Borealis — 7-Night Alaska

Cruise ships do not typically berth in Glacier Bay. Instead, ships cruise slowly through the fjords for scenic viewing. Disembarkation to a town or for shore excursions is generally not offered here.

Watch out. The day in Glacier Bay is primarily for scenic cruising. Passengers should be aware that they will not typically disembark from the ship to go ashore or visit a town.

Worth doing here

• Enjoy Glacier and Wildlife Viewing from the Decks

  This is the primary experience in Glacier Bay, offering unparalleled views of tidewater glaciers, mountains, and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife for all travellers.

  This is a continuous activity throughout the day. Dress in layers for changeable weather on deck, and binoculars are recommended. There is no additional cost beyond your cruise fare.

• Attend National Park Ranger Presentations Onboard

  Park Rangers typically board the ship to provide expert commentary, answer questions, and offer educational programs, enriching everyone's understanding of this unique ecosystem.

  Check your ship's daily program for specific times and locations of these talks, usually held in a main lounge. There is no additional cost for these programs.

• Dine with a View in the Ship's Restaurants

  Many ships offer dining options with large windows, allowing you to enjoy a meal or a warm drink while taking in the stunning, ever-changing scenery in comfort.

  Check your ship's dining schedules for lunch or afternoon tea; some specialty restaurants may require a reservation or an additional fee, typically around $30-50 per person.

Cruise ships typically dock at one of the berths directly along the downtown waterfront, which is the heart of Ketchikan. The main street and attractions are within a very short walk from the gangway. Ships do not usually anchor offshore and tender passengers here.

• Walk1-5 minutesfree

  Most ships dock directly in downtown Ketchikan, placing you steps away from shops, restaurants, and attractions like Creek Street. The entire downtown area is easily walkable.

• Taxi or Rideshare5-15 minutes, depending on destinationtypically around $8-20 USD for shorter rides

  Taxis are available near the pier for destinations further afield, such as Totem Bight State Historical Park or Saxman Native Village. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.

• Public Bus10-30 minutes, depending on route and waitusually about $2 USD per ride

  The Ketchikan Gateway Borough public transit offers routes to various parts of the city and surrounding areas. For destinations within the immediate downtown area, walking is generally more direct.

Watch out. Ketchikan is known for its frequent rain, so carrying a waterproof jacket or umbrella is advisable, even on days that start clear. The ground can also be uneven in parts of the historic district.

Worth doing here

• Stroll Creek Street

  This historic boardwalk offers scenic views, unique shops, and art galleries, suitable for a leisurely walk for most travellers.

  It is a short, flat walk from the cruise ship docks and can take about one to two hours to explore comfortably. There is no admission fee to walk the street itself.

• Watch the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

  This entertaining live performance showcases competitive lumberjack sports and provides a fun, engaging experience for all ages.

  The show venue is a brief walk from the cruise ship terminal, with performances lasting about 60-75 minutes. Tickets typically cost around $40-$50 per adult; confirm current prices when booking.

• Visit Saxman Native Village

  Explore one of the largest collections of standing totem poles in Alaska and learn about Tlingit culture, offering a unique cultural insight for visitors.

  This village is a short taxi ride or shuttle bus journey, about 15-20 minutes south of the cruise port, and can take two to three hours to visit. Guided tours, which often include transportation, typically cost around $45-$65 per person; confirm with the village or tour operator for current pricing and schedules.