Formerly Novo-Arkhangelsk, Sitka has a more a Russian feel than other Alaskan towns with orthodox style buildings and churches. In fact, this was the location where Russia officially sold ‘Russian America’ to the US in 1867 to become what is now the state of Alaska. Sitka also has a deep affinity with the native Tlingit population and preserving culture, nature and history with the Sitka National Historical Park as well as bear and bird sanctuaries.
Things to do in Sitka:
Sitka National Historical Park
Famous for its numerous totem poles scattered among the trees of the scenic woodland, often with your cruise ship visible out in the bay, Sitka National Historical Park is a must for lovers of nature and indigenous history of Alaska alike, complete with woodcarving studio and experts talks.
Alaska Raptor Center
This wildlife sanctuary helps Alaska’s most beautiful birdlife such as owls, golden eagles and the iconic bald eagles as they are rescued and reared back to full rehabilitation. Here, experts give talks and educate visitors all about these impressive animals with flights displays and talks.
Fortress of the Bear
If you had tour heart set on seeing an Alaskan brown bear but didn’t manage to spot one on any tours so far, a trip to this bear sanctuary is a sure way to see some of the state’s most popular wildlife up close and personal.
St Michael's Orthodox Cathedral
The original orthodox cathedral in America, St Michael’s cathedral is a testament to Alaska’s original colonisation by Russia. With classic orthodox architecture typical of the Old Russian Empire, the cathedral displays typical triple crosses, domed roofs and interior artworks.
Icy Strait Point
DAY 422 Jul 2023
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 8 PM
With lush rainforest and vast waters all around, Icy Strait Point boasts beautifully preserved habitats as well as thrilling outdoor activities that cannot be found anywhere else. From whale-watching cruises where visitors are guaranteed to spot the magnificent mammals, to riding the world’s largest ziprider, there’s no shortage of activities the whole family will love. As a privately owned tourist destination it’s also able to support the surrounding Alaskan Native population.
Things to do in Icy Strait Point:
Icy Strait Point Ziprider
Only for the brave, Icy Strait Point’s Ziprider is over 6,500 feet of thrilling fun. At 1,320 feet high, you’ll reach a top speed of 65 miles per hour and witness the unrivalled views across the cliffs and canopies. Your cruise ship will be just a small speck on the horizon from here!
Icy Strait Whale Adventures
With a team of guides born and raised around the waters of Icy Strait Point, you’re guaranteed to spot the majestic whales that reside here. Visiting the most active site of humpback whale activity in Southeast Alaska, this is a truly magical and unforgettable experience.
Yaakw Kahidi Center
Learn more about the fascinating culture of the Hoonah tribes, from exhibits to stories at the Yaakw Kahidi Cultural Center in Icy Strait Point. Taking 1-2 hours to walk around, it’s one of the main attractions in the cruise port.
Skagway
DAY 523 Jul 2023
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 8 PM
Popular for its gold rush era architecture and vintage steam engine route passing through, Skagway is a fantastic jump back into the days of the Klondike Gold Rush with the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Centre. Surrounded by the unrivalled landscapes and inhabiting wildlife of the national park, Skagway paints a spectacular picture of Alaska quite like no other.
Things to do in Skagway:
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center
Walk back in time to the golden age of the Klondike Gold Rush in the old White Pass & Yukon Route depot, and learn all about this unique era that captures the intrigue of all who discover it with presentations, artefact exhibits and even a film.
Skagway Museum
Housed within a building dating back to 1898, the Skagway Museum is a fascinating attraction showcasing an array of exhibits that showcase the history of Skagway.
Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp
This fun and exciting attraction gives you the chance to enjoy Alaskan-caught food over a wood fire, before heading out to explore the old trail camp- where there is an array of vintage clothing and antiques. Within the trail there’s also the opportunity to explore picturesque fields and waterfalls, as well as being able to enjoy some good old fashioned gold panning!
Juneau
DAY 624 Jul 2023
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 8 PM
The capital of Alaska, Juneau boasts a plethora of national parks in its surrounding area, such as Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, teaming with iconic wildlife such as salmon, bears, and bald eagles. The city of Juneau is also well worth a stop in itself with such attractions as the Alaska State Museum and iconic cable car ride for breath-taking views. Visitors will love delectable locally-sourced seafood as well as a range of other cuisines in town.
Things to do in Juneau:
Stephens Passage
Stephens Passage is a shortcut through Southeast Alaska, close by to South Juneau, therefore widely used by ships for many different reasons. Not only this, it’s a popular route for humpback whales and sea lions with plenty of opportunities to spot the mammals.
Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier is 13 and a half miles of towering deeply packed ice over thousands of years. Named after Thomas Corwin Mendenhall, an alumnus of Ohio State University, the glacier tours are available by cruise ship, tour bus and even helicopter.
Tongass National Park
At 17 million square acres, Tongass boasts being the largest national park on US soil. Perfect for exploring via hiking trail or the famous mount Roberts aerial tramway, Tongass National Park has it all when it comes to Alaskan landscapes and wildlife.
Tracy Arm Fjord
Located inside the area of the Tongass National Park and Named in honour of Benjamin Franklin Tracy, Tracy Arm Fjord and Glacier of ice across from Stephen’s Passage is a truly breath-taking experience of nature in motion.
Inside Passage
Cruising through the inside passage of Alaska is a simply a must to see dramatic scenery of mountains, fjords and glaciers, and whales playing in the bay right by your ship, as well as stopping off at the towns of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway.
Glacier Bay
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is a real highlight in any tour of Alaska due to its remarkable wall of ice, as well as surrounding wildlife and natural landscapes where you can see bears and eagles among the dramatic scenery.
Endicott Arm
DAY 725 Jul 2023
Located in New York, the village of Endicott is a small, laid-back place to explore along the Susquehanna River, the 16th-largest river in the United States. In the village itself visitors can find West Endicott Park Carousel, a beautifully preserved attraction built in 1929 which still delights families to this day. As well as this is the Cider Mill Playhouse which has showcased more than 5,000 performances on its stage.
Things to do in Endicott Arm:
West Endicott Park Carousel
A historical park carousel kept inside a pavilion structure. Inside, the grand carousel has 36 figures to ride consisting of a pig and dog and 34 jumping horses along with two chariot places.
Ketchikan
DAY 826 Jul 2023
Time at Port: from 6:30 AM to 1 PM
Ketchikan is famous for the totem heritage museum, educating sightseers about the indigenous populations’ history and culture with an unrivalled display of native totems and artefacts. For those wanting to learn about the gold rush a visit to Dolly’s House Museum and downtown Creek Street is a good comparison along with the great Alaskan lumberjack show. Nature lovers, meanwhile, can enjoy dramatic sights at nearby misty fjords national monument.
Things to do in Ketchikan:
Totem Heritage Center
Boasting one of the most extensive collections of original 19th-century totem poles salvaged from abandoned Tingit settlements. Many other original Native American artefacts are displayed here, as well as traditional arts and crafts workshops being held to keep native skills and traditions alive.
Lumberjack Show
Enjoy a fun-filled lumberjack show filled with tree climbing, log rolling, axe throwing and more. An exciting activity to enjoy in Ketchikan, you’ll feel fully immersed into this North American tradition.
Creek Street
A historic area that’s filled with pretty, stilt houses, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a popular place to visit whilst in Ketchikan. The perfect photo opportunity, the boardwalk is very picturesque.
Victoria, British Columbia
DAY 927 Jul 2023
Time at Port: from 7:30 PM to 11:59 PM
The capital of British Columbia, Victoria sits just below Vancouver looking south and east over the Salish Sea. The city has a number of attractions such as the old carousel, Royal BC Museum Craigdarroch Castle and Chinatown district. However, the highlight of Victoria is its surrounding natural beauty where a tour is a must to Thetic Lake Regional Park. Here, you can explore the wonderful nature by hiking trail and sport wildlife such as eagles.
Things to do in Victoria, British Columbia:
Royal BC Museum
This fascinating natural and human history museum boasts over 7 million exhibits as well as a giant IMAX cinema for out-of-this-world shows. A highlight has to be the exhibitions covering the culture and history of indigenous peoples of North America.
Craigdarroch Castle
Built by Robert Dunsmuir in 1890 with investments in the local coal industry, this Victorian-style mansion is where you can learn all about the family and locals’ fascinating history, while exploring the quirky castle via artefacts displayed in each restored room.
Chinatown District
Originating in 1858, Victoria’s Chinatown is the second oldest in North America after San Francisco. With charming narrow, winding streets, Chinatown offers not only delicious food but an immersive look into the lives of its inhabitant past and present.
Thetis Lake Regional Park
Thetis Lake Regional Park offers pleasant walks around the banks of the lake and gorgeous evergreen woodlands, with easy yet beautiful hiking. Here, you get to spot such species as rainbow trout, red squirrels and the odd fellow hiker’s dog.
