Icy Strait Point, Hoonah, Alaska | CruiseHuddle - CruiseHuddle

Icy Strait Point Cruises from CruiseHuddle

Explore Alaska's largest Native Tlingit village and discover authentic wilderness adventures in Hoonah's stunning natural setting.

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438

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21

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$548

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The Story

Icy Strait Point sits on Chichagof Island near Hoonah, Alaska's largest Tlingit village, offering one of the most authentic Alaska cruise experiences available. This unique port was developed in partnership with the local Native community, blending cultural heritage with thrilling wilderness access. When your ship docks at this former salmon cannery turned cruise destination, you're stepping into genuine Alaska—where brown bears outnumber people and Tlingit traditions remain vibrantly alive.

The port has become a favorite stop on Alaska itineraries, with over 600 upcoming sailings featuring ships like Norwegian Bliss, Viking Venus, and MSC Poesia. Most Alaska cruises departing from Vancouver, Seattle, or Seward include Icy Strait Point on their routes. The destination's claim to fame is the ZipRider, the world's longest zipline, which sends adventurers soaring 1,300 feet down the mountainside at speeds up to 60 mph. Beyond the adrenaline rush, you can explore the restored cannery museum, watch master carvers create totem poles, or book excursions for whale watching in some of Alaska's richest marine waters. The surrounding area offers exceptional opportunities to spot humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and the island's famous brown bear population.

Icy Strait Point appeals to cruisers seeking an authentic Alaska experience without the crowds found at larger ports. The setting provides direct access to Glacier Bay National Park waters and pristine wilderness areas. Cultural demonstrations, fresh-caught seafood at the Crab Station, and locally guided nature walks give you genuine connections to Tlingit heritage and Alaska's ecosystems. Whether you're interested in wildlife photography, cultural immersion, or adventure activities, this port delivers memorable experiences during your day ashore. Browse the sailings visiting Icy Strait Point to find your perfect Alaska ocean cruise adventure.

Things to See & Do

🦅

World's Largest Ziprider

Ride the record-setting zipline soaring above the Tongass National Forest canopy.

🐻

Hoonah Native Village

Explore Icy Strait Point's historic Tlingit cannery buildings and cultural heritage exhibits.

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Mountain Ride Gondola

Take the scenic gondola up Hoonah Mountain for panoramic views of Icy Strait.

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Cannery History Museum

Tour the restored 1932 salmon cannery showcasing Alaska's fishing industry legacy.

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Whale Watching Waters

Spot humpback whales frequently breaching in the nutrient-rich waters just offshore.

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Local Tlingit Crafts

Browse authentic native artwork and jewelry sold along the boardwalk shops.

Popular Excursions

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ZipRider Zipline Adventure

Zoom down six cables at speeds topping 60 mph above the rainforest.

🐋

Whale Watching Boat Tour

Cruise Icy Strait's protected waters for close-up humpback and orca sightings.

🐻

Bear Search Wildlife Tour

Ride to Spasski Creek where brown bears often fish for salmon.

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Wildlife & Sea Kayaking

Paddle calm coastal waters spotting eagles, sea otters, and seals nearby.

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Salmon Fishing Charter

Join a guided fishing trip chasing salmon and halibut in local waters.

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ATV Rainforest Excursion

Drive off-road through muddy Tongass Forest trails on a guided ATV tour.

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Popular activities include riding the ZipRider zipline, whale watching excursions, brown bear viewing tours, exploring the restored cannery museum, watching Tlingit cultural demonstrations and totem carving, hiking nature trails, and enjoying fresh Alaskan seafood. Most activities are within walking distance of the dock.
Most ocean cruise ships dock at Icy Strait Point for 8-10 hours, giving you a full day to explore. This allows enough time for longer excursions like bear viewing or whale watching tours, plus time to experience the cultural attractions at the port itself.
The area is renowned for humpback whale sightings, particularly during summer months. You may also spot orcas, sea lions, sea otters, bald eagles, and Sitka black-tailed deer. Chichagof Island has one of the highest brown bear populations in Alaska, viewable on guided excursions.
Yes, the port offers family-friendly activities including beach walks, the cannery museum, cultural demonstrations, and wildlife viewing. The ZipRider has age and weight requirements, but younger children can enjoy nature trails, tide pool exploration, and the interactive cultural exhibits at the port.
Popular excursions like bear viewing, whale watching, and the ZipRider often sell out, so booking in advance is recommended. However, many port activities including the museum, cultural demonstrations, shopping, and dining are available without reservations and can be enjoyed independently.

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