Port information & tips for Eureka (CA)
Hoonah is the gateway to Alaska's untouched wilderness and offers visitors a deeply authentic experience amidst the vibrant Tlingit culture. The picturesque location on Icy Strait impresses with dense rainforests as well as a rich wildlife and exudes a very special nostalgic charm thanks to the restored historic salmon cannery. Outstanding highlights include the world-famous ZipRider, fascinating whale watching at Point Adolphus, and the impressive Heritage Center. Cruise ships dock at the exclusive Icy Strait Point terminal, from where guests can easily reach the village of Hoonah, about 2.5 kilometers away, via a scenic coastal walking path or by means of a regular shuttle.
Hoonah in Alaska, better known as Icy Strait Point, is a unique and privately managed cruise port on Chichagof Island, which can be optimally reached by plane followed by a ferry. The entire facility is designed for cruise guests and offers a straightforward journey directly to the ship.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region typically involves long-haul flights to Juneau International Airport (JNU), the main hub for Southeast Alaska. From Juneau, you can easily reach Hoonah Airport (HNH), located only about 2 km from the center of Hoonah, by small aircraft. Airlines such as Alaska Seaplane and Air Excursions offer direct flights several times a day, lasting about 20 minutes, which bring you to Hoonah quickly and with scenic views.
Ferry
A charming alternative for the final leg from Juneau to Hoonah is using the Alaska Marine Highway System. This ferry connection offers a journey of approximately 3.5 to 4 hours through the breathtaking landscape of the Inside Passage. The ferries run several times a week and allow for a relaxed arrival with fascinating views of the Alaskan coast. The ferry terminal in Hoonah is a central meeting point in the community.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from Europe and the crossing of several time zones, an overnight stay in Juneau or Hoonah before embarkation day is strongly recommended. This allows for a relaxed start to your Alaska adventure and provides buffer time for potential flight delays. In Juneau, you will find a larger selection of hotels, while Hoonah itself has some cozy local accommodations. The Icy Strait Point cruise terminal has two piers, Ocean Landing and Wilderness Landing, which are connected by a free gondola. The town of Hoonah is only about 1.5 miles from the port and is easily accessible on foot or by shuttle bus.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and consider that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Hoonah in Alaska, better known as Icy Strait Point, is a unique and privately managed cruise port on Chichagof Island, which can be optimally reached by plane followed by a ferry. The entire facility is designed for cruise guests and offers a straightforward journey directly to the ship.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region typically involves long-haul flights to Juneau International Airport (JNU), the main hub for Southeast Alaska. From Juneau, you can easily reach Hoonah Airport (HNH), located only about 2 km from the center of Hoonah, by small aircraft. Airlines such as Alaska Seaplane and Air Excursions offer direct flights several times a day, lasting about 20 minutes, which bring you to Hoonah quickly and with scenic views.
Ferry
A charming alternative for the final leg from Juneau to Hoonah is using the Alaska Marine Highway System. This ferry connection offers a journey of approximately 3.5 to 4 hours through the breathtaking landscape of the Inside Passage. The ferries run several times a week and allow for a relaxed arrival with fascinating views of the Alaskan coast. The ferry terminal in Hoonah is a central meeting point in the community.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from Europe and the crossing of several time zones, an overnight stay in Juneau or Hoonah before embarkation day is strongly recommended. This allows for a relaxed start to your Alaska adventure and provides buffer time for potential flight delays. In Juneau, you will find a larger selection of hotels, while Hoonah itself has some cozy local accommodations. The Icy Strait Point cruise terminal has two piers, Ocean Landing and Wilderness Landing, which are connected by a free gondola. The town of Hoonah is only about 1.5 miles from the port and is easily accessible on foot or by shuttle bus.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and consider that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The modern cruise port of Icy Strait Point is located directly adjacent to the untouched wilderness of Alaska and offers convenient connections to the village of Hoonah thanks to its well-thought-out infrastructure.
On Foot
A picturesque, paved coastal path leads directly from the port area to the center of Hoonah, which is about 2.5 kilometers away. The relaxed walk takes approximately 30 minutes and simultaneously offers wonderful opportunities for spotting eagles or whales directly from the shore.
Gondolas
The port area features the Trans-Creek Gondola, which transports visitors comfortably and free of charge between the various docking points and attractions. Additionally, the Mountain Top Gondola provides a direct ride up Hoonah Mountain and opens up spectacular views over Icy Strait.
Shuttle Buses
Regularly scheduled shuttle buses connect the Adventure Center at the port directly with the village center of Hoonah. This connection is an ideal option for reaching the authentic Tlingit village and local shops quickly and easily.
To make the most of your stay in Hoonah, we recommend exploring the historic harbor area combined with a visit to the authentic Tlingit native village.
Icy Strait Point
Today, the lovingly restored historic cannery offers a perfect blend of museum and nature experience. Additionally, thanks to its short walking distances, the area is ideal for a relaxed stroll along the shore and small discoveries in the local craft shops.
Hoonah Village
In this charming village, visitors encounter the deep-rooted culture of the Tlingit natives and can feel the soul of Alaska firsthand thanks to the imposing totem poles and the impressive Heritage Center.
Point Adolphus
This nearby body of water is considered one of the best places in the world for whale watching, allowing for unforgettable encounters with majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat directly off the coast thanks to guided boat tours.
Heritage Center & Icy Strait Point
The Heritage Center is located directly on the grounds of the Icy Strait Point port and is therefore comfortably accessible from your ship in just a few minutes' walk. This location offers you deep insights into the fascinating history and vibrant culture of the Huna Tlingit, which are presented here in a tastefully restored cannery. Thanks to the combination of museum exhibitions, authentic handicrafts, and cozy cafes right on the water, you will enjoy an inspiring atmosphere and learn everything about the traditions of Alaska. Ideally, plan your visit for the early morning to explore the exhibitions in peace, and use the extra time for a relaxed stroll along the coast before heading back on board about one hour before departure.
The return journey from the picturesque village of Hoonah to the docks of Icy Strait Point is designed to be straightforward and can be planned in a relaxed manner thanks to the short distances.
Shuttle Buses
Regularly operating shuttle buses take you from the Hoonah Travel Center in the village center directly back to the entrance area of the port. This connection is reliable and convenient, allowing you to enjoy your remaining time in town without any time pressure.
On Foot
A well-maintained and signposted walking path leads along the coastline directly from the village back to the cruise terminal. The path is flat and also offers you the opportunity to observe the impressive nature of Alaska and, with a bit of luck, even whales or eagles near the shore.
Gondolas and Port Transport
If your ship is docked at the Wilderness Landing Pier, simply use the free Trans-Admiralty Express gondola for the transfer to the ship after your arrival at the main building. This modern connection soars over the forest and ensures a fast and comfortable return journey directly to your terminal.
