Alaska Tourism Experiences Mixed Start to Season
The Princess Cruises ship Ruby Princess is docked in Juneau on May 21, 2025. (Marc Lester / ADN)
Alaska tourism operators are noticing a slight drop in bookings this summer, particularly among international travelers, a shift from previous growth patterns. The tourism landscape is affected by the Trump administration’s confrontational international policies, leading to some canceled trips from travelers, particularly from Canada and Europe.
Despite these concerns, cruise ships, which bring a majority of Alaska’s visitors, are sailing at full capacity. Josh Howes, president of Premier Alaska Tours, noted that while cruise bookings are strong, independent travelers appear to be slower to commit, many hesitating due to worries over tariffs and the economy. Operators believe that this year will end up being flat or slightly down compared to 2024, but they remain optimistic as fears subside.
In Anchorage, hotel occupancy has decreased about 5% in May, reflecting cautious optimism among operators. Meanwhile, businesses in Haines report diminishing Canadian visitors, crucial for local events. However, Southeast Alaska’s cruise arrivals are robust, with Juneau’s ships at 100% capacity; analysts predict consistent tourist numbers similar to last year.
Overall indications in the Alaskan tourism sector reveal a mixed landscape: significant cruise traffic juxtaposed with declines in independent travel bookings and concerns for 2026. Operators are hopeful, with many attracting guests who are undeterred by political climates and are taking advantage of favorable travel deals.
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