Nestled at the southern edge of Alaska’s Inside Passage, Ketchikan is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. Originally, it began as a humble fishing site for the Tlingit people before witnessing a transformation during the Gold Rush era as it became a bustling hub for timber and the fishing industry. This port town presents an allure that captivates visitors year-round. My recent journey there with my 12-year-old daughter aboard the Discovery Princess cruise ship was a delightful blend of adventure and cultural immersion.
The allure of Alaskan cruises is that they provide travelers with unique opportunities to connect with local cultures and breathtaking landscapes. As Terry Thornton, the chief commercial officer for Princess Cruises, stated, “Each season in Alaska, we strive to deliver enriching experiences for our guests to feel immersed in the beauty and local culture.” Yet, the challenge lies in selecting the right excursion, especially when catered to a specific demographic, as in our case: a pre-teen girl with particular preferences.
Traveling with my daughter, who has two older brothers fond of high-altitude antics and fishing escapades, presented a unique challenge. She often finds herself dragged into activities that don’t appeal to her interests. I was determined to select the ideal excursion from the plethora of options available at the Princess Excursions desk. My daughter’s vegetarian dietary restrictions ruled out certain activities, such as “The Great Lumberjack Show” and “Deadliest Catch Crab Fisherman’s Tour,” which typically featured hearty seafood feasts.
Reflecting on a long yet enjoyable whale-watching experience in Anchorage, my daughter expressed a desire for a shorter, more comfortable itinerary. We finally decided on the “Lighthouse Totems & Eagles Excursion,” an affordable three-hour tour priced at $149.95. This excursion, operated by local company Lighthouse Excursions, allows travelers to engage authentically with Ketchikan’s charming surroundings while also supporting a local business.
The day we set sail, Ketchikan’s skies were a moody slate gray, punctuated by soothing pine scents that filled the air. After boarding a cozy shuttle van at the port, we made our way to Ward Cove, where the Lighthouse Excursions vessel awaited us. The accessibility of this tour was commendable, catering to a wide range of mobility needs, allowing everyone a chance to appreciate the incredible Alaskan vistas.
Stepping onboard, we were greeted by the young and vibrant crew, led by a captain with a background in theater—a delightful coincidence that instantly animated my daughter. Unlike some crowded cruise excursions, the staff on this tour fostered a warm, personable environment, eager to share their pride and excitement about their community.
With an option to choose between the heated cabin and an outdoor observation deck, we commenced our journey into Ketchikan’s renowned waters characterized by lush greenery and rugged landscapes.
As we cruised through one of Alaska’s deep harbors, the mix of fresh air and scenic splendor invigorated our spirits. The crew served generous cups of scrumptious hot chocolate—a special treat considering our shared fondness for this delightful beverage. Alongside this, they provided us with fog-proof binoculars to enhance our wildlife spotting. Enthusiasm surrounded us as we peered at spectacular sights, including the remarkable totems at Totem Bight State Historical Park.
As we gently approached Guard Island, insight was given about its historic lighthouse, operational since 1904, gracing the horizon. During our nautical venture, we were fortunate to observe eagles and their eaglets nestled in their nests, a treasured sight that left us enthralled.
Snacks were artfully prepared, presenting local delicacies such as alder-smoked salmon, salmon dip, and even artisanal chocolate to satisfy our taste buds. Watching my daughter interact with the crew, fully engaged and brimming with excitement while observing the world outside, was a sincere reminder of why these unique experiences matter.
Curious conversations accompanied our cruise; fellow passengers shared tales of adrenaline-pumping adventures, including bear sightings and helicopter rides. However, our gentle excursion felt intimately tailored to our preferences. It allowed us to experience Ketchikan’s enchanting landscape without overwhelming us with extreme activity.
Ketchikan’s charm lies in both its breathtaking scenery and rich culture, and our experience encapsulated the beauty of the region. As we docked back at the port that evening, my daughter’s eyes sparkled with joy, secretly wishing for another chance to dive into Alaska’s surreal world.
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