What It Means for Alaska Sailings

Alaska cruises are more popular than ever.  Over 1.7 million cruise passengers visit the 49^th state every year, and 66% of all visitors to Alaska arrive by cruise ship.

With the region’s growing popularity, Disney Cruise Line just made a move to solidify their spot for one of the only privately owned cruise destination in Alaska. And it’s a very big deal.

A True Raw Alaskan Wilderness

As major ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway get increasingly crowded with multiple cruise ships on any given day, finding a port that offers a genuine escape into raw Alaskan wilderness is becoming something cruise guests want even more.

That is what makes Icy Strait Point so special, and why Disney Cruise Line just made a huge long-term investment to keep it on their schedules.

Disney has officially signed a new 15-year berthing agreement with the Huna Totem Corporation. It basically means they just secured preferred weekly access to Icy Strait Point through the year 2041.

By locking in guaranteed access through 2041, the cruise line is ensuring its families can continue enjoying one of Alaska’s most authentic, uncrowded destinations for years to come.

What Makes Icy Strait Point Unique?

Unlike some of the heavily commercialized cruise hubs, Icy Strait Point is 100% Alaska Native-owned and operated by the Huna Totem Corporation.

It’s located in Hoonah, Alaska, and the port limits the number of ships visiting at one time to make sure the region preserves that authentic experience.

After all, it’s a serene environment centered around Tlingit culture, forest trails, and all kinds of local wildlife. It is also very important for the economy of the Hoonah community.

Howard Sherman, President of Huna Totem Tourism Group, pointed out how meaningful Disney’s continued commitment is for the region:

“Disney Cruise Line has been an important part of the Icy Strait Point story for nearly a decade, and we’re grateful to build on that relationship through this agreement. Each Disney Cruise Line visit helps support local jobs, businesses and economic opportunity in Hoonah while creating meaningful connections between guests and the people who call this place home.”

What This 15-Year Deal Means for Cruisers

For anyone planning a future Disney cruise to Alaska, this agreement means a few things:

1. Long-Term Commitment to Alaska

In 2026, Disney doubled its presence in the region by deploying two ships: Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. Securing preferred access for the next 15 years sends a clear signal that Alaska will remain a huge part of the cruise line’s future plans.

Jose Fernandez, Vice President of Port Strategy, Development & Operations for Disney Cruise Line, stated:

“Icy Strait Point has been a valued part of our Alaska itineraries for nearly a decade, offering Disney Cruise Line guests an opportunity to experience the natural beauty, wildlife and rich cultural heritage of Hoonah and the broader Southeast Alaska region. This agreement will help ensure our guests can continue to enjoy the unique experiences that have made Icy Strait Point a fan-favorite destination.”

2. Hassle-Free Docking

With preferred docking rights locked in, Disney ships get primary positioning at either Wilderness Landing or Ocean Landing. Cruisers can walk straight off the ship without the stress of tendering.  That’s a big deal.

Free transportation also links the two landing areas, making the entire destination easy to navigate.

3. Direct Access to Bucket-List Wildlife and Adventure

Icy Strait Point offers wilderness adventures starting right at the pier:

• Point Adolphus Whale Watching: Located right near a famous feeding ground, making it one of Alaska’s best spots to see humpback whales.
• Chichagof Island Bear Tours: Excursions into Spasski River Valley, home to one of the world’s densest brown bear populations.
• The ZipRider: A 1,320-foot vertical drop on one of the world’s largest ziplines, reaching speeds over 60 mph.
• Authentic Native Culture: Cultural performances, local artisan shops, and rich historical exhibits in a restored 1912 salmon cannery.

With Alaska only becoming more popular, securing a spot like this is great news for Disney Cruise Line fans. For at least the next 15 years, Disney’s passengers won’t miss out on one of Alaska’s most peaceful and wilderness-rich regions that is accessible by cruise ship.