Haines Cruise Port Guide

With a fraction of the number of cruise ships as its neighbor to the east, Skagway, Haines, Alaska, is a comfortable and unassuming town. Whether you’re in the mood to explore its cozy cafes, picturesque harbor, local museums, or natural surroundings, Haines provides a quieter small-town Alaska experience.

Getting to Haines

By Road: Haines can be accessed by road and is at the southern end of the Haines Highway. Located 250 miles from Whitehorse, Canada, and 750 miles from Anchorage, getting to Haines is a beautiful, remote route.

By Air: When arriving by air, most travelers fly to Juneau with a commercial airline and then book a regional flight from Juneau to Haines.

By Sea: Haines can be reached by ferry using the Alaska Marine Highway. There is also daily ferry service between Haines and Skagway via the Fast Ferry. The ferry terminal is located about 4 miles north of downtown Haines and is about a 45 minute trip one-way.

By Cruise Ship: Cruise ships dock at the Port Chilkoot Cruise Ship Dock, located near the center of Haines. The dock is just steps away from local museums, shops, and restaurants.

Getting Around

Haines is a small town, making it easy to explore many of the downtown sights on foot. When ships are in port, a local shuttle service provides transportation from the cruise pier to popular Haines destinations.

For visitors looking to get out of town and explore Haines’ natural surroundings, car rentals, taxi services, and shore excursions are all good options.

American Bald Eagle Foundation – Located a short walk from the cruise ship terminal, the American Bald Eagle Foundation is a wildlife rehabilitation center, museum, and raptor sanctuary. The museum features a collection of taxidermy animals from across the region. Outdoors, you can walk through the raptor sanctuary and chat with the staff who care for these majestic birds.

Haines Sheldon Museum & Cultural Center – About a 15-minute walk from the cruise pier, you’ll find the Haines Sheldon Museum. Located on the grounds of the original Haines Mission, the museum features three exhibit halls focusing on the area’s Native culture, natural surroundings, and the people who have shaped Haines.

Fort Seward – A U.S. Army post from 1904 to 1947, Fort Seward features well-preserved buildings, parade grounds, and homes. The Post Hospital is now home to Alaska Indian Arts, a gallery and workshop for local Native artisans. Across the street, the remains of a former barracks are home to an outdoor sculpture museum.

Stop by the Haines Visitor Center to pick up a free walking tour guide of Fort Seward and learn more about this unique part of Haines.

Best Haines Excursions

Haines Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Rafting Tour – Join a small group for a rafting and scenic driving tour through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Spend the day surrounded by mountains, rivers, and wildlife. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the area and point out local wildlife and scenery.

Haines Chilkoot Lake Wildlife Viewing Tour – Leave the crowds behind and visit Chilkoot Lake State Park for a chance to see wildlife and experience the scenery around the lake. Your knowledgeable guide will take you on a relaxing ride through the park, pointing out wildlife and local flora and fauna and stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way.

Local Eats

Chilkat Bakery and Restaurant – An excellent example of a small-town Alaska restaurant, Chilkat Bakery and Restaurant has a diverse menu featuring breakfast staples, American classics, and a full Thai menu. Don’t forget to check out the homemade pastries, including croissants, blueberry streusel, and donuts.

Rusty Compass Coffee House – An excellent local spot for coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and unique gifts for the home and kitchen.

Final Thoughts

Haines is a less-traveled cruise port, giving visitors a chance to experience a quieter Alaska town. With museums, galleries, and wildlife experiences near downtown, plus lakes, rivers, and mountains surrounding the area, there’s plenty to explore during your time in Haines.

View all our Haines tours here!