HX Expeditions has expanded its Alaska expedition offerings with a historic first visit to Old Harbor, an Alutiiq community on Kodiak Island.
The Aug. 2 visit aboard MS Roald Amundsen marked the first time a commercial cruise line has called on the remote community. The stop was part of HX’s Alaska & British Columbia | Inside Passage, Bears and Aleutian Islands voyage.
Located on the southeastern coast of Kodiak Island, Old Harbor is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the Kodiak Archipelago and is home to a rich Alutiiq/Sugpiaq cultural heritage.
Developed in partnership with Old Harbor Native Corporation (OHNC), the new port call was designed to provide travelers with a deeper understanding of local traditions, history and daily life through experiences led by community members.
“Welcoming HX Expeditions to Old Harbor marks an important milestone for our community,” said Kristina Woolston, CEO of OHNC, in a media statement. “This partnership reflects our commitment to sharing Alutiiq/Sugpiaq culture, history, and values in a way that is guided by the community and benefits the people.”
Community-Led Experiences Highlight Alutiiq Heritage
“Our village has been actively improving our quality of life here, and one of the ideas was to bring in cruise ships to generate revenue through passengers purchasing Indigenous arts and crafts, while also supporting the community through sales taxes and docking fees,” said Jeffrey Peterson, Chief of the Alutiiq Tribe of Old Harbor, in a press statement.
During the visit, guests explored Old Harbor with local guides, visiting landmarks including the Russian Orthodox Church and learning about community initiatives such as the local hydroponic farm and the importance of subsistence practices.
Travelers also visited the Nuniaq Center, where residents showcased traditional arts and crafts, including beadwork, carving, painting and jewelry-making. Guests were also invited to participate in augca’aq, a traditional Alutiiq dart game.
As part of preparations for future visitors, local artists and Elders reconstructed a traditional village home known as a ciqlluaq to help preserve and share Alutiiq heritage with travelers for generations to come.
HX Expands Access to Remote Alaska Destinations
To commemorate the milestone, community leaders presented the ship’s captain with a ceremonial paddle, a traditional symbol of welcome, friendship and safe passage. Following the inaugural call, Old Harbor will be included in HX’s 2027 Alaska program.
For more information, visit travelhx.com.
