Sitka’s best tours focus on two main strengths: incredible marine wildlife and authentic Native Alaskan culture. I love the whale-watching trips – they’re intimate affairs where you’ll often spot humpbacks breaching within yards of your boat. The cultural walking tours through the historic district are another gem, offering real insights into both Russian colonial and Tlingit history.
For active travelers, the guided snorkeling excursions and off-road adventures provide thrilling ways to experience Alaska’s wilderness. Hot springs boat tours combine scenic sailing with a relaxing soak – a perfect combo. What makes these tours special is the local guides who know their stuff and keep groups small.
Let’s look at my favorite Sitka tours worth your time and money.
Good To Know
- For intimate whale watching experiences, the 5-star rated private tour around Baranof Island provides a flexible itinerary to spot orcas, seals, and otters.
- The guided cultural and natural heritage tours offer small-group explorations of key sites like the Fortress of the Bear and Totem Park, with insightful commentary.
- Snorkeling adventures with a maximum of 10 participants allow you to swim alongside marine life such as octopus, rockfish, and anemones.
- Comprehensive shore excursions combine wildlife encounters with visits to attractions like the Raptor Center and Totem Park, with round-trip transportation provided.
- Highly rated tours emphasize personalized experiences, knowledgeable guides, and access to Sitka’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Amazing Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Shore Excursion
For those seeking an up-close and personal encounter with Sitka’s diverse marine wildlife, the “Amazing Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Shore Excursion” offers an unforgettable experience.
This 2-hour tour departs from the Harrigan Centennial Hall, Visitors Dock at Crescent Harbor, providing guests with a chance to spot humpback, Minke, and gray whales, as well as otters, sea lions, and a variety of birds.
The small group size of 24 passengers ensures an intimate experience aboard the 24-foot vessel, with live commentary from the knowledgeable guide.
Past travelers have praised the tour’s high-quality sightings, including witnessing whales with their calves, as well as a rare encounter with a brown bear and her cubs.
While the weather can impact the sightings, the overall consensus is that this tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Sitka, with 90% of travelers recommending it.
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Sitka Shore Excursion With Fortress of the Bear and Totem Pole
Although Sitka boasts an array of captivating tours, the “Sitka Shore Excursion With Fortress of the Bear and Totem Pole” stands out as a comprehensive way to explore the city’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
This small-group shore excursion, limited to just 10 people, offers a 2-hour tour of Sitka’s key sites, including the Sheldon Jackson Museum, Alaska Pioneer Home, St. Michael’s Cathedral, Fortress of the Bear, and Sitka National Historical Park.
Visitors will marvel at the scenic route, which showcases the O’Connell Bridge, Japonski Island, and Silver Bay, while learning about Sitka’s role in World War II and the salmon life cycle.
The tour’s highlight is the Fortress of the Bear, the largest bear reserve in North America, where guests can view rescued wild bears in a naturalized setting.
With a 4.5-star rating and positive reviews praising the knowledgeable and friendly guides, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy Sitka’s rich history and stunning natural beauty.
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Small-Group 3-Hour Snorkeling Tour of Sitka Sound
Departing from the cultural exploration of Sitka’s landmarks, adventurous travelers can enjoy the city’s vibrant marine life through the Small-Group 3-Hour Snorkeling Tour of Sitka Sound.
This highly-rated excursion offers a 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, inviting guests to discover the underwater wonders of Alaska’s coastal waters. With a maximum group size of 10, participants can expect an intimate experience as they snorkel alongside octopus, rockfish, and anemones.
The tour provides all necessary equipment, including semi-dry suits to keep guests warm in the chilly Alaskan temperatures. Transportation to the snorkeling spot is included, and complimentary coffee and tea help participants stay cozy.
While strong swimming skills are recommended, the tour’s attentive guides ensure the safety and enjoyment of all. Reviewers praise the tour’s exceptional guides and the unparalleled beauty of snorkeling in Alaska, making this a must-do adventure for active, nature-loving travelers.
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Sitka Shore Excursion: Whale-Watching and Marine Life Tour
The Sitka Shore Excursion: Whale-Watching and Marine Life Tour provides an intimate and captivating glimpse into the abundant wildlife of Alaska’s coastal waters. Aboard a 26-foot Glacier Bay catamaran, adventure-seekers can spot humpback and gray whales, sea lions, seals, porpoises, sea otters, and over 280 bird species.
With a maximum capacity of 6 passengers, this 2-hour tour offers a personalized experience led by an expert local captain who provides live commentary on the marine life. Guests can enjoy the scenic views from the indoor and outdoor viewing decks while staying comfortable in the heated boat.
The tour includes bottled water and gratuities, ensuring a worry-free shore excursion. Although not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness required is well worth the opportunity to witness the region’s natural wonders.
With a 94% recommendation rate and 4.8-star rating, this tour is a highlight for many travelers visiting Sitka.
Read our full review: Sitka Shore Excursion: Whale-Watching and Marine Life Tour Review
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Guided Walking Tour in Totem Park NATIONAL PARK
Visitors can embark on a captivating 30-minute guided walking tour through Sitka’s Totem Park National Historical Park, which offers a unique glimpse into the region’s Tlingit culture and Russian history.
