Icy Strait Point: Whale Watching Tour with Small Group & Local Captain

Summary

Small group whale watching from Icy Strait Point with local stories and wildlife moments

You’ll ride out from Icy Strait Point in a small group with a local captain who knows these waters inside out. Expect close-up whale watching moments, sea lions basking nearby, hot chocolate in hand, and stories that bring Hoonah’s history alive. There’s space to move around, time to breathe in the ocean air—and maybe even catch yourself smiling at strangers.

What’s the experience like?

Honestly, we almost missed the van at the Excursions Hub because I was too busy trying to photograph a raven that was just strutting around like it owned the place. The driver waited (thank you!) and then it was just a five-minute ride to Hoonah — enough time for our guide, Tom, to joke about how even locals get distracted by those birds sometimes. He’s lived here his whole life, and you can tell. There’s this way he talks about the whales like they’re old neighbors.

The boat itself felt more like someone’s big living room than a tour vessel — only 12 of us plus Tom, so everyone had space to move around and actually see outside. It was chilly but not biting; I could smell salt and something woodsy in the air. When we spotted our first humpback, Tom cut the engine and just let us listen — you could hear that exhale echo over everything else. Someone passed around hot chocolate (I spilled a bit on my sleeve, classic me) and we all just stood there grinning at each other. There were sea lions too, lounging like they’d invented relaxation.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm out there — maybe it was the slow pace or maybe just being away from crowds for once. Tom told us about his dad fishing these waters before tourism ever came here. At one point he pointed out a bald eagle perched up high; I tried to get a photo but mostly ended up with blurry sky. Still worth it though.

We got back to harbor with wind-tangled hair and fingers smelling faintly of cocoa powder. The van was waiting for us, same driver waving like we were old friends already. I still think about that sound when the whale surfaced — kind of makes everything else seem quieter after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale and wildlife tour in Hoonah

• Meet at Excursions Hub
• Van transfer to Hoonah
• Board whale watching boat
• Enjoy whale and wildlife tour
• Return to harbor
• Van transfer back to Icy Strait Point

Top questions

How long is the whale watching tour from Icy Strait Point?

The tour includes transport from Icy Strait Point to Hoonah (about 5 minutes), then time on the water before returning—plenty of time for wildlife viewing.

Is pickup included for this whale watching tour?

Yes, pickup is included from the Excursions Hub at Icy Strait Point by van to Hoonah where you board the boat.

How many people are on the boat during the tour?

The boat takes up to 13 guests per trip for a small group experience.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the whale watching tour?

Yes, individually packed chips, cold water, and hot chocolate are included on board.

Is there a restroom available on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on the boat during your whale watching tour.

What is the minimum age for this whale watching trip?

The minimum age allowed is 9 years old.

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

No, this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

Is public transportation available near Icy Strait Point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes van pickup from Icy Strait Point to Hoonah and back again after your cruise; while on board you’ll have access to individually packed chips, cold water, hot chocolate for warmth (which really hits different out there), plus restroom facilities so you don’t have to worry about timing your tea breaks around whales appearing.