The Sikta Scenic Photography Tour | SITKA SIGHTSEEING

Experience the Sikta Scenic Photography Tour — A Visual Feast in Alaska’s Coastal Treasure

If you’re headed to Sitka, Alaska, and love snapping photos of breathtaking scenery and wildlife, the Sikta Scenic Photography Tour from SITKA SIGHTSEEING promises a memorable 2.5-hour journey. With a high rating of 5.0 based on 7 reviews, this tour stands out for its combination of scenic stops, wildlife encounters, and the chance to get professional-quality images of your trip.

What we really like about this experience is how it caters to both beginners and seasoned photographers alike. Whether you’re just starting out with your smartphone or you own a high-end camera, the guide’s tips and the beautiful vistas make it worth every penny. A potential drawback? The cost, at $190 per person, might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but when you consider the professional edited photos you’ll receive later, the value begins to shine through.

This tour is ideal for cruise passengers, wildlife lovers, and anyone who wants to capture Alaska’s spectacular coastal scenery without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of Sitka’s beauty.

Key Points

• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides like Alexis make the experience engaging and informative.
• Photographic focus: Designed for beginners and pros, with professional edited photos included.
• Scenic stops: Visit iconic spots like Fortress of the Bear, Silver Bay, University of Alaska Southeast, and Halibut Point.
• Wildlife sightings: Opportunities to see bears, whales, salmon, bald eagles, and sea lions.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle pickup with local snacks, limited group size for personalized attention.
• Flexible and family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.

A Detailed Look at the Sikta Scenic Photography Tour

First Impressions and Booking

This tour is especially popular among cruise ship passengers, often booked around 95 days in advance, which speaks to its popularity and perceived value. Priced at $190, it’s an investment in both your memories and your photography skills. Booking includes pickup from the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, making the start seamless, especially after a long travel day.

The Itinerary: A Day of Picture-Perfect Moments

Stop 1: Fortress of the Bear
The tour kicks off at Fortress of the Bear, a sanctuary for orphaned and injured bears. Here, you get up close with rescued grizzly and black bears in a humane environment. The highlight isn’t just the animals but the chance to photograph these magnificent creatures against the lush forest backdrop. The admission is included, making this stop a great value. Reviewers mention they loved the way their guides shared insights about the bears’ stories and conservation efforts, adding depth to the experience.

Stop 2: Silver Bay
Next, you’ll head to Silver Bay, one of Sitka’s most stunning viewpoints. The panoramic vistas of the snow-capped mountains, ocean, and bustling fishing boats provide a perfect canvas for photography. On sunny days, you might even catch whales splashing or salmon leaping, making for dynamic shots. It’s a brief stop but packed with potential for striking images. This stop is free, and many travelers appreciated the “spectacular view” and the chance to see bald eagles soaring overhead.

Stop 3: University of Alaska Southeast
A scenic overlook near the university offers views of Sitka’s main fishing harbors. Here, you may spot sea lions and bald eagles, along with local fishermen heading back from their catches of salmon and halibut. The combination of human activity, wildlife, and mountain scenery makes this an excellent location for both candid shots and scenic photography. Reviewers have noted that this stop provided many opportunities for capturing the authentic Alaskan fishing lifestyle.

Stop 4: Halibut Point Recreation Site
The final stop is at Halibut Point, a rugged, windswept peninsula that reveals the changing tide’s effects—sometimes an island, sometimes a peninsula. It’s a favorite for its tide pools, totem poles, Sitka spruce, and views of Mt. Edgecumbe volcano. The walk along forest trails and rocky beaches offers diverse scenes—from intricate tide pools to panoramic mountain views. On clear days, Mt. Edgecumbe’s volcanic cone makes for a dramatic photo backdrop. Reviewers mention it’s “spectacular at low tide,” emphasizing the picturesque nature of this location.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort despite Alaska’s often cool weather. The small group size—maximum 13 travelers—means more personalized attention from guides like Alexis, who many reviewers praise for her friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable style. She shares photography tips and local stories, enhancing the overall experience.

Food and Extras

Local Alaskan snacks are included, giving you a quick energy boost between stops. While not a gourmet experience, the snacks add a nice touch, especially after a busy morning of sightseeing and snapping photos. Tips are appreciated but not mandatory, reflecting the passionate service provided by the guides.

The Photo Package: What You Get

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is the professional, edited photos delivered within two weeks. This means no more blurry shots or memories lost in the camera roll—you receive polished images to share or print. Past travelers have raved about the quality of these photos, with one reviewer mentioning they “can’t wait to print out their shots.” This value adds a lot to the overall cost, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

Authenticity and Review Highlights

Many travelers have shared that their guides, especially Alexis, made the experience special. Comments like “incredibly friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable” highlight the quality of the guides. Reviewers also appreciated the stunning viewpoints and wildlife sightings, noting that their photos captured the essence of Sitka, including bears, eagles, and the dramatic mountain scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This photography-focused excursion is perfect for cruise passengers wanting a memorable, visually stunning experience with minimal planning. It’s equally suited for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see bears, whales, and eagles in their natural habitat. Because it’s designed for both amateurs and pros, it’s accessible regardless of your skill level. The inclusion of professional photos makes it especially appealing for those wanting keepsakes of their Alaskan adventure.

Final Thought: Is It Worth It?

While $190 might seem a bit steep for a 2.5-hour tour, consider what you’re getting: expert guidance, exclusive access to prime photography spots, wildlife encounters, and professionally edited photos. Past travelers consistently label it as “the highlight of their trip” and praise the stunning views and knowledgeable guides. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines sightseeing, wildlife, and photography—perfect for capturing the magic of Sitka.

This tour offers excellent value if you want a mix of scenic beauty and wildlife, delivered through a comfortable, intimate setting with supportive guidance. Do keep in mind that good weather enhances the experience, so flexibility for possible cancellations is worth noting.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal is included, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

Can I bring my own camera or smartphone?
Absolutely. The guide encourages you to bring your own device to capture the scenery, whether it’s a smartphone or a camera.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering four scenic stops and wildlife encounters.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour’s small group size makes it suitable for families and travelers with mobility needs.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, professional photography, and local snacks. Admission to Fortress of the Bear is also included.

When will I receive my photos?
The professional edited photos are delivered within two weeks after the tour.

What happens if the weather is poor?
If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent for optimal scenery and wildlife viewing.

Final Words

The Sikta Scenic Photography Tour offers an excellent way to see and capture Alaska’s raw beauty with the aid of a knowledgeable guide. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine sightseeing with photography and wildlife watching in a relaxed, small-group setting. Expect to leave with stunning images, new insights into Sitka’s wildlife and landscapes, and memories you’ll cherish for years.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just love snapping pictures on your phone, this tour balances scenic vistas, wildlife encounters, and expert guidance to give you a truly memorable Alaskan experience. It’s a story worth telling—and a visual story you’ll want to relive again and again.