Today's Featured Cruise Port of Call--Sitka AK

The picture that you see to the left is a sunset in beautiful Sitka Alaska, taken on my last visit there in 2004.

Sitka is a town of multiple heritage--Russian, American and Tlingit--and well worth a visit. Sitka is accessible only by air or by water. Since this is primarily a cruise related publication, we will address the water borne possibilities of your visit to Sitka.

Sitka can be reached either by cruise ship (several cruise lines include Sitka as a port of call) or by a trip on the Alaska Marine Highway, which is an inter and intrastate ferry line, and which serves Sitka with three different types of vessels--large coastal ferries, smaller intervillage/interisland vessels, and a fast ferry from Juneau that runs several times per week.

Things to See While in Sitka:

• Sitka National Historical Park: On the site of the Battle of 1804--fought between the Russians and the Tlingit peoples--this park houses a number of both historical and modern totems, craft workshops with demonstrations by local artisans, and spectacular scenery.
• "The Russian Bishop's House": Constructed in 1842 for the local Russian Orthodox bishop, this house has been restored to nearly original condition, and is one of only a few surviving structures from the years of Russian occupation of Alaska. There is a museum in the lower portions of the building, and the living quarters upstairs are furnished with period pieces.
• Alaska Raptor Center: The Center was created as a place where injured birds of prey could be brought for restorative veterinary care. Once treated, they are released back to the wild or, if that is not possible, placed in an appropriate zoo setting or kept in the inhouse collection. The birds can be seen up close in several different exhibits and lecture settings. Well worth the visit.
• St. Michael's Cathedral: A "working" Russian Orthodox church, St. Michael's is open to the public during weekday hours (9 am to 4 pm) in the summer time. There are a number of classic icons. A donation of $2 per person is requested.
• Sitka Tribe Dancers: Dance performances are held at the community center, and include at least three dances and an oral history during a 30 minute show. One can also sign up for tours and other activities in the lobby while there.

Sitka is well worth the visit. Make your plans today, and seek the assistance of a travel agent knowledgeable about the area.