It won’t be long before Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ private island destination in the Bahamas, can simultaneously host two of the company’s biggest ships now that work on the island’s first pier has begun.
Currently, all ships calling at the island for a day of sun and fun must anchor offshore and tender guests to the destination — a challenge considering some of the largest ships can accommodate 4,000 passengers.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) owns and operates Norwegian Cruise Line, premium boutique line Oceania Cruises, and ultra-luxe Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
The cruise conglomerate announced on January 20, 2025 that construction of the pier officially got under way on January 17, 2025. The building project is beginning later than originally scheduled.
When the project was revealed in April 2024, Norwegian officials expected construction to start in summer 2024, with work completed in late 2025.
Nonetheless, the ground-breaking was a celebratory event, with cruise line and Bahamian government officials participating.
“This past Friday, we celebrated a major milestone! We officially broke ground on the construction of our pier at our stunning private island, Great Stirrup Cay! This exciting $150 million project will enhance access to our highest guest-rated destination in the world,” Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, stated.
“We’re honored to have had the Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Edward Davis MP KC and Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper join us for this special occasion, along with other local leaders,” Sommer added.
The executive’s post did not confirm a completion date for the project, which, once finished, will enable ships from all three of the brands owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings to call at the destination.
Besides Great Stirrup Cay, NCLH owns a second private destination, Harvest Caye, in Belize. Between the two, the cruise brands have exclusive island retreats in the Eastern and Western Caribbean.
Ground-Breaking Ceremony at Great Stirrup Cay
Pier Development to Precede Fleet Expansions
The addition of a pier to accommodate two large cruise ships was announced at the same time when NCLH confirmed it would undertake a major expansion of its brands’ fleets. The announcement, in April 2024, revealed that 25,000 berths would be added across the three brands.
During the next 10 years, eight new-builds will be constructed, with launch dates ranging from 2026 to 2036.
Norwegian Cruise Line will receive four 200,000-gross-ton ships, each with a capacity for up to about 5,000 passengers. Staggered deliveries are planned for 2030, 2032, 2034, and 2036.
Oceania Cruises will welcome two 86,000-gross ton ships, each accommodating 1,450 guests and launching in 2027 and 2029.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises will receive two ships. The 77,000-gross ton ships carrying up to 850 guests are expected to enter service in 2026 and 2029.
Both Oceania and Norwegian Cruise Line currently have new-builds under construction. Oceania’s Allura is due to launch in late July 2025. The 1,200-guest ship, being built at a Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, was originally slated to debut in June 2025.
However, her introduction was postponed, causing several cruises in June and July 2025 to be cancelled. Her inaugural sailing is currently set for July 18, 2025, from Trieste, Italy, to Athens.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s new-build, Norwegian Luna, is scheduled to launch in April 2026 from PortMiami.
An overnight visit to a popular port can be an exciting opportunity for cruise travelers and a chance to enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, various nightlife opportunities, and other fun ashore.
Why, then, will a cruise line still list an evening “all aboard” time for a port when the ship will be there the next day as well? Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador John Heald has answered one guest’s concerns, with an explanation travelers should take note of for their own port visits.
“I am going on my first cruise that docks at a port overnight (Cabo San Lucas) so I wanted to make sure I understood the rules. According to my itinerary the back on board time for the first night is 18:00, do I really have to be back on board by then?”the guest asks.“Does the port close or something?”
The guest does not reveal which cruise they are sailing on, but for example, Carnival Radiance often offers Mexican Riviera itineraries that include overnight calls to Cabo San Lucas. The ship’s itinerary is listed as visiting the gorgeous Mexican destination from 10 a.m. the first morning until 4 p.m. the next afternoon.
The all-aboard time for the first evening can be confusing to new travelers or even experienced cruisers, but Heald explains why it is necessary.
“Remember you’re tendering, which means you’re using the water shuttle to get to the ship. So that’s the last time you need to be back on board according to the shuttle schedule,”Heald notes, but he does go on with an informative warning for guests who choose to remain ashore overnight.
“But I should also mention that there is a chance always that on the second day when the ship returns and begins the tendering schedule again that bad weather may stop this from happening, which would mean you would have to fly home at your own expense and it would be theoretically the end of the cruise.”
Carnival Cruise Line visits a wide range of tendering ports of call, from Cabo San Lucas in Mexico to Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas to Nanortalik in Greenland to Santorini in Greece.
Some popular ports of call may also be water shuttle destinations depending on the sailing and berth availability. This includes Icy Strait Point in Alaska, Prince Rupert in Canada, and Kirkwall in the UK.
Guests should always review Carnival’s official list of water shuttle ports for updated information on what to expect at different ports of call.
Can Guests Stay Ashore Overnight?
Travelers can opt to enjoy a local hotel or resort during an overnight ship visit if they choose. This would be at their own expense, and they would have to make their arrangements independently as this is not a type of tour or excursion option offered through Carnival Cruise Line.
Heald does explain, however, that it is important to notify Guest Services if guests choose to stay ashore.
“Now, you can stay in a hotel overnight if you wish to and all you need to do if you intend to do that is to let Guest Services know 24 hours before you [are] arriving to Cabo San Lucas,”he said.
Carnival Cruise Ship at Night (Photo Credit: NAN728 / Shutterstock)
Some travelers may want to enjoy a local resort’s amenities during an overnight stay, spend time in a different casino, or have friends or family members living in the area to meet up with for such a long port stay.
Whatever the reason, it is vital to inform Guest Services so they are aware that no one is missing from the ship, which could cause an emergency overboard alert or onboard search.
Guests should also be sure to note the final all aboard time when their ship will be leaving, just to ensure they don’t suffer the humiliation of being a pier runner or accidentally miss the ship!
Over the past few years, technology has continued its creep into every aspect of our lives, and not everyone is happy about it.
