Nestled at the southern edge of Alaska’s Inside Passage, Ketchikan presents a delightful blend of history and natural beauty. Originally inhabited by the Tlingit people, this picturesque city has undergone a remarkable transformation from a fishing camp to a bustling hub that experienced a booming Gold Rush, followed by robust timber and fishing industries. Recently, my daughter and I had the pleasure of visiting this charming town as part of a week-long cruise on the Discovery Princess, an adventure designed to help visitors discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage that Alaska has to offer.
Terry Thornton, the Chief Commercial Officer of Princess Cruises, emphasizes the commitment to delivering meaningful experiences for guests during their Alaskan excursions. However, selecting the right activity from the numerous available options can often prove daunting, particularly for those traveling with children. My adventure was no different as I sought to find an excursion that would not only be enjoyable for me but would also resonate with my 12-year-old daughter, who, after years of tagging along on her brothers’ more strenuous outings, was yearning for something uniquely captivating.
Choosing the Perfect Excursion
With my daughter’s vegetarian lifestyle shaping our choices, we quickly ruled out options that involved seafood, such as “The Great Lumberjack Show & Axe Throwing Challenge & Crab Feast” or the “Deadliest Catch Crab Fisherman’s Tour.” Our past experience with whale watching in Anchorage was both thrilling and lengthy, leading my daughter to request a shorter, cozier adventure. After reviewing the multitude of excursion options through the Princess Excursions desk, we decided on the “Lighthouse Totems & Eagles Excursion,” a delightful three-hour journey priced at a reasonable $149.95. Coordinated by Lighthouse Excursions—a local company with a long-standing reputation since 2001—this tour promised an intimate glance at Ketchikan’s stunning scenery and wildlife.
Our journey began at Ward Cove, where we boarded the Lighthouse Excursions vessel, a cozy little boat perfect for small groups. The atmosphere was welcoming, underlined by the enthusiasm of the captain and crew, many of whom were locals eager to share their love for Ketchikan. The captain, who had once dabbled in theater, delighted my daughter, who identifies herself as a “theater kid.” This light-hearted connection instantly made our excursion feel personal and inviting, unlike other crowded cruise activities.
Navigating through the majestic, dark-green waters surrounded by forested peaks, we were invited to either relax indoors in the heated main cabin or step out onto the observation deck to enjoy the brisk sea air. As we began our journey, the overcast skies set a moody atmosphere, enveloping us in the tranquil beauty of Alaska’s wilderness.
The excitement of the adventure heightened as the crew served us hot drinks, including richly flavored hot chocolate—an instant hit with both my daughter and me, garnering a perfect score of 11 out of 10. The staff provided waterproof binoculars for wildlife spotting, as we cruised along the coastlines of Revillagigedo and Gravina Islands. We marveled at the iconic bald eagles soaring above and the breathtaking views of Totem Bight State Historical Park, adorned with magnificent Tlingit and Haida totem poles.
As we approached Guard Island, the charming lighthouse from 1904 stood tall against the rugged landscape, its continued operation a reminder of the area’s maritime history. While other families aboard managed their spirited toddlers, our excursion was paced perfectly for our small group—an aspect I particularly appreciated.
Throughout the cruise, we were treated to locally sourced snacks such as smoked salmon, bull kelp pickles, and artisanal chocolate. These delicacies not only satisfied our taste buds but also showcased the local cuisine, allowing us to enjoy a unique flavor of Ketchikan. As we spotted eagles and eaglets nestled in their treetop nests, my daughter’s enthusiasm radiated as she made her way to the bow of the boat. There, she excitedly trained her binoculars on the vibrant waterfront homes and rustic cabins, truly captivated by this beautiful corner of the world.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we returned to the Discovery Princess, filled with stories and experiences that would linger in our hearts. Our fellow cruisers recounted their own fishing exploits and encounters with bears, leaving us in awe of Alaska’s thrilling mysteries. Laid-back yet rich in adventure, our excursion through Ketchikan became an unforgettable family retreat that highlighted the state’s enchanting beauty.