Sitka Lay Days
/June 24–26, 2025 – Sitka Lay Days
Three full days in Sitka—and even with gloomy skies, we had an absolute blast. We played tourist, ran errands, and soaked up all the quirky charm this town has to offer. Here are some highlights from our time ashore:
1. Rent a Car – Totally Worth It
Yes, it’s pricey. Sitka is spread out, and a car turns your visit into a mini road trip. It gave us the freedom to explore everything from the grocery stores to hidden local gems.
2. Provisioning Jackpot
Sea Mart and the Alaska Commercial Company (closest to the harbor) had everything we needed—and then some. After weeks of remote anchorages, it was a treat to roam full-sized, fully stocked aisles again.
ACC grocery is walking distance from the harbor
the SeaMArt Grocery has the best views of sitka sound. But you need a car or cab to visit.
3. Hardware Heaven
Don’t miss Sitka’s Ace Hardware or LFS Maine Supply. Both are well-stocked making boat projects a popular pasttime on the docks.
you can see the ace hardware from the docaks. and today we even briefy saw on of the many mountains that surround sitka
4. Fish Skewers & Stories at Sea Daddy
Sea Daddy might look like a shack, but don’t let that fool you—the halibut and yelloweye skewers were incredible. Karen gave the nod to the yelloweye. Scotty, the owner, is worth the visit alone: part chef, part historian, full-on character.
dpn’t miss sea daddy when you visit sitka
scotty gives a history lesson on the people of sitka along with some current local politics
5. Sitka’s Hidden Wonders – A Must-See Film
This 40-minute documentary by wildlife filmmaker Ben Hamilton is a love letter to Sitka’s rich ecosystem. Stunning footage of whales, bears, herring spawn, sea lions, and even jellyfish. Ben was there to chat before and after the showing. We booked online in advance—worth every penny. www.sitkawonders.com
ben is both talented and personable
6. New Archangel Dancers
A charming 30-minute show celebrating Sitka’s Russian heritage with colorful costumes and traditional dances. Performed by a dedicated, all-female volunteer troupe. It’s been a Sitka tradition since 1969.
they may be all women but they certainly are athletic
that smile never left her face
the costumes were amazing
our mistress of ceremonies, a former dancer and is now alos in charge of the costumes
7. Food & Friends
Dinner at The Galley with our cruising pals from Empress and Escapade was a riot. The next morning’s cinnamon rolls at Wildflour Café were equally memorable. Lunch there is solid, too.
Good food, friendly service and the closest resturant to the harbor
8. Metal Art at The Salty Sitkan – Our Favorite Stop
This class is shop class for grown-ups, taught by real shop teachers. We used grinders, torches, and polishers to create our own metal art—Bob made a sea otter; Karen tried her hand at a humpback whale. Eleven of us in the class, most off cruise ships. A total blast, and we each left with one-of-a-kind creation. Highly recommend!
the plasma tourch cuts out the steel you turn into a work of ark at The Salty sitkan
the workshop stations at upstairs. the bare metal critters hang on the stairs ready for you to choose.
9. Dinner at Beak
We wrapped up our stay with dinner at Beak, joined by Dave from Dagny, a 47’ Nordhavn. Great conversation and great food—classic Sitka.
KAren’s Macadamia crusted halicut at beak
The One Letdown: Petro Marine Fuel Dock
Easy to access, but the staff couldn’t be less helpful. Unlike the excellent Petro experiences in Ketchikan and Petersburg, Sitka’s crew didn’t even bother handing us the hose, let alone coiling it back up. A rare miss in an otherwise awesome stay.