This is especially true on cruise ships, where cell phones are now used nearly everywhere – from reading newsletters to checking menus to digital scavenger hunts to making show reservations.
While technology can enhance cruise travel in many ways, not everyone appreciates its use in every venue. One particularly irate guest has reached out to John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, with the demand that phones be banned in the Main Dining Room in order to preserve the “fine dining” experience.
“We were in the main dining hall last night. Look at this photo John. Everyone is looking at their phones. In the center of the photo you see a 3 or 4 perhaps year-old girl was watching cartoons on their tablet with NO HEADPHONES. This is what you call fine dining is it John?”the guest explained.
“Ban phones. Ban tablets. Return to fine dining is the request of all of us. Take a lesson from —– who are smart. They are the first cruise line to stop people using phones in the main dining hall and the specialty restaurants too.”
To preserve guests’ privacy, Heald does not repost the photo showing the other travelers using their cell phones in the Main Dining Room. This is no different, however, than restaurants on land where one might see many diners checking their phones, taking photos, or texting during a meal.
Heald does respond to the guest’s concern, but with a surprising admission about Carnival Cruise Line’s dining experience.
“Thank you. I obviously cannot post the photo of someone else’s child as I am sure you understand. I really don’t want to say too much here but I have to say that we offer fun dining, good food, great atmosphere – but I don’t think I or any of the beards would call it ‘fine dining,'”he said.
Given the level of attentive service, delicious menu options, and that decadent warm chocolate melting cake dessert, I would certainly consider Carnival’s Main Dining Rooms as “fine dining” myself, but that’s a matter of personal opinion.
Heald goes on to note that many guests use their phones for different reasons, even during meals.
“People take their phones because they want to take photos of the their friends and family, the food, the brilliant waiters and yes, to text WhatsApp and Facebook their friends back in Cleveland, Ohio to say ‘wish you were here,'”he said.
Of course, many Carnival cruise guests also use their phones to review menus in the Main Dining Room as well as to check the Carnival Hub App for nightly activities, perhaps while waiting to order their meals or between courses.
It should be noted that while the guest claims another cruise line has already banned phones in their dining rooms, no major cruise line has made any such announcement.
Furthermore, many cruise lines are working to improve their Wi-Fi packages and offer even more connectivity to travelers, steps that are being welcomed by many.
How Do Guests Use Phones in the Dining Room?
Heald followed up on the phone use in the dining room with a poll, asking how guests use the technology during meals.
Of the more than 1,300 responses (as of this writing), 43% admitted to taking photos of themselves, their friends, and their family members having fun during meals. This could be group photos, posing with the phenomenal wait staff, or joining in the nightly “Showtime!” festivities.
Carnival Magic Dining Room
Another 31% take photos of their food (guilty!), which is often the shared with others or posted on social media, which 13% of voters agreed that they do. Just 7% of diners are using their phones to scroll through social media, websites, or other online material while in the Main Dining Room.
Finally, 6% of voters prefer not to take their phones to dinner at all. This is where I used to be personally, though I do find it convenient to be browsing for evening activities while we wait to enjoy our desserts.
Carnival Cruise Line also posts Main Dining Room menus, as well as specialty restaurant menus, through the Carnival Hub app. In fact, using a phone to look at the menu is the most common reason commentors have for taking the devices to different restaurants.
I personally prefer a paper menu, and guests only need to ask their serving team for one and it will be provided.
The scam artists of the world are at it again – and this time they are targeting future Carnival cruise guests.
Booked guests of upcoming Carnival sailings should be on the lookout for a fraudulent operation in which scammers pretend to be a cruise line representative to collect on unpaid balances – targeting cruisers using emails and fake online advertisements that are meant to draw in victims.
However, the representatives don’t have anything to do with Carnival and the fees they are trying to collect aren’t real.
When guests who see the email or ads call the fraudulent phone number, they are connected with a mal-intentioned scammer instead of a cruise line representative – who will pressure them into providing their credit card number to pay for the fake fees and other personal information that can be used to steal one’s identity.
With the technology of today, the scammers are able to mask their phone number to make it look like they are part of the Carnival Corporation – making them seem legitimate when they are not.
The ploy almost worked on one unidentified guest – who was reportedly on the verge of shelling out over $450 before double checking with actual Carnival representatives at the last minute.
The scammers can be quite convincing, too. In addition to masking their phone number, they often use scare tactics like reminding guests that if they don’t pay their final balance on time their cruise could be cancelled.
That said, the cruise lines rarely call guests to follow up on an unpaid balance – especially ahead of the final deadline – or demand that guests call to do so when they can simply make payments in their online portals.
Additionally, that final payment due date would have been clearly specified at the time of booking the sailing. After that point, the date can be found in guests’ online portals, so they can easily verify when their balance is due.
Guests who receive unsolicited calls or stumble upon one of these questionable ads or emails should verify contact information through the cruise line’s official website.
Again, many pre-cruise activities – including making payments and online check-in – can be securely completed through Carnival’s online portal or HUB App, largely rendering phone calls unnecessary.
Cruise Scams on the Rise
Lately, cruise guests have been reporting an influx of cruise scams – particularly regarding unauthorized charges and fake (usually heavily discounted) travel offers. These scams don’t just apply to Carnival, but to other mainstream brands as well, such as Royal Caribbean.
Perhaps most recently, two Florida residents fell victim to a Facebook adthat promoted a heavily discounted Royal Caribbean sailing onboard Utopia of the Seas. But unfortunately, this was a case of if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is (and it was).
Nyeasha Lambert of Jacksonville and Rochelle Price of Ocala, Florida, made regular payments for a $523 cruise through Cash App to who they thought was a reputable travel agent through Cash App – but the travel agent was a scammer and no reservation was actually made.
