At Icy Strait Point, you can watch whales and eagles while supporting a small Alaskan community.
How cruise tourism can help and harm Alaska’s environment
Alaskans rely on the income that tourist cruise ships bring in, but some local residents have expressed concerns about the impact tourism is having on Alaska’s environment.
Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska offers an unusual type of cruise port where nature, culture, and community take center stage. It was also developed specifically with tourists in mind.
Built on Huna Tlingit land near Hoonah, this privately owned destination was designed to spread visitors across 23,000 acres of wilderness rather than overwhelming the town. The result is a place where travelers can see bald eagles, sea lions and crashing waves instead of transit buses and tour buses.
In addition to its dramatic scenery, Icy Strait Point generates approximately $20 million in annual economic impact for the community of approximately 900 people and supports hundreds of jobs, making it a model for how tourism can benefit residents while preserving Alaska’s character.
why is it important
Located on Huna Tlingit land, Icy Strait Point shows how tourism can support small communities while preserving their identity. Places like this reflect a broader American story of control, self-determination, and economic opportunity.
Tyler Hackman, senior vice president of Icy Strait Point, said the destination generates “$20 million in annual positive economic impact for a community of 900 people,” creating jobs while preserving Hoonah’s identity.
What to see today
Unlike many cruise ports, Icy Strait Point feels noticeably undeveloped.
“This site is largely untouched,” Hackman said. “When a ship enters the pier here, even if someone is standing on the top deck of the ship, they can’t see the parking lot, the buses, or the cars.”
Visitors can take a gondola to the top and take in the expansive views, then follow Hackman’s advice and head to the beach in front of the historic cannery. There, you can search for seashells, dip your hands in Alaska’s icy waters, gaze at snow-capped mountains on the horizon, and maybe even spot humpback whales and killer whales.
Ask the locals
For a sweet stop with a bigger purpose, visit Lil’ Gen’s Mini-Doughnuts.
Operated by the Salvation Army, this store serves warm mini donuts to cruise passengers during the summer. Its impact extends far beyond desserts, with Hackman saying that in 2025, profits from the store funded “$130,000 worth of food to the local community.”
It’s a delicious way to directly support Hoonah residents. Try lemon sugaring.
plan your visit
- Best time: Alaska cruise season from May to September.
- Business hours/admission fee: Open seasonally. Most cruise itineraries include access.
- directions: It is primarily accessed by cruise ships from southeastern Alaska itineraries.
- learn more: https://icystraitpoint.com/
