers a quieter experience with just 1-2 cruise ships arriving daily. You’ll find fewer tourists and more space to explore the port.

Your September visit will likely include more rain, so pack waterproof gear. Throughout the season, you’ll need layers to stay comfortable as temperatures change throughout the day.

Pick your visit time based on what matters most to you:

• July: Best wildlife and weather
• May: Fewer crowds
• September: Lower prices but more rain

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fishing Equipment Available for Rent Near the Cruise Port?

You can rent fishing equipment at Knudson Cove Marina, including:

• Fishing rods
• Tackle gear
• Crab pots

The marina’s tackle shop stocks all essential fishing supplies you might need for your trip. You’ll find everything in one convenient location near the cruise port.

Which Local Restaurants Serve Authentic Alaskan King Crab?

Several restaurants near you serve authentic Alaskan king crab:

• Alaska Fish House offers fresh crab dishes in a casual setting
• Alaska King Crab Company specialises in traditional crab preparations
• Heen Kahidi Restaurant serves premium crab in an elegant atmosphere

You’ll find genuine Alaskan crab at these locations, with each restaurant maintaining direct sourcing from Alaskan fisheries.

Are There ATMS or Currency Exchange Services at the Port?

ATMs are available at banks near the port, including Wells Fargo, within walking distance. Your cruise ship offers currency exchange services onboard, though you won’t find ATMs directly at the port facilities. You can easily manage your cash needs through either option.

Can Passengers Store Luggage at the Port While Exploring Ketchikan?

No luggage storage is available at Ketchikan’s port. You can leave your belongings safely on your cruise ship whilst exploring the town. The compact downtown area is easily walkable, making it convenient to return to the ship if needed.

What Wildlife Can Typically Be Spotted From the Cruise Ship Docks?

From the cruise ship docks, you can easily spot iconic Alaskan wildlife. Bald eagles frequently rest on the dock’s light poles, giving you a perfect view. Harbour seals swim and play in the surrounding waters throughout the day. During spawning season, you can watch salmon swimming upstream in nearby Ketchikan Creek. These wildlife sightings happen regularly, making the dock area a natural viewing point for local fauna.