A beginners guide to visiting Sitka, Alaska, by cruise ship

Although not as popular as the "big three" Alaska ports — Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway — Sitka is an adventure in its own right. Located on the rugged shores of Baranof Island, Sitka is attracting more cruise ships than ever before, thanks to its brand-new Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal that can accommodate up to two large ships at the same time.This quaint city is a nature-lover's paradise. Home to the Alaska Raptor Center and the Fortress of the Bear, it provides insight into Alaska's wildlife in a way that other ports of call can't match.Sitka has something else that other ports in Southeast Alaska lack: a strong Russian history. The settlement was under Russian control from 1799 to 1867, when it was known as New Archangel. It was also here that the Alaska Purchase took place on October 18, 1867 – the date Russia was sold to the United States for $7.2 million.St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Sitka which dates from the Russian period. JEWHYTE/GETTY IMAGESToday, Sitka offers a fascinating mix of Tlingit (pronounced kling-it) history, Russian influence and Americana that is unique in southeast Alaska. Combine that with its incredible nature, wildlife and scenery, and Sitka makes a gr...