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Safe Adventures Await in Alaska with GBAC^® STAR Facility Accreditation

Cruise ships are once again welcoming travelers aboard and setting sail to Alaska, the land of glaciers, wildlife, national parks, and more. This week, numerous facilities in Alaska have earned GBAC^® STAR Facility Accreditation from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council®, (GBAC), a Division of ISSA, including Forbidden Peak Brewery, bike shop Cycle Alaska, shoe store Shoefly Alaska, tour companies, and more.

“With approximately 187,000 people flocking to Alaska annually, much of the state thrives on tourism. Newly passed legislation allowing the return of cruise ships is great news for the state’s business owners,” said GBAC Executive Director Patricia Olinger. “Facilities in Alaska that have achieved GBAC^® STAR accreditation are committed to the health and safety of visitors, staff, and the community.”

Among the accreditations in Alaska is Icy Strait Point, a popular cruise ship destination only open when a ship is in port that features numerous shore excursions, waterfront restaurants, a museum, shopping, walking trails, and more. Icy Strait Point is Alaskan Native owned and-operated and all profits directly support the local community. Since approximately 85% of the staff live in Hoonah, the location of Icy Strait Point, a one-of-a-kind experience infusing the local indigenous culture awaits each visitor.

Another accredited facility, Gastineau Guiding, offers a popular tour—Discover Alaska’s Whales. This tour plays a significant role in gathering scientific data for various educational and research organizations, all while enjoying whale watching as part of an exclusive group. Additionally, two other adventure travel companies, Liquid Alaska Tours and M&M Tours Limited have been accredited. These businesses offer a range of tours, from glacier ice adventure tours and hiking shore excursions to canoe trips providing views of the natural beauty of Juneau, the state capital.

This week, the following facilities have earned GBAC^® STAR accreditation:

Cities or Travel Destinations

• Gastineau Guiding Company in Juneau, Alaska
• Liquid Alaska Tours in Juneau, Alaska
• M&M Tours Limited in Juneau, Alaska

Museum or Cultural Venue

• Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska

Retail Facilities

• Cycle Alaska in Juneau, Alaska
• Shoefly Alaska in Juneau, Alaska

Restaurant or Food Service Facility

• Forbidden Peak Brewery in Juneau, Alaska

“As an increasing number of facilities pursue and earn accreditation, cities, states, and even entire regions become safer destinations for travelers and locals alike,” said ISSA Executive Director John Barrett. “With a strategic approach to cleaning for health, guests at restaurants, hotels, museums, and more can focus first and foremost on fun.” 

Learn more and apply for GBAC^® STAR Facility Accreditation at gbac.org/star. 

Find accredited facilities and those pursuing accreditation via the GBAC^® STAR Facility Directory at gbac.org/directory.