ABOUT US
Who We Are
We are proud to be part of Cape Fox Corporation (CFC), a community that traces its roots to the Saanya Kwaan, or “People of the Southeast Wind,” whose ancestors settled along the Alaska Panhandle thousands of years ago. After relocating from Cape Fox Village to Saxman in the early 20th century, our community has long relied on the abundant natural resources of Southeast Alaska for livelihood.
Through the challenges of colonialism and discrimination, our people persevered. The passage of the Anti-Discrimination Law in 1945 and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 marked pivotal milestones in ensuring equality for Alaska Natives. The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) further empowered our community, leading to the establishment of CFC.
Today, we proudly preserve our cultural heritage through art, language, and education while providing economic opportunities for our shareholders. Our work spans tourism, hospitality, timber harvesting, real estate, and more. We remain deeply connected to our heritage and are honored to share the beauty and history of our region with visitors through the tours we offer.
What we do
We specialize in providing personalized, engaging tours that allow you to explore the best of Alaska. From scenic tours to exhilarating adventures, we cater to all interests, whether you want to learn about local culture, taste local flavors, see wildlife, or experience nature up close.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are the tours wheelchair or motorized scooter friendly?
Yes! All tours are ADA accessible. Please contact us ahead of time if you need to reserve an ADA-compliant van, as many of the vans we use have a two-or three-step access. Additionally, it is our policy that travelers load mobility devices into the vans themselves due to liability insurance issues.
Can I purchase tickets on my cruise ship?
While some cruise ships may offer tours through their onboard excursion desk, we recommend booking directly with us for the most personalized service and best availability.
If I purchase my tour package through you, will I miss my cruise ship?
No! We work closely with cruise lines to ensure our tours are timed appropriately. You will have ample time to enjoy your tour and return to the ship on time. Please read on for more information on our Cruise Catching Guarantee.
Do you have special discounts?
Yes, we offer group discounts and occasional seasonal promotions. To inquire about current offers, please contact us directly at tours@capefoxtours.com or call us Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM Alaska Standard Time, at 907-331-3068.
If I am coming from a cruise ship, how do I know where my ship will be docked?
We monitor cruise schedules and will provide detailed instructions on where to meet us based on your ship’s docking location. For reference, most cruise lines dock in one of two areas:
- Downtown Ketchikan: Carnival, Holland America, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Disney, Viking, Silver Seas, National Geographic, UnCruise, Alaska Dream Cruises, Cunard, and American Cruise Lines.
- Ward Cove: Norwegian, Regent, and Oceania.
Please note that docking locations are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control, but these are the traditional docking locations. Downtown has four docks, and Ward Cove has one dock that can accommodate up to two ships. Ward Cove is approximately 8 miles from Downtown Ketchikan.
For more information, you can visit the Ward Cove website and the Ketchikan Visitor Center website.
Do you offer a Cruise Catching Guarantee?
Yes! To offer our customers peace of mind, we guarantee our excursions and your on time return to your cruise ship. You are guaranteed to return for your ship’s departure in each port as long as you provide the correct cruise itinerary information during the booking process. We have never had a client miss their cruise ship departure. However, if you do miss your ship’s departure because of the late return of an excursion purchased within these parameters, we will pay for the necessary expenses to transport you to the next port of call to meet your cruise ship the following day including hotel, transportation, and food. Additionally, if your ship is late, please call us directly so that your tour time can be adjusted. If an alternate tour time is not compatible with your schedule, your ticket will be fully refunded with no fees or penalties. Lastly, if your cruise ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion, your ticket will be fully refunded with no fees or penalty.
Do tours cancel due to weather?
Ketchikan does get a lot of rain throughout the year, but all our tours operate rain or shine. Our tours will not be canceled due to weather unless there is a severe weather event that poses a safety risk to our guests.
What is your cancellation policy?
Customers will receive a full refund with at least 24 hours’ notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in the event of an operator cancellation due to weather, port call cancellation, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Please contact us by phone or email to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price of the tour.
For refunds on deposits or partially paid tours, please see our Deposits & Payments Policy below.
What are your deposits and payments policies?
Book Now, Pay Later. Secure your tour with a minimum deposit of $25.
The remaining balance is due no later than 30 days prior to your scheduled tour date. Final payments may be made online through the link provided in your confirmation email or by calling our office at (907) 331-3068, option 1.
If full payment is not received by the 30-day deadline, the reservation will be canceled and the deposit will be forfeited.
Reservations canceled more than 30 days before the tour date are eligible for a full refund of the deposit.
A payment reminder will be sent before the 30-day deadline if a balance remains outstanding.
Tours paid in full remain eligible for a full refund in accordance with our Cancellation Policy above
Typical Weather
Alaska is known for its unpredictable weather, and Ketchikan is no exception! It is generally cooler and rainy, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C) during the summer months. Ketchikan is one of the rainiest cities in the U.S., receiving an average of 160 inches (406 cm) of rainfall annually. We always recommend bringing waterproof clothing to stay comfortable during your visit.
What to Wear
When visiting Ketchikan, dress for comfort and the possibility of rain. Here are some simple tips for what to wear:
- Weather-Appropriate Outerwear: Ketchikan is known for its rain, so we recommend bringing a waterproof jacket or an umbrella to stay dry. The weather can also be sunny sometimes, so be prepared for both!
- Comfortable Shoes: Opt for sturdy, comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on walking or exploring the town. Waterproof shoes are a good choice, but make sure they are comfortable for a full day of sightseeing. Note: Some tours may not allow open-toe shoes, so check your tour description for specific requirements.
- Layers: Temperatures typically range from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C), so layering is key. A light sweater or fleece under your jacket will help you stay warm, especially in the mornings and evenings.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Though Ketchikan is often overcast, there are plenty of sunny days, so it is always a good idea to pack sunglasses and sunscreen for protection.
By checking the weather forecast and dressing in layers, you can comfortably enjoy your Ketchikan experience no matter what the weather brings!
What to Bring
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable tour experience in Ketchikan, here are a few items we recommend you pack on your Alaska adventure:
- Waterproof Gear: As Ketchikan is known for its rainy weather, an umbrella or waterproof jacket is essential to stay dry during your tour.
- Camera: Ketchikan offers breathtaking scenery, so do not forget your camera or smartphone to capture the views and wildlife.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Even on overcast days, UV rays can still be intense, so it is a good idea to bring sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Personal Medications: Bring any personal medications or items you may need throughout the day, as some tours may take you away from accessible services.
- Snacks: If you plan to take a longer tour, it can be helpful to bring some light snacks, especially if you have dietary preferences or restrictions.
- ID or Ship ID: Be sure to bring an ID or your ship identification to reboard your cruise ship after your tour.
- Local Currency: U.S. currency is accepted at all business locations. Some locations take a variety of credit cards and Apple Pay.
By bringing these essential items, you will be ready to enjoy your Ketchikan adventure comfortably and stress-free!
Never Stop Exploring!
Join us for an exclusive experience that includes a hands-on native guided tour.
