Embark on an intimate whale watching adventure in the icy waters of Icy Strait near Hoonah, Alaska. This exclusive 6-passenger tour offers the thrill of observing majestic humpback whales, powerful orcas, and diverse marine life against the stunning Alaskan coastline. Accessible by a free green gondola, the cozy onboard amenities and personalized attention from the experienced captain and guide ensure an unforgettable encounter with the wonders of the Alaskan wilderness. With the opportunity to capture stunning wildlife photographs, this tour promises an immersive and exclusive experience that you won’t soon forget.
Key Points
- Intimate 6-passenger whale watching tour departs from the Excursion Hub in Icy Strait Point, near Hoonah, Alaska.
- Experienced captain and guide navigate to the best locations for spotting humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and more.
- Free green gondola transportation available from the farther cruise ship dock to the Excursion Hub.
- Wheelchair accessible, stroller permitted, and service animals allowed for a comfortable experience.
- Cozy interior with hot beverages, ample space, and an ideal setting for capturing wildlife photos.
Tour Details
The tour offers a 6-passenger whale watching adventure in the Icy Strait near Hoonah, Alaska, with 30 positive reviews.
Guests will head out on the water to spot humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and more. The experienced captain and guide know the best spotting locations and will take visitors there.
Onboard, guests can relax, sip hot coffee or tea, and capture wildlife photos.
The tour departs from the Excursion Hub at the Icy Strait Point port. If arriving at the farther dock, a free green gondola provides transportation to the hub, which is a 5-7 minute walk on a gravel path.
Location and Accessibility
The tour departs from the Excursion Hub at the Icy Strait Point port, which is accessible via a free green gondola for those arriving at the farther cruise ship dock.
The Excursion Hub is just a 5-7 minute walk on a gravel path from the port.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and strollers are permitted. Service animals are also allowed to join the adventure.
For families, infant seats are available.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, regardless of age or physical ability.
With its convenient location and accessibility features, the Whale Watching Adventure in Icy Strait from Hoonah, AK caters to a wide range of guests, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Heading into the icy waters of Icy Strait, adventurers can expect to spot a variety of marine wildlife, including the majestic humpback whales and powerful orcas that call this region home.
During the tour, the experienced captain and guide will navigate to the best locations for wildlife viewing, ensuring guests have the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Along With whales, passengers may also glimpse playful sea otters, curious seals, and a diverse array of seabirds soaring overhead.
With the stunning backdrop of the Alaskan coastline, this whale watching adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the vibrant marine ecosystem of Icy Strait.
Onboard Amenities
Onboard, guests can comfortably sip hot coffee or tea as they admire the stunning vistas unfolding before them. The boat’s cozy interior provides a welcoming atmosphere, allowing visitors to relax and fully enjoy the whale watching experience.
With ample space for the small group of just 6 passengers, everyone can move freely and take in the breathtaking scenery. The captain and guide are attentive to the group’s needs, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Guests can also take advantage of the ideal conditions to capture incredible wildlife photos, documenting their unforgettable encounter with the majestic creatures of the Icy Strait.
Pickup and Arrival
Guests can easily access the Excursion Hub at Icy Strait Point port, where the whale watching tour departs.
The port features two cruise ship docks, and if arriving at the farther one, visitors can take the free green gondola to reach the Excursion Hub within a 5-7 minute walk along a gravel path.
Once at the Excursion Hub, guests will meet their captain and guide who’ll lead them to the best whale spotting locations.
The tour leaves promptly at 7:00 AM, so it’s recommended to arrive a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start to the whale watching adventure.
Tour Start Time
The whale watching tour departs promptly at 7:00 AM, so it’s important for guests to arrive a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start to the adventure.
Passengers should plan to meet at the Excursion Hub at Icy Strait Point port, where the tour will begin. This gives everyone ample time to get checked in, equipped with any necessary gear, and settle into the boat before setting off.
The tour operates on a tight schedule to maximize the time spent spotting wildlife, so punctuality is key. Guests who arrive late may risk missing the departure and forfeiting their spot on the tour.
Booking and Confirmation
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking the whale watching tour, ensuring guests have all the necessary details before their adventure.
The confirmation email will include the pickup location, which is at the Excursion Hub at Icy Strait Point port.
For those arriving at the farther dock, there’s a free green gondola that can take them to the Excursion Hub, followed by a 5-7 minute walk on a gravel path.
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible and allows service animals. Infant seats are also available, making it suitable for families.
The booking process is straightforward, and guests can look forward to a seamless start to their whale watching experience.
Group Size and Exclusivity
This whale watching tour offers an intimate and exclusive experience, with a maximum of 6 passengers per outing. You won’t be crammed in with dozens of others, but rather enjoy a personalized adventure with a small group.
The private nature of the tour means you’ll have the undivided attention of the captain and guide, who can tailor the experience to your interests and preferences.
Whether you’re a seasoned whale watcher or a first-timer, this small-group setting provides a more immersive and enjoyable encounter with the magnificent marine life of Icy Strait.
The exclusivity ensures you’ll create lasting memories without the distractions of a large group tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Tour Suitable for People With Motion Sickness?
The tour may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness, as the waters in the Icy Strait can be choppy. However, the small group size and ability to move around the boat may help alleviate some discomfort.
What Is the Maximum Weight Capacity for the Boat?
The boat has a maximum weight capacity of 6 passengers. It’s designed for a small group tour, so the capacity is limited to ensure a comfortable and safe experience on the water. The tour operator can provide more details on the specific weight limit.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages Onboard?
Yes, passengers can bring their own snacks and beverages onboard. The tour allows outside food and drinks to be consumed during the excursion. This provides guests the flexibility to enjoy their preferred refreshments throughout the whale watching adventure.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions, and infants can be accommodated with infant seats. Most travelers can participate in the adventure, making it suitable for visitors of all ages, from young children to seniors.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour if I Want To?
The tour’s duration can’t be extended, as it’s a scheduled 6-passenger excursion. However, the operator may be able to accommodate special requests, such as adding extra time, depending on availability and additional fees. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider.
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Recap
This exclusive 6-passenger whale watching tour in Alaska’s Icy Strait offers an intimate and thrilling encounter with the region’s majestic marine life.
Venture into the icy waters near Hoonah, where you’ll observe humpback whales, orcas, and diverse wildlife against the stunning Alaskan coastline.
Accessible by a free gondola, the tour provides cozy onboard amenities, personalized attention, and opportunities to capture stunning wildlife photographs, making it an unforgettable experience in the Alaskan wilderness.