Jim H.
Yelp
My wife and I took a Holland America cruise from Seattle, with Ketchikan being one of our later stops. We were really looking forward to ziplining, and we were not disappointed. Nay, we were blown away.
First off, the tour bus that took us from the dock to the Sanctuary dropped us off in a small "parking lot" that was the staging area for the bright red Unimogs that would take us up a very steep hill to the ziplining equipment cabin.
Right off the bat, the staff was extremely enthusiastic and funny. They obviously love their jobs, even though they have to deal with tourists (who can sometimes be pains in the arse).
Next, we watched a safety and general orientation video. Short, and to the point. We then were briefed on our gear, and suited up in helmets and harnesses.
We were then walked out of the cabin to be given a briefing on how to use the equipment. Pretty simple instructions, really, but of course it takes a time or two to get it right. We did a short (about 30 feet) zip to practice "steering" (twisting left, right, or staying straight) and braking.
After that, it was time to get going. The first real zip was about 80 feet, and one of our group (short, fat, old lady) braked too hard too soon, so she had to be hauled in. She gave up. Most everyone else did very well, and were already having a blast.
The zips got longer and longer, and faster and faster. It was really cool, except we kept getting delayed because of some of our group stopping too soon, and other groups ahead of us having people faint, or panic, or just give up.
Long story short, don't attempt this if you have unconquerable fears. If you can handle a very minor challenge, do it. If you're afraid of heights, don't even think about it. If you can't follow instructions, stay away - you'll eff it up for everyone else.
This company had very high quality equipment (as an engineer, I was impressed with the construction), and very professional handlers.
If we ever go on another cruise to Alaska, this place is at the top of our destination list.