Plan a CruiseHaines Cruise Port Guide
Haines, located on a spit of land within one of the Inside Passage's deepest fjords, offers a distinct Alaskan experience. Most cruise ships dock at Port Chilkoot, situated at the base of historic Fort Seward, just a few blocks south of the town center. Smaller vessels may use the Fast Ferry dock, which is one block further south. Both docks are within walking distance, albeit uphill, of Haines' main attractions. On rare occasions when multiple ships are in port, passengers may be tendered ashore. Haines is unique among Southeast Alaskan ports for its road access, making it a bustling hub in summer for both ferry travelers heading to interior Alaska and Canada, and cruise visitors. The town is renowned for its vibrant arts scene and as a haven for bald eagles, with the impressive 6,500-ft (2,015-m) Cathedral Peaks forming a dramatic backdrop.
Getting Around from the Port
From the Port Chilkoot dock, most of Haines' main attractions are within walking distance, though be prepared for an uphill stroll into town. For convenient access to key sights, a complimentary Shuttle Bus service operates every 30 minutes during cruise ship dockings. The shuttle follows a loop, starting at the Port Chilkoot Dock and stopping at the Sheldon Museum, Visitor Center, Library, Dalton City, Eagle Foundation, and the Fort Seward Historic District, before returning to the dock. For those looking to explore further afield, a fast ferry service connects Haines directly to Skagway, offering an independent day-trip option.
Attractions and Activities
Haines offers a range of activities, from exploring historical sites to venturing into the wilderness:
- Explore Fort Seward Historic District: Wander through the first permanent army post in Alaska, established due to a border dispute with Canada. Most original buildings still stand, housing private residences, accommodations, eateries, and art galleries. Pick up a Fort Seward Walking Tour brochure from the Visitor Center for a self-guided experience. The Fort was initially named after William H. Seward, who negotiated the purchase of Alaska, and later renamed Chilkoot Barracks in 1922 before resuming its original name in 1972 when declared an Historic Landmark.
- Visit the Sheldon Museum: Learn more about the history of Haines and Fort Seward. The Haines Borough Public Library also offers free computer workstations on a first-come, first-served basis, and paid Wi-Fi cafes are available in town.
- Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve: This preserve on the Chilkat River is famous for its concentration of bald eagles. While over 3,500 eagles flock here in the fall to feast on salmon, several hundred remain year-round. Note that brown bear viewing opportunities on the Chilkoot River typically become significant in August or September, often after the main cruise season concludes.
- Active Outdoor Tours: Popular shore excursions include guided tours of the town and surrounding areas by van or bicycle. For a more adventurous experience, consider river-rafting through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, kayaking in scenic fjords like Lutak and Taiya inlets, or hiking in the Alaskan rainforest. Flightseeing trips to nearby glaciers offer breathtaking aerial views.
- Saltwater Fishing: Charter boats are available for saltwater fishing expeditions.
- Golf at Weeping Trout Sports Resort: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a unique nine-hole course in a remote setting on Chilkat Lake, accessible via a 26-mile (42-km) trip by car and boat. Fly-in fishing is also available here.
- Compare Tours: It's advisable to compare tour offerings from your cruise line with those provided by local operators for the best fit and value.
Dining & Shopping
Within the Fort Seward Historic District, you'll find various eateries and art galleries showcasing local talent. Many of the historic buildings have been repurposed into restaurants and galleries. As you explore Haines, you'll discover more local shops and dining options. When dining or shopping in the United States, be aware that posted prices typically do not include sales tax, which commonly ranges from 4-6% (though it can vary from 2.9% to nearly 10% depending on the state). This will be added at the time of payment. Tipping is also customary and expected for service staff. General guidelines include:
- Full-service restaurants: 15-20% (often the primary income for waitstaff). Check your bill, as some establishments might add an automatic service charge.
- Taxi drivers, hairdressers, personal services: 10-15%
- Bartenders: $1 per drink for inexpensive drinks or 15% of the total bill.
- Bellhops: $1-2 per bag ($3-5 minimum).
- Hotel doorman: $1 per bag (if assisting), $1 for calling a cab.
- Tour guides: $5-10 per person for half-day tours or less; $10-20 per person for longer tours, depending on quality and group size.
- Private car & limousine drivers: 15-20%.
- Housekeeping: $1-2 per day for long stays, or a $5 minimum for very short stays (optional).
- Food delivery: $2-5, potentially more for large orders. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, even for small transactions, and ATMs are readily available throughout town.