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Hi all! After years of waiting, we finally took our 22 day ultimate Alaska cruise. It wasn't our first Alaskan cruise, but the longest and with the most new ports. I know there are more appropriate forums for cruise talk, but I wanted to mention here my top 3 towns for those in the planning stages.

#3: MOST FRIENDLY goes to Wrangell. We're small town folk, so like talking to locals about thier lives and getting the unique flavor of a community. We felt welcomed by everyone we met and they were happy to share local lore and history. Check out Rayme's Bar.

#2: MOST BEAUTIFUL goes to Haines. We've been there before, years ago, but I didn't remember how breathtakingly beautiful it is. Really stunning.

#1: TOP TOWN goes to Hoonah. This was really a surprise. If you arrive via cruise ship, go beyond the Icy Strait Point attractions to the green gondolas, which will take you closer to town. Find the local shuttle bus ($10 round trip) and get into Hoonah itself. This was well worth the money as the driver explained a lot of local sites and history along the way. There is a kiosk near the bus stop where you can pick up a map and guide book that will help you plan a few hours. If you like to walk, you can walk back to Icy Strait Point. It's flat and you'll be walking right along the water front. You may even see whales, perhaps other wildlife.

Answer

Thank you for sharing your detailed cruise experience! Alaska offers so many unique towns, and it’s great to have a firsthand perspective for planning future trips.

Based on your report, here’s a breakdown of your top three towns and highlights:

#3: Wrangell – Most Friendly
Wrangell stands out for its welcoming locals and small-town charm. Visitors can enjoy casual conversations and learn about local history and culture. Recommended stop: Rayme's Bar for an authentic local experience.
#2: Haines – Most Beautiful
Haines is notable for its breathtaking scenery. This town is ideal for travelers who enjoy picturesque landscapes and outdoor exploration. It’s worth spending time just appreciating the natural beauty and taking in views of surrounding mountains and waterways.
#1: Hoonah – Top Town
Hoonah is a hidden gem that surprises visitors arriving via cruise. To fully experience the town beyond Icy Strait Point:
- Take the green gondolas to get closer to town.
- Use the local shuttle bus ($10 round trip) for guided insight into local sites and history.
- Pick up a map and guidebook at the kiosk near the bus stop for planning a few hours in town.
- If you enjoy walking, stroll back to Icy Strait Point along the waterfront. Flat paths make it easy and you may spot whales or other wildlife along the way.
These tips highlight how to maximize a short visit to Hoonah and capture both the cultural and natural experiences it offers.

Overall, this report emphasizes a mix of friendly locals, scenic beauty, and hidden gems. For anyone planning an Alaskan cruise, it’s helpful to allocate time for small-town exploration beyond the main cruise port attractions, especially if wildlife sightings and authentic local interactions are a priority.

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