The Alaska Native village Huna Totem Corporation broke ground in October on an $80-million infrastructure project that will bring a second docking facility to the gateway of Prince William Sound, Whittier, Alaska. The privately funded project is being advanced through a partnership between Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and the Alaska Native corporation, a partnership that has proven success with its most recent collaboration at Icy Strait Point, Wilderness Landing.
The Indigenous Peoples’ Day ground-breaking had Huna Totem Corporation CEO and President Russell Dick reflecting, “The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act happened over 50 years ago, and when you consider its vision, it was about the opportunity for Alaska Native corporations to work collaboratively with the State of Alaska and municipalities to build economic opportunities for communities, for our shareholders, and for all Alaskans.”
The infrastructure project will include a cruise ship terminal and facilities for rail and bus service, with opportunities for retail, dining and even a cultural center. The dock will be built to be able to berth ships from all three of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania, and Regent Seven Sea Cruises.
“We couldn’t be more proud to be here today, having seen some of those dreams come to fruition,” added Dick. “This is one of the best arrival experiences you’ll have in Alaska,” when it opens in the spring of 2024.
Whittier is a community of less than 300 year-round residents, about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage. Known for glacier and wildlife day cruises and fishing, the community currently receives Princess and Holland America cruise ships.
