One Day in Icy Strait Point: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers

Explore the ultimate Icy Strait Point itinerary, perfectly crafted for cruise passengers looking to immerse themselves in Alaska’s unparalleled beauty and culture. From heart-pounding adventures on the world’s largest ZipRider to serene whale-watching excursions and rich cultural experiences. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable day at one of Alaska’s most cherished cruise destinations.

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One Day in Icy Strait Point: Our Experiences

When Chris and I started planning our first Alaska cruise adventure, we faced the exciting challenge of selecting the best Alaska ports of call. We aimed to immerse ourselves in the stunning natural beauty and explore the hidden gems of the Inside Passage.

Our research covered several towns known for their charm, such as Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Haines, and Skagway, which were no-brainers for our itinerary.

However, it was Icy Strait Point, a name I stumbled upon during an analysis of the Norwegian cruise line itinerary, that unexpectedly captured my curiosity. Having never heard of it before, I researched Icy Strait Point’s attractions, history, and facts and was completely captivated.

I enthusiastically convinced Chris, “We have to pick this 10-day Alaska cruise on the Norwegian Sun—it sails through Icy Strait Point! It’s also known as a Hoonah.”

Chris, skeptical, questioned, “Icy Strait Point? I’ve never heard of it. Are you sure there’s something worthwhile there? Maybe we should consider a different itinerary?” I assured him, “Trust me, Chris, it will be an incredible experience. The fact about Icy Strait Point is that it is a new port, so let’s check it.”

And guess what? It exceeded our expectations! We dedicated an entire day to exploring Icy Strait Point, and the experience was nothing short of fantastic. At Hoonah, we experienced some of the best whale watching in Alaska. Moreover, we learned about the incredible local culture and enjoyed excellent salmon.

What You Will Find in This Article?

We’re excited to share our comprehensive Icy Strait Point itinerary. It includes attractions and tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Our fondness for Icy Strait Point was so great that it’s a definite stop on our next Alaska cruise itinerary. We’ve actually returned to this magical place—one of Alaska’s best ports of call—several times since, because we love its breathtaking scenery.

And for those following our journey, stay tuned on our social media—Chris has vowed to tackle the zipline adventure in the park next time, and I’ll be there to broadcast it live!

Now, let’s dive into how to plan a day at Icy Strait Point during your Alaska cruise.

Our Tip: If you are planning a visit to this port, you may also be interested in our articles:
The Best Icy Strait Point shore excursions
Free things to do in Icy Strait Point
Whale-watching tour in Icy Strait Point: Review and Tips

Disembarking In Icy Strait Point: What Every Cruiser Needs To Know

Below are some tips about the port and how to get around it, which will help you once you disembark from the ship. Also, take a look at this official port map, which you can download for free, as it’s a PDF.

The Port Location

Located just outside the charming village of Hoonah on Chichagof Island, Icy Strait Point is Alaska’s unique, privately owned, and operated cruise destination.

Unlike other Alaskan cruise stops, typically under city jurisdiction, Icy Strait Point is directly connected to the land’s indigenous heritage and the vibrant culture of its people.

The Huna Totem Corporation, a collective of about 1,350 shareholders, predominantly from the Tlingit community, proudly owns this exclusive cruise port.

Arrival and Docking

Icy Strait Point has two docks:

• Adventure Landing, and
• Wilderness Landing.

Most cruise ships dock at Adventure Landing, where you’ll be greeted by the stunning wilderness of Alaska right off the bat. Check your cruise itinerary to know exactly where you’ll land.

If your ship is at Wilderness Landing, a free gondola shuttle service can take you between key locations. So you start from the adventure ​because there are wonderful views from the gondola cars suspended above the trees. The free gondola ride takes 4 minutes.

Getting to Hoonah

When you arrive at your dock, you have two options: you can spend the day at Icy Strait Point, which we’ll describe below, or you can go to Hoonah, which is 1.5 miles away. If you decide on one of the shore excursions in Icy Strait Point, you don’t have to worry about transport. All tour operators provide transport to and from your cruise port.

Shuttle to Hoonah

However, you might want to explore the area on your own. You can take a shuttle from Icy Strait Point to Hoonah to do so. The shuttle from Icy Strait Point to Hoonah costs $5 for a round-trip ticket. The scenic drive is about 5 minutes.

Tickets for the shuttle can be purchased from a ticket booth at Icy Strait Point. It’s important to note that they do not sell one-way tickets, so if you plan to walk to Hoonah and take the shuttle back, you should buy your ticket in advance.

Walk to Hoonah

Since it’s only 1.6 miles from the port to Hoonah, you can take a walk. A footpath leads to the village so you can walk safely. What’s more, you walk along the coast, the scenery is fabulous, and you can even spot whales! This is where we have seen the most of them in all of Alaska.

