The 12 Best Ketchikan Shore Excursions For Your Port of Call

Planning a cruise to Ketchikan and wondering which shore excursions are actually worth booking? We’ve rounded up the best of the bunch!

While your time on the ship is a big part of an Alaska cruise, it’s the days in port that really bring the destination to life. Ketchikan is surrounded by rainforest, rugged coastline, and wildlife-rich waters, but many of its best experiences are difficult to reach independently during a short port call. That’s where a well-planned shore excursion makes all the difference.

From kayaking and floatplane flights to wildlife cruises, ziplining, fishing, and cultural experiences, we’ve rounded up the Ketchikan shore excursions that are truly worth your valuable time ashore. Let’s go!

Why We Book Shore Excursions Independently

We almost always book our shore excursions independently. We’ve used Viator many times for cruise ship tours, and we’ve never had an issue! The key is to choose tours specifically designed for cruise passengers, like the ones we’ve listed below.

These tours are built around cruise schedules, with start times and pick-up locations that align with ship arrivals in port. They’re also typically much more affordable than booking directly through the cruise line, while offering many of the same experiences. Plus, if a ship-sponsored tour is sold out, you can usually find a very similar option independently.

Another big advantage is the experience itself. Independent tours often run in smaller groups, which makes things feel more relaxed and personal. You’re not stuck moving around in a huge crowd and competing to get the best views and shots! 

There’s also less risk involved than you might think. Many tours offer guarantees to get you back to the ship on time, and full refunds if your ship is late or misses the port altogether, so you can enjoy peace of mind while saving money. When booking, you’ll be asked for your cruise details so operators can plan accordingly and make sure you’re back well before all-aboard. If anything feels tight, it’s always worth double-checking with the tour provider before booking.

Best Ketchikan Shore Excursions

1. Go kayaking along Ketchikan’s coastline (best coastal views)

We’re huge nature lovers, and we think this kayak tour is one of the best ways to experience Ketchikan’s wildlife up close. Rather than watching the coastline from a boat, you’ll be right on the water in Clover Pass, where the rainforest meets the ocean.

The pace is relaxed, and no previous kayaking experience is required. Your guide will show you the basics before you set off, and the low guide-to-guest ratio means there’s plenty of support throughout the tour. That makes this a great choice for beginners and families!

As you paddle along the shoreline, your guide will point out the smaller details that are easy to miss from a larger vessel. You may spot colorful sea stars and urchins beneath the water, bald eagles overhead, and seals or sea lions nearby. Humpback whales are sometimes seen in the area, too, although wildlife sightings naturally vary from day to day.

We love that kayaking allows you to explore quietly and at a slower pace. With no engine noise, the experience feels peaceful and immersive, and you can really appreciate the scale of the surrounding rainforest and mountains.

This tour is also especially convenient for cruise passengers, with pickup and drop-off from the port included. Departure times are arranged around cruise schedules, and the operator guarantees to return you before all aboard. It’s an easy, stress-free way to spend a few hours in the open air while experiencing one of Ketchikan’s most beautiful coastal areas.

2. Explore Ketchikan by e-bike and hiking trail (best combo tour)

For travelers who want something active without committing to a strenuous excursion, this e-bike and rainforest hike is a brilliant way to explore beyond downtown Ketchikan.

The adventure begins with an electric bike ride along the scenic “road to nowhere,” where you can cover far more ground than you could on foot while still enjoying the fresh air and surrounding views. The pedal assist makes the hills much easier, so you don’t need to be a confident cyclist or have a high level of fitness to enjoy the ride!

From there, you’ll continue on foot with a guided hike through the Tongass National Forest. Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls, salmon streams, moss-covered trees, and coastal viewpoints while learning more about the rainforest ecosystem from your guide. It’s so beautiful! 

We love that this tour combines two different activities without making the day feel overly intense. The e-bike adds a fun sense of adventure, while the hike allows you to slow down and notice the smaller details of the forest. Departure times are planned around ship schedules, and the operator guarantees to return you before all aboard, so you can focus on enjoying the experience rather than watching the clock.

3. Take a scenic floatplane flight over Misty Fjords (best adventure tour)

Few shore excursions in Ketchikan feel quite as unforgettable as soaring above Misty Fjords National Monument in a floatplane. This flight is definitely a bucket list experience if you ask us! 

