Icy Strait Point Alaska Cruise Port: Complete Guide

Icy Strait Point is Alaska’s largest privately-owned cruise destination located near Hoonah on Chichagof Island. This port offers authentic Tlingit cultural experiences, wildlife viewing including whales and bears, the world’s longest zipline, cannery museum tours, fishing excursions, and access to pristine wilderness with minimal commercial development compared to other Alaskan ports.

Quick Facts

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What Makes Icy Strait Point Different

This isn’t your typical overrun cruise port. Icy Strait Point was built inside a restored cannery complex, and every dollar spent here directly benefits the local Tlingit community. You won’t find chain restaurants or generic souvenir shops—instead you’ll get locally smoked salmon, authentic Native artwork, and guides who actually live here.

The port sits in one of the most wildlife-rich areas of Southeast Alaska. Point Adolphus just offshore is considered one of the best places for whale watching in Alaska, with humpback whales feeding here all summer long. The strait itself serves as a marine highway for orcas, sea lions, and an impressive variety of seabirds.

Top Attractions and Activities

The ZipRider Experience

The star attraction is undoubtedly the ZipRider at Icy Strait Point. This beast stretches 5,330 feet down the mountain at speeds up to 60 mph, dropping you 1,300 feet in elevation. It holds the Guinness World Record for longest zipline, and yes, it’s every bit as thrilling as it sounds. The views over the rainforest and ocean make it worth the climb even if you chicken out (though most people don’t).

Here’s what they don’t tell you: wear layers because it’s significantly colder at the top of the mountain. Also, book this early in your port day because weather can shut it down without warning.

Wildlife Encounters

The wildlife viewing opportunities at Icy Strait Point are genuinely exceptional. Whale sightings are almost guaranteed during peak season, with success rates hovering around 90-95%. The nutrient-rich waters attract dozens of humpbacks that bubble-net feed in coordinated groups—a behavior you can actually witness from the boats.

Bear viewing tours take you to nearby brown bear habitats where Alaska’s coastal brown bears fish for salmon in streams and forage along beaches. These aren’t zoo animals behind glass—these are wild bears doing their thing while you watch from a respectful (and safe) distance.

Cultural Immersion

The Tlingit cultural experiences here feel authentic because they are. Local artisans demonstrate traditional wood carving, you can watch totem pole restoration, and the dance performances aren’t watered down for tourists. The Huna Heritage Center houses genuine artifacts and tells the story of how this community survived forced relocation and rebuilt their heritage.

Don’t miss the storytelling sessions where elders share creation stories and historical accounts. These aren’t scheduled performances—they’re cultural transmissions that you’re privileged to witness.

Exploring All the Options

For a comprehensive breakdown of everything available, check out the complete list of activities at Icy Strait Point. The variety spans from adrenaline junkies to contemplative types who just want to soak in the scenery.

Best Shore Excursions

Choosing among the best shore excursions at Icy Strait Point depends on your priorities. Wildlife lovers should prioritize whale watching or bear viewing. Thrill seekers need the zipline in their life. Culture enthusiasts should book the Native Heritage tour or fish camp visit.

For families visiting Icy Strait Point, the cannery museum offers interactive exhibits that keep kids engaged while the forest trails provide easy walks suitable for all ages. The salmon bake lunch gives picky eaters something familiar while adventurous eaters can try traditional Native preparations.

Photography Opportunities

Serious photographers need to read the photography guide for Icy Strait Point before arrival. The lighting can be tricky with overcast skies common, but that diffused light works beautifully for wildlife shots. Bring a telephoto lens for whales and bears (300mm minimum, 400-600mm ideal) and a wide-angle for landscape shots from the zipline platform.

The golden hour here doesn’t quit—during summer the sun barely sets, giving you extended shooting opportunities. The waterfront area with historic cannery buildings against mountain backdrops makes for compelling compositions that capture the port’s character.

Comparing Your Options

Wondering how this stacks up against other stops? The detailed comparison of Icy Strait Point to other Alaska ports shows that while places like Juneau and Ketchikan offer more shopping and dining variety, Icy Strait delivers more authentic cultural experiences and better wildlife access.

The intimacy of this smaller port means you’re not competing with thousands of other cruisers for excursion spots or photo angles. When you’re on a whale watching boat from Icy Strait Point, you’re with maybe 20-30 people, not 150.

Practical Information

Getting Around

• The port complex is walkable—everything clusters around the old cannery building
• Free shuttle buses run to Hoonah town every 30 minutes (takes about 10 minutes)
• Rental bikes available for exploring on your own
• Most excursions include transportation from the dock
• Walking trails lead directly from the port into temperate rainforest

Weather and What to Wear

• Average temperatures range from 50-65°F during cruise season
• Rain occurs frequently—bring legitimate rain gear, not a flimsy poncho
• Layering is essential as temperatures shift quickly
• Waterproof hiking boots if you plan any trail walking
• Sunscreen and sunglasses for those rare bluebird days

Money Matters

• Credit cards accepted at most vendors in the port complex
• ATM available but bring some cash for small purchases in Hoonah
• Prices generally reasonable compared to other cruise ports
• Tipping guides 15-20% is standard and appreciated

Food and Dining

The Landing Zone restaurant serves locally-caught seafood with views overlooking the strait. The menu focuses on sustainable Alaska ingredients, and the halibut is phenomenal when available. For a quicker bite, the Cookhouse offers burgers and sandwiches, while several food trucks serve everything from reindeer sausages to fish tacos.

The real treat is the salmon bake if you can snag a spot. They cook the fish using traditional Native methods, and it tastes completely different from restaurant salmon—smoky, tender, and actually flavorful.

