Hoonah: Icy Strait Whale Watch with Drone Filmography

If you’re after a whale watching experience that feels personal and unique, the Icy Strait Whale Watch with Drone Filmography offers just that. This tour combines the thrill of spotting humpback whales, orcas, and other marine creatures with the added bonus of spectacular drone footage captured by a certified pilot. What makes this trip stand out? The small group size (max 14 guests), a knowledgeable captain, and the chance to take home professional-quality videos of the wildlife.

While most tours focus solely on the experience of seeing wildlife from the boat, this one takes it a step further by giving you an aerial perspective that’s simply unmatched. One of the best parts? The drone footage becomes a lasting memory long after your trip ends. The only potential hiccup? The tour’s weather-dependent nature might mean cancellations or less-than-ideal conditions—weather can be unpredictable in Alaska, after all.

This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a personalized, immersive experience with nature. If seeing whales from above while listening to their songs sounds appealing, and you’re keen to gather some amazing photos and videos of your trip, this is likely to be the highlight of your visit to Icy Strait Point.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate experience and better wildlife viewing.
• Expert guides and captain with a proven success rate in spotting whales and other animals.
• Drone footage provides a unique aerial perspective of whales and marine life.
• Personalized experience with fewer crowds and tailored wildlife encounters.
• Convenient pickup and dropoff from the cruise ship dock at Icy Strait Point.
• High-quality videos of your trip, including whales, other wildlife, and passengers.

Why We Love This Tour

The first thing that catches your attention is the small-group setting. With only 14 passengers, the boat feels cozy rather than crowded, which means more one-on-one attention from Captain Josh and his team. We loved how the guides are not only knowledgeable about the wildlife but also genuinely passionate, sharing insights about the animals and the environment throughout the trip.

Another standout feature is the drone filming. Captain Josh isn’t just a boat captain—he’s a certified drone pilot with a powerful, professional-grade drone that captures sweeping views of whales and marine life from above. Imagine seeing a humpback feeding or breaching from a bird’s-eye view—then taking home a USB drive full of those spectacular shots. Many reviews mention that the drone footage is “magical” and a “great keepsake” for friends and family.

While the price tag of $255 per person might seem high at first glance, it’s a solid reflection of the quality of the experience. Smaller groups, expert guides, and the exclusive drone footage make it a worthwhile investment, especially when you consider how much more immersive and memorable the trip becomes.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Icy Strait Point

The tour begins right at Icy Strait Point, a scenic hub that’s easy to access from the cruise ship dock. Guides recommend arriving 15 minutes early for check-in, which is straightforward thanks to clear signage. If your ship is at the Adventure Dock, it’s a quick 6-8 minute walk to the Adventure Center, where you’ll check in and board your vessel.

If your ship is docked at Wilderness Dock, it’s a bit of a longer walk—about 25 minutes—or a short gondola ride (3 minutes). Either way, the logistics are simple, and the tour provider (Hoonah Travel Adventures) ensures smooth transfers.

The Boat Cruise & Wildlife Viewing

The boat itself is comfortable, with ample seating for up to 14 guests. Once underway, the captain—Josh—is all about finding wildlife. As one reviewer remarked, Captain Josh has a 100% success rate in locating whales, and his extensive knowledge means you’re in very capable hands.

Expect to see a variety of marine life: Humpback Whales, Orca, Sea Lions, Sea Otters, and Bald Eagles. The guides are skilled at spotting animals that you might miss from the deck, and many reviews mention how Josh managed to find bears and other wildlife even when it seemed unlikely.

Drone Filming & Group Experience

While the wildlife is the main attraction, the drone footage adds an extra layer of excitement. Captain Josh shows passengers footage as it’s filmed, so everyone gets to see whales swimming, feeding, and diving from above in real-time. The drone’s perspective offers a completely different view of the marine animals, making it a highlight for many.

At the end of the tour, everyone receives a USB drive with the drone footage, which includes whales, other wildlife, and shots of the passengers. Reviewers rave about how “magical” the footage is and how it preserves the memory of the trip in a way that photos alone cannot.

Return to Icy Strait Point

After approximately 3 hours on the water, the boat returns to Icy Strait Point, with plenty of time to explore or relax afterward. The tour ensures you’re back in time for your cruise departure, making it a hassle-free addition to your day.

What to Expect and Consider

The tour is well-scheduled with about 15-minute bus/shuttle rides between stops, which helps break up the experience and keeps everyone comfortable. The boat is equipped with snacks and drinks—think soft drinks and snack bars—that are included in the price.

One of the most praised aspects, according to multiple reviews, is the personalized attention from guides like Captain Josh and Andrew. They’re described as knowledgeable, patient, and eager to answer questions, which greatly enhances the experience.

Weather can sometimes be an obstacle in Alaska, so travelers should be prepared for cold, damp, or windy conditions. Some reviews mention that weather occasionally affected wildlife sightings, but Captain Josh’s expertise means he often finds animals even under less-than-ideal circumstances.

The cost of $255 per person can seem steep, but considering the exclusive drone footage, small boat size, and the chance to see multiple species of wildlife in their natural habitat, it offers strong value. Many guests mention that the memories and footage they take home make it worth every penny.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and families seeking an intimate, engaging experience. If you’re interested in getting aerial shots of whales and the surrounding scenery, you’ll be in heaven. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small-group tours, as the size fosters a more relaxed and personalized vibe.

On top of that, if you’re after a combination of adventure and professional-quality videos to share with friends or keep as souvenirs, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s an activity that balances wildlife excitement with expert guidance and a touch of modern tech.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Hoonah: Icy Strait Whale Watch with Drone Filmography offers a rare opportunity to see Alaska’s marine life from a fresh perspective. The combination of expert guides, a cozy boat with a max of 14 passengers, and the aerial drone footage makes it stand out among typical whale watching tours. It’s a well-rounded experience that delivers not only memorable wildlife encounters but also high-quality videos to take home.

While it’s priced a bit higher than some tours, the personalized nature, the quality of the drone footage, and the chance to see a variety of animals—including whales, bears, and eagles—make it a worthwhile investment. If capturing stunning aerial shots and enjoying an intimate experience are high on your list, this tour will probably be one of your favorite moments in Alaska.

This experience is especially perfect for adventurous travelers who want more than just a sightseeing cruise. It’s a fantastic choice for those who value expertise, comfort, and lasting memories in a setting that’s both wild and breathtakingly beautiful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation to and from the wildlife viewing area.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat seats a maximum of 14 guests, which ensures a more personalized and less crowded experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and dropoff at the cruise ship’s dock at Icy Strait Point are included, with convenient options depending on your ship’s dock location.

Do I receive any photos or videos?
Absolutely. You’ll get a USB drive with drone footage of whales, other marine life, and the passengers—making it easy to relive the adventure.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include humpback whales, orca, sea lions, otters, bald eagles, and occasionally brown bears.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable on a boat. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it accessible and engaging for all age groups.

What if the weather isn’t good?
Weather can impact wildlife sightings and drone filming. Tours may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are unsafe, so check the forecast and be prepared for possible adjustments.

In essence, if you’re seeking a more personal, technologically savvy whale watching adventure that captures Alaska’s majestic wildlife from a stunning aerial perspective, this tour ticks all the boxes. Expect unforgettable moments, professional guidance, and plenty of opportunities to take home spectacular footage. It’s a trip that promises memories—and videos—that will last a lifetime.