Docked Carnival Cruise Ships and Passengers (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Unfortunately, stories like this aren’t uncommon. Just to name a couple examples from recent years, headlines circulated regarding a woman in England paying £6,300 to book a Caribbean cruise through a fraudulent company on eBay and another man getting arrested in North Carolina on charges of selling fake Alaskan cruises.
While booking directly with the cruise line is the most surefire way to avoid scams, it is true that booking through some discount sites or reputable travel agencies can save some money.
That said, prospective cruisers should take care to make sure they really are booking with a reputable source – such as by checking reviews on Google Reviews, Trustpilot, or the Better Business Bureau.
It may also be safer to use widely known travel services offered by reputable companies – like Costco, AAA, and AARP – rather than relying on a relatively unknown travel professional.
Everyone can be a bit attached to their preferred type of milk, whether it is for morning coffee, a bowl of cereal, or a cool glass with a warm cookie. But what milk options are available aboard Carnival Cruise Line ships, and where can you get them?
Concerned guests have reached out to the cruise line’s official Brand Ambassador, John Heald, about the different types of milk. Heald often answers a variety of dining-related questions whether it is about the temperature of butter, seating requests, or the availability of the ever-popular Celebration Cheesecake.
“I’ll be sailing on the Panorama in a couple weeks with my 18-month-old son. My wife is curious to know whether they serve whole milk on this ship,”one guest explained.“I have asked my [travel agent], she did not know. I called Carnival directly. Again no info was available. John can you help answer this?”
Children can often be especially picky about what they eat and drink, and providing the proper item can make a world of difference between a smooth dining experience and a hunger-fueled tantrum. Dietary issues and the nutritional needs of growing children can also be a concern for parents.
This isn’t the only milk-related question Heald has been asked recently, however.
“Many of your cruisers do like to eat healthy and live a plant-based lifestyle. Carnival has the vegan menu yes but horrifyingly you still have packets of cow’s milk at the buffet line,”the second guest noted, with some comments on the dairy industry and cows’ impact on global warming. “John why are there no non-dairy options given for passengers who refuse to drink this evil—-?”
While Heald himself may not be aware of all the different varieties, he did follow up to generate the complete list of what milks are available throughout the Carnival fleet.
“Thank you, both of you and in the hopes that my answer will not have anyone getting their sustainable, non-dairy knickers in a twist, here is the complete list of milk we have on board,”he said.
Carnival Cruise Line offers the following types of milk:
2% reduced fat milk
Skim milk
Chocolate milk
Whole milk (from the coffee shop)
Almond milk
Lactose-free milk
Soy milk
Oat milk (from the coffee shop)
Half-and-half
While the reduced-fat, skim, and chocolate milk cartons are typically available from the Lido Marketplace buffet only at breakfast, guests can ask their wait staff for milk at other mealtimes.
Likewise, asking for assistance is the fastest and easiest way to find the other types of milk whenever needed, and Carnival team members are always happy to help.
Guests may choose different milks not only for dietary preferences, such as following a vegan lifestyle, but also due to lactose-intolerance, food allergies, or simply a preferred taste.
Fortunately, while some travelers may be more insistent than others about what milk Carnival Cruise Line may offer, most guests enjoy the variety and the ability to choose what suits them best.
It should be noted, however, that the exact types of different milks may vary on different ships based on supply availability and overall demand.
Carnival Offering Many Options for Different Diets
In the past few years, Carnival Cruise Line has really outdone itself in seeking to offer a wider selection of delicious dining options to meet a variety of dining preferences and requirements.
Not that long ago all that might be available was a “Featured Vegetarian” entree and one or two sugar-free desserts on the dinner menu. Now, the cruise line offers a complete vegan menu as well as a wider range of healthy dining options, such as entree salads.
Carnival Cruise Line Coffee and Milk (Photo Credit: CathyRL)
Furthermore, gluten-free breads and pastas, as well as even more sugar-free or low-sugar options are often available. Dining teams now inquire about any possible food allergies and take extra steps to avoid cross-contamination as well.
In 2022, the cruise line also introduced Menu Mate fleetwide for servers to ensure allergen-free dining, and guests can also use the program themselves at kiosks near the Lido Marketplace buffet to plan their dining with ease.
Carnival Cruise Line’s special needs teams are also available for additional food requirements, including low-cholesterol, low-carb, and even kosher options.
Travelers should contact the cruise line to make those arrangements as soon as they have booked their cruise, as well as follow up with the Guest Services and dining teams onboard when they set sail.
On Monday, January 20, 2025, Donald Trump was sworn into office for his second term as president of the United States – and one of his first orders of business may directly impact cruising.
During his inaugural address, Trump said that one of his first executive orders will change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America – which is part of the itineraries for hundreds of sailings from the major cruise lines each year.
He previously brought up the name change at a press conference held in Florida at Mar-a-Lago earlier in January.
“We’re going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring that covers a lot of territory, the Gulf of America,”Trump said at the time, per ABC News.“What a beautiful name. And it’s appropriate. It’s appropriate.”
The Gulf is often referred to as the “Third Coast” of the United States because its coastline spans across five Southeastern states, which includes Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
However, the name change is likely connected to President Trump’s ongoing clash with Mexico regarding several issues, including border security and tariffs on imported goods.
But while the new President can issue an executive order changing the name of the Gulf, it’s not necessarily a unilateral decision – especially as the massive body of water doesn’t fall squarely within the borders of the United States.
This means other countries do not necessarily have to adopt the new name – including Mexico, where the Gulf is referred to by its Spanish name: “El Golfo de México.” However, the name will be changed on official US federal documents and maps.
As of the time of publication, Trump has not yet signed the executive order – but has vowed the name change will be complete “a short time from now,” while speaking at the Capitol Rotunda.
Additionally, Trump will also be changing the name of Mount Denali in Alaska back to Mount McKinley. The mountain was previously renamed by President Barack Obama in 2015.
