Reserve your way into town, but not your way back
A new level of convenience for travelers who don't mind waiting.
The story
Sitka, Alaska, is a growing cruise destination with a new terminal, Russian history, and wildlife attractions, but its shuttle system and distance from town pose challenges.
Source: thepointsguy.com
Our reading
The Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal now requires passengers to reserve their shuttle to town in advance, but not the return trip. This asymmetry is the kind of detail that makes you wonder if the cruise industry is trying to create a sense of urgency or just testing your ability to follow instructions. The 6-mile gap between the pier and downtown is exactly the kind of distance that could be filled with a conversation, but instead, it’s filled with a queue. The only thing more predictable than the shuttle lines is the way the system is designed to make you feel like you’re in on a secret, even though you’re just trying to get a burger.