The tour boasts an impressive 4.7 overall rating from 40 reviews, with 93% of travelers recommending it. During the guided hike, visitors will learn about the park’s significance as a former battle site and explore a collection of 30 totem poles from southeast Alaska.
The tour also provides insight into the indigenous Tlingit people and their traditions, as well as Sitka’s fishing history and current sustainable fishing research.
The tour includes an umbrella, a resident guide, all fees and taxes, as well as local tips for restaurants and further exploration.
Cruise passengers can take the free shuttle to downtown Sitka and then walk 14 minutes to the Visitor Center, where the tour begins and ends.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and accommodates a maximum of 25 travelers per group.
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Sitka Shore Excursion: Bears, Raptor Center, & Totem Park Tour (Small Group)
Situated in the picturesque coastal town of Sitka, this comprehensive half-day shore excursion offers visitors a captivating exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Accommodating a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour takes guests to the Fortress of Bears, Raptor Center, and Totem Park, providing an up-close encounter with native wildlife and the rich indigenous history.
Highlights include observing the majestic Sitka bears and impressive raptors, as well as a guided tour of the impressive totem poles and a chance to witness the seasonal salmon run.
With round-trip transportation from the cruise port, all entrance fees, and gratuities included, this small-group tour provides exceptional value for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows infants to join.
Read our full review: Sitka Shore Excursion: Bears, Raptor Center, & Totem Park Tour (Small Group) Review
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Sitka Sightseeing Tour Including Fortress of the Bear and Totem Poles
This comprehensive 2-hour Sitka sightseeing tour invites travelers to discover the city’s captivating history, natural wonders, and rich indigenous culture.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the small-group tour takes visitors on an immersive journey, starting with a scenic drive to landmarks like the Sheldon Jackson Museum and St. Michael’s Cathedral.
On Japonski Island, guests learn about Sitka’s role in World War II before exploring the Sitka National Historical Park, home to towering Tlingit and Haida totem poles.
The tour culminates at the Fortress of the Bear, North America’s largest bear reserve, where visitors can observe rescued orphaned bear cubs in their naturalized settings.
Throughout the experience, travelers may spot bald eagles and other local wildlife, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Accessible by stroller but not wheelchair, the tour provides a personalized experience for up to 10 people.
With complimentary gratuities and free cancellation, this highly-rated sightseeing excursion offers an excellent way to take in Sitka’s unique heritage and natural beauty.
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Best Whale Watching and Wildlife Shore Excursion in Sitka
Captain Rick’s Best Whale Watching and Wildlife Shore Excursion in Sitka offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the captivating marine life of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest.
Boasting a 100% recommendation rate from 64 reviews, this 5-star excursion provides a personalized small-group experience at a price of $225 per person.
Guests are treated to private transportation, onboard amenities like snacks and drinks, and a heated cabin with outdoor viewing.
Captain Rick’s expertise ensures stellar wildlife sightings, including whales, sea otters, eagles, and sea lions.
The tour’s unique selling point is its more intimate nature compared to larger cruise ship excursions, allowing for a deeper connection with the local environment.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it accepts collapsible wheelchairs and service animals.
Certain medical conditions may make the moderate mobility required inadvisable.
The excursion’s rave reviews and Badge of Excellence designation make it a must-do activity for visitors to Sitka.
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Sitka Premium Tour- Private- Alaska Raptor Center, Fortress of the Bears,Totems
The Sitka Premium Tour is a private excursion that takes visitors on a captivating journey through the natural wonders of Sitka, Alaska. This highly acclaimed tour, with a 100% traveler recommendation, includes visits to the Alaska Raptor Center, the Fortress of the Bears, and local totem sites.
Accommodations are provided, and travelers can enjoy the tour in a spacious Nissan Armada SUV with room for up to 7 guests. The tour’s starting and ending point is the Harrigan Centennial Hall, with free downtown shuttles available to meet for the tour.
Included in the tour are food, drinks, and gratuities for great service. Guests should dress appropriately, as the tour operates in all weather conditions, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Priced at $834.00 per group of up to 7 people, the Sitka Premium Tour offers a low price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
With its convenience, inclusive offerings, and exceptional reviews, this tour is a must-consider for those seeking an immersive Sitka adventure.
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Private Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Tour
For those seeking a more intimate encounter with Sitka’s diverse marine life, the Private Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Tour offers a customized excursion.
This 5-star rated tour allows guests to explore Baranof Island at their own pace, with a dedicated boat and captain to guide them. The flexible itinerary provides opportunities to spot orcas, seals, otters, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
With personalized commentary from the local captain, travelers can learn about the area’s unique ecology while enjoying less crowded views from the private boat. Departure times are adjustable, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included for convenience.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those in wheelchairs, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Priced at $1,095 per person, this immersive wildlife experience has been described as “life-changing” by past participants who witnessed an abundance of marine creatures.
