Oh no I forgot to pack X in my suitcase, where is Target (a mall, Walmart, etc?
Speaking from experience there is a mall in downtown Anchorage, or a Walmart in Juneau and Ketchikan. The shops on the boat will carry just about any personal item you may need. Get friendly with the crew. They know the towns and where to get you what you need. If they really like you, they may be willing to pick something up for you on a crew run. Taxis are abundant in Ketchikan and Juneau to get you to the places in town that the locals use.