Sitka tries to find the ‘right size’ for tourism as it reflects on another record-breaking cruise season

Southeast Alaska has seen an explosion in cruise tourism in just the last two years, and communities are struggling to cope with the crowding, congestion – and simple exhaustion – that comes from managing the rapid growth. Next summer, the city of Juneau is planning to limit cruise traffic to five ships a day, the result of a newly negotiated agreement between the city and the cruise line industry. But Sitka’s only cruise dock is privately owned, and although its owner has said he plans to strategically manage ship visits next year, it may not satisfy Sitkans looking for a legislative solution. Read More