Icy Strait Point Alaska Cruise Port Guide 2026

Quick Reference

Port Type	Dock
Walk to Town	Downtown Hoonah is approximately a 20-30 minute walk (1-1.5 miles) from the main Icy Strait Point complex.
Typical Hours in Port	8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (times vary by itinerary; check your cruise schedule)
Population	Approximately 800 (Hoonah)
Best Month to Visit	July. It offers the warmest temperatures and the lowest average rainfall, maximizing your chances for clear views and comfortable exploration.
Wi-Fi	Free Wi-Fi is available at the Icy Strait Point Welcome Center and in some of the restaurants and shops within the complex.
Currency	US Dollar (USD)
Uber/Lyft Available?	No — not available in Alaska cruise ports.
Passport Required?	No, for US citizens on closed-loop cruises (starting and ending in the same US port). However, it is always recommended to travel with a passport.
Cell Service	Verizon and AT&T generally have decent service in the Icy Strait Point area. T-Mobile coverage can be spotty.

Why Visit Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point, often called the "Whale Watching Capital," offers a unique and authentic Alaskan experience unlike the larger, more developed cruise ports. Owned and operated by the Huna Totem Corporation, it provides a genuine glimpse into the Tlingit culture and the stunning natural beauty of Southeast Alaska. Expect a mix of thrilling adventures, cultural immersion, and wildlife encounters, all within a relatively compact and easily navigable area.

Visiting Icy Strait Point means stepping into a place where the local community directly benefits from tourism. The port was developed with sustainability in mind, preserving the natural environment and showcasing Tlingit heritage. First-time visitors are often surprised to discover that the entire complex was once a historic salmon cannery, transformed into a vibrant hub for cultural tourism and outdoor activities. They're also often surprised by the sheer number of bald eagles soaring overhead!

Icy Strait Point isn't just about the thrills; it's about experiencing a deep connection to the land and its people. From whale watching excursions to cultural performances, you'll leave with a greater appreciation for the rich history and natural wonders of Alaska.

Where Ships Dock & Getting to Town

Cruise ships dock directly at the Icy Strait Point pier. There is typically only one ship in port at a time.

The pier is located adjacent to the main Icy Strait Point complex, which includes shops, restaurants, and the Adventure Center.

Walking to downtown Hoonah is possible, but it's a 20-30 minute walk (1-1.5 miles) along a paved road.

A free shuttle service operates between the Icy Strait Point complex and downtown Hoonah. The shuttle runs approximately every 30 minutes when ships are in port, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, mirroring ship arrival and departure times. The shuttle stops are clearly marked.

Taxis are available at Icy Strait Point, but they are limited. Expect to pay around $15-$20 for a one-way trip to Hoonah.

There is no Uber or Lyft service in Icy Strait Point.

Rental cars are not readily available directly at Icy Strait Point.

Note: Cruise line docking assignments are subject to change. Check your cruise itinerary for the most up-to-date information.

Top Free & Budget Things to Do

• Explore the Historic Cannery: Wander through the restored salmon cannery buildings at Icy Strait Point. See exhibits about the history of the cannery and the Tlingit people. (Free, located at the port, allow 1-2 hours)
• Beachcombing at Icy Strait: Walk along the beach adjacent to Icy Strait Point and search for shells, sea glass, and other treasures. (Free, located at the port, allow 1-2 hours)
• Fish Creek Viewing Platform: Take the free shuttle to Hoonah and walk to the Fish Creek viewing platform (about 15 minutes from the shuttle stop). Observe salmon spawning in the creek and potentially spot bears. (Free, shuttle + walk, allow 2-3 hours)
• Hoonah Cultural Center: Visit the Hoonah Cultural Center to learn about Tlingit art, history, and traditions. There is a small admission fee (around $10-$15), but it's worth it for the in-depth exhibits. (Small fee, shuttle + walk, allow 1-2 hours)
• Walking Tour of Hoonah: Take a self-guided walking tour of Hoonah, exploring the local shops, art galleries, and historic buildings. Pick up a map at the visitor center. (Free, shuttle + walk, allow 2-3 hours)
• Sitka Spruce Park: Enjoy a peaceful walk through Sitka Spruce Park near Hoonah. The park features trails through the forest and opportunities for birdwatching. (Free, shuttle + short walk, allow 1-2 hours)
• Scenic Overlook: Walk up the short trail behind the Cannery to the scenic overlook. This gives you a great view of the surrounding area and the cruise ships in port. (Free, located at the port, allow 30 minutes)

Best Shore Excursions

Budget Excursions (Under $100/person)

• Hoonah Village Walking Tour: ($30-$50, 1-2 hours) A guided walking tour of Hoonah, providing insights into local life and Tlingit culture. Insider tip: Book this early to secure a spot as it often sells out.

