What to Expect
A whale watching tour in Icy Strait Point is one of the most reliable and awe-inspiring wildlife excursions in Alaska. Your adventure begins on shore, a short walk from your cruise ship at the designated “Excursion Hub.” Here, you’ll meet the representatives for your tour who will check you in.
From the hub, you’ll board a van or small bus for a quick, often narrated, 5-10 minute drive through the Tlingit village of Hoonah to the local boat harbor. Once at the marina, you’ll board your vessel—typically a comfortable catamaran or a smaller charter boat designed for wildlife viewing, often with a heated indoor cabin and an open-air deck.
After a brief safety orientation, your captain will navigate into the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait. The destination is often Point Adolphus, an area renowned as one of the most active humpback whale feeding grounds in Alaska. Because the food source is so concentrated here, the whale sighting rate is over 95%. You’ll spend approximately 2.5 to 3 hours on the water.
Throughout the tour, your local guide will share insights into the behavior of the whales and the history of the area. Be on the lookout for the spectacular sight of bubble-net feeding, a cooperative hunting method where whales work together to corral fish. Besides humpbacks, you have a good chance of spotting both resident (fish-eating) and transient (mammal-eating) orcas, Steller sea lions, sea otters, harbor seals, and various sea birds like puffins. After the water portion of your tour, you will be transported back to the Icy Strait Point port area, with plenty of time to get back on your ship or explore the shops.
Who This Is For
This excursion is ideal for almost everyone. It’s a fantastic choice for families, multi-generational groups, and anyone with a passion for wildlife. The activity level is very low, making it accessible to guests of all ages and fitness levels.
The primary requirements are the ability to walk a moderate distance from the cruise dock to the meeting point and the ability to handle a few steps onto a bus and a boat. The ride on the water can occasionally be choppy if winds pick up, so those prone to motion sickness should take precautions. Wildlife photographers, from amateur to professional, will find unparalleled opportunities. If your goal is to see whales in their natural habitat, Icy Strait Point is one of the best places in the world to do it.
Ship vs. Independent Booking
At Icy Strait Point, both ship-sponsored and independent whale watching tours are excellent choices, with prices being quite competitive. The best option depends on your priorities.
Booking with the Cruise Line: This offers the ultimate peace of mind. The ship guarantees you won’t be left behind, and all the logistics are handled for you. These tours typically use larger-capacity vessels.
Booking Independently: This route often leads to a more intimate experience on smaller boats with fewer passengers, allowing for more personal interaction with the captain and guide. Many independent operators are family-run or owned by the local Huna Totem Corporation, meaning your money directly supports the local community and the native Tlingit people who call this land home. Independent operators also offer a whale sighting guarantee; if you don’t see a whale, you may be refunded a portion or all of your ticket price.
What to Bring
Proper attire is key to enjoying your time on the water. Even on a sunny day, it can be cold and windy.
- Layered Clothing: Dress in layers you can add or remove. A base layer, a fleece or wool mid-layer, and a waterproof outer jacket are recommended.
- Waterproof Jacket: Essential for staying dry from rain, mist, or sea spray.
- Warm Hat & Gloves: You’ll want these when standing on the outer deck for extended periods.
- Comfortable Shoes: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction.
- Camera & Binoculars: Don’t miss capturing the action. A zoom lens is highly recommended.
- Seasickness Medication: If you are prone to motion sickness, take it before you board the vessel as a precaution.
How to Book
You can book whale watching tours directly through your cruise line or pre-book online with an independent operator. During peak season, it is highly recommended to book in advance as tours frequently sell out.
Several well-regarded local operators offer tours from the Hoonah harbor:
- Glacier Wind Charters: A family-run business known for its small-group catamaran tours.
- Icy Strait Whale Adventures: A locally-owned business with knowledgeable guides and guaranteed sightings.
- Hoonah Travel Adventures: Offers guaranteed whale sightings and transportation from the port.
- Hoonah Whale Tours: Provides small-group tours on a custom-built catamaran with an experienced local captain.
Booking directly through their websites is the most common method. The meeting point for nearly all independent tours is the Excursion Hub just past the cruise ship docks. Plan to meet your guide 15-20 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a typical whale watching tour like in Icy Strait Point?
Your tour will start at the Excursion Hub, where you'll meet your guide. A van will take you on a short drive to the harbor in Hoonah. After a safety briefing, you'll board the vessel and spend about 2.5 to 3 hours on the water. Captains navigate towards Point Adolphus, a famous feeding ground, seeking out humpback whales, orcas, and other wildlife. Afterwards, the van will return you to the port area.
Is it better to book a whale watching tour with the cruise line or independently?
For this excursion, booking either way is a great option as prices are often comparable. Independent operators are typically family-run or locally owned, offering a more intimate, small-group experience. Booking directly with a company owned by the Huna Totem Corporation supports the local Tlingit community. Cruise line tours use larger vessels but provide the convenience and guarantee of returning to the ship on time.
What should I wear for whale watching in Icy Strait Point?
Dress in layers. Alaska's weather is unpredictable. A waterproof or water-resistant jacket is essential, even if it's just misting. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Most boats have heated cabins, but you'll want to be on the outer decks for the best viewing, so bring gloves and a warm hat.
Are there any physical requirements for this tour?
This is an easy activity suitable for all ages. However, participants must be able to walk from the ship to the meeting point (which can be up to 500 yards) and manage a few steps into a van and onto the boat. Ramps to the docks can be steep depending on the tide. While some operators can stow foldable wheelchairs, the vessels themselves are generally not wheelchair accessible.
What happens if the weather is bad or my cruise ship can't dock?
If the tour operator cancels due to unsafe weather, you will receive a full refund. They may also discuss modified options in calmer waters. If your cruise ship cancels its stop at Icy Strait Point, you will also get a 100% refund.
How far in advance should I book my whale watching tour?
It's best to book as far in advance as possible, especially during the peak months of June, July, and August. Tours can sell out. While some walk-up availability might exist at the dock, pre-booking is the only way to guarantee your spot.
What's included in the price of the tour?
The price typically includes round-trip transportation from the port's Excursion Hub to the boat harbor in Hoonah, a professional guide and captain, and about 2.5-3 hours on the water. Some operators provide complimentary water, coffee, or hot chocolate. Snacks are sometimes included but often guests are welcome to bring their own.