SITKA WILDLIFE FIELD GUIDE
Sitka Sound Up Close: A Catamaran Window onto Mountains, Fjords and Wildlife
A 1.5-hour expedition catamaran cruise from the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal that showcases rugged coastline, glacial fjords, teardrop islands and wildlife with expert narration and onboard binoculars.
Sitka Sound Up Close: A Catamaran Window onto Mountains, Fjords and Wildlife.
Board a custom-built, state-of-the-art expedition catamaran for a compact, 1.5-hour cruise of the Sitka Sound coastline. From a warm indoor cabin or the outdoor observation deck you’ll take in grand mountains, glacially carved fjords and a scatter of teardrop islands while seasoned captains and deckhands share geological, natural and cultural context and help spot wildlife.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A purpose-built expedition catamaran
This trip runs aboard a custom-built, state-of-the-art expedition catamaran with both a warm indoor cabin and an outdoor observation deck so you can trade shelter for fresh-air viewing as conditions dictate.
Glacial fjords, mountains and teardrop islands
The route threads the rugged Sitka Sound coastline, delivering direct views of grand mountains and glacially carved fjords and a mosaic of small teardrop islands visible from both cabin windows and the deck.
Wildlife sightings with expert narration
Keep your camera ready: the crew provides binoculars and guided interpretation so you can scan shorelines and sea for the area’s wildlife while learning the geological, natural and cultural history from knowledgeable staff.
What the day feels like
What the 1.5-hour cruise feels like
After a short walk from your ship you’ll board a friendly crewed catamaran and settle into either the heated cabin or the outdoor deck. The pace is observational and narrated: crew point out geological features, cultural notes and likely wildlife haunts while passengers scan shorelines through provided binoculars or with cameras held ready.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits — and what to consider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
All tours meet on the lower promenade of the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal by the large wooden 'Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal Sign.' Customer Service Representatives will be holding signs for your tour departure—check in with them for instructions.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled trip time to allow for check-in and boarding.
Plan for a short walk from your ship to the custom-built expedition catamaran; crew will assist with boarding logistics.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where is the meeting point for the cruise?
Meet on the lower promenade of the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal by the large wooden 'Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal Sign' and check in with Customer Service Representatives holding signs for your tour.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise duration is 1.5 hours.
What will we see on the cruise?
Expect views of rugged coastline, grand mountains, glacially carved fjords and numerous teardrop islands, with opportunities to spot wildlife from both the cabin and observation deck.
Is there indoor seating on the boat?
Yes — the catamaran features a warm indoor cabin as well as an outdoor observation deck.
Are binoculars provided?
Yes — the crew provides binoculars for shoreline and wildlife viewing.
When should I arrive before departure?
You should arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled trip time to check in and board.