Mid-Range Excursions ($100-$300/person)

• Whale Watching Tour: ($150-$250, 3-4 hours) A boat tour to search for humpback whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife in Icy Strait. Insider tip: Bring binoculars for a better viewing experience.
• Bear Viewing at Spasski River: ($200-$300, 4-5 hours) A guided trip to the Spasski River to observe brown bears feeding on salmon. Insider tip: Wear waterproof boots, as the ground can be muddy.
• ATV Adventure: ($150-$250, 2-3 hours) Explore the surrounding forests and trails on an ATV. Insider tip: Check the minimum age and driver's license requirements before booking.
• Tlingit Cultural Performance: ($100-$150, 1-2 hours) Experience traditional Tlingit dances, songs, and storytelling. Insider tip: Check the schedule for performance times and locations.

Splurge Excursions ($300+/person)

• ZipRider: ($300-$400, 2-3 hours) Experience the thrill of the ZipRider, one of the world's longest ziplines, descending over 5,000 feet with stunning views. Insider tip: Book this as soon as possible as it is extremely popular and sells out far in advance.
• Helicopter Glacier Tour: ($400-$600, 2-3 hours) A helicopter tour over glaciers and icefields, offering breathtaking aerial views. Insider tip: Dress warmly, as it can be cold at higher altitudes.
• Fishing Charter: ($400-$600, 4-6 hours) A guided fishing trip to catch salmon, halibut, or other Alaskan fish. Insider tip: Check the fishing regulations and licensing requirements.
• Ultimate Expedition Combo: ($500+, 6-8 hours) Combines whale watching, bear viewing, and the ZipRider for a full day of adventure. Insider tip: This is a great option if you want to experience multiple activities in one day.

Booking excursions independently can often save you $50-$150 per person compared to booking through the cruise line. However, cruise line excursions offer the assurance of getting you back to the ship on time. Consider the pros and cons before making your decision.

For peak season (July), it's recommended to book your excursions 6-12 months in advance, especially for popular activities like the ZipRider and whale watching tours.

Weather contingency: Most excursions operate rain or shine. Check the cancellation policy before booking and consider bringing rain gear. If an excursion is canceled due to weather, you will typically receive a refund.

Where to Eat & Drink

• The Cookhouse Restaurant: ($, Inside the cannery) Order the fish and chips for a classic Alaskan meal. Worth visiting for its casual atmosphere and fresh seafood.
• The Crab Shack: ($$, Located near the pier) Try the Dungeness crab legs for a taste of local seafood. It's worth visiting for its waterfront views and fresh crab.
• Duck Point Smokehouse Restaurant: ($$, Located in Hoonah, shuttle required) Order the Smoked Salmon Chowder. Worth visiting for the authentic smoked salmon flavors and local atmosphere.
• Hoonah Trading Company: ($ - $, Located in Hoonah, shuttle required) Offers quick bites and coffee. Grab a breakfast sandwich or a pastry. Great for a quick and affordable bite.
• Ice Strait Brewing: ($$, Located in Hoonah, shuttle required) Try the Spruce Tip Ale, a local specialty. It's worth visiting for its unique Alaskan brews and relaxed atmosphere.
• The Pier Cafe: ($, Located near the pier) A budget-friendly option for burgers, sandwiches, and other casual fare. Worth visiting for a quick and easy meal with harbor views.

Local food specialties include fresh seafood, such as salmon, halibut, and crab, as well as smoked salmon and wild berries.

Be prepared for potential wait times at popular restaurants during peak cruise ship hours, especially around lunchtime.

Shopping Guide

The main shopping areas are located within the Icy Strait Point complex and in downtown Hoonah.

Items worth buying include:

• Tlingit Art and Crafts: Look for hand-carved masks, totem poles, and jewelry made by local Tlingit artists.
• Alaskan Salmon Products: Purchase smoked salmon, salmon jerky, and other salmon products.
• Alaska-Made Souvenirs: Look for items with the "Made in Alaska" sticker or the Silver Hand logo to ensure authenticity.

The Silver Hand logo is a registered trademark that guarantees the product was made by an Alaska Native artist. The "Made in Alaska" sticker indicates that the product was manufactured in Alaska.

Be cautious of mass-produced souvenirs that are marketed as "local" but are actually imported.

There are no specific tax-free shopping benefits in Icy Strait Point. Sales tax is collected on most purchases.

Weather by Month

Month	Avg High (°F)	Avg Low (°F)	Rainfall (inches)	Rain Days
May	53	39	4.5	18
June	59	44	4.0	17
July	63	48	4.5	17
August	62	48	6.0	20
September	56	43	8.0	22

Icy Strait Point experiences a maritime climate, characterized by cool temperatures and frequent rainfall. Summer months (June-August) are the warmest and driest, but rain is still possible at any time. September tends to be the wettest month.