You’ll lift off from the water, so the flight is exciting right from the jump! From there, you’ll fly over one of Southeast Alaska’s most dramatic landscapes, with towering granite cliffs, deep fjords, and glassy alpine lakes, and vast stretches of untouched forest unfolding beneath you.

Seeing Misty Fjords from the air gives you a sense of scale that would be almost impossible to appreciate from the ground. Exploring this remote wilderness by road or trail would take days, but a floatplane allows you to take in an incredible amount of scenery during a relatively short excursion.

Every passenger gets a window seat, so you won’t have to compete for the best views or lean across anyone to take photos. Your pilot also provides commentary throughout the flight, pointing out key landmarks and sharing more about the landscape below.

We think this tour is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it won’t even take up your entire day in port! So if you’re keen to make the most of every moment, you can’t ask for a better shore excursion than this one. 

4. Capture Ketchikan’s best sights on a photo safari (best scenic tour)

If you want to see Ketchikan’s highlights and improve your travel photography at the same time, this small-group photo safari is a fantastic choice. Over three hours, you’ll head beyond the busiest tourist areas with a local guide and visit a mix of historical, cultural, and scenic locations around Ketchikan. Stops may include Creek Street, Thomas Basin, Totem Bight, and other viewpoints that showcase the town’s colorful waterfront, rainforest surroundings, and rich Indigenous heritage.

What makes this excursion stand out is the hands-on photography guidance. Your guide will share practical tips on composition, framing, lighting, and camera settings as you explore, helping you capture stronger images throughout the tour. You don’t need professional equipment either. The experience is suitable for everything from DSLR cameras to smartphones, so it works just as well for casual photographers as it does for more experienced travelers.

The group is limited to just nine people, which means there’s plenty of time to ask questions and receive individual advice. We also love that the itinerary takes you away from some of the largest cruise crowds, giving you a more relaxed chance to photograph Ketchikan’s scenery and local character.

At around three hours, the tour fits comfortably into most cruise itineraries while still leaving time to explore downtown before returning to your ship. We think it’s especially well-suited to photographers, content creators, and anyone who wants a more personal sightseeing experience than a standard coach tour.

5. Pilot your own Zodiac boat (best water tour)

If you love the idea of exploring Alaska by boat but don’t want to sit back as a passenger, this private Zodiac adventure is the perfect choice. Instead of watching the scenery go by, you’ll be behind the wheel of your very own Zodiac boat as you cruise through the beautiful waters of George Inlet.

After a safety briefing and a chance to get comfortable with your boat, you’ll follow an experienced guide through one of Ketchikan’s most scenic waterways. These small, agile boats can reach places that larger vessels can’t, making the experience feel much more adventurous and giving you a closer look at Alaska’s spectacular coastline.

One of the things we love most about this excursion is how interactive it is. Rather than simply listening to commentary from the deck of a sightseeing boat, you’re actively involved in the experience from start to finish. If you’re traveling with another adult, you can even take turns driving, so everyone gets a chance behind the wheel – how fun is that? 

The excursion lasts around three and a half hours, making it a great fit for most cruise itineraries. After your adventure, you’ll return to shore for a well-earned snack and a local craft beer or soda before heading back to your ship. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Ketchikan’s stunning wilderness while adding a little extra excitement to your day in port!

6. Join a Bering Sea crab fisherman’s tour (best unique experience)

This tour is one of the most unique shore excursions in Ketchikan, and it’s easy to see why! Rather than boarding a sightseeing boat, you’ll step aboard the Aleutian Ballad, a genuine Bering Sea crab fishing vessel that has worked in some of the harshest waters on Earth and even featured on Deadliest Catch.

Once you’re out on the water, the crew brings commercial fishing to life with a series of live demonstrations. You’ll watch them haul up enormous crab pots and long lines teeming with king crab, prawns, rockfish, and other fascinating marine life. Better still, you’ll have the chance to get up close to the catch, ask questions, and even hold some of the creatures before they’re carefully returned to the sea.

What really makes this excursion special, though, is the crew itself. Having spent years working in the Bering Sea, they share incredible stories about life as commercial fishermen, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at one of Alaska’s toughest and most iconic industries.

The tour is also incredibly convenient for cruise passengers. It departs directly from the downtown dock, and if your ship docks at Ward Cove, you can simply hop on the complimentary shuttle to Berth 4. There’s even a 100% refund guarantee if you miss the tour because of a ship-related delay.

