Welcome to the Haines cruise port guide. Haines is a simple authentic town of 2600 inhabitants in Southeast Alaska. It is the heart of the Chilkat valley, the historic capital of Tlingit Indian culture and art, the first permanent army base in Alaska and adventure capital of Alaska. Because Haines is not overflown by tourism it offers one of the best Alaskan experiences. Wildlife is abundant here with one of the largest populations of Bald Eagles and brown bears feeding on salmon in the world shortest river. Sea lions, seals, black bears, beavers, river otters, porcupines, orcas, humpback whales and 120 species of bird make this one of the best destinations for wildlife. The U.S. Army built up its presence in Alaska in 1903. For 42 years the first Army post was situated here in Haines. The remains of roughly 80 buildings today tell you the story of life at this post in this remote corner of the world. Haines is perfect for a combination of hiking, adventure, history and wildlife and because it is yet unspoiled we think this might just be the best destination in Southeast Alaska.

This is the cruise pier in Haines. Walk off the ship, onto the pier and straight into the old town of Skagway.

The cruise pier in Haines

There is a visitors centre in Haines at the pier. Walk by for any kind of information on hiking, walking, museums and transportation.

Also visit our cruise port guides for:

Juneau
Sitka
Ketchikan
Skagway
Seward
Vancouver

Cruise Port Guide Haines – Alaska: docked

The cruise dock in Haines is right in front of the historical centre of Haines. Just a few blocks up the small hills is where you find the parade grounds and the heart of Fort William H. Seward. Downtown Haines is about half a mile to the right hand side coming off the dock.

Shuttle service

Haines is easy to navigate by foot, but the town of Haines also offers a shuttle service. It can bring you all over town. They have stops at the Cruise dock, Fort William H. Seward Historic District, Eagle Foundation, Visitors centre, Downtown and Dalton City Brewery.

Bicycle and scooter rental

Coming off the pier you will see a bicycle rental facility to your right hand side. A little further up the road is where you will also find scooter rentals.

Fast Ferry Passenger Service

From Haines you can reach Skagway by ferry. This takes about 45 minutes. Please note the ferry goes +/- every 2 hours and capacity is limited. Buy your ticket online through www.hainesskagwayfastferry.com or on board. The ferry pier is right next to the cruise ship dock. See its exact location marked on the map.

Shore Excursions

Haines is an amazing town and known for its wildlife and adventure. We do recommend to book a tour on the ship or to pre-arrange an excursion before your cruise starts to be sure you are making the most of your day. Tour options offered on shore side are very limited.

Wi-fi

You will find a couple of cafe’s in downtown have free wi-fi. Most restaurants near the pier and in the historical centre have paid wi-fi hotspots. Like Fireweed Restaurant and Fort Seward Lodge. These cafes are a 3 minute walk from the cruise dock.