Alaskan Dream Cruises, a Sitka-based overnight cruise line, has announced it is ceasing operations immediately. The company, owned by Allen Marine, canceled all future sailings and plans to focus entirely on its day tour excursions and shipyard services. This decision marks the end of a 13-year journey for the Indigenous-owned cruise line.
Key Takeaways
- Alaskan Dream Cruises has stopped all operations and canceled future sailings.
- The company is owned by Allen Marine, which will now focus on day tours and marine services.
- The decision is described as intentional for the long-term sustainability of the parent company.
- Impacted guests are being contacted directly for refunds.
A Shift in Focus for Allen Marine
Allen Marine, the parent company of Alaskan Dream Cruises, has been a fixture in Southeast Alaska for nearly five decades. The company built its reputation on wildlife and sightseeing day tours. The overnight cruise venture, launched in 2011, allowed them to expand their offerings.
Zak Kirkpatrick, a spokesperson for Allen Marine, explained that the move to exit the overnight cruise business was a strategic decision. He called it "intentional and necessary" for the company's sustainability. The goal is to redirect all resources to their core strengths.
Quick Facts
- Alaskan Dream Cruises operated for 13 years, starting in 2011.
- Its parent company, Allen Marine, has been in business for about 50 years.
- The cruise line used four vessels, each carrying 40 to 80 passengers.
Refocusing on Founding Strengths
According to Kirkpatrick, Allen Marine will now concentrate "100% of our resources" on day tour excursions. They will also focus on their shipyard operations and marine services. These areas represent the company's original business model and its long-standing roots in the region.
The overnight cruises typically lasted between five and eight nights. They offered a comprehensive look at the Inside Passage. Activities included hiking, kayaking, and paddleboarding, highlighting the natural beauty and Alaska Native heritage of the region.
"We’re really proud that we were a homegrown and Indigenous-owned line right here in Sitka," said Allen Marine spokesperson Zak Kirkpatrick. "And that grew into world class cruises and winning national awards and appearing in worldwide publications, which was really something we’re proud about."
Impact on Employees and Guests
The closure of Alaskan Dream Cruises will affect its seasonal workforce. In 2025, the cruise line employed 95 seasonal workers and approximately 10 year-round staff members. Allen Marine's other services, including day tours and shipyard operations, employed 305 seasonal workers and 100 year-round staff.
Kirkpatrick confirmed that Allen Marine will not hire for the overnight cruise vessels this season. This means a reduction in job opportunities tied to the cruise segment.
Background on Allen Marine
Allen Marine is a local maritime business based in Sitka, Alaska. It has a long history of offering wildlife and sightseeing tours. The company has played a significant role in the local tourism industry for decades. Its Indigenous ownership is a point of pride for the company.
Addressing Customer Reservations
Alaskan Dream Cruises is directly contacting all guests with existing reservations. The company is actively processing refunds for these canceled sailings. This ensures that customers are informed and financially compensated for their disrupted travel plans.
The company's website also features a post acknowledging its history. It expresses gratitude for the "privilege of sharing the wonders of Alaska and the richness of our Alaska Native heritage with incredible guests from across the globe" since 2011.
The Future of Alaskan Tourism
This strategic shift highlights the dynamic nature of the tourism industry in Alaska. Companies often adapt their business models to ensure long-term viability. While the overnight cruise segment is ending for Allen Marine, their focus on day tours aims to strengthen their position in the market.
The company's commitment to its founding strengths suggests a continued presence in the region's tourism landscape. They will likely continue to offer experiences that showcase Alaska's natural beauty and cultural heritage through their day tour operations.
- The company's roots are in day tour excursions.
- Shipyard operations are also a key focus moving forward.
- This refocus aims for greater company sustainability.
