HOONAH

• USHNH
• Latitude: 58.11004
• Longitude: -135.4471
• Alaska
• Port in US

Location: US

Hoonah is a small city located on Chichagof Island, part of the Alexander Archipelago in Southeast Alaska, USA. It lies about 30 miles west of Juneau. Hoonah is traditionally a Tlingit settlement and has developed over the years into a key hub for both commercial and recreational activities, including fishing and tourism.

Marine Port Specifications and Description: Hoonah, Alaska

General Overview:

• Location: Hoonah, Chichagof Island, Southeast Alaska
• Coordinates: Approximately 58.1100° N Latitude, 135.4433° W Longitude
• Timezone: Alaska Standard Time (AKST), UTC -9; Daylight saving time applied (AKDT), UTC -8
• Port Type: Coastal fishing port and cruise ship docking facility

Facilities:

1. Hoonah Harbor

   • Usage: Mostly used by local fishing boats, pleasure craft, and small commercial vessels.
   • Berth Features:
     • Docks: Floating docks for transient moorage.
     • Capacity: Can accommodate vessels up to approximately 150 feet in length.
     • Facilities: Includes fresh water hook-ups and 30/50 amp electrical service.

2. Icy Strait Point

   • Cruise Ship Dock:
     • Developed primarily for tourism to accommodate the rising number of cruise ships visiting Hoonah.
     • Can berth large cruise ships (up to 1,000 feet in length).
     • Includes a welcome center, restaurants, shops, and access to local tours and excursions.

3. Auxiliary Facilities:

   • Boat Launch: Publicly available for small boats.
   • Marina Services: Fuel dock, vessel maintenance, and repair services.
   • Storage Areas: For commercial fishing gear and other marine equipment.
   • Fish Processing: Local facilities available for processing catch from fishing activities.

Operational Information:

• Port Authority: Managed by the city of Hoonah.
• Navigational Aids: Provided by U.S. Coast Guard, including buoys and lights to assist in safe navigation.
• Tide Information: Significant tidal variations impacting docking schedules, tide charts necessary.
• Weather: Maritime climate with relatively mild temperatures, heavy precipitation, and fog common.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

1. Fishing Industry: Hoonah is significantly dependent on the fishing industry for economic activities. It's a critical base for commercial fishing, particularly for halibut, salmon, and crab.
2. Tourism:
   • Icy Strait Point: A major attraction for cruise passengers featuring indigenous cultural exhibits, adventure excursions (like ziplining), and wildlife tours.
   • Eco-tourism: Offers opportunities for whale watching, bear watching, kayaking, and hiking nearby pristine wilderness areas.
3. General Commerce and Trade: The port supports local businesses, provides employment, and facilitates the transport of goods and services to and from the city.

Shipping and Logistics:

• Cargo Handling: Limited; primarily focused on fishing haul and supplies for local consumption.
• Customs and Immigration: Not a primary port of entry, but customs facilities can be arranged if needed for specific commercial operations.
• Port Regulations: Governed by local municipal codes and relevant Alaskan and federal laws.

Hoonah's port infrastructure may not be as extensive as larger commercial ports, but it serves critical roles in supporting the local economy and providing a gateway to one of Alaska's premier destinations for both fishing and tourism.