Hoonah: Icy Straight Whale Watching Tour

Taking a whale-watching trip in Alaska sounds like a dream, but how many tours truly deliver on that promise? This Hoonah: Icy Straight Whale Watching Tour from Wow A Tour promises a chance to see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat, all in a manageable three-hour window. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking to add a memorable adventure to your Alaskan itinerary, this tour aims to combine comfort, excitement, and authentic encounters.

What really caught our attention are the chances of seeing humpbacks breaching, the knowledgeable guides, and the stunning scenic backdrop of Glacier Bay and Icy Strait. On the flip side, a potential consideration might be the size of the boat, which caps at 18-30 passengers—great for intimacy but possibly limiting during busy seasons. This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife, comfort, and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Good To Know

• Wildlife sightings guaranteed or $100 refund
• Small group size enhances experience and comfort
• Transport from Icy Strait Point is included
• Lunch or additional drinks are not included (besides water and a snack)
• Tour duration is three hours, mainly in the morning
• Expert guides provide insights and enhance the experience

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Hoonah Whale Watching Tour

This trip is designed for those who want a compact yet immersive wildlife viewing experience. Starting at the Icy Strait Point Adventure Center, the tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, which not only keeps you comfortable but also provides scenic views en route. The drive itself is worth noting, as passing Shaman Point offers glimpses of Alaskan Brown Bears, bald eagles, and deer—a prelude to the wild wonder awaiting offshore.

The Boat and Its Environment

Once at the dock, you’ll board a speedy, comfortable vessel that balances performance with comfort. Reviews mention that the boat is designed for speed and stability, making it easier to spot animals and stay dry during the cruise. With a capacity of 18-30 passengers, this small boat ensures a less crowded experience, providing ample opportunity for everyone to view wildlife clearly. There’s a heated cabin and viewing decks, so you can choose to stay warm and dry while watching the waters.

The Wildlife Encounters

The highlight of the tour is the chance to observe humpback whales, which gather in the nutrient-rich waters of Glacier Bay and Icy Strait every summer. These whales, which can grow over 50 feet long and weigh up to 50 tons, are known for their breaching, blowing, and tail flukes. Seeing a whale breach or catching a perfect shot of a spout is genuinely thrilling, and some guides, like Captain Mark, are praised for their deep knowledge and ability to spot whales early.

A particularly fascinating aspect is the bubble-net feeding behavior. This cooperative hunting technique, where a pod forms a circle and blows bubbles underwater to corral krill, is often visible during the tour. One reviewer notes, “Getting to see the whales bubble-net feeding was a jaw-dropping moment—something I’ll never forget.”

Other Marine Wildlife

Beyond humpbacks, you can expect sightings of orcas, sea otters, seals, sea lions, and porpoises. The guide’s expertise in spotting these animals enhances the experience. Guests often comment on the abundance of wildlife, with one saying, “We saw sea lions lounging on rocks and a pod of orcas swimming nearby—it felt like a live nature documentary.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Scenic Backdrop

The views of the surrounding Alaskan wilderness are nothing short of spectacular. Passing Shaman Point, you’ll get a glimpse of bears and eagles, adding an extra layer of wilderness to your trip. The tour also offers stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains and pristine waters, perfect for photography and appreciating Alaska’s raw beauty.

Comfort and Convenience

The tour includes bottled water and a light snack, keeping you energized for the three-hour venture. Restrooms are available onboard, which is a plus for longer or more leisurely trips. The guided commentary is in English, with guides like Steve and Rachel consistently earning praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm.

Booking and Pricing

At $321 per person, the price might seem steep, but considering the guaranteed wildlife sightings or a $100 refund, it offers a compelling value. The small group size, combined with expert guiding, ensures a more personalized and engaging experience. Plus, the flexibility in booking—with options to reserve now and pay later or cancel 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This whale-watching trip suits adventure-minded travelers who want an up-close wildlife experience without feeling overwhelmed by large crowd numbers. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see whales in their natural environment, especially during the peak summer months. If you’re someone who values expert guides, scenic views, and guaranteed sightings, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s also a great choice for those who prefer a shorter, focused trip without sacrificing quality. The three-hour duration makes it manageable for travelers with limited time but still wanting a substantial wildlife encounter.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a high-quality whale-watching experience with small groups, expert guides, and a promise of wildlife sightings, this tour delivers. The combination of stunning scenery, diverse marine life, and knowledgeable guides makes it more than just a boat ride—it’s a window into Alaska’s wild heart.

The price point reflects the quality of experience, especially with the wildlife guarantee, but it’s worth it for those seeking an authentic, memorable encounter with nature. Expect to come away with fantastic photos, stories of breaching whales, and a deeper appreciation for Alaska’s marine ecosystem.

This tour is best for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a comfortable, intimate, and educational boat trip in one of the world’s most spectacular wilderness areas.

FAQs

How long is the whale-watching tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, mainly in the morning, making it a manageable trip for most travelers.

What is included in the price?
Your tour includes round-trip transportation from Icy Strait Point, a cruise, bottled water, a light snack, guide services, and onboard restrooms.

Is there a guarantee of whale sightings?
Yes, sightings are guaranteed, or you’ll receive a $100 refund for the whale-watching portion of your tour.

How many people will be on the boat?
The boats accommodate between 18 and 30 passengers, offering a more intimate experience than larger tour boats.

What wildlife might I see besides whales?
Expect to see orcas, sea otters, seals, sea lions, and porpoises, along with scenery of eagles and bears from the drive.

Are food and drinks available onboard?
Only bottled water and a light snack are provided. Food and additional drinks are not included.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, as weather can change quickly. The boat has heated cabins, but it’s best to be prepared for wind and spray.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now with the option to pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly, especially given the small group size and comfortable amenities.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
Whale sightings are most common from May to September, when humpbacks and orcas gather in the area.

This whale-watching tour offers a genuine chance to connect with Alaska’s wild marine life in a comfortable, small-group setting. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable adventure, this experience is likely to leave you with stories—and photos—that will last a lifetime.

You can check if your dates are available here: