HOONAH SIGHTSEEING & TRIBAL CONNECTIONS
Discover the coastal city of Hoonah, home to the Huna Tlingit, the Indigenous people of southeast Alaska, on an approximately 90-minute excursion that includes a sightseeing drive. You’ll visit the Heritage Center Native Theater, where performers share their history through song and storytelling.
Excursion Details
Lasting around 90 minutes, this cultural exploration of Hoonah, a coastal Tlingit community on Chichagof Island’s northeastern side, begins with a short walk to your vehicle. This is followed by a roughly 50-minute panoramic drive, including photo stops. On the journey, your guide will explain how the local Huna Tlingit used to live near what is now called Glacier Bay, but were forced to relocate south by advancing glaciers more than 200 years ago.
You’ll also learn about the feats of local fishermen and the community’s resilience after a devastating fire in 1944 destroyed much of the town, which was rebuilt with federal assistance.
After the sightseeing drive you’ll return to Icy Strait Point, meeting at the Heritage Center Native Theater, where you’ll experience a Cultural Performance presented by Huna Tlingit members. Through live storytelling, narration, and traditional regalia, the community brings ancestral legends to life, an authentic and immersive expression of their living heritage. You’ll have around 30 minutes to watch the show, including the opportunity to meet performers and take photos afterwards. Following this, the excursion concludes. Guest can return walking to the ship at their leisure.
Important Information: Tour order may vary. Guests may be required to walk on uneven terrain and gravel. Guests will be getting on and off the bus at several stops throughout this tour. No photos or videos during the Tribal Performance
