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JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Major cruise companies in southeast Alaska are avoiding the popular Tracy Arm fjord this season due to safety concerns following
a significant landslide last summer. The landslide, which occurred near the South Sawyer Glacier, caused parts of the glacier to collapse into the water, resulting in a tsunami that surged up the opposite mountain wall. As a result, cruise lines such as Holland America, Carnival Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean have replaced Tracy Arm visits with excursions to nearby Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. The changes reflect ongoing safety assessments of the fjord's unstable slopes, which have raised alarms among tour operators and environmental experts.
Impact of the Landslide
The landslide, which took place on August 10, 2025, sent water cascading more than a quarter mile up the mountain wall, but fortunately, no ships were present in the fjord at the time, and there were no reported injuries. However, kayakers near the confluence of Tracy and Endicott Arms lost much of their gear to the rushing water.According to Gabriel Wolken, manager of Alaska's climate and ice hazards program, while the region is prone to landslides, the specific slope that failed had not been recognized as a potential hazard prior to the incident. Scientists are currently investigating the causes of the collapse and assessing other potential dangers in the area.
Cruise Line Responses
In light of the ongoing risks, several major cruise companies have opted to adjust their itineraries. MSC Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and regional tour operator Allen Marine have also chosen to include Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier instead of Tracy Arm in their schedules. Norwegian Cruise Line has stated that it does not operate cruises that pass by Tracy Arm.Endicott Arm has previously served as an alternative destination when conditions in Tracy Arm have been deemed unsafe, particularly due to ice accumulation.
Tourist Reactions
Travel agent Nate Vallier expressed disappointment over the lack of advance notice provided to travelers regarding the itinerary changes. He emphasized the allure of Tracy Arm, often referred to as the 'queen of fjords,' and acknowledged that while Endicott Arm offers its own beauty, it does not fully replicate the experience of Tracy Arm.Tourists like Kimberly Lebeda from Wichita, Kansas, who had initially booked a Tracy Arm excursion, reported a positive experience despite the change. After being redirected to Endicott Arm, her family enjoyed the scenic views and wildlife, including seals and waterfalls, during their excursion.
Future Considerations
Experts warn that the region remains unstable, with U.S. Geological Survey spokesperson Steven Sobieszczyk noting that landslide areas can continue to change for years following an initial event. He indicated that further rockfalls and minor slides are likely, which could lead to localized tsunamis in the future.As the cruise season approaches, with the first ships set to arrive in Ketchikan and Juneau in late April, the safety of these popular excursions remains a priority for operators and local authorities.
