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Loading Travel Forecast…Loading Travel Forecast…Loading Travel Forecast…Historical averages and packing recommendations for your May visit to Ketchikan.
"Warming up, cruise season begins"
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Averaged from the last five years of May readings — a guide to what to expect, not a forecast for a particular sailing.
Ketchikan is Alaska's southernmost cruise port and often the first stop on an Inside Passage sailing. The town sits on Revillagigedo Island, known for its salmon runs, its totem pole collections, and the surrounding Tongass National Forest. Creek Street, a boardwalk raised on pilings over a salmon stream, runs through the old part of town.
Ketchikan in May brings cooler conditions, with highs around 58°F, so pack layers alongside your warm-weather gear. May sees roughly 17 rainy days, so waterproof layers and flexible plans are wise. Showers are often short-lived but can be intense. Warming up, cruise season begins
Crowds are moderate in May, making it a good balance between availability and weather. Dress in layers: a waterproof shell over a mid-layer handles the range between cool mornings and afternoon port temps.
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The average high temperature in Ketchikan during May is 58°F, with a low of 45°F.
Ketchikan typically sees 17 days of rain in May. Warming up, cruise season begins
For a May cruise to Ketchikan, you should pack warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and thermal wear.