Alaska Cruises ALASKA CRUISES

Cruises to Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point, Alaska

Take a memorable Alaska cruise adventure to Icy Strait Point, Alaska. Nestled along the wild Alaskan coast, Icy Strait Point offers a blend of rugged wilderness, rich native culture, and breathtaking landscapes that enchant visitors. Located near the small village of Hoonah, this unique cruise destination is known for its spectacular natural beauty, abundant marine life, and opportunities for wildlife encounters. Visitors can expect to witness lush forests, striking mountain views, and the pristine waters of Icy Strait, which are often graced by humpback whales, sea lions, and other marine animals. The remoteness of Icy Strait Point provides a tranquil escape, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in Alaska's untouched landscapes. Arriving by tender only adds to the adventure, setting the tone for an unforgettable Alaskan experience.

As Icy Strait Point is a tender port, larger cruise ships anchor offshore, and passengers are brought to shore via smaller boats, making the arrival an exciting part of the journey. Cruise ships usually arrive in the morning and stay until the evening, giving visitors plenty of time to explore this unique destination. The tender dock leads directly to the historic cannery, which has been transformed into a hub of shops, restaurants, and cultural displays. Surrounding the dock area are scenic walking paths, offering views of the coastline and the chance to spot local wildlife right from the shore. Basic facilities are available at the harbor, ensuring comfort for visitors while maintaining the charm of this rustic Alaskan port.

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is located near Hoonah, Alaska's largest Tlingit village, which offers an authentic look into native Alaskan life. This quaint town preserves much of its traditional heritage and invites visitors to explore its culture, learn about Tlingit customs, and experience its welcoming community. Highlights include the historic Hoonah Packing Company Cannery, which now serves as a cultural and commercial center. Visitors can explore the restored cannery and its exhibits, providing insight into the area's fishing industry history. The town's relaxed atmosphere, combined with its scenic surroundings, creates a charming backdrop for a memorable visit.

Icy Strait Point is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Tlingit people, who have inhabited the area for centuries. The restored cannery and surrounding attractions celebrate this cultural heritage, with exhibits that showcase traditional crafts, stories, and the history of the Tlingit people. Visitors have the opportunity to attend cultural performances, including dance and storytelling, which offer a glimpse into the customs and lifestyle of Alaska's indigenous communities. The Huna Totem Corporation, owned by the local Tlingit people, operates Icy Strait Point, ensuring that the local culture is preserved and respected. This cultural immersion adds a meaningful layer to the Alaskan cruise experience, allowing travelers to connect with the land's heritage.

Attractions and Activities

Icy Strait Point is renowned for its outdoor activities, offering everything from thrilling adventures to serene nature walks. The highlight for many is the world's longest zip line, the ZipRider, which provides an exhilarating ride with breathtaking views over the bay and surrounding wilderness. Whale-watching tours are another popular activity, with the waters of Icy Strait known for frequent humpback and orca sightings. Kayaking along the coastline offers a close-up view of the natural beauty and local wildlife, while guided hikes introduce visitors to the area's lush forests and native flora. For a more relaxed experience, visitors can embark on a scenic ATV tour through the wilderness, enjoying the sights and sounds of Alaska's rugged landscape.

Local Speciality

Dining at Icy Strait Point offers a taste of Alaskan flavors, with fresh seafood being the highlight of the menu. Visitors can enjoy dishes like wild-caught salmon, halibut, and Dungeness crab, prepared in traditional styles that celebrate Alaska's rich fishing heritage. The Duck Point Smokehouse offers a rustic dining experience, where guests can savor local specialties while overlooking the scenic shoreline. For those interested in trying something truly unique, reindeer sausage and other indigenous-inspired dishes are also available. The local cuisine reflects the bounty of the land and sea, making every meal a memorable part of the visit.

At Icy Strait Point, supporting local artisans is easy, as the shops within the cannery feature a variety of handmade souvenirs and crafts. Visitors can purchase authentic Tlingit artwork, including hand-carved totems, jewelry, and woven baskets, each reflecting the culture and craftsmanship of the Tlingit people. Locally made goods such as smoked salmon, Alaskan jams, and natural beauty products are also available, providing a taste of Alaska to take home. These items are not only unique souvenirs but also a way to support the local economy and the indigenous artisans who produce them. The emphasis on locally crafted products ensures that each purchase is a meaningful memento of the journey

Best time to visit Icy Strait Point

The best time to visit Icy Strait Point is during the cruise season from May to September, when the weather is milder and wildlife sightings are at their peak. Summer months, especially June through August, are ideal for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to these waters to feed. July and August offer the warmest temperatures and the longest days, allowing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration. Early September is a great time to experience Alaska's fall colors while enjoying fewer crowds. Each season provides unique opportunities for wildlife viewing, making Icy Strait Point a captivating destination no matter when you visit.

Icy Strait Point, Alaska Cruise Schedule 2025

Icy Strait Point is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Alaskan experience filled with natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. This tender port offers a unique blend of indigenous culture and thrilling activities, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Alaska's wilderness. From soaring down the world's longest zip line to learning about Tlingit traditions and spotting humpback whales, every aspect of Icy Strait Point promises an unforgettable adventure. The emphasis on sustainable tourism and local engagement ensures that visitors leave with a deeper appreciation of Alaska's heritage and natural splendor. For travelers looking to connect with the heart of Alaska, Icy Strait Point provides a perfect balance of excitement and cultural enrichment.

Holland America Line Alaska 7-day route

7-day Alaska cruise from Seattle

Eurodam, Holland America Line

Date: July 12, 2025

Ports of Call: Seattle/Puget Sound, Stephens Passage/Juneau, Glacier Bay/Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Ketchikan, Victoria, Puget Sound/Seattle; View Itinerary

Silversea Cruises Alaska 14-day route

14-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

Date: July 17, 2025

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Icy Bay, Valdez, Seward, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Haines, Sitka, Wrangell, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Viking Ocean Cruises Alaska 10-day route

10-day Alaska cruise from Seward

Viking Venus, Viking Ocean Cruises

Date: July 20, 2025

Ports of Call: Seward, Seward, Valdez, Yakutat Bay, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Seabourn Alaska 7-day route

7-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Seabourn Quest, Seabourn

Date: July 25, 2025

Ports of Call: Vancouver/Seymour Narrows, Queen Charlotte Sound, Ketchikan/Snow Pass/Decision Passage, Sitka, Yakutat Bay/Hubbard Glacier, Inian Islands/Icy Strait Point, Haines/Lynn Canal, Juneau; View Itinerary

Seabourn Alaska 14-day route

14-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Seabourn Quest, Seabourn

Date: July 25, 2025

Ports of Call: Vancouver/Seymour Narrows, Queen Charlotte Sound, Ketchikan/Snow Pass/Decision Passage, Sitka, Yakutat Bay/Hubbard Glacier, Inian Islands/Icy Strait Point, Haines/Lynn Canal, Juneau, Tracy Arm/Endicott Arm/Stephens Passage, Decision Passage/Wrangell/Stikine Strait, Behm Canal/Rudyerd Bay/Misty Fjords, Prince Rupert, Grenville Channel/Whale Channel/Princess Royal Channel, Alert Bay/Johnstone Strait/Seymour Narrows, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Viking Ocean Cruises Alaska 10-day route

10-day Alaska cruise from Seward

Viking Orion, Viking Ocean Cruises

Date: July 26, 2025

Ports of Call: Seward, Seward, Valdez, Yakutat Bay, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary


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