Experience Humpback Whales, Paddle in Lakes, and Explore Totem Poles at This New Indigenous-Owned Cruise Port in Alaska

Just in time for summer, a newly established Indigenous-owned cruise port has opened amidst the enchanting fjords and rugged mountains of Southeast Alaska.

Named Port Klawock, this single-ship port is located close to the Alaska Native Tlingit village of Klawock (population 705) on the Pacific coast of Prince of Wales Island, nestled within the Tongass National Forest.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 7, the port celebrated the arrival of its inaugural vessel, the 458-passenger Seabourn Odyssey.

Port Klawock was created by Na-Dena` (a collaboration between the Alaska Native corporations Huna Totem Corporation and Doyon) and Klawock Heenya Corporation (the local Native village corporation). The port boasts a floating tender dock, welcome amenities, and retail spaces featuring Indigenous art and crafts.

While in port, guests can explore the town or take part in various shore excursions led by local guides. Options include a boat tour with chances to see humpback whales, sea otters, and other marine life, visiting a salmon hatchery, kayaking on Klawock Lake, enjoying a local food tour, or wandering through the totem park, which boasts the largest collection in Alaska with 21 poles. Complimentary shuttles provided by Alaska Coach Tours connect visitors to Klawock and Craig, a nearby fishing community with about 1,400 residents.

Smaller vessels, such as those from Alaskan Dream Cruises, which accommodate up to 80 passengers, previously visited Klawock by anchoring offshore and transporting guests into town via a Zodiac. Now, larger ships can directly dock at the port.

The new port “is preparing to accommodate numerous cruise line visits for the 2024 and 2025 seasons, responding to the growing demands of the Alaska travel market,” according to a press release announcing the port. “With a focus on enhancing cultural tour offerings and sustainable tourism opportunities, the Port of Klawock aims to be a key player in Alaska’s tourism sector.”

This is the second cruise port owned by Alaska Natives in the 49th state. The first was Icy Strait Point, located near Glacier Bay National Park, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary this summer.

In addition to the Seabourn Odyssey, the 670-passenger Regatta from Oceania Cruises and the 750-passenger Seven Seas Explorer from Regent Seven Seas Cruises are also scheduled to visit Port Klawock this summer.

“Our guests are always on the lookout for culturally enriching and immersive experiences, and Port Klawock caught our attention for its opportunity to connect travelers with Tlingit customs and traditions,” stated Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. “By engaging with the culture, guests can partake in whale and marine mammal watching, visit Klawock’s totem park, discover the history of Alaska’s first cannery, and much more.”