Description
The State of Alaska’s Division of Mining, Land and Water has issued a Preliminary Decision to lease approximately 152 acres of state‑owned tideland on Douglas Island to Goldbelt, Inc. for the construction, operation, and maintenance of two cruise‑ship berths, associated small‑ship docks, a tour‑boat return dock, a private small‑boat harbor, and a boat launch. The lease term is proposed for 25 years, with an annual minimum land‑use fee of $1,000 (subject to adjustment after a fair‑market appraisal) and a performance guaranty of $600,000. The project is expected to accommodate up to 10,000 cruise‑ship guests and 3,000 ship workers per season, generating significant tourism‑related economic activity. Public comments on the preliminary decision are due by 5:00 p.m. on 23 Nov 2026. Key considerations include environmental mitigation (fish and wildlife habitat, marine mammals, hazardous materials), coordination with multiple state and federal agencies, and compliance with the Public Trust Doctrine and mineral‑estate reservations.
• Lease of 152 acres of tideland for a 25‑year term
• Construction of two cruise‑ship berths, small‑ship docks, tour‑boat dock, harbor, and launch facilities
• Minimum annual lease fee $1,000 (adjustable after appraisal) and $600 k performance guaranty
• Expected capacity: up to 10,000 cruise guests and 3,000 ship workers per season
• Extensive environmental review and mitigation requirements (fish, wildlife, marine mammals, hazardous material handling)
• Public comment deadline: 23 Nov 2026; no formal bid process – decision is a lease award by the state