The mountain – and the National Park and Preserve it’s found in – is America’s tallest peak and serves as a popular destination for cruise passengers who take land tours from Holland America Line and Princess Cruises.
The Gulf of Mexico’s Importance to Cruising
As the ninth largest body of water in the world, the Gulf of Mexico is an ocean basin and a marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean that spans 617,800 square miles.
In addition to bordering five states within the US, the coastline also expands to six Mexican states to the west (Quintana Roo, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatan) and the island of Cuba in the southeast.
The Gulf is a very busy waterway – often a key part of the route for cruise ships sailing from the major cruise ports in Texas (Port of Galveston), New Orleans, Mobile, Alabama; and the busy ports in Florida (including Port Canaveral and Port Tampa Bay).
Port of Galveston, Texas (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov)
Hundreds of sailings from Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line sail through the gulf each year – taking their guests to destinations throughout the Caribbean, including their exclusive private islands.
It also provides access to popular Mexican ports like Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Costa Maya, and Cancun.
That said, Trump’s name change shouldn’t impact access to the Gulf for cruise ships. The bigger hindrance to cruising is more likely to be the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane season– which lasts from June 1 to November 30.
The 2024 hurricane season was unusually busy, with the Gulf of Mexico impacted by multiple major storms – including Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
While no cruise ships or passengers were harmed by the hurricanes, many sailings were rerouted – or even cancelled – to avoid the worst of the severe weather.
Icy Strait Point Cruise Port, owned by the Huna Totem Corporation, offers a unique and culturally rich experience for visitors. It features the Ocean Landing pier and the newer Wilderness Landing pier, including access to the SkyGlider gondola, nature trails, and the 5,495-foot-long ZipRider!
Located near Hoonah, Alaska, cruise passengers can also enjoy a restored salmon cannery, local shops, and access to authentic Tlingit culture, making it a standout destination for Alaska.
As mentioned, Icy Strait Point is located roughly 1.5 miles from the town of Hoonah, Alaska. The town and the remote cruise are both situated on the rugged Chichagof Island.
This remote island is part of Alaska’s breathtaking Inside Passage, approximately 30 miles west of Juneau, Alaska. Although it is inaccessible by road and can only really be reached by seaplane or ship, the port’s address is:
108 Cannery Road, Hoonah, Alaska, 99829.
As of 2024, 85% of the cruise port’s permanent staff live in nearby Hoonah, which makes sense given the port’s remote location. The remaining staff are mostly flown in temporarily to help operate the port during the cruise season.
When you visit, you will immediately notice that the port is surrounded by a dense forest and rugged coastline, which add to the sense of serenity and isolation.
While there is no guarantee of what you will see during your visit, the area is also home to abundant wildlife, helping to immerse you in the Alaskan wilderness the second you take your first steps off your ship.
While it is certainly remote, Icy Strait Point was built to provide visitors with a comfortable and memorable experience. Plus, visiting is a great opportunity to experience the native Tlingit people’s famous hospitality, as the port is owned and operated by the Huna Totem Corporation, an Alaska Native corporation that directs all profits to the local community and tribe.
With over 1,400 Alaska Native shareholders, the entire port has a deep connection to the local community and people, making visiting feel all the more special.
Icy Strait Point Cruise Port Piers and Terminal
Ocean Landing Pier (Photo Credit: EWY Media)
Icy Strait Point features two cruise ship docks: Ocean Landing, also known as Adventure Landing, and the newer Wilderness Landing Dock.
The newer Wilderness pier was completed in 2021 and sits just south of Ocean Landing. Before the 400-foot-long floating Ocean Landing Dock was constructed in 2016, the entire port consisted of a single tendering pier called Icy Strait Point Dock.
The decision to build the Wilderness Landing Dock was a real game-changer for the port. It eliminated the need for tendering, and its location half a mile from the rest of the port meant it could be built in the deeper waters required to dock mega cruise ships.
Wilderness Landing was a joint $17 million project completed by the Huna Totem Corporation in partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line. Its construction allowed for both larger ships and higher traffic volume, bringing much-needed tourism dollars to the area and the town of Hoonah.
In 2021, Norwegian Encore actually sailed from Seattle to Icy Strait, providing her passengers with the opportunity to be the first to explore the new Wilderness Landing Dock and the ZipRider Gondola System.
Having the option to avoid tendering also means passengers can now walk directly onto a dock connected to the land during the disembarkation process. Many who have visited before and after 2020 feel that the Wilderness Landing Dock makes the port much more accessible and convenient.
For those with mobility challenges or even young children, disembarking at the Wilderness Dock is also far less daunting than getting in and out of a smaller tender boat.
That said, one advantage of using the older Ocean Landing pier is that it is closer to the short trail leading to the historic salmon cannery. The cannery’s existence is actually the reason the entire cruise port was constructed where it currently sits.
Overall, most people find the port compact and easily walkable. Well-maintained walking paths connect the piers and the main attractions. The Ocean Landing Dock is closer to the historic cannery, while the Wilderness Landing Dock is slightly farther away but has a more modern feel.
Amenities and Facilities
Map of Icy Strait Point Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)
Although the rugged setting and isolated location are the main draws of Icy Strait Point, the port is also very well-equipped to handle cruise passengers.
There are clean restrooms and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating areas, and all visiting passengers can easily access free Wi-Fi outside and inside the terminal.
If you want to stay connected, the signal is surprisingly decent for such a remote location, though it can get spotty when lots of people are online at once. The closer you stay to the building at the end of the Adventure Dock, the better the signal.
The beautifully restored historic cannery building now serves as a free museum with exhibits showcasing the region’s history and the native people who have called it home for hundreds of years. This museum is one of the highlights of the port. Inside, you’ll find shops, restaurants, and exhibits detailing the area’s history.
Accessibility is also excellent throughout the port, with ramps and paved or gravel-lined walking paths making it easy for everyone to navigate.
If you are just looking to take in the views rather than participate in any of the many shore excursions available to visitors, you can see a lot without needing to travel far. The thick forest and wildlife-filled waters surrounding the port are an attraction.
ZipRider
ZipRider in Icy Strait Point (Photo Credit: Iryna Makukha)
One of the port’s more unique features is the nearby ZipRider, one of the longest zip lines in the world. This attraction starts high in the mountains and offers stunning views as you zoom down at speeds up to 65 mph.
It can be accessed via a gondola or hiking trail. Just be prepared for an adrenaline-fueled descent, as the 5,495-foot-long zipline cable has a vertical drop of 1,320 feet!
As we will discuss in further detail later, you can enjoy several restaurants and eateries while you visit Icy Strait Point, so you will not have to travel far to grab a bite to eat.
Cruise Lines that Visit Icy Strait Point Cruise Port
Celebrity Cruises Ship Docked at Icy Strait Point (Photo Credit: Steve Heap)
While the remote location might make you think it’s a cruise port that few ships visit, Icy Strait Point is an incredibly popular stop on a wide range of Alaskan cruise itineraries.
In fact, in 2024 alone, the port welcomed just over 240 cruise ships, bringing roughly half a million visitors to Icy Strait Point.
With its array of shore excursions and a stunning backdrop, some of the world’s most recognizable cruise lines include a visit to Icy Strait in their schedules. These cruise lines include:
Carnival Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises
Holland America Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
Oceania Cruises
Princess Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Royal Caribbean International
For the most part, these cruise lines tend to include a stop at Icy Strait Point as part of their Southeast Alaska itineraries. These cruise voyages often include stops at Juneau Cruise Port, Ketchikan Cruise Port, and Skagway Cruise Port. Their itineraries often incorporate other hugely popular Alaskan attractions like Glacier Bay National Park.
How to Get to Icy Strait Point
Cruise Ships at Icy Strait Point (Photo Credit: Steve Heap)
Aside from a single land, two-mile road, and sidewalk that connect the port to the town of Hoonah, the only way to reach Icy Strait Point is by cruise ship or passenger ferry.
This is actually a huge part of the charm of Icy Strait Point Cruise Port. Its remote and difficult-to-access location makes you feel like you are stepping into a different world when you arrive at either dock.
Since it is a private port owned by the Huna Totem Corporation, it is only open when a cruise ship is docked or will dock shortly. This means the entire port and its experiences are tailored to visiting cruise passengers.
While some passengers have complained about it seeming too touristy, the fact you will not have to worry about the port and its attractions being crowded with tourists who did not arrive by cruise ship should be seen as a major plus.
What Can You Do Nearby?
While Icy Strait Point is packed with things to do and see, some amazing attractions are just a short distance from the port. Whether you are planning to book a shore excursion or simply walk into nearby Hoonah, the following are just some of the many activities you can enjoy:
Book a Wildlife and Nature Tour
Cruise Passengers Watching Wildlife at Icy Strait Point (Photo Credit: JohnHancockPhoto)
Thanks to its remote location and pristine nature, Icy Strait Point is one of the best places in Alaska to spot wildlife.
Whale watching is probably the most popular option, as it allows visitors to spot humpback whales, orcas, belugas, porpoises, and more in their natural habitats.
Most tour operators will take a small number of passengers out to the waters off Point Adolphus, one of the state’s most fruitful whale-watching locations. While whales are the main attraction, these tours also provide ample opportunities to view other species, including sea otters and seals.
Bear viewing tours are also popular, as Chichagof Island has an incredibly high concentration of coastal brown bears. Most tours visit the Spasski River Valley, where participants can safely view these unique bears as they eat and sleep in their natural habitat.
You can also book a bird-watching nature hike with a local Native guide. With a high concentration of bald eagles calling the area home, these tours are a great opportunity to spot one of the country’s most iconic animals while simultaneously learning about the history of the region.
Sea kayaking lessons and tours are another way to explore the area’s pristine coastlines and encounter wildlife in its natural habitat.
Visit the Town of Hoonah
Welcome Sign for Hoonah, Alaska (Photo Credit: Iryna Makukha)
While there is a nice nature trail that links the port and the town, as well as a sidewalk that lines the service road, plenty of visitors will opt for a short shuttle ride to Hoonah to maximize the amount of time they have to explore the town.
When you arrive in Hoonah, you will discover plenty of ways to embrace the town’s Tlingit heritage and culture.
Visit the Yaakw Kahidi Cultural Center to learn about the culture and view authentic Native art, or grab a pint of beer at the Icy Strait Brewing Company, where brewers focus on using locally-grown ingredients wherever possible.
Hike the Nature Trails
Nature Trail (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)
There is a risk of bear encounters, so it is recommended that hikers travel in groups and bring noise makers. Several truly incredible and scenic walking trails can be hiked from the port.
These include the Cannery Trail, which offers beautiful views of the shoreline. If you are concerned about bears or just want to learn about the area from a local, there are guided hikes that can be educational, rewarding, and incredibly memorable.
Dining in Icy Strait Point
While you might assume that such a remote and relatively small cruise port would lack dining options, Icy Strait Point has several must-try spots for visiting cruise passengers.
Most focus on showcasing Alaskan cuisine, including some of the best seafood you will try anywhere in the world. Here are just a few of the most popular options.
The Crab House
The Crab House (Photo Credit: Vintagepix)
As you have probably guessed, The Crab House is the place to visit if you want to indulge in some fresh-caught crab dishes. This casual spot is famous for its fresh Dungeness crab, which is only available when in season, between October and January.
If you are lucky enough to be in port while it is available, the crab is served steaming hot and covered with melted butter. It may sound a little odd, but do yourself a favor and order it with the grilled beach asparagus.
The asparagus is locally grown, and when I had it served with meaty snow crab legs, it was easily one of the best meals I’ve ever had on an Alaskan cruise.
