Starting in May 2023, a new cruise port destination will open near Klawock, AK. Developed by Alaska native businesses Na-Dena` LLC and Klawock Heenya Corporation, this new destination is situated on a 16-acre site along the Pacific Coast side of Prince of Wales Island in southeastern Alaska.
Look for the new cruise port destination to embrace the Alaska Native culture in Klawock and offer cruise guests the chance to experience totem carving traditions, fishing and wildlife viewing. At the same time, it will balance that with the needs of the small village and the people who live there.nOfficials say the final product will reflect a cruise port destination that's similar in approach to Icy Strait Point near the Tlingit village of Hoonah.
What cruise lines will use the new port? On May 24, 2023, Oceania Cruises will make the first scheduled cruise ship call next summer; three additional calls are planned in 2023. The port partnership expects to announce additional cruise line visits for the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
Economic Development, Sustainable Tourism
On the tourism side, the new cruise destination will give the local economy a boost with new jobs and business opportunities for Indigenous Alaskans and locals. It will have an Alaska-only retail program. Na-Dena`, the joint venture between Alaska Native corporations Doyon, Limited and Huna Totem Corporation, will lean on Huna Totem’s success at Icy Strait Point in developing sustainable tourism at the new port.
In addition, the joint venture will work alongside Klawock Heenya Corporation, an Alaska Native village corporation that represents the Tlingit people from Klawock.
“Tourism is the opportunity we need,” said Teresa Fairbanks, president, Klawock Heenya Corporation, who noted that while building a tourism-based economy is a process, "we share a similar history of fish canning and timber harvesting with Hoonah. Thanks to the partnership with Na-Dena`, together, we know Klawock Heenya will be successful.”
Officials stressed that that the Port of Klawock is ideally positioned for both north and southbound Alaska itineraries. Two separate fjord entrances will treat cruisers to scenic views of the wildlife-rich terrain, mountains and islands.
The port island also is connected by bridge to Prince of Wales’ vast road system—opening up other communities and tour options for cruisers around the island.
Russell Dick, president and CEO, Huna Totem Corporation, said: “Huna Totem’s Icy Strait Point incorporates elements of who we are as Alaska Native people, leaving travelers with a better understanding of our culture and the importance of our lands and surrounding environment. While the experience enhances their Alaska vacation, in turn, it also builds economic stability for all Alaska Native people to practice and share our traditions and history with the world.” He sees the same benefits for the new joint venture.
“A port is the next natural step for Na-Dena`,” said Aaron Schutt, president and CEO, Doyon. “We are looking forward to expanding tourism in Southeast Alaska to keep up with the increase in visitor volume and introducing cruise guests to Alaska Native culture.”
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