Royal Caribbbean Group jumps in to support Shop Local Alaska Program

The Shop Local Alaska program was created in response to the uncertainty of cruising to the state in 2021. It directly generates revenue for port town businesses by marketing Alaska products to millions of people out of state.

The site offers a wide variety of products, from locally caught fish to jewelry to Native art to clothing. Any Alaskan-owned business can list their products on the Voyij marketplace.

Raising awareness of businesses struggling to survive

As small businesses in Alaska face another season crippled by the loss of 1.3m cruise visitors to the state, Royal Caribbean Group has agreed to raise awareness of Alaskan-owned businesses in port towns that are struggling to survive. In addition to Alaska’s spectacular scenery and wildlife, small businesses that give port towns their unique character and charm are a major draw for visitors.

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy expressed his commitment to 'deploying all resources that result in increased partnerships like the “Shop Local Alaska” initiative that spurs Alaska’s economy and directly benefits small businesses across our state.'

The Shop Local Alaska Program will be marketed to passengers of Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises around the globe. They will be able to browse virtual Alaskan stores and buy with confidence on Voyij.com during this period when ships are not able to take them there.

Royal Caribbean Group is the first major travel supplier to hop on board with the Shop Local Alaska program.

'We are thrilled to support the Shop Local Alaska campaign,' said Wendy Lindskoog, associate vice president, government relations for Royal Caribbean Group. 'It is a small way for our cruise lines and guests to stay connected to Alaska until our ships return to sail to the 49th state.'