Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast

Imagine spending a few hours in a remote Alaskan village, where you can see fishermen at work, taste freshly caught crab, and learn about the local Tlingit culture — all in one memorable outing. That’s exactly what the Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast offers. With a perfect 5-star rating from 20 reviews, this tour is a favorite among travelers seeking genuine experiences away from the bigger cruise shore excursions.

What we love about this tour is its personal touch — a small group setting that feels more like visiting friends than going through a scripted attraction. Plus, the crab feast served right at a seaside home is a real highlight, providing a delicious, fresh taste of Alaska that’s hard to beat.

However, a quick consideration: the tour’s three-hour duration can feel a bit packed, especially if you’re not used to brisk sightseeing. Still, for those eager to dive into local life and enjoy a hearty seafood experience, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

If you’re after an authentic, laid-back adventure that combines nature, culture, and cuisine — and you appreciate a small-group vibe — this experience is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Perfect for travelers craving an authentic Alaskan seafood feast and cultural insights
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and storytelling
• Offers unique experiences like crabbing, totem carving, and forest foraging
• The crab is caught fresh and cooked on-site, making it a culinary highlight
• Tours are well-reviewed for friendliness, knowledge, and value
• Booked an average of 117 days in advance, indicating strong popularity

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: The Dock in Hoonah

The adventure begins at the dock in Hoonah, where you get your first glimpse of the commercial crabbing boat and the morning’s catch of crabs. Here, your hosts, Todd and Srisa, walk you through the basics of crab fishing and salmon fishing, demonstrating the gear used and answering questions.

What sets this apart from a typical crab shackle at a seafood restaurant is the chance to see live crabs right off the boat and pick your own. We loved the way the hosts are eager to share their knowledge, making the experience both educational and engaging. Reviewers like Cynthia_M mention, “Help to support a local family business and this is ONE,” highlighting how personal and meaningful this tour feels.

The Crabbing and Seafood Experience

The next stop is the Hoonah Beach House, a cozy seaside spot where the caught crabs are put on ice. This quick visit sets the stage for the main event later — the crab feast. Watching the crabs being iced down and prepared is a reminder of how fresh this seafood really is.

Most guests are surprised by the size of the crabs and the flavor, with multiple reviews, including Margie_L’s, pointing out, “Huge crabs!! meat was delicious.” The hosts then take you on a quick trip to forage for wild berries in the nearby forested area. This part of the tour offers a glimpse into survival and sustainability in remote Alaska, and you may even spot coastal brown bears if you’re lucky — a rare and exciting bonus.

Cultural Insights: Totem Carving

Next, visitors visit a local Tlingit carving shed, where master carvers are at work creating totem poles from yellow cedar logs. Watching this craft is a real treat and a window into Indigenous art and traditions. It’s a rare opportunity to see Tlingit artisans in action, adding cultural depth to your visit. Reviewers like William_M praise the personal stories and local insights shared during this stop.

The Grand Finale: The Crab Feast

The tour culminates back at the Hoonah Beach House, where your hosts cook the crabs right in front of you using traditional methods. Most guests agree that eating crab straight from the boat, cooked on-site, offers a flavor that frozen or re-heated crab simply cannot match. As Cynthia_M notes, “Most people tell us it’s the best crab they have ever had.” The ocean views and relaxed atmosphere make this a perfect, memorable meal.

Authenticity, Personal Touches, and Value

Throughout the tour, the hosts — Todd and Srisa — are praised for their warm hospitality and storytelling. Their passion for the local community, combined with their knowledge of fishing, foraging, and culture, makes the experience feel authentic and intimate. Several reviews, including Jens_J, mention that this was “the best part of their cruise”, emphasizing how special this personal connection makes the experience.

Practicalities and Price

At $195 per person, this tour offers excellent value — especially considering the fresh seafood, cultural insights, and the small group setting. The three-hour duration is well-paced for most travelers, providing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Reservations typically need to be made 117 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and limited availability, which is worth keeping in mind when planning.

Accessibility and Group Size

The tour is capped at just 12 travelers, which means plenty of opportunity for questions, photos, and interaction. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with a basic level of mobility, but always check in advance if you have specific needs.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This experience is a delight for those interested in authentic local culture and cuisine. You’ll love the hands-on nature of crabbing, the spectacular coastal scenery, and the personal stories that bring the village of Hoonah to life. The crab feast is genuinely the highlight — cooked fresh and served with ocean views, it’s a seafood lover’s dream.

The cultural component — watching Tlingit totem carvers at work — adds a meaningful dimension that sets this apart from more typical, commercial tours. And the chance to forage for berries and possibly see wildlife makes it a well-rounded experience of remote Alaska’s natural bounty.

However, those seeking a luxury experience might find the three-hour duration somewhat brisk, especially if they prefer a more leisurely pace. Also, since the tour involves outdoor stops and short walks, comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable.

Who is this tour best for?

Travelers who appreciate local storytelling, want to support small businesses, and are eager to try fresh, authentic seafood will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s great for culinary explorers, cultural enthusiasts, and those who enjoy small-group experiences with a personal touch. If you’re traveling with family or friends who love seafood and nature, this will be a memorable highlight.

FAQ

Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: Most travelers book about 117 days ahead, which is recommended given the tour’s popularity.

Q: What is included in the price?
A: The cost covers all the stops, including the crabbing demonstration, forest foraging, totem carving viewing, and the crab feast with cooking instructions.

Q: How long does the tour last?
A: It’s approximately three hours from start to finish.

Q: Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
A: Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the provider if mobility is a concern. The stops are short, but outdoor walking and standing are involved.

Q: What makes the crab so special?
A: The crabs are caught fresh from the boat and cooked on-site. Many reviews say it’s the best crab they’ve ever tasted.

Q: Do I need to bring anything?
A: Typically, no special gear is needed, but dressing for the weather and comfortable shoes are wise.

Q: Are there vegetarian or alternative options?
A: The tour is focused on crabbing and seafood, so vegetarian options aren’t provided. However, you can ask the hosts about other dietary needs.

Q: Is transportation included?
A: The tour begins at the dock in Hoonah, with no separate transportation provided. It’s a self-guided meeting point.

Q: Can I cancel if my plans change?
A: Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Q: What do reviewers say about the overall experience?
A: They consistently praise the friendly hosts, genuine local culture, and delicious food, making it one of the top-rated activities in Hoonah.

Final Thoughts

The Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast offers a genuinely local experience that combines seafood, culture, and nature in an intimate setting. You’ll love the personal attention, the opportunity to see and taste Alaska’s bounty directly from the source, and the chance to learn about the Tlingit traditions firsthand.

This tour strikes a great balance between educational and culinary experiences, making it well-suited for adventurous travelers who want a break from typical cruise shore excursions. If you’re eager to support local families, enjoy authentic Alaska cuisine, and see the scenery in a relaxed atmosphere, this tour should be high on your list.

In summary, it’s a fantastic value for a personalized, memorable experience that captures the spirit of Alaska’s coastal life. Whether you’re a seafood lover, cultural enthusiast, or simply curious, you’ll walk away with not just a full belly but a deeper appreciation for what makes this corner of the world so special.