Na-Dena` and Klawock Heenya launch Alaska’s newest cruise port
Alaska’s newest cruise port, Port Klawock, celebrated the arrival of
its first cruise ship, Seabourn Odyssey today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Indigenous-owned
port is located near the Tlingit village of Klawock on the Pacific side of Prince of Wales Island.
Port Klawock is the latest initiative from Na-Dena`, a joint venture between the Alaska Native
corporations Huna Totem and Doyon, Limited, and Klawock Heenya, the Native village corporation
of Klawock. This development will improve the flexibility of Alaska’s cruise market and elevate the travel
experience with authentic cultural engagements and sustainable practices.
“In collaboration with Klawock Heenya and Doyon, Limited, our vision for Port Klawock prioritizes
respect for culture and community above all else,” Huna Totem Corporation president and CEO Russell
Dick said. “As we did with Icy Strait Point, we are developing this project with the land and our
shareholders in mind and cannot wait to share Klawock with the world.”
The Indigenous-owned port is committed to providing an authentic Alaskan experience to all travelers
arriving at its exclusive single-ship port. The port features a floating tender dock, welcome facilities, light retail options featuring Alaska Native arts and crafts and a shore excursions dispatch. When sailing
into Klawock, cruise ships will navigate between two fjord entrances as they approach the port, and
guests can enjoy scenic views of jagged mountains and lush landscapes.
At the port, guests can anticipate a selection of shore excursions with local guides and a shuttle
to Klawock and Craig operated by Alaska Coach Tours, a subsidiary of Na-Dena`. The port connects by
bridge to Prince of Wales’ vast road system to other communities and tour options around the island.
Current excursions include:
- River Hatchery and Lake Kayak Adventure: Explore the Klawock River Hatchery and paddle
through Klawock Lake, learning about local wildlife and the importance of fish to the local
population. - Wildlife Marine Tour: A guided tour on a purpose-built boat explores local ecosystems, offering
close encounters with humpback whales, sea otters, and other marine wildlife. - Klawock Highlights Tour: This tour covers key historical sites including the Klawock River Trail,
the renowned Carving Shed, and Klawock Totem Park. - Taste of Klawock and Totem Tour: Enjoy local delicacies against the backdrop of
the Klawock River and visit impressive totem poles, with cultural narratives provided by
knowledgeable guides. - Shuttle to Craig and Klawock: Complimentary shuttles provide easy access to Klawock and
Craig, offering additional shopping and cultural experiences.
“Our investment in Port Klawock is a testament to our commitment to sustainable development that
benefits all communities on Prince of Wales Island,” said Doyon, Limited Senior Vice President and CFO
Patrick Duke. “We’re here to build something that lasts, respecting heritage and natural resources.”
Na-Dena` is proud to collaborate with the local Native Corporation, Klawock Heenya, on this venture.
Port Klawock serves the community it collaborates with by emphasizing an Indigenous perspective and
centering sustainability by reusing existing port infrastructure and working toward a goal of 100%
renewable shore power.
“This port could have a generational impact on our shareholders and community,” said Mary Edenshaw,
CEO of Klawock Heenya. “As we welcome tourists and expand the visitor industry in Klawock, we weigh
all those decisions with shareholders and the community in mind.”
For more information about Port Klawock and its initiatives, please reach out to info@portklawock.com.