More about Icy Strait
Why Cruise to Icy Strait?
The word "authentic" isn't wasted here; this Tlingit-run port is true to its culture and in harmony with the environment
Cruisers looking for an exhaustive list of amusements, apart from nature, might be disappointed
Icy Strait offers a great glimpse of native Alaska and everything is within walking distance
Icy Strait Cruise Port Facilities?
Icy Strait is not your "typical" sprawling cruise port with lots and lots to do, other than excursions or a scenic stroll around the main site. In 2016, a dozen years after Icy Strait Point debuted to cruise passengers, a 400-foot-long floating dock was built to allow cruise ships to pull alongside Icy Strait Point, eliminating the need for cruise passengers to tender ashore. The infrastructure allowed the small port to accommodate growing cruise ships and an increase in cruise passengers, while the 7,000-square-foot Adventure Center and Duck Point Smokehouse added important tour and dining options.
The Adventure Center serves as a welcome center, lounge and place to book more than 20 day-of shore excursions. Due to Icy Strait's compact nature, nothing on the main site is more than a 10- to 15-minute stroll away from the pier.
The forthcoming Wilderness Center will be located a half-mile from the Adventure Center, ensuring that crowds are spread out on two-ship days. The nature trail will be extended so that it is a quick 10-minute stroll for visitors between cruise facilities.
Good to Know?
Icy Strait strives to be a sustainably managed port, so don't expect luxuries that might unduly impact the land, water or wildlife. Also, food prices in Alaska can get quite high -- don't be surprised that fish and chips with a beer could run a pretty penny (but it's oh so worth it).
Getting Around?
On foot: The immediate area around the Adventure Center is easily explored on foot, and nowhere is further away than a 10- to 15-minute walk. Clearly marked walking trails will take you along the seashore, into deep rainforests and around the edges of mist-wreathed lakes.
By tram: Currently, transportation is available only through cruise lines' shore tours and a tram that will transport cruise passengers around the facilities and back toward the ship.
By shuttle: Don't waste cash on tours of Hoonah; it's within walking distance -- or a $5 roundtrip shuttle -- and easily explored on your own.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Currency is the U.S. dollar. We advise getting cash onboard your ship, should you need it. There's no bank in Icy Strait, which means no ATM. However, most vendors take credit cards.
Language?
English is spoken, though an effort is being made to preserve the native Tlingit language and you might be lucky enough to hear some spoken -- most often in a welcome greeting aboard a tour.