S.W. Black Travel Blog

Authentic Alaskan Dining at Holland America's McKinley Chalet Resort

Written by Shane Black | 18 June 2024 2:23:00 PM

Guests embarking on an Alaska Cruisetour with Holland America Line this summer are in for a culinary treat. The McKinley Chalet Resort, located at the gateway to Denali National Park, has unveiled new menu offerings at its two on-site restaurants. In addition to these exciting changes, the resort has achieved Marine Stewardship Council certification, underscoring its commitment to serving fresh, sustainable seafood.

McKinley Chalet Resort: A Blend of Adventure and Relaxation

Nestled on the banks of the Nenana River, the McKinley Chalet Resort offers guests an unforgettable Alaskan experience. This 60-acre retreat is just moments from the entrance to Denali National Park and features Denali Square, a vibrant hub designed to enhance the visitor experience. With restaurants, outdoor fire pits, and live entertainment, Denali Square is the perfect place for guests to relax and soak in the stunning Alaskan scenery.

McKinley Chalet Resort, ready to welcome guests at Holland America Line

Achieving Sustainable Seafood Certification

In June 2024, McKinley Chalet Resort received Marine Stewardship Council certification, one of the highest standards for sustainable seafood. This certification ensures that guests are served seafood that is fresh, locally sourced, and sustainably harvested. Holland America Line, which became the first global cruise line to receive this certification earlier this year, extends its commitment to sustainability from ship to shore with this achievement.

"We are proud to extend our promise of fresh, sustainable fish beyond our ships to our guests on Cruisetours visiting Denali," said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage, and rooms division for Holland America Line. "Our culinary team at McKinley Chalet Resort has done a wonderful job furthering our industry-leading program with this certification and creating inspiring fresh seafood dishes in our restaurants."

Fresh Menu Offerings at McKinley Chalet Resort

The food and beverage team at McKinley Chalet Resort has refreshed the menus at Karstens Public House and Canyon Steakhouse, incorporating authentic Alaskan specialties made with local ingredients.

Karstens Public House has introduced new lunch and dinner offerings, including small plates for its outdoor area in Denali Square. Guests can enjoy a quick drink and snack while taking in the majestic views or live music. Sample items include:

  • Seafood Queso Dip
  • Asparagus Fries
  • Fuji Apple & Bacon Slab Salad
  • Alder Grilled Sockeye Salmon

Canyon Steakhouse has revamped its dinner menu, featuring dishes like:

  • Marine Stewardship Council Certified Fresh Alaska Halibut
  • Steamed Mussels
  • Smoked Salmon Chowder
  • Steakhouse Burger

Enhanced Guest Experiences

In addition to the new menu offerings, McKinley Chalet Resort has introduced several new amenities and activities to enhance the guest experience:

  • Live Music and New Outdoor Bar: Denali Square now features live music every evening, complemented by the new portable Denali Square Bar where guests can enjoy refreshing beverages and snacks.
  • Exclusive De Lijn Gin: Guests can savour Holland America Line's exclusive De Lijn Gin at bars and restaurants across the resort.
  • Educational Talks: In partnership with the Denali Educational Center, the resort hosts weekly "Life in Denali" talks, providing insights into the natural wonders and wildlife of Denali.
  • Alaska Artist in Residence Program: This program showcases the talents of local artists, allowing guests to engage with Alaska's unique arts community.
  • Nightly Nature Walks and S'mores: Guests can explore Denali's beauty through guided nature walks followed by s'mores at the firepits.
  • Family-Friendly Scavenger Hunts: Designed especially for kids, these scavenger hunts offer fun and exploration for the whole family.

Holland America Line Cruisetours

Holland America Line's award-winning Cruisetours combine an Alaska cruise with an overland tour to Denali, offering an immersive Alaskan experience. These Cruisetours include a seven-day Glacier Discovery cruise, featuring Glacier Bay, College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier, the Inside Passage, and up to three nights at McKinley Chalet Resort. Holland America Line is the only cruise line to extend these tours into the Yukon, providing guests with even more opportunities to explore the majestic landscapes of Alaska.

Plan Your Perfect Alaskan Adventure with S.W. Black Travel

Holland America Line's McKinley Chalet Resort has taken guest experiences to new heights with its refreshed menus and sustainable seafood certification. These enhancements, along with the array of new activities and amenities, ensure a memorable stay at the gates of Denali National Park.

For quotes, travel advice, or to discuss your future travel plans, you can book a call with us. Our dedicated travel consultants are ready to help you create unforgettable experiences. With S.W. Black Travel, you can enjoy a seamless and enriching travel experience, tailored to your unique needs.