This is one of Ketchikan’s most popular shore excursions and often sells out well in advance, particularly during peak cruise season. If it catches your eye, we’d recommend booking as early as possible to avoid missing out.

7. Spot whales and wildlife on a sightseeing excursion (best for wildlife)

If spotting whales is at the top of your Alaska bucket list, this small-group wildlife cruise is a fantastic way to experience Ketchikan’s incredible marine life! You’ll set off aboard a comfortable sightseeing boat and cruise through the sheltered waters of the Tongass Narrows, keeping a close eye on the surrounding coastline for wildlife. 

Humpback whales are the main attraction, but depending on the season, you may also spot orcas, harbor seals, bald eagles, porpoises, and a variety of seabirds. How amazing is that?

One of the things we love most about this tour is its smaller group size. Rather than sharing the experience with a huge crowd, you’ll have plenty of space to move between the indoor cabin and outdoor viewing decks whenever wildlife appears. Blankets, hot drinks, and snacks are also provided, helping you stay warm and comfortable while you enjoy the scenery.

Although whale sightings can never be guaranteed, the family-run crew knows these waters incredibly well and uses recent wildlife reports to give you the best possible chance of finding whales. Along the way, they’ll also share fascinating stories about Ketchikan’s history and local marine life, so it feels really unique and personal. And we’re not the only ones who love it – you can read HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews here! 

8. Soar through the treetops at a zipline adventure park (best fun experience)

Few shore excursions in Ketchikan get your heart racing quite like this zipline adventure through the rainforest. We love ziplining, but doing it in the Alaskan rainforest truly takes it to the next level!

After leaving the cruise port, you’ll head into the forest for a safety briefing and equipment fitting before tackling a course of seven ziplines and eight aerial challenges. These include swinging bridges, suspended logs, and a 50-foot (15-meter) climbing tower, so there’s plenty to keep the adrenaline going from start to finish.

As you move through the canopy, you’ll get a completely different perspective of Ketchikan’s wilderness. Instead of exploring from the ground, you’ll soar between the trees with views over the rainforest and surrounding waters. 

We think this is a particularly good choice for active travelers and families with older children. Teenagers are often less excited by traditional bus excursions, but rest assured, they will love flying through the forest! 

The group is limited to just 11 travelers, which helps the experience feel more personal but also means spaces are very limited. This is one of those excursions that can sell out quickly, especially on busy cruise days, so we’d recommend booking as soon as your Ketchikan itinerary is confirmed.

9. Discover Ketchikan’s land and water history on an amphibious vehicle excursion (best for families)

One of the most unique ways to explore Ketchikan is aboard an amphibious “duck” vehicle that can travel on both land and water. It’s part city tour and part harbor cruise, so you get the best of both worlds! 

This adventure begins on the streets of Ketchikan, where your captain-guide will introduce you to the town’s fascinating history and famous landmarks. Along the way, you’ll pass sights such as Creek Street, historic totem poles, and the bustling harbor while hearing stories about Ketchikan’s Indigenous heritage and life in Southeast Alaska.

Then comes the highlight. Instead of turning around like an ordinary bus, your vehicle drives straight into the Tongass Narrows and transforms into a boat! Cruising through the calm waters offers a completely different perspective of Ketchikan, with fantastic views back towards the town and the surrounding mountains, as well as the busy working waterfront.

We think this excursion is especially well suited to families and first-time visitors, as it combines sightseeing and a little bit of adventure without being physically demanding. Plus, at around an hour and a half, it’s also one of the shortest shore excursions in Ketchikan. That means you’ll still have plenty of time to wander along Creek Street and browse the local shops before returning to your ship. If you’re after something a little different from the usual walking tour or wildlife cruise, we think that this quirky amphibious adventure is well worth considering!

10. Explore Mahoney Lake on an off-road UTV tour (best for thrill-seekers)

This UTV adventure is definitely one of the most exciting ways to explore the remote Alaskan scenery, as long as you don’t mind getting a little muddy! 

After leaving Ketchikan, you’ll travel out towards the George Inlet Fjords and climb into a spacious off-road UTV for the main part of the excursion. Following your guide, you’ll tackle rugged forest tracks and winding mountain roads through the Tongass National Forest, with both splashes and spectacular views along the way. 

One of the best things about this tour is that you get to drive the UTV yourself! No previous off-road experience is required, as you’ll receive a full safety briefing before setting off, and groups can swap drivers during the journey! That makes it a brilliant option for couples, families with older children, or groups of friends who want something much more interactive than a standard sightseeing tour.