Pack layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket, fleece or sweater, and comfortable walking shoes. An umbrella or rain poncho is also recommended. Even on sunny days, the weather can change quickly, so be prepared for all conditions.

July is typically the sunniest month, while September is the rainiest.

Wildlife You May See

• Humpback Whales: These magnificent creatures are commonly seen on whale watching tours in Icy Strait. Look for them breaching, fluking, and bubble-net feeding. (High likelihood, best seen on whale watching tours)
• Bald Eagles: Bald eagles are abundant in the area and can often be seen soaring overhead or perched in trees. (High likelihood, seen throughout the area)
• Brown Bears: Brown bears are often spotted at the Spasski River and other salmon streams. (Medium likelihood, best seen on bear viewing tours)
• Orcas (Killer Whales): Orcas are occasionally seen in Icy Strait, but sightings are less frequent than humpback whales. (Low likelihood, seen on whale watching tours)
• Sea Otters: Sea otters can be seen swimming in the waters around Icy Strait Point. (Medium likelihood, seen from shore or on boat tours)
• Seals and Sea Lions: Seals and sea lions are often seen hauled out on rocks or swimming in the water. (High likelihood, seen from shore or on boat tours)
• Salmon: During the spawning season (July-September), salmon can be seen swimming upstream in local creeks and rivers. (High likelihood, best seen at Fish Creek)

Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed the animals. Feeding wildlife can alter their natural behavior and make them dependent on humans. Observe posted guidelines and follow the instructions of your tour guides.

The best wildlife excursion from Icy Strait Point is a whale watching tour, which offers the highest chance of seeing humpback whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife.

History & Culture

Icy Strait Point is deeply rooted in Tlingit culture. The area has been inhabited by the Tlingit people for thousands of years, and their history and traditions are an integral part of the port's identity. The Huna Tlingit, specifically, have a strong connection to this land.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, European and American settlers arrived in the area and established a salmon cannery. The cannery played a significant role in the local economy for many years, providing jobs and resources for the community.

In 2004, the Huna Totem Corporation, owned by the Huna Tlingit people, transformed the historic cannery into Icy Strait Point, a unique tourism destination that celebrates Tlingit culture and showcases the natural beauty of Southeast Alaska.

Visitors should see the Hoonah Cultural Center to learn about Tlingit art, history, and traditions, and attend a Tlingit cultural performance to experience traditional dances, songs, and storytelling.

Practical Information

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at the Icy Strait Point Welcome Center and at some of the restaurants and shops within the complex. The Hoonah Public Library also offers free Wi-Fi.
• Cell Service: Verizon and AT&T generally have decent service in the Icy Strait Point area. T-Mobile coverage can be spotty.
• ATMs: ATMs are available at the Icy Strait Point Welcome Center and in downtown Hoonah.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms are located throughout the Icy Strait Point complex and in downtown Hoonah.
• Tipping: Standard tipping rates apply in Icy Strait Point. For half-day tours, $5-10 per person is customary. At restaurants, tip 15-20% of the bill.
• Emergency: In case of emergency, dial 911. The local Coast Guard station can be reached at (907) 945-3600.
• Drinking water: Tap water is generally safe to drink. You can refill your water bottles at water fountains located throughout the Icy Strait Point complex.

Accessibility

The dock at Icy Strait Point is wheelchair accessible.

There are accessible paths from the dock to the main Icy Strait Point complex, which includes shops, restaurants, and the Adventure Center.

Some excursions, such as whale watching tours and the Hoonah Village Walking Tour, can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices. Check with the tour operator in advance to confirm accessibility.

Tender port warnings: Icy Strait Point is NOT a tender port; ships dock directly at the pier.

Gangway notes: Tide-dependent inclines can sometimes be steep, so use caution when boarding or disembarking the ship.

Sample Itineraries

Half-Day Itinerary (6 Hours in Port)

• 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM: Disembark the ship and explore the Icy Strait Point Welcome Center.
• 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM: Take a whale watching tour to search for humpback whales and other marine wildlife.
• 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Have lunch at The Cookhouse Restaurant inside the cannery.
• 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Explore the historic cannery and learn about the history of the area.
• 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Shop for souvenirs and Tlingit art at the local shops.
• 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Return to the ship.

Full-Day Itinerary (10+ Hours)

• 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM: Disembark the ship and explore the Icy Strait Point Welcome Center.
• 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Experience the ZipRider for a thrilling zipline adventure.
• 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Have lunch at The Crab Shack near the pier.
• 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Take the free shuttle to Hoonah.
• 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit the Hoonah Cultural Center and learn about Tlingit culture.
• 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore downtown Hoonah and shop for local crafts.
• 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Have a drink at Ice Strait Brewing.
• 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Take the shuttle back to Icy Strait Point.
• 6:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Return to the ship.

