Royal Caribbean drops popular Alaska port from some itineraries

A popular port in Alaska will not be available on some itineraries with Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas this year.

According to reports, the cruise line has informed guests that Skagway will no longer be accessible for its large ship and that an alternative port of call will be used for 2023 sailings.

Instead of Skagway, many voyages will visit Icy Strait Point instead, according to a memo that was sent to impacted passengers.

The update relates to rock slides that occurred in Skagway last summer.

“Last season, landslides in Skagway impacted the pier where our ships dock. While repairs have been ongoing, they won’t be ready for two large ships visiting simultaneously,” the cruise line said in its letter to guests. “To ensure we provide you with the best experience, we’ve replaced our visit with Icy Strait Point, Alaska.”

All excursions booked into Skagway through Royal Caribbean will be refunded, the company says. An extended stay in the town of Sitka, Alaska, will also be offered as a Plan B.

For other itineraries, a visit to Ketchikan is being substituted for the now-scrapped call on Skagway.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused by this,” the letter said. “Nevertheless, we’re excited to sail away with you!”

The affected Alaska itineraries were set for May 15 and 22, June 12 and 19, July 10, 17 and 24, and September 11, 2023. More itinerary changes are expected.

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