Icy Strait Shore Excursion: Whale Watching Adventure Tour

Exploring Alaska’s Wildlife with the Icy Strait Whale Watching Tour

This whale watching adventure in Icy Strait offers a captivating glimpse into the rich marine and terrestrial life of Alaska. Designed as a half-day shore excursion, it promises a mix of awe-inspiring whale sightings, nature storytelling, and the chance to spot local animals in their natural habitat. With a reputation for excellent guides, comfortable boats, and close encounters with marine mammals, it’s a popular choice for travelers docked at Hoonah.

One aspect we love about this experience is the emphasis on educational commentary—your guides aren’t just spotters but storytellers, sharing intriguing insights into native Alaskan flora, fauna, and local traditions. The opportunity to see humpback whales bubble-net feeding up close is genuinely unforgettable. That said, a possible consideration is that whale sightings can vary—they might be distant at times, and weather conditions can influence visibility.

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone eager to connect with Alaska’s natural environment in a manageable, well-organized package. If you’re seeking a mix of adventure, education, and authentic wildlife encounters, this tour offers solid value.

Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: Expect to see whales, bears, seals, otters, and birds like bald eagles and puffins.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share stories and insights, adding depth to the experience.
• Comfortable & Convenient: Small boat, onboard restrooms, and round-trip transportation from Icy Strait Point.
• Educational & Fun: Learn about animal behaviors and ecosystems while enjoying the scenery.
• Timing & Booking: Book well in advance—most travelers reserve about 102 days ahead for peak summer dates.
• Value for Money: At $326.45 per person, the experience offers a memorable, wildlife-rich adventure with snacks included.

A Deep Dive Into the Icy Strait Whale Watching Adventure

This tour starts right outside the gates of Icy Strait Point, where a comfortable pickup takes you along scenic Shaman Point. From there, you’ll traverse the lush landscape, often catching glimpses of Alaskan wildlife—from the elusive blacktail deer and bustling coastal ducks to majestic Bald Eagles soaring overhead. The drive itself sets the tone, giving you a taste of the rugged wilderness before even reaching the water.

Once onboard the small charter boat, which is built for speed and comfort, you begin your journey into the waters rich with marine life. The boat’s design with large windows and an open-air option allows for unobstructed views, essential for spotting whales and other creatures. According to reviews, many find that staying inside with the windows lifted up offers the perfect balance between comfort and visibility.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Shaman Point & Wildlife Viewing

The drive to the boat is as much part of the adventure as the boat ride itself. During the transfer, it’s common to see Brown Bears, perhaps foraging along the shoreline, or spot puffins and swans swimming nearby. The guides often share stories about the local ecosystem and the Tlingit culture—one reviewer highlighted the captain’s personal tales from the Tlingit Nation, which added an extra layer of cultural richness.

Main Activity: Whale Watching & Marine Life

The centerpiece of the tour is the whale watching. Humpback whales arrive in these nutrient-rich waters from May through September, feeding intensively before heading south for winter. The guides are well-versed in whale behavior, with many guests noting their ability to spot diving whales, blows, and flukes. Watching humpbacks perform bubble-net feeding is especially thrilling, a rare spectacle that leaves many visitors in awe.

The boat’s speed and maneuverability allow for close, yet respectful, encounters with marine mammals like orca, sea otters, sea lions, and porpoises. Several reviews mentioned sightings of 6-8 whales, along with groups of sea otters and sea lions that often come close to the boat, providing fantastic photo opportunities.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the most praised aspects is the guides’ knowledge and storytelling. A reviewer from Matthew_H shared that the captain was from the Tlingit nation, enriching the trip with cultural stories that connected the wildlife to Alaska’s indigenous traditions. This personal touch elevates the experience from a simple wildlife tour to a meaningful encounter with local culture.

Plus, snacks and bottled water are provided, which is a thoughtful touch given the three-hour duration. Restrooms on board help prevent any mid-trip discomfort, especially for travelers sensitive to small boat rides.

The Value of This Experience

At $326.45 per person, this tour might seem on the higher end, but considering the small group size (max 30 travelers), personalized service, expert guides, and the opportunity for close wildlife encounters, many find it worthwhile. The tickets are often booked approximately 102 days in advance, reflecting its popularity during peak months.

The Downsides?

Weather plays a role in wildlife sightings, and whales can be distant at times. Some reviews noted that while they saw several whales, the views were sometimes from afar. Also, food and drinks outside the provided snacks are not included, so bringing additional refreshments might be wise if you have specific preferences.

Why This Tour Will Suit Certain Travelers Best

This experience is perfect if you’re craving a hands-on wildlife safari, want to learn about Alaskan ecosystems, and enjoy stories that connect nature with local culture. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate small-group tours and are comfortable on a boat for a few hours. Families, wildlife lovers, and culture enthusiasts will find this tour hits the right notes.

If you’re looking for a luxury cruise excursion, it provides a cozy, intimate environment without sacrificing the thrill of seeing whales and other animals in their natural habitat.

Final thoughts

The Icy Strait Whale Watching Adventure offers a genuine chance to see Alaska’s marine giants while soaking in the stunning scenery and local wildlife. The combination of expert guides, cultural storytelling, and close-up animal sightings makes this a memorable trip, especially in the summer months when whales are feeding in these nutrient-rich waters.

While it’s not a guarantee to see whales every time, the tour’s design and guides’ knowledge maximize your chances and enrich the experience with meaningful insights. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a balanced, authentic, and educational wildlife encounter that respects the environment and local traditions.

If wildlife, nature, and family-friendly adventure are your priorities, this tour deserves a spot on your Alaska itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
Roundtrip transportation from Icy Strait Point gates, bottled water, a light snack, and onboard restrooms are included.

Are there any additional costs?
Food and drinks outside the provided snacks are not included, so bring your own if desired.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it family-friendly, but consider the boat ride’s stability if traveling with very young children.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, seals, sea lions, coastal ducks, geese, puffins, and possibly bears along the shoreline.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 102 days ahead, especially for peak summer months from May to September.

What is the best time of year for whale sightings?
The whales arrive starting in May and depart by September, with the best chances in mid-summer.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is designed for speed and comfort, with large windows and an option to stay inside with windows lifted for optimal viewing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering full refund.

Are snacks and water provided?
Yes, a light snack and bottled water are included, but you might want to bring extras if you’re hungry or prefer specific drinks.

This whale watching tour delivers an authentic, wildlife-rich encounter with Alaska’s stunning environment. For those eager to combine education, adventure, and cultural insights, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Alaskan voyage.