Join us on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska. This series features our Alaska cruise showcasing the beauty, excitement, and unique experiences from each port of call. Time to explore glaciers, wildlife and pristine wilderness, and neat historical trivia about America's Last Frontier!
DAY 5: Icy Strait Point
Icy Strait Point is the only private cruise ship destination in Alaska. The development of Icy Strait Point as a cruise destination began in the early 2000s. Built around the restored Hoonah Packing Company cannery, the area was transformed into a unique destination that combines adventure with history. The focus has always been on preserving the local culture and environment while providing exciting experiences for visitors.
From the moment you step into the Adventure Center, you can feel the uniqueness of this place. The Center is the hub for booking activities, and there are plenty to choose from. You can ride the SkyGlider gondolas to Sky Peak, soar down the Ziprider, go whale watching, rent a kayak, or explore the island on an ATV Jeep expedition. We decided to wander as far as our feet would let us for this port.
Hard to miss, and a main attraction of this port, the SkyGlider gondolas take you to Sky Peak, which sits at an elevation of 1,600 feet. The ride offers stunning views of the island and the surrounding waters. Sky Peak provides visitors with panoramic views and access to various activities at its summit including hiking trails that lead to Hidden Lake.
At Sky Peak, the Ziprider awaits. It's the world's largest ZipRider, with six 5,330 foot ziplines dropping 1,330 feet. This makes it one of the longest and highest ziplines in the world, providing an adrenaline rush like no other. This thrilling zipline ride lets you fly over the treetops and enjoy an exhilarating descent with breathtaking views.
Our first stop was the Hoonah Cannery and Museum. Walking around, we learned about the rich fishing and canning history of the bay. The museum offers fascinating insights into the lives of those who worked in the cannery.
The Hoonah Packing Company cannery, established in 1912, was integral to the local economy and culture. It was one of the many canneries that dotted the Alaskan coastline, processing vast quantities of salmon and other fish for shipment worldwide. The cannery operated until the mid-1950s and was a significant employer in the region, providing jobs for both local Tlingit people and migrant workers.
The museum houses a variety of exhibits, including: historical photos of the early days of the cannery, the workers, and the fishing boats; canning equipment tools and machinery used in the canning process, showcasing the evolution of canning technology; fishing artifacts: nets, traps, and other fishing gear that were essential to the industry; and personal stories from former cannery workers and their families, offering a personal glimpse into life during the cannery's operational years.
Just outside the museum, we enjoyed the waterfront deck promenade and took in the beautiful views from the Crab House dock. The calm shores were dotted with colorful kayaks, plants, and rock gardens, creating a serene and picturesque scene.
If you're wanting to explore further, to get away from the concentration of cruise passengers, you can follow the walking path heading south and away from the Adventure Center. In just under two miles, you will be in the historic town of Hoonah.
On our way back to port, we stopped at the imposing Orcha Whale sculpture. We also enjoyed a leisurely walk around the Natural Trail Loop, which offers a peaceful escape into nature with well-marked paths and interpretive signs about the local flora and fauna.
Icy Strait Point offers a unique blend of adventure and history. It's a place where the small-town vibe of Hoonah coexists with the amusement park-like development for cruise ship visitors. The island strives to provide a balance of thrilling activities and opportunities to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area.
In reading up on the development of Icy Strait Point, we learned about the collaboration between the locals and corporations to respect and preserve the local Tlingit culture and the natural environment. The Hoonah Cannery Museum and the small shops in town are locally owned and managed, reflecting a community that values its history and traditions.
While the Adventure Center and Sky Peak bring a modern, tourist-centric atmosphere, the heart of Hoonah remains deeply rooted in its traditional ways. Visitors can see this contrast as they move from the bustling activity centers to the serene, authentic parts in the town of Hoonah. The coexistence of these elements offers a rich, immersive experience. Whether you're seeking adventure or a deeper connection with Alaska's history, Icy Strait Point has something for everyone.
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Pronti? Via!
On this visit to Alaska we did not use cruise sponsored excursions. Instead, we either went directly to excursion vendors, did stuff on our own, or used Viator. To find the activity that is best for you (or you group) visit our Viator Shop for a list of our Alaska Cruise Top Value Picks. Happy travels!
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