Fly to the UK
DAY 9
Arrive in UK - Overnight flight
DAY 10
Customer reviews for Norwegian Sun
3.8
Based on 4 reviews
Cabin
3.8
Service
3.8
Excursions
3.8
Dining
3.8
Activities
3.8
Value for money
3.8
Entertainment
3.8
We were on a cruise to South America starting on the 9th. March, 17, visiting Chile, Falkland Islands and Argentina. Before the cruise, we stayed 3 nights in Santiago, in Santa Lucia District. Its in a Local residential area, full of hotels, bars and restaurants. Its very near the main shopping malls and the place where we stayed in, was quiet at night. We had booked TUR BUS on line before departure from UK and on the day of sailing we took a taxi from Santiago to Valparaiso for the bus to the port. The bus stops well away from the ship port and you have to take a taxi to the port. It costs us$12 in total and worth it.While waiting to check in at the port for ship embarkation, there was no announcement that the ship could not come to the port because the berth was taken up by a cargo ship. After waiting for over three hours, we finally boarded the ship. We have been sailing with NCL over a number of years and have visited almost all the ports of call in USA, Canada and Europe. We have been on this ship before but the facilities have been run down to cut cost. The quality of food did not vary from day to day, the entertainment on the ship was worst than before, there was no parties on the pool deck when on sea or Barbecues as before. Although the staff in general were quite helpful and courteous but watch out for the security check when disemarking at ports. Securitykept on telling the customers to put their DINEROS(loose change) in the small tray she was handing out. When customers put their money in the tray, she said its all right, don't worry about it and she had problems with customers who found it hard to understand why is she saying one thing and then saying don't worry about it. I wanted to go out to the port and handed in my card. She swiped the card and as I was about to go she said wait and after couple of minutes, said you can go. When I asked her for my card, she said that the tender is coming and I have to wait. You can see the problem she has caused and its the customer who is blamed for everything and not the staff. Otherwise the cruise was fantastic and the weather was excellent going round the Cape Horn and very sunny and virtually no wind in Port Stanley. The NCL Sun is more likely to be replaced by NEW ship BLISS but its time for NCL to look at the behavior of their staff towards their customers.We definitely would not sail on NCL Sun again because of poor management, lack of entertainment, which is the worst I have seen on any of the NCL line, the cruise director laughs at his own jokes and does not think outside the box. Its time for NCL to either train their staff to be customer friendly or fire them, get another cruise director and entertainment staff and variety of performers and not the same old performers on the ship coming two or three times doing the same things.
Verified customer
1 cruise
18 Apr 2017
BA flight to Tampa 4/10 Tampa Hotel 7/10 This was our first 'normal' cruise previously done Star Clipper x 2. The advice and suggestion from Saam was spot on, the ship was the right size for us, we saw the Epic in port and that really is too big! The experience was very enjoyable and I have no major complaints. The ship is 14 years old and showing a bit of 'wear and tear'. The main buffet area is OK but like a motor service area, however the food was good and lots of choice, the 'free style' dining definitely worked for us. The speciality restuarants were very good, we tried French, Brazilian and Tepanyaki. The two main restuarants Seven Seas and Four Seasons were generally good, service was great, food was average. Our cabin was great and service A1. The onboard facilities were good, we always got a sun bed and pleanty of room on the decks. The spa was pricey and not good value, sales pitch is quite heavy and it is easy to be 'confused' with the costs. The shows ,jersey Boys & We will Rock You' were amazing, as good as West End shows. The bar service was hit and miss, often slow and not as customer service focused as other services, maybe because they are not on the tip rota? The wifi was very expensive.
Verified customer
1 cruise
20 Jan 2015
Dear all This was our first cruise - we had no expectations and we were not really disappointed. Seasoned cruisers will tell you that the ship was not the best, in fact not good at all compared to other lines and ships. The price we paid, the value was very good. Please be aware that the ship deals in dollars, if the rate for sterling is low everything is v expensive! If you get a good deal - go on the trip - if you are looking for a cruise with all the trimmings - don't bother.
Verified customer
1 cruise
3 Jul 2010
The ship was very clean and the staff overall very good. Some would even help you with opening the heavy doors. Our cabin staff were excellent. Clean towels twice a day and nothing was too much trouble. There were two resident groups singing during our 3 week cruise through the Panama Canal, needless to say they repeated songs on a daily basis and never upped the beat. The food was great, only one comment and that was in the Pacific Heights Restaurant the menu stayed the same for 3 weeks. Not sure why.
*Free at Sea is available on all sailings and for all categories including IX, OX, BX and MX (Guarantee Categories) but applicable terms vary for certain ships and sailings. Upgrade charge depends on cruise length, £149pp for cruises of 6-8 days. Applicable to 1st and 2nd guests sharing a stateroom only (unless otherwise stated) and not valid for 3rd or 4th guests sharing. Friends & family offer available on select sailings only. Single occupants of stateroom paying 200% of voyage fare qualify. Guest cannot substitute or customise this offer and all guests in stateroom must choose same benefits. Full terms and conditions apply.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
