Icy Straight Point

[joeysmom220]

Ten years ago, I was on one of the first cruise ships to stop at Hoonah. Had several online discussions with some of the people in Hoonah about how the port would effect the native people. Booked a cruise for this year that stops in Hoonah expressly to see what has happened to the town. Anyone been there more than once? That 1st year you walked into town along a not-very-busy- road. There was one or two local restaurants, a tiny grocery store, and just a couple of small businesses. It was tiny - and beautiful. Looking forward to seeing the changes. Would love to hear from some of the natives as to their thoughts on progress or not.

[teachatthebeach]

I was just there in June and I think your description from 10 years ago still applies.

[AKStafford]

I grew up in Hoonah and still have friends there. As I understand it, It's had an impact on life in the summer, but once the last ship leaves, things slow down to what they always were.

[Budget Queen]

I also don't see a lot of change. :) Maybe a few more "vendors" but about it. :)

[cruizinator]

Icy Strait is my favorite Alaskan port. I get tired of all the jewelry & t-shirt stores, etc. Icy Strait is a wonderful break...from the rest of the "same old stuff".

[varoo]

When we were there last summer, a very nice improvement was that they had started paving the scenic walking path along the waterfront between Icy Strait Point and Hoonah, and had added some benches as well.

 

That path had previously been gravel/rock, making it difficult or impossible for people with mobility problems.

Also, before installing the benches there had been no place to sit down and rest along the way.

 

A section of the path closer to Hoonah went up a steep hill where they were doing constructions, but we were told that the walking path will eventually be level when the project is completed.

 

They still offered the $5 bus ride to Hoonah for anyone who did not want to walk.

 

Edited December 20, 2015 by varoo

[cruizinator]

When we were there last summer, a very nice improvement was that they had started paving the scenic walking path along the waterfront between Icy Strait Point and Hoonah, and had added some benches as well.

 

That path had previously been gravel/rock, making it difficult or impossible for people with mobility problems.

Also, before installing the benches there had been no place to sit down and rest along the way.

 

A section of the path closer to Hoonah went up a steep hill where they were doing constructions, but we were told that the walking path will eventually be level when the project is completed.

 

They still offered the $5 bus ride to Hoonah for anyone who did not want to walk.

 

 

I'm anxious to see the new cruise dock at Icy Strait!

[tonyrocks922]

I'm anxious to see the new cruise dock at Icy Strait!

 

Does anyone have confirmation that the new dock is built? If so which lines are using it and how many ships can dock at once?

[Urban trekker]

I was there in late September - actually the last ship to visit this year and the work was well under way and looks like it will be ready for next season. Now that the cruise season is over they are able to work at a quicker pace as there aren't tourists around.

 

As for the number of ships - it appears to be able to hold only one ship but it is my understanding that the native corporation that owns the site and operates the port control the number of ships that can visit and only one will be allowed to visit there each day.

 

Perhaps some local Alaskans have some more updated info.

 

Cheers!

 

Dennis

Edited January 3, 2016 by Urban trekker