Best Things to See in Sitka, Alaska on a Cruise | Virgin Voyages
What makes Sitka one of the most memorable stops on an Alaska cruise? In Episode 3 of our Alaska series, Billy and Michelle spend a full day exploring Sitka, Alaska, beginning among the old-growth forest and salmon-filled waters of Sitka National Historical Park. They walk the Totem Loop before visiting Sheet’ká Ḵwáan Naa Kahídi for a community-led Tlingit performance of dance, song and drum. The day ends with a scenic journey through Silver Bay and out toward Magic Island — bringing together the culture, history and landscapes that make Sitka such a distinctive Alaska destination. For travelers looking for things to see in Sitka, Alaska, this episode explores Sitka National Historical Park, the Totem Loop, Tlingit culture, the Indian River salmon run, Silver Bay, Bear Mountain and Magic Island. Featured Shore Things include Shís’gi Noow: Tlingít Heritage Discovery and Scenic Sitka Shots, offering two different ways to experience Sitka — one centered on cultural heritage and history, and the other on the coastal landscapes and photography opportunities surrounding the city. FAQ: What are some of the best things to see in Sitka, Alaska on a cruise? This episode visits Sitka National Historical Park and the Totem Loop, experiences a community-led Tlingit performance at Sheet’ká Ḵwáan Naa Kahídi, and explores the scenery around Silver Bay, Bear Mountain and Magic Island. Where can you see totem poles in Sitka? Sitka National Historical Park’s Totem Loop features 18 hand-carved totem poles along an accessible forest trail. Can you see the salmon run in Sitka? The Indian River runs through Sitka National Historical Park and is a salmon spawning river. The episode notes that the primary salmon-spawning window is roughly July through September. What is the Tlingit cultural experience featured in the episode? Shís’gi Noow: Tlingít Heritage Discovery includes Sitka National Historical Park and a visit to Sheet’ká Ḵwáan Naa Kahídi, where Sailors experience a community-led performance of Tlingit dance, song and drum. What is the Scenic Sitka Shots Shore Thing (tour)? Scenic Sitka Shots is a small-group photography tour featuring some of Sitka’s scenic locations, including Silver Bay beneath Bear Mountain and Magic Island at Halibut Point, where a natural bridge can be crossed at low tide. Explore more: → Explore Virgin Voyages Alaska sailings: https://www.virginvoyages.com/destinations/alaska-cruises → Explore more Sitka Shore Things: https://www.virginvoyages.com/destinations/alaska-cruises/sitka