About      Sitka:
Much of Sitka's history is directly related to the rich abundance of marine wildlife in the surrounding waters. Marine mammals were, and still are, an integral part of the Alaska Native Tlingit peoples' subsistence lifestyle. The Tlingit traveled in their hand-carved canoes as far away as California to trade the many riches gleaned from the land and sea. Interest in rich sea otter furs brought the Russian traders to Sitka. Russia's early settlement of Alaska was largely a result of the fur industry. Today, humpback whales and other marine mammals draw thousands of visitors to Sitka while providing an excellent opportunity for biologists to conduct their research.                            

How to get here:
Sitka is situated on Baranof Island, on the outer coast of Alaska's panhandle, the narrow strip of land, islands, and waterway clinging to the western edge of Canada's British Columbia. The city rests in the heart of North America's only temperate rain forest, the Tongass, and is about 800 air miles north of Seattle, Washington.

Stay posted for 2008 Sitka WhaleFest Travel Opportunities

1. Alaska Airlines, one of the west coast's major carriers (and one of the country's most highly rated airlines) has never abandoned its tradition of service to rural Alaska. Sitka has a direct flight daily from both Seattle and Anchorage, and a connecting flight to Juneau. Although no competing airline presently serves Sitka, Alaska Airlines periodically offers reduced fares to support the Sitka WhaleFest.

Alaska Airlines is offering a special discounted rate for Sitka WhaleFest attendees.  To take advantage of this special offer book your reservations online and use the e-certificate code EC03408.   Valid dates of travel for this special are November 4-12, 2008

For reservations or information call 1-800-426-0333 or 907-966-2266 in Sitka.   www.alaskaair.com

2. Alaska Marine Highway, The southern U.S. terminal is located in Bellingham, Washington (just north of Seattle). Departing from Bellingham, you can expect to stay aboard the ferry for roughly three days and two nights, sleeping either in a cabin, in one of the lounges, or camped on deck. Cafeteria service and showers are available on all ferries, but only the larger boats have private accommodations.

3.  Harris Aircraft Services, offering floatplane and twin engine aircraft service to and from Sitka's outlying communities.  Generously offering special WhaleFest rates to attendees.  For scheduling and rates call 907-966-3050.

The following hotels, located in downtown Sitka, are offering special rates in support of Sitka WhaleFest.   Be sure to mention Sitka WhaleFest to get the special event rate.