See what treasures the charming port of Sitka holds for guests. Get insider information about Sitka, the area, and the sites you will be seeing, including the Fortress of the Bear Center. Your day begins when you take the free shuttle to the meeting point, upon arriving, you will meet the local vendor and off you go to this exciting adventure!
This small group exploration of Sitka, the former capital of Russian America, starts right from the tender pier area shoreside. Departing the pier area in a comfortable 10-passenger van, you will first drive over the O'Connell Bridge. From the highest point in downtown Sitka, you will get a great overview of this charming town that is only accessible by air or water. No roads lead into Sitka!
On the other side of the bridge, is Japonski Island, which means Japanese in Russian. It was named by the Russians in 1806 after some Japanese fishermen were stranded there and rescued by the Russians living there. In the 1940s, it served as the headquarters for military forces based in Sitka. The surrounding islands contained bunkers and gunning sites, the ruins of a few still exist. Today, it's the location of the Sitka airport, famous for its Russian Borscht soup and homemade pies, and the University of Alaska Southeast.
Driving back through town you will pass by and see the Pioneers Home built in 1913, Sheldon Jackson Museum, St Michael's Cathedral built in the mid-1800s, and the Sitka Sound Science Center as you make your way to the other end of town and the oldest national park in Alaska, Sitka National Historical Park. As you stroll along the path through hemlock and spruce trees you will discover hand-carved wooden Tlingit and Haida totem poles.
After your guided walk along the Indian River, you will drive along Silver Bay to the Fortress of the Bear, North America's biggest bear habitat. Designed as a natural setting for orphaned bear cubs, it also allows you to observe the brown bears from as close as 25 feet (8 meters), observing their play and learning about the habits of these magnificent animals. The staff can answer any questions that you may have about the bears and their rehabilitation at the center.
Throughout the cruise shore excursion, your guide will point out other historical treasures along the way that only a local can provide, always keep an eye out for wildlife and have your camera handy!
Your transportation will then return to the original meeting point where you can take the shuttle back to the cruise pier. Please note we also offer this excursion as private, please click the following link:
Sitka Private Scenic Sightseeing and Fortress of the Bear Excursion
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