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Inside Waters Wildlife and Scenery Tour
What better way to take in Sitka’s breathtaking natural wonders than the Inside Waters Wildlife and Scenery Tour? This 5-star rated excursion takes adventurers on a personalized journey through the area’s mesmerizing waterways.
Led by the knowledgeable guide Sam, guests can expect to encounter a menagerie of wildlife, including sea lions, sea otters, bald eagles, whales, and salmon. The smaller boat provides exclusive access to hidden coves and fishing spots that larger vessels can’t reach, offering an unparalleled up-close experience.
Travellers rave about the tour’s scenic highlights, from misty islands to sunken ships, and the exceptional service provided by Sam. With life jackets, snacks, and drinks included, participants can fully focus on soaking in the breathtaking vistas and learning about the local environment.
Whether you’re seeking an awe-inspiring wildlife viewing or a tranquil escape into nature, the Inside Waters Wildlife and Scenery Tour delivers an incredible adventure in Sitka.
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Hiking Tour in Sitka, Alaska
Hikers seeking to enjoy Sitka’s natural splendor will find the Hiking Tour in Sitka, Alaska an exceptional choice. Operated by Alpenglow Adventures Sitka, this private tour boasts an outstanding 5.0 rating from 17 reviews, with 100% of travelers recommending the experience.
The tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the hiking adventure, such as trekking poles, snacks, bottled water, and private transportation. Customers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the scenic hikes with beautiful views, including destinations like Beaver Lake and Harbor Mountain.
Compared to group hikes offered by cruise lines, this private tour provides a more personalized experience, with only your group participating.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, though the experience is non-refundable.
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Sitkas Only Private Simply Amazing Tour
Sitka’s Only Private Simply Amazing Tour offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the natural wonders and cultural heritage of this Alaskan gem.
Guests will explore major destinations, including the Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor Center, and Sitka National Historical Park, while encountering local wildlife such as bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, bears, and possibly whales.
At the Fortress of the Bear, guests can get close to rescued bears, while the Alaska Raptor Center provides an opportunity to observe rehabilitated eagles, owls, and other birds of prey.
The tour also includes a stroll through the rainforest and a viewing of the iconic totem poles at Sitka National Historical Park.
Logistics are seamless, with transportation provided by an air-conditioned passenger van and flexible pickup locations.
Priced at $1,195 for up to 10 guests, this tour offers an exceptional value and consistently high guest satisfaction, with a 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews.
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Sitkas Favorite Sites Private Land Tour
The Sitka’s Favorite Sites Private Land Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top attractions and hidden gems. Priced at $1,399 for a group of up to 7 people, this tour provides an immersive experience with a blend of local cuisine and guided storytelling.
Highlights include a visit to the Fortress of the Bear and a meal at the Misfit Island Cafe, with flexible pickup options to suit your needs.
The tour’s accessibility caters to a range of travelers, with stroller access and accommodations for guests with mobility impairments. However, it’s not suitable for young children requiring car seats.
While the reviews are mixed, with some guests finding the itinerary confusing, the tour guide’s adaptability and the memorable experience at the Fortress of the Bear have been praised.
The tour is fully refundable if the ship doesn’t make port, ensuring a hassle-free experience for cruise passengers.
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Private Boat Tour to Hot Springs in Alaska
For those seeking a more intimate exploration of Sitka’s natural wonders, the Private Boat Tour to Hot Springs in Alaska offers an unforgettable experience.
This private tour allows you and your group to embark on a scenic journey, starting at 8:00 am, aboard a private boat. During the tour, you’ll have access to two kayaks for exploring the surroundings up close. The boat is equipped with a restroom, ensuring your comfort throughout the adventure.
The tour includes private transportation, landing and facility fees, as well as gratuities, making it a hassle-free experience. Pickup is available within Sitka, and the meeting point is at Eliason Harbor, where you’ll find Captain Andrew and the boat, Karmon Dee.
The tour ends back at the same location. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it does welcome service animals, and infants can sit on laps. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as there are no restrictions for heart problems or serious medical conditions.
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Private Adventure 4×4 Truck Tour of Your Choice in Sitka
Offering an exhilarating way to explore Sitka’s rugged terrain, the Private Adventure 4×4 Truck Tour of Your Choice provides an immersive and customizable experience.
With a price of $999 for up to 4 guests, this private tour includes transportation, 2 admissions to local attractions, and a seasonal lunch selected by participants. Guests can be picked up from various locations, and the tour ends at a different spot, ensuring a comprehensive exploration.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required to climb into the truck.
With an overall rating of 4.5 based on 2 reviews, the tour receives praise for its personalized experiences and friendly guides, who help guests maximize their time to see wildlife and natural wonders.
Careful planning and clear communication with the guide are essential for an optimal experience.
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The Sum Up
Sitka offers an array of captivating tours that showcase its natural wonders. From whale-watching excursions to snorkeling adventures, visitors can enjoy the area’s diverse marine life. Guided walking tours provide insights into Sitka’s rich cultural heritage, while private tours offer personalized experiences, whether by boat, 4×4 truck, or on foot. With so many options, travelers are sure to find the perfect way to explore this scenic Alaskan destination.