Excursion Sitka city highlights and raptor experience tour at Sitka

Explore the stunning natural beauty, wildlife, and heritage of Sitka during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing and raptor excursion.

Sitka National Historical Park, Totem-Lined Trails, Cultural Exhibits, Carving Room

Depart the pier for the short drive to the Sitka National Historical Park. Whilst entering the park, you are surrounded by the lush, green, lichen-draped temperate forest nestled along the coast of Sitka Sound. During your self-guided visit, feel the crisp, fresh air fill your lungs whilst walking the nature trails lined with authentic totem poles, and look for the bald eagles that fish the nearby waters and nest in the trees found in the area. Afterward, stop by the Visitors Centre. Learn more about the totem poles seen on your walk and the stories they represent, view historic Tlingit and Russian cultural exhibits, work from local Native artists and video presentations.

Alaska Raptor Centre, Bird-Care, Educational Raptor Experience

Leaving the Sitka National Historical Park, re-board your coach and drive to the Alaska Raptor Centre. This facility operates with bird-care professionals assisted by volunteers to rescue birds, provide them with rehabilitative care, and, hopefully, release them back into the wild. Guests will learn first-hand about the rehabilitation work performed onsite, as well as get up-close look at many of the magnificent raptors in residence.

Sitka Sightseeing Drive, UAS, Castle Hill, Mt. Edgecumbe Volcano, Sitka Sound, Forested Islands

Next, re-board your coach and head for a photo stop at the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) where you can take in a scenic, panoramic view of Sitka. Afterward, the stunning scenery continues whilst passing by Sitka’s fascinating landmarks and learning about its Russian and Native Alaskan history from your driver/guide. Hear stories of legends and lore of this small Alaskan city, first settled by Russians in 1799. Drive past historic Castle Hill, where the territory of Alaska was officially transferred from Russia to the U.S. in 1867, and, weather permitting, see the cratered peak of looming Mt. Edgecumbe, a nearby dormant volcano. Your panoramic tour also passes Sitka Sound, where you can gaze out at the many small, forested islands that dot the water. Your tour concludes back at the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Sitka, Sitka National Historical Park, Totem-Lined Trails, Cultural Exhibits, Alaska Raptor Centre, Educational Raptor Experience, Local Sites

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 630 yards (about 576 metres), at times over uneven and natural surfaces. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a weatherproof jacket, bottled water, and US Dollars or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 2 years old to participate on this tour. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary.