Our new Explorers Club will spotlight a port of call from favourite cruising areas each month, looking at what its particular appeal is, what you can look forward to seeing there, little known facts about the place– and how to get there. The world was first explored by sea and in many cases, it remains the best way to discover a new destination, from the Mediterranean to Malaysia, from Alaska to Australia, from Scandinavia to South America. We hope you enjoy taking a look at this new feature!
This month, we spotlight Ketchikan, Alaska with Princess Cruises.
Ketchikan, Alaska
Why go there?
If you’re going to Alaska, Ketchikan will give you a sense of what a frontier town at the time of the 1890s gold rush felt like. With no roads beyond the town’s perimeter, everything comes in and goes out by sea – Creek Street in the old town is built on stilts over the water.
What’s good to do there?
The Salmon ladder and hatchery gives a clue as to why Ketchikan was once known as the salmon capital of the world. Wildlife abounds – keep your eyes peeled for eagles, seals, deer and if you’re lucky, bear. The Totem Heritage Centre with its world-class collection of 19th century unrestored totem poles offers insights into a bygone culture. Alternatively, join a rip-roaring ride around town in period vehicles, regaled with tales of derring-do, shoot-outs and the rambunctious goings-on at Dolly’s house – now a museum. Or cut to the chase at the Great Alaska Lumberjack show and crab feast.
Little-known facts about Ketchikan?
The town’s population is just 14,000 but that still makes it the fifth most populous place in Alaska. Ketchikan’s name comes from the Tlingit name for the creek, Kitschk-hin, which means ‘thundering wings of an eagle’.
How to get there
Princess offers the most comprehensive selection of scenic Alaska cruises, including calls at Ketchikan, and sails between May and September each year. One week cruise-only fares from Vancouver start at £734pp for an inside or £1,254pp for a balcony stateroom based on the Majestic Princess’ ‘Voyage of the Glaciers’ sailing on 7 May 2022.
Further details
Read more about cruising to Alaska with Princess, the ‘North to Alaska’ experience on board and ashore and for further details of the exciting range of Ketchikan excursions.
What is it about Alaska that most makes you want to visit?
Silver Travel Advisor recommends Princess Cruises.
