Disney Cruise to Alaska – Ketchikan

Ketchikan!  I saved the best for last.

We were up early to watch the ship pull into port in Ketchikan.  Today, we were very fortunate that the weather was dry and the sun was shining for most of the day.  And as luck would have it, the ship docked right in the center of town.

If you’re interested in Totem Poles, you won’t be disappointed.  There are many to see and the choices for purchase are almost overwhelming.  If you are serious about purchasing one to bring home, the people running the shops will be able to explain what they mean and provide information about the native artists.  Most of the totem poles we saw were being sold through a company called Alaska Black Diamond from Ward Cove, Alaska.  I’d never heard of this place.  
You can purchase this one.

Totem in Whale Park near the center of town.

Totem outside the Tongass Historical Museum.
Our excursion was in the afternoon so we spent the morning exploring Ketchikan.  It’s a walkable adventure.  Creek Street was once a red light district but now its filled with interesting shops selling local artisan goods. 

In the afternoon, we headed out for our Lighthouse, Eagles, and Totems excursion.  We boarded the motorcoach from the ship and it drove us north of Ketchikan to Ward Cove where we boarded our boat for our tour.  I love the irony of this.  Now when people ask about my totem from Alaska, I can say I’ve been to Ward Cove.

During our tour, we saw a traditional clan house and many totem poles including Fog Woman at Totem Bight State Park.

Totem Bight State Park
Fog Woman

We hung out with the locals….

Remember to bring a camera with a big lens, there are so many eagles but they’re usually up in the trees.  There were even two eagles sitting on top of the lighthouse.  Without a powerful lens, all your eagle photos will look like this.

Guard Island Lighthouse

After the tour, we returned to the port with enough time for more shopping!

The last day of our Alaska cruise was a day at sea.  We spent the day up on the top deck enjoying the view.

This cruise was so amazing.  It was wonderful to see so much pristine wilderness.  I would love to go back to Alaska.