Written by Chillie Falls, July 11, 2023
I am continuing with my research for my two Alaska cruises and am really pleased with the selection for disabled travelers, or ambulatory accessible excursions for those like me.
First, in Ketchikan, according to the Ketchikan Gateway Borough website,
Riders With Limited Mobility
For persons using a wheelchair or scooter, or with limited mobility, the full size, fixed route buses have the following features:
- All buses are fully accessible to people use using mobility devices.
- Buses are equipped with ramps, and are also low-floor models that can “kneel,” lowering the first step closer to the curb for easier boarding. Just ask the driver.
- All buses have priority seating areas inside by the door for seniors and riders with limited mobility, plus space for mobility devices.
Riders Who Are Blind or Have Visual Impairments
Major stops and transfer points are announced by the driver over the public announcement system.
ADA Paratransit Service
The Bus provides ADA paratransit service for persons whose disability prevents them from using the fixed-route service. The service operates the same days and hours within ¾ of a mile of fixed routes. View and print the ADA paratransit guidelines. Download and print the application form (PDF).
Other Accessibility Policies
You may travel with your respirator, concentrator, and portable oxygen. Service animals are welcome on board buses and vans and in our facilities. They must be kept under the control of the passenger at all times. Public information is available in alternative formats upon request.
Reasonable Modification Policy
Passengers with disabilities may request modifications to current service procedures to access the service. To make a request, please call us at 225-TRAN (8726) or email the Transit Department. Please submit requests at least the day before the trip. The Bus will not charge additional fees for passengers requiring reasonable modifications.
ADA Complaints
If you have a complaint about the accessibility of our transit system or service, or believe you have been discriminated against because of your disability, you can file a complaint. Download the complaint form (PDF) for the complaints procedures and form. Please provide all facts and circumstances surrounding your issue or complaint so we can fully investigate the incident. If you are unable to complete a written complaint due to a disability or if information is needed in another language we can assist you. Please contact us at 225-TRAN (8726) or email the Transit Department.
Things to do:
Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show:
One of the most popular activities is the excitement of the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. Marvel at the various feats of strength and agility such as log rolling, log cutting, climbing and lots more, all while taking in historical data about the lumberjack lifestyle of old. There is a full concession stand and the venue is completely wheelchair and scooter accessible. It’s only a block from the cruise port so it’s very convenient.
I did this last year, on a scooter. It was completely accessible and a delightful entertaining show.
Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer Cruise (Wheelchair Accessible)
Explore Misty Fjords National Monument, one of nature’s most spectacular creations, while cruising in luxury aboard one of the fastest sightseeing vessels in Alaska. The adventure begins as soon as you leave Ketchikan’s picturesque harbor, passing colorful floatplanes and fishing boats. Enjoy the service and narrative provided by your crew, and watch for marine and coastal wildlife as you cruise at sea level past the rugged coastlines bordering Revillagigedo Channel.
Voyage into Behm Canal, surrounded by the pristine beauty of Misty Fjords National Monument, described by John Muir as the Yosemite of the North. Along the way, you’ll stop to view an active bald eagle nest, a Tlingit pictograph, and New Eddystone Rock — an immense volcanic spire rising from the emerald sea. Delight in an unhurried exploration of Rudyerd Bay — an ice-carved masterpiece deep within the Monument. Here, you’ll learn the natural history of the fjords, listen to the call of nesting seabirds, and feel the mist of glistening waterfalls while gliding quietly beneath 3,000-foot glacier-sculpted cliffs.
On the cruise back to Ketchikan, enjoy a selection of snacks and beverages while watching for whales, seals, eagles and other wildlife.
You’ll also have the opportunity to experience local culture and history presented by a Native storyteller and artist or enjoy a tour-related video presentation.
This tour is the wheelchair accessible version of the standard tour for this port. Only guests using a wheelchair should book this tour as it ensures accessible transportation.
If you are a crab fan, you might want to check out another fantastic adventure that is accessible: the Aleutian Ballad Tour.
On the boat, Aleutian Ballad, you will get a taste of the life of the daring fishermen on “Deadliest Catch” TV show. It’s a very informative and interactive experience with the opportunity to get up close to various forms of sea creatures, crab notwithstanding. The crews onboard are accustomed to accommodating people who use wheelchairs so it’s a comfortable experience for them.
Ketchikan Duck Tour
Begin your Duck adventure with a ‘splash’ as this remarkable amphibian vehicle will take you through the rustic streets of Ketchikan and into the scenic harbor for a fun-filled on-the-water adventure showcasing all the best that Ketchikan has to offer.
See picturesque Whale Park and the salmon ladder; then, stop at Creek Street to learn of Ketchikan’s colorful past and salty beginnings.
Next, you will literally drive into Ketchikan’s bustling harbor for up-close views of local canneries, seaplane docks and Ketchikan’s waterfront community aboard a Coast Guard-certified and -inspected amphibian that doubles as both a boat and a bus.
Saxman Native Village
There are many tours that visit the Saxman Native Village and if you arrive in Ketchikan by cruise ship, you might want to see what they offer as there are varying degrees of immersion in the culture of the Tlingit people.
Every tour will visit the Beaver Clan House, although not all tours will enter the building. Outside, you will find the largest collection of totem poles in the world in Saxman Totem Park. You can learn about the meanings and history of these important parts of the native experience. You might even get to see some of the younger generation demonstrating the carving of such totems.
Creek Street
For something a little different, head over to Creek Street. This is the historic “Red Light” district of Ketchikan and is currently full of shops and other fun points of interest. The area was built on stilts and wooden streets over water as it was too costly to blast through the side of the rock. It’s also a fantastic place to view salmon swimming up the creek during the summer season.
Crab Expedition Wildlife Cruise & King Crab Snack
Embark on a calm, scenic cruise through a passage to the waters of Annette Bay — home to the Tsimshian Native Americans. The maritime predators of Alaska also live along this rocky shoreline — seals swim about, and North American bald eagles dive-bomb the boat to catch fish.
Watch as one of the crew demonstrates the oldest techniques of catching fish. Crabs, prawns, starfish, sea urchins and octopus are brought on board and placed in the live tank for you to view fresh from their natural habitat. Touch and learn about the vast sea life in this North Pacific ecosystem.
As you head back to port, enjoy a half-pound portion of the finest king crab, served picnic style, and listen to the stories of people who spend their lives on Alaska waters.
Notes:
Suitable for guests using a wheelchair. Waterproof jackets and rain ponchos are provided. Bring your own rain gear if you prefer. Wear closed-toe shoes. Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer; bring gloves, a scarf and a warm hat. Bring gloves, a warm hat and a scarf. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. Minimum age is 5 years.