Alaska's cities

Whittier, Alaska

Once-isolated town is the area's gateway to fun in Prince William Sound

By Steve Edwards / Anchorage Daily News

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The little community is a gateway to a much bigger world -- Prince William Sound. Wildlife- and glacier-viewing day-cruise ships, sea kayaking companies and plenty of fishing charters all make Whittier a home base.

Some ocean-going cruise liners are calling at Whittier in 2004, making it the northern terminus of their trips. Travel on to Anchorage is by bus or train.

Even those who don't have water on the brain can enjoy a visit to this unique Alaska community. "Unique" doesn't mean "picturesque," however.

"The town isn't the most spectacular; it's mostly just concrete buildings," said Kelly Bender, vice president of the Whittier Chamber of Commerce. "But the setting here is spectacular.

"And there's really a lot more to do in town than most people would suspect."

There are a number of restaurants and shops along the Whittier waterfront. Swiftwater Seafood features some of the best deep-fried halibut and chips around, and the restaurant uses seafood from local fishermen -- so it's always fresh. Hobo Bay Trading Co. features buffalo burgers, there is a Chinese restaurant that has been operating for years and the community has three coffee shops.

The second Saturday of June is when the community sponsors the Walk to Whittier. Visitors will be able to walk the 2.5-mile Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel -- and save the usual $12 fee that cars have to pay. The tunnel, built for the Alaska Railroad, was opened to vehicle traffic in 2000. Prior to that, visitors had to take a train ride through the Chugach Mountains.

"A lot of people haven't been to Whittier before, and we think this is a great way to enjoy a special event and a unique experience," Bender said.

One recent year, 400 people walked the tunnel, and up to 1,000 may be expected. Walkers must wear protective headgear. Dress warmly, the tunnel never warms up above 45 degrees or so, she said.

While a tunnel walk is a unique opportunity, most Whittier visitors will choose to drive through or ride the train. And when they arrive, many will hop aboard one of three major cruise ships: Phillips' Cruises and Tours, Major Marine Tours or Prince William Sound Cruises and Tours.

The cruises last up to six hours. Each company has a specialty and a particular route. Prices range from about $100 to $130 for adults. Some of the cruises include a meal in the price, while others have a meal for an additional price.