Haines is the road less traveled in the VV Alaska network — a small community on the Lynn Canal accessible by select longer itineraries, and for those who make the time, one of the most rewarding port days in the fleet. Known as the Valley of the Eagles and the Bald Eagle Capital of the World, Haines sits at the head of one of the most dramatic fjord landscapes in Southeast Alaska, far from the souvenir-shop crowds of Skagway just 14 miles away across the Lynn Canal, and possessed of the authentic, unhurried character of an Alaskan community that has not been entirely shaped by cruise ship tourism.
The Bald Eagles
The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, 10 miles north of Haines on the Chilkat River flats, is the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles. Late October through January is the famous peak season when 3,000–4,000 eagles gather to feed on a late salmon run kept alive by the area’s unique underground water geology. But throughout the summer VV sailing season, eagles are abundant throughout the Haines area — perched on spruce trees along the river, soaring over the Lynn Canal, and occasionally diving for salmon in full view from the road. The VV Shore Things eagle preserve tour is one of the best wildlife experiences in Alaska.
The Scenery
The approach to Haines by ship through the Lynn Canal — a 90-mile fjord flanked by the Chilkat Range and the Takhinsha Mountains, the deepest fjord in North America — is one of the great scenic approaches in Alaskan cruising. Snow-capped peaks, glaciers visible in the high valleys, the deep blue-green water of the canal, and the small community of Haines visible at the head of the fjord as you approach: this arrival sequence is among the most beautiful in the VV Alaska network.
River Rafting
The Chilkat River flows through classic glacially-carved valley scenery north of Haines with the Chilkat Range on both sides. River rafting trips on the Chilkat are calm to moderate in difficulty — this is not whitewater rafting but scenic float rafting through extraordinary wildlife habitat. Eagles, bears, moose, and the mountains form the backdrop for one of the most peaceful and visually extraordinary active experiences available from any VV port.
Fort Seward and the Arts
Fort William H. Seward at the edge of Haines is the first permanent US Army post in Alaska, built in 1903. The parade ground, officer’s quarters, and barracks have been preserved and converted into artist studios, a B&B, and the Alaska Indian Arts cultural center, where Tlingit artists work in traditional and contemporary forms.
Insider Tips from Joel and Erin
- Haines is on the longer VV Alaska itineraries. The 12-night Alaska: Glaciers and More sailing includes Haines. Book the longer itinerary if Haines is a priority.
- Haines is significantly less crowded than Skagway. With fewer ship calls and a smaller tourist infrastructure, Haines feels like the genuine Alaska small community that Skagway once was. The authenticity is noticeable.
- The eagle preserve tour is the definitive Haines Shore Thing. The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve combined with a river float through the valley is the best combination of wildlife and landscape in the Haines port day.
Ready to Visit the Eagle Capital?
Joel and Erin are certified First Mates. Haines is one of the most rewarding and least-crowded port days in the VV Alaska network.
Book your Virgin Voyages cruise at CruisePlanner.pro — and walk among the eagles in the Valley of the Eagles