Even if you just want to grab a drink, The Crab House’s signature Bloody Mary cocktail is hugely popular and features plenty of local ingredients.
The restaurant is located in the port just to the right of the Adventure Dock, so it’s incredibly easy to find and access. With warm indoor seating and outdoor seating that offers an incredible view of the water, it’s a must-visit.
The Cookhouse Restaurant
Cookhouse Restaurant (Photo Credit: EWY Media)
Located on the other side of the dock from The Crab House, the Cookout Restaurant offers visitors an opportunity to order from a more extensive menu.
One of the coolest things about this unique waterfront restaurant is that it has been in this location for nearly 100 years. It used to be the dining hall for the salmon cannery, which employed hundreds of locals.
Unsurprisingly, seafood steals the show, with British-style fish and chips made with Alaskan halibut being one of the most popular items on the menu.
Not into seafood? Don’t worry; they also serve burgers, sliders, nachos, and other pub food favorites. If you are up for something totally new, I recommend ordering the Alaskan salmon sliders or the reindeer meat burger!
If you just want to relax with a cold beverage, they also have a variety of local beers from the nearby Icy Strait Brewing Company on tap.
Duck Point Smokehouse Restaurant
Duck Point Smokehouse Restaurant (Photo Credit: RUBEN M RAMOS)
Located just to the side of the Wilderness Landing Dock near the gondola for the ZipRider attraction, this newly renovated restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The huge windows look out onto the pebble beaches that line the island’s coastline.
With a huge menu that changes with the seasons and the availability of various ingredients, there is always something new to try. Whether you order it as a main or appetizer, their in-house smoked salmon is a must-try item. The crab tater tots, reindeer steaks, and brick-oven baked pizzas are also hugely popular semi-permanent menu options.
If the incredible menu and atmosphere weren’t impressive enough, you will find it has a 4.5 rating on Google Reviews, and plenty of reviewers rave about the incredible service. If you want to treat yourself during your visit to Icy Strait, don’t miss out on a visit to Duck Point!
Shopping in Icy Strait Point
Icy Strait Point Store (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)
It goes without saying that you are not going to find the same range of duty-free stores, boutiques, and outlet shops you would find in the major cruise ports in the Caribbean, but there are still some interesting shopping opportunities available for those looking to purchase a souvenir from their time in Icy Strait Point.
Most of the options available to visiting cruise passengers tend to be handcrafted goods and various locally made products. If you are interested in shopping while you are in the port, you can find the following items available inside the cannery building itself:
Alaska Native Crafts
Given its ownership and location, the store heavily focuses on promoting authentic Tlingit goods. Look for intricately hand-carved totem poles, pieces of jewelry, Christmas ornaments, woven baskets and beach bags, and other items made by local Tlingit artists and artisans.
Locally Made Goods
If crafts and trinkets aren’t your thing, you can also find items celebrating the area’s long-standing link to the fishing industry. Canned smoked salmon and dried fish are also available inside the historic cannery building just steps from the Ocean Landing Dock.
You can also purchase local honey, sea salt, dried seaweed, birch syrup, dried berries, and more. Handmade knives and seal fat soaps are also popular items available inside the cannery building.
No matter what you are looking for, what many visitors appreciate most about shopping in the port is that most of the items for sale here are genuinely made locally, so you’re supporting local artists and the community that lives in the area.
I get tired of seeing the same cookie-cutter goods available in most ports. Purchasing something unique to the area and supporting its residents has always seemed like a way better souvenir than a plastic magnet or factory-made knickknack.
Best Time to Visit Icy Strait Point
Cruise Passengers Enjoying Icy Strait Point (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Icy Strait Point Cruise Port is only open during the Alaskan cruise season, from late April to early October. Here’s what you can expect during each part of the season:
Spring (April to May)
Spring is generally the best time to view the area’s famous wildlife, including bears and whales, as both are active after the long winter months. I recommend dressing warm and packing a raincoat, as you can anticipate temperatures between 40° and 55° F and semi-frequent rain showers.
Summer (June to August)
Alaska’s warmest weather occurs during summer, but daytime highs rarely exceed the mid-60s. Therefore, you should still bring warm clothes, especially if you visit later in the day.
Summer is also the busiest time of year for the cruise port, so expect larger crowds. If you are looking forward to a particular shore excursion, I highly recommend booking ahead of time if you visit during the summer months. Luckily, most can be booked online ahead of time, so it is fairly easy to secure your spot.
Fall (September to October)
Icy Strait Point tends to be less busy during the cooler fall months. Fewer ships visit the port, making it easier to book excursions, tours, or even tickets for the ZipRider.
Keep in mind that rainfall increases in autumn, so outdoor activities and chartered fishing trips can be subject to cancellation. Still, the vivid fall colors and crisp air can make for some truly stunning scenery and an authentic Alaska experience.
While temperatures can dip as low as 30° F in the early fall, you also get 14 hours of daylight during these months, making it a unique time to cruise Alaska’s Inside Passage.
Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne, marked the beginning of her inaugural world cruise with a visit to New York on January 18, 2025, her first call in North America.
The 3,000-guest ship’s arrival at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal was the first of 30 ports she will visit during her 107-day world cruise that departed from Hamburg, Germany, on January 7, 2025.
Cunard’s ties to the Big Apple go back to the mid-19th century, when the line’s Hibernia became its first ship to call. After that notable arrival in 1847, Cunard ships routinely sailed to New York, transporting many immigrants to the New World.
The iconic cruise brand, owned by Carnival Corporation, began operations in 1840 and marks its 185th anniversary in 2025. Land-based and at-sea events throughout the year will mark the milestone.
The 14-deck Queen Anne is known for her impeccable design, her three accommodations and dining categories — Queens Grill, Princess Grill, and Britannia, plus 15 restaurants, a Royal Court Theater, and a luxury retail center.
