Old Harbor hosts its largest cruise ship in 30 years

Old Harbor, about 40 miles southeast of Kodiak, welcomed its first commercial cruise ship in 30 years on Aug. 2, hosted by HX Expedition’s hybrid battery-powered MS Roald Amundsen. The company said the ship brought roughly 500 people, while Old Harbor Native Corporation CEO Kristina Woolston said nearly 360 passengers and crew came ashore—almost double the town’s population. Visitors rotated through seven stations showcasing authentic Alutiiq culture, Russian Orthodox traditions, and local lifeways, then toured Sitkalidak Sunrise hydroponics, shopped at an artisan fair, and heard stories from Alutiiq Elders. Local partners reconstructed a traditional ciqlluaq log house and Alutiiq Dancers performed outside it. The Alaska Nuna Adventures-linked visit generated dock fees and sales tax, and Woolston said the community is looking to improve future offerings, including safe Kodiak bear viewing mechanisms.