It doesn’t seem long ago that Icy Strait Point near Hoonah, Alaska, opened as a new destination to cruise passengers, but that was all the way back in 2004. The then-fledgling port has since become a world-class place to visit. Following in Icy Strait Point’s footsteps, Klawock, Alaska, is set to be available to cruisers by 2023.
Here, we break down what cruisers can look forward to regarding the new Alaskan port.
Who Is Behind the New Port of Klawock?
As a joint venture between Alaska Native corporations Doyon, Limited and Huna Totem Corporation, Na-Dena will work with Klawock Heenya Corporation, an Alaska Native village corporation representing the local Tlingit people, to develop Klawock as a new cruise destination.
From Fishing to Dining: Here’s What Cruisers Can Do at the Port
The port will encompass 16 acres on Klawock Island for sport fishing, dining, wildlife-viewing and totem-carving traditions. Klawock will emphasize regional culture and support employment of Native and local Alaska workers with an Alaska-exclusive retail program.
“Tourism is the opportunity we need,” said Teresa D. Fairbanks, president of Klawock Heenya Corporation. “It’s exciting to now pursue the future for Klawock and our Native shareholders. We know building a tourism-based economy is a process, but we share a similar history of fish canning and timber harvesting with Hoonah. Thanks to the partnership with Na-Dena, together, we know Klawock Heenya will be successful.”
Tourism is the opportunity we need. It’s exciting to now pursue the future for Klawock and our Native shareholders.
When Will Klawock Officially Launch as a Port?
Oceania Cruises will be the first line to arrive at Klawock on May 24, 2023, making three additional calls during the inaugural season. Additional cruise visits are expected to be announced for 2024 and 2025.
“Our vision of tourism, balanced with Alaska’s cruise industry, creates meaning for travelers and our Native communities,” said Russell Dick, president and CEO of Huna Totem Corporation. “Huna Totem’s Icy Strait Point incorporates elements of who we are as Alaska Native people, leaving travelers with a better understanding of our culture and the importance of our lands and surrounding environment. While the experience enhances their Alaska vacation, in turn, it also builds economic stability for all Alaska Native people to practice and share our traditions and history with the world. Na-Dena looks forward to celebrating Klawock Heenya’s values and traditions in Alaska’s newest port.”
What Cruise Itineraries Will Include Klawock?
The port is said to be located in an ideal location for both north and southbound Alaska itineraries. There are two scenic fjord entrances along the archipelagos and mountainous landscape, and the destination connects via bridge to Prince of Wales’ road system for access to other communities and tour opportunities.
Initially, the destination will have a tender float that will transform into a small-ship dock by phase two, when there will also be a larger cruise ship dock available.
