Overview
Holkham Bay, Alaska Cruise Port
Holkham Bay, located in the Tongass National Forest of Southeast Alaska, is a vast, scenic bay that serves as the entrance to two of Alaska's most spectacular glacier fjords: Tracy Arm (leading to North and South Sawyer Glaciers) and Endicott Arm (leading to Dawes Glacier). Situated about 45 miles south of Juneau, this remote and protected wilderness area is part of the larger Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness.
Known for its dramatic landscapes, Holkham Bay is characterized by towering, glacier-carved peaks that rise steeply from the water, lush rainforests clinging to mountainsides, and deep, clear waters often dotted with bright blue icebergs. It is a vital marine habitat, teeming with diverse wildlife, including humpback whales, orcas, harbor seals, sea lions, and bald eagles. Visitors primarily experience Holkham Bay through scenic cruising, often transferring to smaller expedition vessels or kayaks to get closer to the active tidewater glaciers that frequently calve, creating thunderous splashes and sending fresh ice into the fjords. It offers an unparalleled immersion into Alaska's raw, untamed natural beauty.
Top Things to Do in Holkham Bay, Alaska
Scenic Cruising through Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm
The primary activity is scenic cruising through either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm. These deep fjords offer breathtaking views of sheer rock cliffs, numerous waterfalls cascading into the sea, and a remarkable concentration of icebergs. Your cruise captain will typically choose the arm with the best conditions for exploration on the day.
Tip: Bring binoculars to spot wildlife and warm, waterproof layers as weather can change rapidly.
Witness Calving Glaciers (Dawes or Sawyer Glaciers)
At the end of Endicott Arm is the active Dawes Glacier, while Tracy Arm leads to the North and South Sawyer Glaciers. Watch in awe as massive chunks of ice "calve" (break off) from the glacier face, creating thunderous roars and sending ripples across the water.
Tip: Be patient; glacier calving is unpredictable but incredibly rewarding to witness. Small expedition boats often get you closer to the action (at a safe distance).
Wildlife Viewing from Expedition Boats or Kayaks
Holkham Bay and its arms are rich in wildlife. Look for harbor seals hauled out on floating icebergs, humpback whales and orcas feeding in the deep waters, bald eagles soaring overhead, and occasionally brown or black bears along the shoreline.
Tip: Small expedition boat tours or kayaking excursions from your cruise ship offer intimate wildlife viewing opportunities.
Kayaking amidst Icebergs
If conditions allow and offered by your cruise line, embark on a kayaking excursion to paddle through the calm waters of the bay or a protected cove. This allows for a silent, up-close encounter with the floating icebergs, the steep fjord walls, and the surrounding wilderness.
Tip: This is an active and immersive way to experience the bay's natural beauty. All necessary gear is provided.
Photography of Glaciers and Landscapes
Holkham Bay is a photographer's dream. Capture the stunning blue hues of the glaciers, the dramatic scale of the fjord walls, the intricate shapes of the icebergs, and the abundant wildlife.
Tip: A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is essential for wildlife. Protect your camera from mist and spray.
Visit Sweetheart Falls
Within Holkham Bay, on the mainland across from Harbor Island, is Sweetheart Falls, a beautiful cascading waterfall. Depending on your itinerary, some expedition tours may offer a chance to view or even get close to this impressive natural feature.
Tip: Waterfalls in Alaska are most impressive during warmer months when glacial melt is at its peak.
