Disney Cruise Line finalized a 15-year agreement in 2026 with Huna Totem Corporation to secure preferential berthing access at Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska, guaranteeing port calls through 2041. The deal, publicly announced on July 24, 2026, establishes a long-term partnership with the Alaska Native-owned cruise destination.
Beginning in 2026, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder will include Icy Strait Point on their seven-night Alaska cruises departing from Vancouver. The preferential access grants Disney Cruise Line improved control over scheduling call dates and times at the port amid increasing competition for limited pier space in Southeast Alaska.
Icy Strait Point,
owned by Huna Totem Corporation representing approximately 1,560 Tlingit shareholders, is the largest employer in Hoonah during the summer cruise season. The agreement supports continued infrastructure development and cultural programming, sustaining jobs in tour operations, hospitality, retail, and pier services.
The contract addresses persistent port congestion issues in Southeast Alaska by reducing scheduling uncertainty for Disney. Icy Strait Point is expanding its pier and upland facilities to accommodate multiple large cruise ships simultaneously on peak days, ensuring reliable access for Disney and other cruise lines operating in the region.
The long-term preferential access enables Disney Cruise Line to offer more
predictable shore excursions centered on family-focused outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, zip lines, gondola rides, and cultural experiences. This stability allows enhanced marketing and planning of these excursions for travelers on Alaska itineraries.
This agreement aligns with a broader industry trend of cruise operators securing long-duration contracts at key Alaska ports to mitigate congestion and operational risks. Icy Strait Point functions as a controlled, purpose-built destination designed to manage visitor impact while supporting local economic growth.
By locking in access to Icy Strait Point, Disney Cruise Line distinguishes its Alaska portfolio with calls to a less crowded and culturally rich port
compared to other major Southeast Alaska stops. This reinforces Disney’s focus on immersive outdoor adventure and cultural programming for its Alaska guests.
