If you are sailing on a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Oceania, or Regent Seven Seas ship this season, your introduction to the “First City of Alaska” will likely be through The Mill at Ward Cove.
As Ketchikan’s newest cruise terminal, Ward Cove offers a beautiful, historic setting. However, it is located roughly 7 miles north of downtown. For many travelers, this distance creates a dilemma: wait for the complimentary shuttles or find a more efficient way to explore. If you’re looking to maximize your port time, a Ward Cove car rental is the secret to a stress-free day.
The Ward Cove Logistics: Shuttles vs. Freedom
Currently, most passengers rely on the cruise line’s shuttle buses to reach the downtown shops and Creek Street. While these buses are frequent, wait times can often reach 45 minutes or more during peak disembarkation. When you only have a 6-hour window in port, every minute spent in a line is a minute lost in the wilderness.
By opting for a car rental in Ketchikan, you bypass the shuttle queues entirely. Instead of following the herd downtown, you can pick up your vehicle and be at Totem Bight State Historical Park, located just 2 miles from the dock, before the first bus even leaves the parking lot.
Pro Tip: Short on time but want to see it all? [Check 2025/26 Ward Cove availability here] to secure your vehicle before the season sells out.
Why Savvy Travelers Choose a Car Rental at Ward Cove
1. Superior Value for Families and Groups
Shore excursions can be expensive. For the price of just two bus-tour tickets, you can often rent a full-sized SUV that fits the whole family. This gives you the freedom to visit the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary or watch for eagles at Herring Cove without the “tour bus” price tag.
2. Reliable Island Transportation
Ketchikan’s weather is famous for its “liquid sunshine.” Having a private, climate-controlled vehicle means you can explore our rainforests and rugged coastlines while staying dry. Our fleet of SUVs and Minivans is specifically maintained for Alaskan terrain, providing more reliability than peer-to-peer apps like Turo.
3. Total Control Over Your Schedule
Cruise ships are strict about “all-aboard” times. Relying on the last shuttle from downtown to Ward Cove can be nerve-wracking. With your own Ketchikan cruise port transportation, you are the captain of your itinerary. Drive to the “End of the Road” at Settlers Cove or grab a local bite at a roadside diner without checking your watch every five minutes.
Top “Drive-To” Spots Near Ward Cove
Since you are already starting 7 miles north of town, you have a “head start” on these iconic locations:
- Ward Lake: A serene spot for a morning walk just minutes from the ship.
- Potlatch Totem Park: A fantastic free museum and totem park accessible only by car or taxi.
- North Tongass Highway: The most scenic drive on the island, featuring hidden waterfalls and rocky beaches.
Plan Your DIY Ketchikan Adventure
Don’t let the distance from downtown limit your Alaskan experience. Whether you’re here to see the world-famous totem poles or to spot black bears in the wild, having your own set of wheels is the best way to do it.[Reserve Your Ward Cove SUV Today] and experience Ketchikan on your own terms.