The adventure also includes a short hike to Mahoney Lake, where you can slow down and take in the peaceful surroundings before enjoying lunch. We think this is perfect for travelers who want to experience Ketchikan’s wilderness without committing to a long or difficult hike, and you might even spot bald eagles and deer as you explore! It’s such a fun and immersive way to explore, and we’re not the only ones who think so – read hundreds of 5-star reviews here.

11. Go salmon and halibut fishing on a private charter (best private tour)

Fishing is a huge part of life in Ketchikan, and this private charter gives you the chance to experience it for yourself with an experienced local captain. You can choose between a four-hour or six-hour trip, depending on how much time you have in port. The shorter option is especially well-suited to cruise passengers, while the longer charter gives you more time to explore the surrounding waters and target a wider range of fish.

Once you’re out on the water, your captain will tailor the experience to your group and help you fish for Pacific halibut, salmon, and other local species. All of the equipment, bait, licenses, and tags are included, so you don’t need to bring anything or have any previous fishing experience. Beginners will receive plenty of guidance, while more experienced anglers can focus on making the most of Ketchikan’s famous fishing grounds.

Because this is a private charter, the day feels much more personal than joining a large group tour. You’ll have more space, more attention from the captain, and the freedom to shape the trip around your interests. There’s also a good chance of spotting bald eagles, whales, seals, and other wildlife while you travel between fishing spots.

We think this is a fantastic choice for couples, families, or groups of friends who want a hands-on Alaskan adventure. Better still, fish processing is included, so you can arrange to take your catch home and enjoy a very memorable souvenir from your time in Ketchikan.

12. Discover Alaskan history at Totem Park (best history tour)

Ketchikan is home to some of Alaska’s richest Indigenous history, and this small-group tour combines both the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to learn more about the destination beyond its wildlife.

Your adventure begins with a guided walk through the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. As you wander beneath towering spruce and hemlock trees, your guide will point out native plants and waterfalls, and explain the fascinating ecosystem that makes this temperate rainforest so unique.

The second half of the tour takes you to Potlatch Totem Park, where you’ll discover the traditions and artistry of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Here, you’ll see beautifully carved totem poles, explore a traditional clan house, and learn about the stories and symbolism behind these remarkable works of art. It’s a fascinating insight into Alaska’s Indigenous cultures and a side of Ketchikan that many visitors don’t experience.

With a maximum of just 11 travelers, the tour feels personal and gives you plenty of opportunities to ask questions throughout the morning or afternoon. We also love that it combines gentle walking with cultural sightseeing, making it a great option for travelers who want to stay active without taking on a strenuous hike!

Related Read: Ketchikan is just the beginning! See our guide to the best Alaska cruise excursions for even more incredible experiences across your Alaska itinerary.

Where to Stay Before or After your Cruise

Most Alaska cruises either start or end in Vancouver or Seattle, so chances are you’ll be passing through one (or both) of these cities. They’re the two main embarkation ports for Alaska itineraries and are well connected with major airports, making them the most convenient options for cruise passengers.

Spending a night or two before or after your cruise is always a good idea. It gives you a buffer in case of delays and lets you explore a bit without feeling rushed. Both cities have great neighborhoods and plenty of restaurants, as well as easy access to their cruise terminals.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Vancouver and Seattle for every budget. All of these options are within easy reach of the cruise ports, so you can keep things simple on travel days! 

Vancouver

Luxury – $$$

The Pan Pacific Vancouver is one of the most iconic hotels in the city, and if you’re cruising from Vancouver, it doesn’t get more convenient than this! The property sits right on top of the cruise terminal at Canada Place, so you can literally walk from the hotel straight onto your ship. Plus, it’s very on-theme, since the hotel is actually designed to look like a ship!

The location alone makes it a top choice for cruise passengers, but the views are just as impressive. Many rooms look out over the harbor, where you can watch ships come and go. There’s also a great setup on-site, including a bar with an outdoor terrace and a spa with a heated outdoor pool overlooking the water.

It’s definitely a splurge, with rooms starting around $500 CAD per night, but for convenience and views, it’s hard to beat. This hotel is so popular, so snag your stay here before rooms sell out!

Mid-Range – $$

EXchange Hotel Vancouver is a great mid-range option if you want to stay close to the cruise terminal without paying luxury prices. It’s located right in downtown Vancouver, just a short walk from Canada Place, so getting to your ship is quick and easy on embarkation day.