At the helm as she entered New York Harbor was Captain Inger Klein Thorhauge, one of just a handful of female cruise ship captains.
“Queen Anne represents the pinnacle of innovation, design, and hospitality for Cunard, and her arrival in New York is an historic milestone for our company,” said Katie McAlister, president of Cunard.
“As we celebrate nearly two centuries of maritime excellence, Queen Anne ushers Cunard into a new era of luxury cruising and continues delivering unforgettable experiences that connect people and cultures around the globe,” McAlister added.
Queen Anne began sailing in May 2024 following her handover from Fincantieri’s Marghera, Italy, shipyard a month earlier. The fourth ship in the Cunard fleet, she joins Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria.
The 113,000-gross ton Queen Anne is adorned with a 4,300-piece art collection curated from artists around the world. In addition to the Royal Court Theater, the ship introduced a new entertainment venue called Bright Lights Society, a show-bar featuring various performances and musicians.
Queen Anne Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Thorsten Schier)
A new dining venue, Pavilion Wellness Cafe, offers both a plant-based and traditional menu, while the Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea program tempts guests with three-day packages.
The cornerstone of Queen Anne’s luxury retail experience is the Cabinet of Curiosities. A collaborative effort between cruise industry retail giant Harding+ and Cunard offers guests a multi-sensory exhibit that highlights the cruise line’s heritage through top retail brands and rare items.
Queen Anne to Visit South Pacific, Asia, Africa
After departing New York, Queen Anne’s inaugural world cruise continued with an itinerary that brought her to PortMiami on January 21, 2025. From there she sails to Colombia and transits the Panama Canal.
The ship will call at Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, San Francisco, and Honolulu before setting sail for Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. After several calls in Asia, including at Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore, the ship will continue to South Africa, Namibia, and Senegal before arriving at the Canary Islands.
Departing the Canaries, the ship will call at Southampton, and conclude in Hamburg on April 29, 2025.
Queen Anne represents Cunard’s first new-build since 2010, when Queen Elizabeth, accommodating 2,080 guests entered service. The 2,060-guest Queen Victoria was launched in 2007, following the 2,700-guest Queen Mary 2, which began sailing in 2003.
Yes, we all like to let our hair down when we go on a cruise. It’s a time to relax. However, that doesn’t mean that, when you leave port, you also leave all your manners behind.
Take it from someone who’s been on their fair share of cruises over the years — if you’re a rude cruiser, you’re not going to make any friends with your fellow passengers. Here are the 14 etiquette rules I believe you should always follow as a cruiser.
No, I’m not saying you need to be dressed to the nines on every cruise, in tuxedo and ball gown (although it can be fun to attend the cruise ship’s formal night in your best formal attire).
Jeans and a t-shirt are usually acceptable in most areas of a cruise ship. Instead, just be mindful of the cruise line’s various dress codes for certain parts of the ship.
Those dress codes are in place not because you need to look a certain way, necessarily, but to ensure your other cruisers are comfortable.
When I’m sitting in the buffet, enjoying a nice breakfast, it can be a little (or a lot) stomach-turning to see cruisers stroll into the dining space in bare feet or dripping water from their swimsuits.
As an example of what to expect, dress code-wise, Royal Caribbean requests guests only wear their swimsuits without a covering of some sort, on the pool deck. The cruise line also requests you wear shoes in every restaurant and entertainment venue.
(As a side note, in some cases, following the dress code can even keep you safe and legal. For example, if your cruise ship is stopping in Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Lucia or Trinidad and Tobago, you may find yourself in hot water if you wear the wrong thing, as camouflage print clothing of any kind is illegal in these destinations!)
2. Tipping Isn’t Required, But Don’t Be “That Guy”
Cruise Tipping (Photo Credit: Kamil Zajaczkowski)
We’ve covered cruise tipping quite a bit here at CruiseHive, and my take is that you should always generously tip cruise ship employees such as a room steward or butler, unless the cruise line has a no-tipping or no cash tip policy (as is the case on Virgin Voyages, as well as most ultra-luxury cruise lines).
However, the bare minimum etiquette expectation on a cruise is that you pay the automatic gratuities that will be added to your bill at the end of the cruise, as these tips go to so many individuals on the ship that work both directly with the public and behind the scenes.
Yes, you can technically ask for those tips to be removed, but, unless you truly received very poor service from a crew member, I caution you not to be “that guy” and raise a fuss.
3. Mind Your Children
Passengers Sitting on balcony Railings
I feel that cruising is an amazing option for families seeking a vacation that caters to everyone. Family-friendly cruise lines are also some of the best in the biz, like Royal Caribbean, consistently upping their game with every new ship.
That said, if you’re cruising with your kids, you can’t just let them run amuck. That’s a sure way to earn a few unfriendly, side-eye glances from your fellow cruisers and you may just find that they complain to the cruise staff.
While having tons of energetic fun is to be expected at the pool or waterpark, or when checking out unique attractions like Carnival Cruise Line’s BOLT roller coaster or Norwegian Cruise Lines’ go-karting tracks, keep the noise to a more indoor-friendly level when at restaurants or in entertainment venues like the theater. Likewise, keep the running to a minimum (especially in those long, narrow stateroom hallways and near the pool).
Your fellow cruisers will thank you.
4. Stay on Time While in Port
Cruise ships operate on a very strict schedule. When you leave the ship while in port, make a note of what time the ship plans to leave and make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get back to the ship before embarkation.
Yes, following this rule has meant that I’ve had to maybe cut some of my explorations or shore excursions short, and I may’ve had to leave a destination or two earlier than I would’ve liked, but it also means I’ve never been left behind in port before.
That’s right — if you don’t make it back to the ship by embarkation time, either one of two things will happen. The ship will either leave you behind (meaning you have to find a way to join it at the next port of call on your itinerary) or the ship may wait a small amount of time for you to return, but this is less than considerate to the other cruisers on board, as well as to the crew and captain.
