Carnival Corp to acquire White Pass port and railway in Alaska

Carnival Corporation’s subsidiary Holland America Princess Alaska Tours is to acquire TWC Enterprises’ White Pass & Yukon Route (WP&YR) division so it can manage operations at White Pass port, railroad and associated retail outlets in Skagway, Alaska.

Holland America Princess Alaska Tours has also signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for Ketchikan-based company Survey Point Holdings to continue managing the daily operations at WP & YR’s port, the White Pass Scenic Railway, the associated retail operations and customer relations. Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska, Amak Towing and Southeast Stevedoring will also help to operate the port.

As part of the new MOU, Carnival Corporation and Survey Point will invest in several initiatives to make Skagway a popular cruise and shore excursion destination, and continue driving growth in the local economy. The companies plan to expand the port’s docking facilities so it can accommodate the newest generation of cruise ships and also foster collaborative relationships with visiting cruise lines and the local community.

“As the gateway to the legendary Klondike Gold Rush region, Skagway is beloved by our guests and crew for its warm hospitality and distinctively Alaskan array of sightseeing and recreational activities,” said Stein Kruse, group CEO of Carnival Corporation’ Holland America Group and Carnival UK. “We are delighted that the Skagway port will continue to be locally owned and independently operated by an Alaskan company. Along with Survey Point, we have a long and valued history in Alaska, and remain very committed to the continued development and success of the entire region as one our most popular destinations.”