Whittier, Alaska, has taken a significant leap forward in enhancing its tourism infrastructure with the recent unveiling of Huna Totem Corp.’s state-of-the-art cruise terminal. This ambitious project represents an investment of $80 million and sits strategically within the picturesque, yet often overlooked, landscape of Prince William Sound. Located approximately 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, the terminal’s double-berth pier is poised to transform Whittier into a vital hub for cruise lines at a time when industry players are eagerly seeking alternative ports. With the opening of this 30,000-square-foot facility, the potential for expanded recreational and cultural opportunities in South Central Alaska is burgeoning.
The collaborative effort between Huna Totem Corp., the City of Whittier, and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings underpins the project’s promise. Although Norwegian holds scheduling rights for the facility, its design accommodates a range of cruise lines, amplifying competition and choice in Alaskan cruise itineraries. As the cruise industry faces regulatory limitations in established destinations like Juneau, which has introduced caps on ship visits, the Whittier terminal offers an attractive alternative, positioning the city as a dynamic cruise port.
One of the standout features of Whittier’s new terminal is its versatile design. Unlike traditional cruise ports, the terminal is outfitted with movable walls and partitions that allow for flexible configurations to suit the needs of different cruise lines. Tor Wallen, the terminal’s manager, emphasizes this adaptability as a game changer, stating, “It’s a blank slate. Everything is movable, which appeals to the cruise lines we’ve brought in.” This innovative approach not only caters to the operational requirements of various ship lines but also provides an opportunity for hosting community events, enhancing local engagement.
Moreover, the facility is equipped with modern technology aimed at improving both the passenger and crew experiences. Security and efficiency are prioritized with amenities such as WiFi, large-capacity water tanks, and a tsunami warning system. These features ensure that safety and comfort are at the forefront of visitors’ minds while additionally enhancing the operational reliability that cruise companies demand.
Beyond immediate operational capabilities, Huna Totem Corp. has clear visions for future expansion around the terminal site. Available land for development is a canvas for potential attractions which may include retail shops, dining options, and cultural centers that highlight the rich heritage of the Tlingit people, to whom Huna Totem Corp. is closely connected. As CEO David Herrera of Norwegian Cruise Line notes, the facility is “custom-built” to enhance the traveler experience, pointing to the desire for a multifaceted destination experience that might expand in the coming years.
While long-term development plans unfold, Huna Totem Corp. is also focused on immediate enhancements to the terminal area, including picnic spots and fire pits. In a bid to encourage visitors to engage with the natural beauty surrounding Whittier, the establishment of recreational opportunities—such as kayak and Jet Ski rentals, charter fishing, and wildlife tours—is in the planning stages.
A significant part of the terminal’s vision involves creating a deeper connection between visitors and Whittier’s unique history. Plans to showcase artifacts and images that reflect the town’s past as a military port during World War II and its evolution during the Cold War are in the pipeline. This historical presentation, coupled with the impressive Prince William Sound Museum situated nearby, will serve as a potent reminder of the town’s storied past, making the terminal an integral starting point for explorations into local culture and history.
Whittier itself is often referred to as the “town under one roof” due to its compact living arrangements, epitomized by the unique Begich Towers, which houses most of the town’s residents and includes essential services. This peculiar, somewhat isolated community setting amplifies the significance of the cruise terminal as a bridge between the town and the bounty of visitors potentially exploring its scenic surroundings.
The projected activity for the new facility is promising, with Huna Totem Corp. anticipating 27 scheduled arrivals from cruise lines such as Norwegian, Regent Seven Seas, and Oceania by 2025. This influx signals a revitalization of Whittier’s economic potential through enhanced tourism, offering the town’s residents and the surrounding region new avenues for growth.
Overall, the establishment of the cruise terminal not only bolsters Whittier’s strategic position in the global cruise industry but also serves as a shining example of how infrastructure investment can stimulate both local engagement and tourism opportunities, ensuring that this remote Alaskan town flourishes in the years to come.