One Day In Icy Strait Point: Morning Exploration

Morning in Icy Strait Point promises an immersion into Alaska’s majestic wilderness and vibrant Tlingit culture. Here’s how to make the most of your morning, ensuring a mix of adventure, wildlife spotting, and cultural enrichment.

Whale Watching Cruise

Start your day with a whale-watching cruise. Depart directly from Icy Strait Point into the nutrient-rich waters of Port Frederick and Point Adolphus, celebrated as one of Alaska’s premier locations for spotting humpback whales.

We purchased exactly this Hoonah Whale-Watching Tour, and transport was provided. Here, you can check out more pictures and a detailed review of our whale-watching experiences in Icy Strait Point.

This 100% guaranteed sighting tour brings you close to these magnificent creatures and often includes sightings of orcas, sea lions, and porpoises. The tour operator is knowledgeable and provides insights into the behaviors and habits of these marine animals, making it an educational experience as well.

Cultural and Historical Exploration

Dedicate the latter part of your morning to exploring the cultural and historical aspects of Icy Strait Point. Visit the restored 1912 salmon cannery, a museum showcasing the region’s fishing industry history and Tlingit heritage.

Through exhibits and storytelling, you gain insights into the life and traditions of the Tlingit people and the evolution of the salmon industry that shaped the area. This immersive experience educates and connects you with Alaska’s spirit, providing a deeper appreciation for the place and its people.

Forest, Nature Trails, and Beach

A leisurely hike through the well-marked forest and nature trails at Icy Strait Point offers a serene and enriching experience. These trails meander through old-growth rainforests and pristine beaches, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

The coast at Icy Strait Point is incredibly picturesque. Moreover, while relaxing on the beach, you can still watch whales!

Icy Strait Point Itinerary: Lunch Recommendations

It’s time to rest and try some of the best local dining experiences Icy Strait Point offers.

Duck Point Smokehouse Restaurant

We love this place. At Duck Point Smokehouse Restaurant, which views Icy Strait’s shores, we relished sipping wine while watching humpback whales leap from the water!

The establishment is renowned for its smoked salmon, which is a key component in many of their unique dishes. You can enjoy a variety of cocktails and local brews on a deck offering panoramic views of Icy Strait and Port Frederick.

Their standout Surf and Turf dish, featuring inventive crab tater-tots and Alaskan Blue Sliders, promises a fusion of flavors designed to impress any gourmet enthusiast.

The Cookhouse Restaurant

Our favorite is the Cookhouse Restaurant. It offers a waterfront dining experience that features the freshest local seafood. The historic setting has been serving visitors and workers for over a century. Their Alaska halibut and chips and Alaska Salmon BLT Sliders are local staples not to be missed.

The restaurant takes pride in its fresh ingredients, with halibut purchased directly from the local dock. Non-seafood lovers can also delight in Alaska Blue Burgers, a unique mix of reindeer meat, caramelized onions, blue cheese, and merlot steak sauce.

The Crab House

The Crab House stands as a beacon for seafood lovers. It’s renowned for serving some of Alaska’s finest king, snow, and Dungeness crab. The freshness of their Dungeness crab is unmatched, as it’s caught in local waters and cooked alive.

For a unique blend of cocktail and appetizer, their Alaska Crabby Bloody Mary, garnished with a snow crab leg and packed with crab meat, is a must-try. Seating is available inside the restaurant and on the dock, offering spectacular views and chances to spot marine life.​

Sampling Local Brews

If you visiting Hoonah, Icy Strait Brewing is the perfect place to relax. This local brewery offers a taste of unique Alaskan beers crafted with the spirit and flavors of the region.

Whether you prefer a light ale or a robust stout, Icy Strait Brewing has something to cater to your taste. Enjoying a pint in the brewery’s cozy setting provides a great opportunity to mingle with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences of your Alaskan adventure.

One Day in Icy Strait Point: Afternoon Adventures

After lunch, it’s time for more activities. Choose from our list of those that best suit your interests and the time you have.

For Families: SkyGlider Gondola Ride to the Mountain Top

The SkyGlider Mountaintop Gondola at Icy Strait Point offers a unique, immersive experience of Alaska’s natural beauty, similar yet distinct from Juneau’s Goldbelt Tram.

While the Goldbelt Tram provides a stunning view of Juneau and its surrounding waters, the gondola ride at Icy Strait Point ascends through dense, wildlife-rich forests, offering a different but equally breathtaking perspective of Alaska’s wilderness and landscapes.

