Huna Totem Finalizes Tidelands Lease for Áak’w Landing, a Fifth Juneau Cruise Dock

Juneau’s Cruise Dock Expansion Could Ripple Through Anchorage’s Tourism Landscape

A new cruise ship dock in Juneau, designed to alleviate congestion and offer a unique cultural experience, is nearing completion – and Alaskans in Anchorage should pay attention. The project, dubbed Áak’w Landing, represents a significant shift in how cruise ships operate in Southeast Alaska and could subtly impact the dynamics of tourism here in our own city.

The Huna Totem Corporation has finalized a tidelands lease for the development, which will add a fifth dock to Juneau’s downtown waterfront. This dock is specifically designed to accommodate cruise ships when the existing four docks are full, eliminating the need to shuttle passengers via tender boats – a process that can be lengthy and sometimes challenging for visitors. With projections showing 95 large cruise ships expected to anchor in Juneau this season, the new dock is being hailed as a vital investment in the city’s future, promising to boost local businesses, create cultural opportunities, and improve harbor safety.

What This Means for Anchorage

While Juneau is hundreds of miles south, the increased cruise ship traffic in Southeast Alaska has a ripple effect. Anchorage, as Alaska’s primary gateway, sees a significant portion of cruise passengers who then transfer to smaller vessels for excursions into the interior – including our own Turnagain Arm and the Chugach Mountains. Increased demand in Juneau could lead to higher cruise fares, potentially impacting the affordability of Alaskan adventures for visitors. Furthermore, the focus on cultural experiences at Áak’w Landing highlights a growing trend in the cruise industry – a desire for more authentic and meaningful interactions with Alaska Native cultures. Anchorage’s tourism operators, particularly those offering guided tours and cultural experiences, will need to consider how to differentiate themselves and offer similar enriching opportunities.

Local Context

Alaska’s unique geography – a vast coastline dotted with fjords and islands – makes it a prime destination for cruise ships. The Huna Totem Corporation, based in Hoonah, a village on Chichagof Island, represents a vital connection to the region’s rich Native heritage and subsistence traditions. The project’s alignment with the US Coast Guard’s plans underscores the importance of maritime safety and infrastructure in Alaska, a state where weather conditions can be unpredictable and the sea is a constant presence. The proximity of the proposed dock to Marine Park, a beloved Anchorage green space, reminds us of the delicate balance between tourism and preserving our natural environment.

What to Know

Keep an eye on cruise ship schedules – you might see more vessels departing from Juneau this season. Local tour operators offering excursions to Southeast Alaska should explore opportunities to incorporate Native cultural elements into their offerings. And as Anchorage residents, let’s continue to advocate for responsible tourism practices that respect both our environment and the traditions of Alaska Native communities.

Let’s work together to ensure that Alaska’s beauty and culture are enjoyed sustainably for generations to come.