Icy Strait Point Cruise Port Guide

One of the most famous attractions at Icy Strait Point is the ZipRider Zipline, one of the longest and highest ziplines in the world, offering breathtaking views as you soar over the rainforest. For wildlife enthusiasts, an whale watching tour in the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait is a must-do, with frequent sightings of humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life. Another popular excursion is a bear watching tour into the Spasski River Valley, where you can safely observe coastal brown bears in their natural habitat. To get a bird's-eye view of the port and surrounding landscape, take a ride on the SKYGLiDER Gondola up the mountainside.

The primary nearby destination is the village of Hoonah, the largest Tlingit community in Alaska, located just 1.5 miles from the port. A shuttle or a pleasant walk along a paved path connects the two, allowing visitors to explore the local culture, see traditional totem poles, and visit small, locally-owned shops and eateries. While not a day trip destination, Icy Strait Point is located near the entrance to Glacier Bay National Park, and its proximity makes it a key stop for ships exploring this magnificent region. Some cruise lines may offer flightseeing tours over the park from the nearby area for a different perspective.

The cruise ship docks at Icy Strait Point are purpose-built for tourism and are the destination itself. There are two docks, Adventure Landing and Wilderness Landing, connected by walking paths and a complimentary Transporter gondola system. The port facilities, including the historic salmon cannery, shops, restaurants, and tour departure points, are all located right at the pier. The separate village of Hoonah is about 1.5 miles away and is easily accessible via a shuttle bus provided by the port. Ships dock directly here, so no tendering is required.

The local currency in Icy Strait Point, as in the rest of Alaska, is the US Dollar (USD). There is no need for currency exchange for travelers from the United States. All shops, restaurants, and tour operators within the port complex readily accept major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. ATMs are also available onsite for cash withdrawals. Since it's part of the U.S., other currencies like the Euro are not accepted.

Icy Strait Point is an extremely safe destination, as it is a privately-owned facility managed for cruise visitors. The main safety considerations relate to the wilderness environment and adventure activities. When participating in excursions like the ZipRider Zipline or kayaking, always follow the instructions provided by your guides. The biggest wildlife concern is bears; if exploring trails, be bear-aware, make noise, and never approach or feed wildlife. It is perfectly safe to explore the port complex and the nearby town of Hoonah independently.

The cruise season in Icy Strait Point runs from May through September, which coincides with Alaska's summer. The weather is typically cool and damp, as this is part of a temperate rainforest. Expect average daytime temperatures to range from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C). Rain is frequent but often comes as a light drizzle or mist. It is essential to dress in layers, including a waterproof rain jacket, warm sweaters or fleeces, and comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes. The weather can change very quickly, so being prepared for sun, wind, and rain all in one day is the best strategy.

Within the Icy Strait Point complex, everything is easily accessible by foot. Two gondola systems, the Transporter gondola and the SKYGLiDER gondola, provide complimentary transport between the docks and up the mountain. To get to the nearby town of Hoonah, 1.5 miles away, a shuttle bus service is typically available for a small fee, or you can take a scenic walk along a paved path. There are no public buses, ride-sharing services, or readily available taxis, as all tours and transportation for excursions are arranged directly through the port's excursion desks.

Shopping at Icy Strait Point is centered in and around the historic cannery building. The stores feature a high-quality selection of authentic Alaskan and Tlingit-made goods, distinguishing it from many other ports. Look for hand-carved totem poles, masks, silver jewelry, woven baskets, and other traditional Tlingit crafts. You can also find locally sourced products like smoked salmon, berry jams, and other gourmet treats. While Alaska has no statewide sales tax, the City and Borough of Hoonah does, so expect that to be added to your purchases. Prices are generally fixed and non-negotiable.