Hoonah Whale Watching Cruise: Small Group & Heated Cabin

Summary

Hoonah whale watching with heated cabin boats and local stories

You’ll feel the chill of Alaskan air on your cheeks as you board a heated boat in Hoonah for a small-group whale watching cruise near Icy Strait Point. Watch for humpbacks surfacing close by, spot playful otters and eagles overhead, enjoy snacks with your local guide’s stories, and maybe linger in town after — it’s hard to leave right away.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to shake off the salt air before our guide, Mike (who grew up here — you could tell), waved us toward the boat at Hoonah’s little dock. I’d read about humpback whales in these waters but didn’t expect how close we’d get. The cabin was warm, which honestly felt like a small miracle after that sharp Alaskan wind hit my face. There was coffee brewing somewhere inside — smelled a bit like home, but with seaweed in the air too.

We drifted out past Icy Strait Point and Mike started pointing — “There!” A spout, then this huge back arched out of the water, slow as a glacier. I fumbled for my camera and missed it, but somehow that made it better? Everyone was quiet except for one kid who gasped so loud even the guide laughed. We saw sea otters floating by like they owned the place, and a bald eagle just sitting on a buoy looking unimpressed by all of us.

The whole thing lasted about three hours but it felt both longer and shorter at once. At one point I tried to pronounce “Hoonah” properly and got it wrong; Mike grinned and told me not to worry — most folks do. On the way back he handed out snacks (I still remember the taste of those simple crackers with cold hands). You can stay in town after if you want — I did, just to wander and let it all sink in. Sometimes you need an extra half hour to process seeing something that big move so quietly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching and wildlife sightseeing

• Pick up at Icy Strait Excursions Hub
• Drive to Hoonah
• Board whale watch boat
• View humpback whales and wildlife
• Return to Hoonah
• Choose to stay in town or return

Top questions

How long is the Hoonah whale watching cruise?

The cruise lasts about 3 hours from start to finish.

Are there restrooms on the whale watching boat?

Yes, the custom-built vessel includes a restroom onboard.

What wildlife can I see on this tour?

You may see humpback whales, orcas, seals, sea lions, sea otters, and many birds.

Is pickup included from Icy Strait Point?

Yes, pickup is included at the Icy Strait Excursions Hub near Icy Strait Point.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I stay in Hoonah after the tour?

Yes, you can choose to stay in town or return immediately; shuttles run every 30 minutes.

When is whale season in Hoonah?

The whales arrive around May and stay through September each year.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Icy Strait Excursions Hub into Hoonah where you’ll board a heated cabin boat with restroom facilities; enjoy snacks along with stories from your local guide; all fees and taxes are covered before returning on flexible shuttles back into town or to your ship.