As you ascend, the panoramic vistas of the ocean, forests, and mountains unfold beneath you, providing a breathtaking perspective on Alaska’s natural beauty. At the top, you’ll find access to hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventurers.

For adventure seekers: ZipRider Experience

This activity is on Chris’s bucket list, and he plans to do it in June. I will take pictures and share them with you. If you are in a group of daredevils and thrill-seekers, get ready for the ride of your life on the world’s largest zipline—the ZipRider.

This isn’t just any zipline; it’s a record-breaker that promises an adrenaline rush. Imagine launching from a mountain peak and soaring over the lush, green rainforest at speeds that make your heart race. The ZipRider stretches a mile long, with a dramatic descent providing unparalleled views of Icy Strait Point and its natural surroundings.

For wildlife enthusiasts: Wildlife and Bear Search Tour

If zip riding is not for you (for sure not for me), consider the Wildlife and Bear Search tour. This guided expedition takes you into the heart of Chichagof Island’s wilderness, a habitat with one of the world’s highest concentrations of brown bears.

With an expert guide leading the way, venture into the dense forest and along riverbanks to spots where these majestic creatures are often seen. Observing brown bears in their natural environment offers a rare glimpse into the wild heart of Alaska. Remember to bring your camera and a good pair of binoculars for this immersive nature experience.

The thrill of spotting a bear in the wild and the natural beauty of the surroundings make for an unforgettable adventure. In the Inside Passage area, you also can watch bears in Ketchikan. But there, you will encounter black bears.

But—we are always honest with you—we didn’t take this trip because we ran out of time. It’s on our bucket list. The photo below is from our other bear-watching tour in Alaska. We also want to emphasize that bear-viewing tours at Icy Strait Point do not guarantee that you will see brown bears in their natural habitat. So you must decide whether to take this risk and go on a trip.

For Cultural Enthusiasts: Tribal Dance and Legends Show

If you’re interested in learning about Alaska Native people, their history, and deep-rooted traditions, consider attending the cultural performance at the Icy Strait Point Theater.

Tickets are affordable—just $25—and the show lasts about 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll hear traditional legends, see vibrant tribal dances, and gain insight into local heritage. It’s also a perfect activity for a rainy or chilly day in port.

Icy Strait Point Itinerary: Shopping

Icy Strait Point offers a unique shopping experience at its historic Cannery complex for authentic Alaskan crafts and souvenirs. Here, all stores are 100% Alaskan-owned, ensuring genuine local products.

You’ll find everything from fine gold nugget jewelry and the warmest fashions to unique Alaskan home décor and handcrafted treasures. It’s a perfect spot to pick up memorable gifts that truly represent the Alaskan experience​.

I bought their Tribal Design Hoodie, and I love it. It has an original design, is warm and comfy, and is of excellent quality.

One Day In Icy Strait Point: Essential Tips For Cruise Passengers

• Dress in Layers. It can be cool, especially on the water. Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures throughout your activities. Check out what to wear on Alaska cruise adventures.
• Wildlife Etiquette. While wildlife sightings are thrilling, remember to keep a safe distance and respect the animals’ natural behavior.
• Tour Bookings. To ensure availability and the best experience, book your shore excursions, especially whale-watching cruises or bear-watching tours, in advance. You can do it through your cruise line or directly with local operators.
• Footwear. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for hiking the trails. The terrain can be uneven, and proper footwear will enhance your enjoyment of the hike.
• Time Management. Check carefully when you must be back on the ship and plan your sightseeing and excursions to avoid being late. There are many more things to do in Icy Strait Point, but it’s impossible to experience everything in one day. That is why we decided on the next cruise.

Icy Strait Point Itinerary: Final Thoughts

Adapt this itinerary to your needs and cruise plan. You can reverse the order of the tours as you wish. In the case of whale watching, any time of the day is a good time for observations. For example, we watched whales at sunset in Juneau. Bears are more active in the morning and late afternoon.

Our return to Icy Strait Point confirms our fascination for this unique port of call, starkly different from the historical towns of Skagway, Ketchikan, or Sitka.

It offers a rare mix of adventure and immersion in nature’s tranquility, making it a remarkable destination for those seeking to explore Alaska’s wild beauty. Its remote, less-trodden paths provide a serene backdrop for thrilling experiences, from zip-lining to wildlife encounters.

If you plan Alaska cruise, you might also be interested in our related itineraries:

• One Day In Juneau: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers
• One Day In Ketchikan: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers
• One Day In Sitka: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers
• One Day In Skagway: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers
• One Day in Whittier: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers
• One Day in Haines: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers
• One Day in Seward: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers
• One Day in Homer: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers
• One Day in Valdez: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers

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