The Alaskan cruise industry recently announced that one of the most recent additions to its bustling cruise itineraries, Icy Strait Point, will soon be receiving a major upgrade—a new floating pier. A joint project between the State of State of Alaska, the City of Hoonah, and the Huna Totem Corporation, the new 400-foot pier will allow the port at Icy Strait Point to host even the largest cruise ships. This means that ships will be able to tie up directly, rather than relying on tenders to ferry guests back and forth.
In addition to growing docking capacity, the Icy Strait Point project will also expand guest facilities. A Tlingit-inspired visitor center will welcome passengers, and a new excursion departure lounge will house cruisers before they leave for shore-side adventures.
Officials expect the construction of the Icy Strait Point facilities to be completed in time for the 2016 Alaska cruise season next summer. When it’s finished, more visitors than ever before will be able to experience the fascinating cultural offerings of historic Alaska.
And what is the Icy Strait Point experience like?
Compared to other popular Alaskan cruise destinations, Icy Strait Point is not your run-of-the-mill, hyper-commercialized port of call. Opened in 2004, the facility has been specifically designed to enable visitors to capture the essence of “wild Alaska.”
Shore excursions here highlight the richness of Alaska’s wilderness, with offerings such as extensive forest hikes, whale-watching boat tours, or salmon-fishing expeditions. Area buildings are built sustainably, using traditional techniques and locally sourced timber. A handful of restaurants offer a genuine taste of the region’s own bountiful seafood, while shops feature native crafts and goods.
In order to preserve the authentic natural and cultural experiences it can offer cruisers, Icy Strait Point limits access to relatively few ships, mainly from Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Holland America Line. For anyone fortunate enough to have an itinerary that includes this unique port of call, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.