Shopping

Skip the mass-produced “Made in China” Alaska merchandise that plagues other ports. Here you’ll find:

• Authentic Native artwork including prints, carvings, and jewelry
• Locally smoked and canned salmon (vacuum-packed for travel)
• Traditional woven baskets and textiles
• Regional craft beer from local breweries
• Books about Tlingit history and Southeast Alaska ecology

If you buy Native art, ask about the artist. Vendors can usually tell you who made each piece and share their story—that connection makes your purchase meaningful rather than just transactional.

Insider Tips Only Locals Know

• The best whale watching happens during incoming tides when fish concentrate in specific areas
• Book the first zipline slot of the day before wind picks up
• Free cultural demonstrations happen throughout the day near the Heritage Center—no booking needed
• The trail behind the museum leads to a quiet beach perfect for eagle spotting
• Local fishermen sometimes sell fresh catch directly from boats at the small harbor in Hoonah
• Cell service is spotty—download maps and confirmations before arrival
• Restrooms in the main cannery building are cleaner and less crowded than portable facilities outside
• The community of Hoonah has a small grocery store and genuine local cafe worth visiting if you want to see real Alaska life

What Could Be Better

Let’s be honest about the drawbacks. If you want extensive shopping or nightlife, you’ll be disappointed. There’s also no getting around the weather—rain happens more often than not, and excursions do get cancelled for safety reasons. The port closes entirely in winter because weather makes it unworkable.

Some travelers find the selection of dining options limited compared to larger ports. If you need specific dietary accommodations, communicate this when booking excursions rather than assuming options will be available.

The port can feel crowded when a large ship docks, even though it’s less overwhelming than places like Ketchikan. Popular excursions sell out quickly, so book ahead rather than hoping to grab spots on arrival.

Bonus Tips

• Download the port map to your phone before losing internet—WiFi at the port is unreliable
• Motion sickness medication for whale watching even if you’re usually fine—the smaller boats bob more than cruise ships
• Bring an empty water bottle to refill rather than buying overpriced bottled water
• The museum is free and takes about 45 minutes—perfect if you return early from excursions
• Watch departure time carefully—shuttles back from Hoonah can run late
• Dress in layers you can remove—the zipline launch area is sunny but the landing zone is shaded and cool
• If you’re choosing between zipline adventures in Alaska, the one here is legitimately world-class
• Consider staying on the ship if weather is truly miserable—the indoor museum and cultural center are great but limited rainy day options exist
• Book directly through the cruise line for peace of mind about making it back to the ship on time
• The Inside Passage cruise itineraries that include Icy Strait Point typically offer the best balance of ports

Common Questions and FAQ

Can I walk to Hoonah from the port?

Technically yes, but it’s three miles along a road without sidewalks and takes about an hour. The free shuttle is safer and more comfortable. Save your energy for exploring once you arrive.

Is the zipline safe for seniors or people with mobility issues?

The zipline itself is safe for anyone who meets the weight requirements (100-275 pounds), but getting to the launch platform requires climbing stairs and the landing involves stopping yourself. People with knee or hip problems often struggle. The staff can provide detailed guidance based on specific conditions.

What if whales don’t show up during my tour?

Most operators offer guarantees with free return trips, though that doesn’t help cruise passengers. In practice, whale sightings are so common here that complete no-shows are extremely rare during summer months. Bears are less predictable—their appearance depends on salmon runs and foraging patterns.

Are there options for people not booking excursions?

Absolutely. The cannery museum, cultural demonstrations, nature trails, and beach access are all free or low-cost. You can easily fill 4-5 hours without spending much money. The experience is worthwhile even if you’re budget-conscious or excursion-fatigued.

How does this compare to Glacier Bay?

Completely different experiences. Glacier Bay offers dramatic ice formations viewed from the ship with no port stop. Icy Strait Point provides an actual landing with activities and cultural immersion. Most Alaska cruises include one or the other, not both, so check your itinerary.

Can I see northern lights here?

Not during cruise season. Aurora viewing requires darkness, and summer in Southeast Alaska has nearly 24-hour daylight. You’d need to visit between September and March, when no cruise ships operate.

Is the water safe for kayaking without a guide?

The waters around Icy Strait Point are cold, unpredictable, and frequented by large marine mammals. Independent kayaking isn’t recommended unless you’re experienced in cold-water paddling and familiar with tidal patterns. Guided kayak tours provide safety equipment and knowledge of safe routes.

Personal Experience

I wasn’t sure what to expect when our cruise ship docked at Icy Strait Point, but it turned out to be my favorite stop in Alaska. Unlike the busier ports, this place feels genuinely Alaskan – it’s owned and operated by the local Huna Tlingit people, and you can tell they take pride in sharing their culture. We signed up for a whale watching tour, and within twenty minutes we spotted a humpback breaching so close to our boat that everyone gasped. The guides were locals who grew up in Hoonah, and they shared stories about their traditions while pointing out sea otters and bald eagles like it was the most natural thing in the world.

After the boat tour, I tried the ZipRider, which is supposedly the world’s longest zipline. Flying down that mountain with views of the ocean and forests below was absolutely wild – a bit terrifying but totally worth it. My partner spent the time exploring the cannery museum instead, learning about the fishing history of the area, and we both grabbed some smoked salmon from one of the local vendors before heading back to the ship. The whole port has this relaxed, authentic vibe that you don’t always find at cruise stops. If you’re looking for something beyond the typical tourist experience, definitely spend your time here rather than just hanging around the ship.