Sitka, Alaska

Much of Sitka’s history is directly related to the rich abundance of marine wildlife in the surrounding waters. Marine mammals were, and still are, an integral part of the Alaska Native Tlingit peoples’ subsistence lifestyle.

The Tlingit traveled in their hand-carved canoes as far away as California to trade the many riches gleaned from the land and sea. Interest in rich sea otter furs brought the Russian traders to Sitka. Russia’s early settlement of Alaska was largely a result of the fur industry. Today, humpback whales and other marine mammals draw thousands of visitors to Sitka while providing an excellent opportunity for biologists to conduct their research.

Getting to Sitka

AIR
Alaska Airlines, one of the west coast’s major carriers (and one of the country’s most highly rated airlines) has never abandoned its tradition of service to rural Alaska. Sitka has a direct flight daily from both Seattle and Anchorage, and a connecting flight to Juneau. Although no competing airline presently serves Sitka, Alaska Airlines periodically offers reduced fares to support the Sitka WhaleFest.

FERRY
Alaska Marine Highway, The southern U.S. terminal is located in Bellingham, Washington (just north of Seattle). Departing from Bellingham, you can expect to stay aboard the ferry for roughly three days and two nights, sleeping either in a cabin, in one of the lounges, or camped on deck. Cafeteria service and showers are available on all ferries, but only the larger boats have private accommodations.

The Juneau to Sitka ferry schedule is convenient for this year’s festival.  

For reservations, more information, or a schedule contact:

Alaska Marine Highway
P.O. Box 25535
Juneau, Alaska 99802-5535
1-800-642-0066 or 747-8737 in Sitka

PRIVATE PLANE
Harris Aircraft Services, offering floatplane and twin engine aircraft service to and from Sitka’s outlying communities. Generously offering special WhaleFest rates to attendees. For scheduling and rates call 907-966-3050.

Where to stay in Sitka?

For more information about Sitka, other accommodations, or other visitor opportunities please contact the Sitka convention and Visitors Bureau or call 1-907-747-5940.  Westmark Sitka is offering WhaleFest participants a discounted room rate of $89 per night.  Mention WhaleFest when you make your reservation or for online reservation click here and enter promotional code WhaleFest, .