We were at least a couple of miles out. The excursion is the way to go, it was sold out on our cruise. We talked to a couple of people though that went on it, she estimated they got about 1/2 mile away and it was a calving bonanza. Still impressive from the ship, but maybe have binoculars.
We were at the new pier, 10-15 minute free bus ride into the heart of Sitka....be aware they are still working out the kinks on this, so while decently orderly at the ship, the return is out in the open to the elements and it did take awhile for the return shuttle.
We didn't do the Pinnacle(did do the filet as room service add on), but there weren't any notices about it being closed. Overall I didn't notice that much of a staffing issue. That being said our lead room steward was on his first assignment in 2 years, he was great but others seemed to be re-learning the ropes.