Sitka Cruise Guide

This charming sea-side city is considered by many to be the ‘Jewel of the Inside Passage'. The community is located on Baranof Island, which is nestled between forested mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Sitka takes its name from the Tlingit term, ‘Shee-Atika', which roughly translates as ‘settlement on the outside of Shee'. Russia established a settlement in 1804 and stayed until the sale of Alaska in 1867. Sitka is a treasure trove of Tlingit, Russian and United States history.

Sightseeing

Sitka's mild climate and richly diverse environment make it an excellent place to view wildlife. In the late autumn and early spring, the waters surrounding Sitka are an ideal feeding ground for humpback whales. Sea lions, sea otters and other marine wildlife can also be spotted. Fishing is a popular activity for visitors with Sitka boasting the highest saltwater sport fishing catch rate in the nation. Kayaking, underwater exploration and hiking are popular ways to enjoy the wildlife and nature.

Highlights
• Alaska Raptor Center
• Sitka National Historical Park
• St Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral
• Castle Hill
• Sheldon Jackson Museum

Tourist Information

Sitka Convention and Visitors Bureau
303 Lincoln Street, Suite 4, Sitka, Alaska 99835, USA
Tel: +1 90774 75940.
Website: www.sitka.org

Shopping

Unique Alaskan products and crafts include: gold nugget and amber jewellery; items carved from jade, stone and bone; hand-painted clothing and toys; and woven baskets of beach grass, bark and baleen. Native-made carvings, beaded jewellery and miniature hand-carved totem poles are also popular souvenirs.

Eating Out

Salmon, halibut, crab and clam chowder are popular choices. Alaskan delicacies include smoked salmon, wild berry products and reindeer sausage.

When To Go

May through September is the most popular time to visit.

Transfer Times

Nearest Destination

Sitka.

Transfer Time

15-20 minutes tender ride, followed by 5-10 minutes walk.

Key Facts

Region

Alaska

Time Zone

GMT - 9.

Currency

US Dollar (US$) = 100 cents.

Language

English.

Location

Alaska, north of Canada and not connected to mainland USA.

Population

8,640.

Government

Federal Republic since 1789. Gained independence from the UK in 1776.

Religion

Protestant, with Roman Catholic and Jewish minorities.

Social Conventions

Americans are renowned for their openness and friendliness to visitors. Shaking hands is the usual form of greeting. A relaxed and informal atmosphere is usually the norm. As long as the fundamental rules of courtesy and respect are observed, there need be no fear of offending anyone of any background.

Gifts are appreciated if one is invited to a private home. Casual dress is accepted in all restaurants and clubs, unless a special occasion is planned. Smoking is increasingly unpopular in the US; it is essential to ask permission before lighting up. Smoking is not allowed on city transport and restricted or forbidden in public buildings. There will be a posted notice where no smoking is requested.

Tipping:
Widely practised, as service charges are not usually included in the bill and waiters depend heavily on tips for their income. Waiters generally expect 10 to 15% gratuity. It should be noted that a cover charge is for admission to an establishment, not a tip for service.
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