Ketchikan Cruise Ship Docks — Attraction in Ketchikan

MUCH smaller Embarkation/Debarkation venue than normal. We were Embarkating on HAL's Nieuw Amsterdam.

Only two Xray security lines, two persons checking in 4,5 star & Orange passengers, & not that many more checking regular passengers. But, we moved really fast because the place is only about 40' (if that) deep front to back. And, the ship is right there out back door, maybe 20' feet, just across the dock. Read the signs; don't follow the crowd. They were trying to use crew hatch; the passenger's hatch was immediately out door.

You basically walk in front door, put carry-on's on X-ray belt, go check in, & walk on ship. Boom, boom, boom! Took maybe 15 minutes tops! We'd turned in our bags night before at Denali lodge, and they were awaiting us in our cabin. Truck they were on left before our bus; probably did not stop (as we did) for lunch.

We'd got lucky, we'd got through the tunnel at 1530, so there were few people (just two bus loads) trying to get checked in. The train is probably nearly bedlam with hundreds. So, there is Something to consider when leaving Anchorage or Denali. Yes, you can get food on the train and drinks too, & there are restrooms. Only a restroom on coach. Same scenery, road & tracks are usually within sight of each other.

But, the Cruise Ship Dock Center is fast & 'cute!' [Wife's description]. I have no idea if they have facilities (probably), but as fast as we got on ship, we had our own bathroom as soon as we walked to it. So never...

The Ketchikan Cruise Ship Docks are the bustling gateway to one of Alaska’s most iconic coastal towns. Situated right in the heart of the city, they provide convenient access for passengers to explore Ketchikan’s unique charm, from its historic Creek Street to the vibrant waterfront shops and galleries. The docks themselves are well-maintained, with clear signage, helpful staff, and easy boarding and disembarking procedures that make the flow of cruise passengers smooth and efficient.

From the docks, visitors are immediately treated to scenic views of the harbor, framed by forested hills and colorful buildings, with seaplanes and fishing boats adding to the lively maritime atmosphere. For photographers, it’s a perfect spot to capture the mix of industry and natural beauty, with ever-changing light reflecting off the water.

Whether you’re stepping off for a day of excursions, kayaking, or exploring local culture, the Ketchikan Cruise Ship Docks offer a welcoming and organized starting point for your...

WONDERFUL AS ALWAYS. ESPECIALLY SO, SINCE WE MISSED LAST YEAR. A LOT QUIETER THAN IN PREVIOUS YEARS DUE TO SAILING SO LATE IN THE SEASON. AND COVID OF COURSE. EVERY STORE AND RESTAURANT WE VISITED, THE PEOPLE WERE GREAT AND HAPPY TO SEE US. LOOKING FORWARD TO RETURNING NEXT YEAR. THANKS TO THE WONDERFUL LADIES AT THE CHRISTMAS STORE, WE NEVER MISS IT. YOU ALWAYS SEEM TO HAVE SOMETHING WE CAN'T DO WITHOUT. THE ALASKA FISH HOUSE, FIRST TIME THERE, FOOD WAS GREAT AND THE LIVE MUSIC WAS UNEXPECTED AND MOST ENJOYABLE, ESPECIALLY FOR OUR 29TH ANNIVERSARY. OUR FAMILY LOVED IT TOO. OF COURSE WE CAN'T EVER LEAVE KETCHIKAN WITHOUT A TRIP TO TONGASS TRADING FOR ALL THE RIGHT GIFTS TO TAKE HOME. THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR ALWAYS MAKING IT A FUN STOP, SEE...