Juneau, Alaska is busy completing their new cruise ship dock, and this summer they will be able to welcome bigger ships than ever there.

Earlier this week, city officials told the public that the project is on time and on budget, and that it is 85 percent completed, with the scheduled finish date at the end of April.  The ongoing work is part of the city’s efforts to accommodate larger cruise ships.  Last winter, the “south berth” was built, and this winter it’s the “north berth’s” turn.

Under the old setup, Juneau could accommodate a cruise ship 800 feet long and one that’s 960 feet long.  With the new berths, they will be able to accommodate a 1,000 foot ship and a 1,100 foot ship.  Previously, only the privately owned AJ Dock could handle ships that big.  These new berths mean that portions of the downtown seawalk will no longer be blocked when ships arrive, and there won’t be a need for forklifts to maneuver mooring lines – winches will do the work instead.

Juneau is busy getting ready as cruise lines begin to send larger ships to Alaska as popularity grows.  Deploying bigger ships also means that the companies can limit expenses and improve efficiency.  With Juneau’s new berths, a whole host of new guests will be able to explore everything it has to offer.

Information: Juneau Empire

Featured photo: Flickr Creative Commons