Sitka, Again!

2023 Cunard Queen Elizabeth - 29-Day Transpacific Yokohama to Vancouver

June 12, 2023 (Monday) -- Sitka

This is our second time stopping at Sitka on this cruise and we thought we can go on our own and do our own things this time around. 

There were some people who got on in Vancouver and insisted that they wanted to follow us wherever we go in port. So, we ended up taking them around again with a couple of people doing this again with us even though we were going to take them through the same route. 

After another boring breakfast, I decided to write a note to the Hotel Director about the Asian breakfast situation. Took it to the purser’s desk and dropped it off with the purser. Hoping to be able to make a difference in the breakfast menu.

Hello, Sitka!

The walk to Indian River was pleasant but this time we did not walk over to the Raptor Center since nobody was interested in going in the last time when we were here. Instead, we took the walk through the Totem Trail along the river. Son did that on the last trip on his own after his visit to the Raptor Center and told us that it was a really nice walk. We figured that this is a good chance to see this ourselves. 

I think this is such a beautiful church that I have to take pictures of it every time in port.

Another cruise ship anchored off the shore near the breakwater.

A beautiful sunny day with a new friend from Vancouver.

Crescent Bay

The walk took about half an hour and quite an easy walk along the Indian River out to the sound. Then we waited for 20 minutes so people can check out the museum before walking back into town. 

Totem Trail at the Sitka National Historical Park.

Indian River

No salmon at this time.

The cutes squirrel I have ever seen!

Such a pretty sight!

Indian River meeting the Bay with two cruise ships anchored off.

Many totem poles along the path.

This walk on the trail was definitely worth it and should be a "must-do" when in town. We have been in Sitka many times but this was the first time ever that we have done this. Highly recommended!

Back to see St. Peter's by the Sea. Never get tired of it!

Inside the church.

This is the bus stop that people can take the bus to the Fortress of the Bear.

At least it was when we were there. I've heard that the Fortress is temporarily closed. 

Right at the corner of Lincoln and Lake.

We also took the group to St. Michael’s, Pioneer Square and then Castle Hill before letting everybody go on their own. We were going to have the Fish and Chips at American Legion but unfortunately, they were all sold out. We got two orders of Russian Dumplings for MOR and his sister and brother-in-law to try. Then we went back to the seafood place at the parking lot and got two bowls of seafood chowder ($14 each). Apparently, we got one of the last orders before they were sold out. This was really tasty, creamy with lots of fish and shell fish pieces. This has to be the best chowder we’ve ever had. After the chowder we went and took the shuttle back to the ship.

Back of St. Michael's with the Russian Dumplings place on the right corner.

Inside the Cathedral.

Finally, a family picture.

Lovely music provided by this group.

Pioneers Home

The best seafood chowder here!

Back on board, we went to have some desserts and fruits at the buffet, another late lunch before the Malaysian Dinner at the buffet. Dinner was great with several interesting dishes served, like laksa, fried noodle, etc. Yes, we skipped MDR again. 

Laksa, not the best but good enough.

Tonight, while getting ready for bed, a call came from the chef at the Lido and explained that they will start serving porridge and rice in the morning again. It was so nice of them to take in suggestions and apply them in making guests happy. Thank you Queen Elizabeth!

What a beautiful sight as we sailed out of Sitka!

For video of this day, please click here.

"The tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark."   -- James 3:5