Although not as popular as the "big three" Alaska ports — Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway — Sitka is an adventure in its own right. Located on the rugged shores of Baranof Island, Sitka is attracting more cruise ships than ever before, thanks to its brand-new Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal that can accommodate up to two large ships at the same time.
This Pacific coastal city is a nature-lover's paradise. Home to the Alaska Raptor Center and the Fortress of the Bear, it provides insight into Alaska's wildlife in a way that other ports of call can't match.
Sitka has something else that other ports in Southeast Alaska lack: a strong Russian history. The settlement was under Russian control from 1799 to 1867, when it was known as New Archangel. When Russia sold Alaska to the U.S. for $7.2 million in 1867, the transfer ceremony marking the Alaska Purchase took place here.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on The Points Guy Articles.