The hotel itself is set inside the city’s former stock exchange building, which gives it a bit of character, but the rooms feel very modern. With comfy beds, espresso machines, and rainfall showers, this place offers a nice step up in comfort without going overboard on cost – if you’ll pardon the pun. 

There’s also a stylish restaurant and bar on-site, which is handy if you’re arriving late or just want something easy the night before your cruise. Prices typically sit around $400 CAD in summer and drop closer to $250 in winter, making it a solid value for the location. EXchange Hotel Vancouver is a popular choice with cruise passengers, so it’s worth booking ahead to lock in a good rate!

Budget – $

If you’re cruising from Vancouver on a budget, the YWCA Hotel is one of the best value options in the city! It’s located in downtown Vancouver, about a 15-minute walk or a quick 5-minute drive from the cruise terminal at Canada Place. It’s not quite as close as some of the other hotels, but it’s still very manageable on embarkation day.

The hotel is simple but comfortable, and a great choice if you just need a clean, convenient place to stay before or after your cruise. There’s a shared kitchen on-site, which is ideal if you want to save money on meals, plus free coffee in the mornings and water in the lobby.

You can choose between rooms with a private bathroom or shared facilities, depending on your budget. Prices are usually around $250 CAD in peak season and closer to $150 in the off-season, making it one of the most affordable options near the port. Book your stay at the YWCA Hotel here!

Want more choices? Check out other hotels listed for Vancouver here before you plan your stay!

Related Read: Need help choosing the right area? Explore our full Vancouver neighborhood and hotel guide here.

Seattle

Luxury – $$$ 

Located right across from Elliott Bay, Seattle Marriott Waterfront is a great pick if you’re cruising out of Seattle and want to stay close to the action. It’s within easy reach of the cruise terminals, so getting to your ship is quick and straightforward on embarkation day.

The biggest draw here is the view. Many rooms come with private balconies overlooking the marina, and on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Olympic Mountains. It’s a great spot to soak in those waterfront vibes before or after your cruise.

The location is also ideal for exploring. You’re just a short walk from Pike Place Market, the waterfront piers, and the Olympic Sculpture Park, so it’s easy to fit in some sightseeing. Rooms typically range from $350 to $1,000+ USD per night, depending on the season and view. Check availability and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$ 

Mayflower Park Hotel is a great mid-range option in Seattle, especially if you like a bit of character over modern chain hotels. Built in 1927, it has a classic, old-world feel with traditional décor, but still offers all the essentials for a comfortable stay before or after your cruise.

The location is a big plus. You’re right in downtown Seattle, within a 10-minute walk of Pike Place Market and within easy reach of the cruise terminals, so getting to your ship is simple. There’s also direct access to the monorail, which is handy if you want to visit the Space Needle or Seattle Center.

Prices start at around $200 USD per night but range up to $600 USD during peak season. Find the best prices for the Mayflower Park Hotel over at Booking.com!

Budget – $

While there aren’t many true budget options in downtown Seattle, Ace Hotel is one of the best picks if you’re cruising and want to keep costs down without sacrificing location. It’s less than a mile from Pike Place Market and within easy reach of the cruise terminals, making it a convenient base before or after your trip.

The hotel has a cool, slightly quirky vibe with simple but comfortable rooms. It’s clean, well-rated, and does the job if you’re just looking for a place to sleep without paying for luxury extras. You can choose between rooms with shared bathrooms to save money, or upgrade to a private bathroom for a bit more comfort.

At around $220 USD per night, it’s not ultra-cheap, but for central Seattle, it’s about as budget-friendly as it gets! Grab your room at the Ace Hotel here, before they sell out!

Looking for more options? Browse all the hotels listed for Seattle here!

Related Read: Want a deeper dive? Check out our full guide on where to stay in Seattle here for the best neighborhoods and hotels.

Thanks for reading!

No matter how you want to spend your day in port, Ketchikan has a shore excursion that fits the bill. Whether you’re paddling through quiet coastal waters, soaring above Misty Fjords in a floatplane, searching for whales, or discovering Alaska’s rich Indigenous culture, these experiences let you see a side of Ketchikan that’s impossible to appreciate from the cruise ship alone.

If you’re still planning, be sure to explore our other USA travel guides for detailed port itineraries, hotel recommendations, and more of our favorite tours. We’ve also included some of our most popular destination guides below to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

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