In the latter half of 2025, Welcome Ashore Alaska was established with a clear purpose: to ensure that the voices of everyday Alaskans are centered in the increasingly heated conversations around the role of cruise tourism. For too long, distant narratives have shaped the public debate. The people who live, work and raise their families in Alaska’s port communities have been overlooked. Welcome Ashore Alaska was created to change that. It is a community-led effort built to reflect real Alaskan experience, not outside interests.

In only a few weeks, hundreds of residents from across the state have joined our coalition. The speed of this growth shows both the need and the urgency that Alaskans feel to have their perspectives heard. We have received messages from tour guides, restaurant owners, artisans, port workers and others who have shared what cruise tourism means for their families, their livelihoods and the culture of their communities.

Every story is unique, yet the shared sentiment is clear. Cruise tourism is not just an economic driver. It is part of the backbone of our local economies. On a local level, it helps multi-generational families stay rooted in the places they love and plan for a future for their children in this great state.

Ian Dempster, a small business owner in Sitka who started with a simple idea and a borrowed kiosk and is now working to build and support Welcome Ashore Alaska as an ambassador shared, “Cruise tourism gave me the foot traffic, the volume, and the confidence to transform a tiny street-side idea into a full retail brand.” Stories like his show the ripple effects that cruise visitors create, often changing what’s possible for entire families.

There are countless stories just like these. Real people. Real experiences. Real impact felt the moment ships arrive in port.

Our goal is simple. Every Alaskan should have a seat at the table.

Policy discussions should be informed by the lived experiences of the people who know these communities best. We are ready to help ground conversations in the day-to-day realities that shape the rhythm of our lives in coastal communities.

We encourage all Welcome Ashore Alaska supporters to invite friends, family members, colleagues and neighbors to join our growing movement. When a diverse mix of voices comes together, the discussions get better and so do the outcomes.

Submit your personal story or sign up to join the Welcome Ashore Alaska community at: https://welcomeashore.org/alaska/.

We’re looking forward to hearing from you!