5. Avoid the Urge to Skinny Dip and Stripping Down
EXPLORA Ship Cruise Couple
Yes, there are many places around the world where it’s perfectly acceptable to swim or sunbathe topless. A cruise ship is not one of those places. In fact, a couple was caught in the action on their balcony during a christening ceremony of a new Explora Journeys cruise ship.
Even if you have a private stateroom balcony or a sundeck, even with your own private hot tub, avoid stripping down. You’d be surprised at just how easy it is for other cruisers to catch a glimpse of your balcony or sundeck, depending on where you are on the ship!
6. Only Smoke in Designated Areas
Photo Credit: Filistra / Shutterstock
Many cruise ships have designated smoking areas somewhere on one of the top decks, where you can safely smoke a cigarette without bothering your fellow cruisers.
Others may allow you to smoke in certain indoor areas, such as in a cigar lounge or the casino. Keep any smoking, including vaping, to these areas, both for etiquette and safety reasons (a fire on a cruise ship is a bad, bad idea).
7. Don’t Save Deck Chairs
Chair Hog Carnival Enforcement
There are only so many deck chairs on the pool deck and sun decks. As such, one of the most-complained about rude cruise passenger faux pas is saving deck chairs.
I’ve seen people come to the pool deck, put a few towels on several deck chairs in prime spots, and then completely leave, sometimes for hours at a time.
They go to the waterpark or to the buffet. They go to the bar. All the while, no one else can snag those seats, leaving people who actually want to use and enjoy them completely out of luck.
Don’t be a “chair hog.” Only claim a pool chair if you truly intend to use it. If you’re worried about getting a deck chair in a desirable spot, I’ve found that, the earlier you get to the pool deck, the better chances you have of getting a great seat.
8. Watch How Much You Drink
Cruise Ship Passengers (Photo Credit: Dmitri T)
A cruise is a time for many to over-indulge, whether that means you’re chowing down at the buffet or hitting up the pool bar every chance you get.
Most cruise lines have a limit on how many alcoholic beverages a cruise passenger can order. On Carnival Cruise Lines, for example, you can only order 15 alcoholic drinks per day. However, while I don’t know about you, if I downed 15 margaritas at the pool bar after lunch, I might not remember the rest of the day.
So, even though these limits exist, don’t use them and a drink package as license to drink to excess. Watch your intake and, if you feel like you’re reaching your personal limit, scale back, grab a water and get a bite to eat.
Cruise lines (and other cruise passengers) do not look kindly on visibly inebriated passengers and, if things get out of hand, you could find yourself escorted to your cabin, you might face a fine or you might even get kicked off the cruise ship.
9. Keep the Volume to a Minimum
Travel Bluetooth Speaker (Photo Credit: Virojt Changyencham)
Beyond just ensuring that you and the kiddos use your inside voices when necessary, there’s also another potential disturbance that needs to be kept to a minimum.
If you’re using your phone or another device to make a call, stream music or video, or just scroll TikTok, take it off speaker phone. No one else wants to hear your music or phone call.
In fact, some cruise lines try to cut back on this issue by prohibiting cruisers from bringing portable speakers onto the ship.
10. Don’t Spread Germs in the Buffet
Filling Plate (Photo Credit: koentjoro)
Remember how I mentioned that stomach-turning feeling I get when I see someone walking through the buffet in their bare feet or swimsuit? There’s one other buffet faux pas that makes me cringe and think twice about visiting the buffet in the future.
It’s when people are mindlessly spreading germs by either reusing their plate and other dirty dishes at the buffet, or they’re actively touching food at the buffet.
Think about it. You get a plate of pasta. You eat the pasta, with your fork going from your mouth to the plate and back again. You get up for seconds, using the same plate.
The serving utensil touches your plate, which touched your fork, which was inside your mouth. Now all those mouth germs are in the pasta that everyone else is going to eat.
Then, there are the people I’ve seen who’ll actively just reach into a warming tray of hand-held foods like bread or cookies, and take what they want, ignoring the serving utensil. They may say they’re only touching what they’re going to eat… but are they really?
Listen. We’ve all heard stories of entire cruise ships coming down with norovirus and similar illnesses. Don’t add to the risk. Get a new plate each time you go to the buffet. Use the serving utensils.
11. Wash Your Hands
Hand washing station on Carnival’s Mardi Gras cruise ship (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
And on the note of avoiding illness, make sure that you’re washing your hands thoroughly. I also like to keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer in a pool tote if I’m headed to the pool, or in a backpack if I’m headed into port, just in case.
Keeping yourself healthy keeps the rest of the cruise ship healthy, which is just good manners.
12. Be Courteous at the Elevators
Odyssey of the Seas Elevators (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
The elevators are some of the busiest spots on a cruise ship, particularly at certain times of the day, when everyone’s rushing off to start their morning of fun or headed to dinner or a show.
Be courteous of your fellow cruisers as you get on and off the elevator. Wait for those who are getting off the elevator to do so, before you get in, for example.
13. Show Respect to the Crew
Carnival Cruise Line Crew Members (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
Sure, you don’t want to listen to the announcements and you don’t think you really need to go to the muster station or a muster drill.
However, it’d be wise to quiet up, listen up and do as the crew requests. The captain and crew always have a good reason for an announcement and you may indeed get some valuable info related to your trip.
In general, though, treat the crew with the courtesy they deserve. They’re not just there to make sure you have a good time, but also to make sure you have a safe time.
14. Be Patient
Overall, be patient as you deal with your fellow cruisers and the crew, no matter where you are on the ship and no matter the situation. After all, you’re several thousand people all stuck together on a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean.
Getting into a petty squabble or being rude won’t make your experience any better. However, having patience and a friendly attitude will go a very long way to ensuring your cruise is the best possible.