Budget-Friendly Itinerary

• 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM: Disembark the ship and explore the Icy Strait Point Welcome Center.
• 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM: Walk along the beach and search for shells and sea glass.
• 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Take the free shuttle to Hoonah.
• 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM: Visit the Fish Creek viewing platform and observe salmon spawning.
• 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM: Have a picnic lunch at Sitka Spruce Park (bring your own food).
• 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM: Explore downtown Hoonah and visit the local shops.
• 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Take the shuttle back to Icy Strait Point.
• 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Walk up the short trail behind the Cannery to the scenic overlook.
• 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Return to the ship.

Insider Tips

• Go ashore early: Beat the crowds by disembarking the ship as soon as it docks. The ZipRider and other popular excursions fill up quickly.
• Check the daily schedule: Pick up a schedule of events at the Icy Strait Point Welcome Center to find out about cultural performances, demonstrations, and other activities.
• Visit the Hoonah Public Library: This is a great place to access free Wi-Fi and learn more about the local community. It's a short walk from the shuttle stop in Hoonah.
• Look for local artwork: Support local artists by purchasing authentic Tlingit art and crafts. Be sure to look for the Silver Hand logo or the "Made in Alaska" sticker.
• Bring a reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated by refilling your water bottle at water fountains located throughout the Icy Strait Point complex.
• Take advantage of the free shuttle: The free shuttle is a convenient way to get to downtown Hoonah and explore the local area.
• Pack for all types of weather: The weather in Icy Strait Point can change quickly, so be prepared for rain, sun, and cool temperatures.
• Don't miss the cannery museum: Even if you don't have time for a long tour, take a few minutes to walk through the cannery museum and learn about the history of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Icy Strait Point walkable from the cruise ship?

Yes, the main Icy Strait Point complex, including shops, restaurants, and the Adventure Center, is directly adjacent to the cruise ship dock. Downtown Hoonah is a 20-30 minute walk (1-1.5 miles) away, or you can take the free shuttle. The immediate area around the ship is very walkable.

Where do cruise ships dock in Icy Strait Point?

Cruise ships dock at the Icy Strait Point pier, located right next to the historic cannery. There is typically only one ship in port at a time. The pier provides easy access to the main attractions and activities in the area. It's a very convenient docking situation.

How much time do you need in Icy Strait Point?

A minimum of 6 hours is recommended to experience the highlights of Icy Strait Point. This allows time for a whale watching tour or the ZipRider, plus a bit of exploration in the cannery and shops. A full day (8-10 hours) is ideal for a more relaxed pace and a visit to Hoonah.

What is there to do for free in Icy Strait Point?

Free activities include exploring the historic cannery, beachcombing along Icy Strait, and visiting the Fish Creek viewing platform (requires shuttle to Hoonah). You can also take a self-guided walking tour of Hoonah and enjoy the scenery at Sitka Spruce Park. Don't forget the scenic overlook behind the cannery.

What is the best excursion in Icy Strait Point?

The whale watching tour is consistently rated as the best excursion in Icy Strait Point. It offers a high chance of seeing humpback whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. The ZipRider is a close second for thrill-seekers.

What is the weather like in Icy Strait Point in summer?

Summer weather in Icy Strait Point is cool and often rainy. Expect average high temperatures in the 60s (°F) and average low temperatures in the 40s (°F). Rainfall is common, so pack layers of clothing and a waterproof jacket. July is typically the sunniest month.

Is there Uber or Lyft in Icy Strait Point?

No, there is no Uber or Lyft service in Icy Strait Point or any other cruise port in Alaska. Transportation options include taxis and the free shuttle to Hoonah. Taxis are limited, so plan accordingly. The free shuttle is your best bet!

Do I need a passport for Icy Strait Point?

For US citizens on closed-loop cruises (starting and ending in the same US port), a passport is not required. However, it is always recommended to travel with a passport for identification and in case of emergencies. Non-US citizens should check their visa requirements.

What should I wear in Icy Strait Point?

Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. A waterproof jacket, fleece or sweater, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella or rain poncho are essential. Consider bringing waterproof pants as well, especially if you plan to do outdoor activities.

Is Icy Strait Point good for families with kids?

Yes, Icy Strait Point offers a variety of activities for families with kids, including whale watching tours, the ZipRider (for older kids), and exploring the historic cannery. The Hoonah Cultural Center provides educational and engaging exhibits about Tlingit culture. Be sure to check age and height restrictions for certain excursions.

Read More About Icy Strait Point

• 7 Must-Do Icy Strait Point Excursions
• Icy Strait Point Whale Watching Guide
• What to Wear in Icy Strait Point
• Alaska Cruise Packing List 2026
• Best Alaska Cruise Ports 2026

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