For the best whale watching in Alaska’s Inside Passage, Hoonah delivers exceptional value with its signature 3-hour cruises. I especially love these intimate tours – they’re smartly designed for small groups, making wildlife viewing comfortable and personal. The stats speak volumes: a perfect whale-sighting record and stellar 4.9/5 rating from hundreds of satisfied travelers.
These tours shine May through September, when humpbacks and orcas frequent these nutrient-rich waters. Expert local guides track the whale pods while sharing fascinating insights about the marine ecosystem. You’ll likely spot seals and sea lions too, and the included drone footage gives you a unique perspective of these magnificent creatures.
The tour operators I recommend offer a no-nonsense money-back guarantee if no whales appear (though that rarely happens), and their flexible booking system makes planning a breeze.
Check out these standout whale watching tours in Hoonah:
Key Points
- Hoonah offers a highly-rated 3-hour whale-watching cruise with a 98% recommendation rate and 4.9/5 rating based on over 300 reviews.
- Tours provide sightings of diverse marine life, including humpbacks, orcas, seals, sea lions, and bears, led by experienced local guides.
- Cruises depart from Icy Strait Point and are priced at $191.25 per person, with flexible booking options and a 100% whale sighting success rate.
- Unique features include heated cabins, bonus drone viewing, and private charters for up to 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized and exclusive experience.
- Hoonah’s proximity to wildlife hotspots and the tours’ flexible itineraries maximize the chances of memorable encounters with diverse marine life.
Hoonah Whale-Watching Cruise
The Hoonah Whale-Watching Cruise provides travelers with an unforgettable opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of Alaskan waters.
With a 98% recommendation rate and a 4.9/5 rating based on over 300 reviews, this three-hour tour is a must-do activity for visitors to the Hoonah area.
Travelers can expect to see a variety of whales, including humpbacks and orcas, as well as other wildlife like seals, sea lions, and bears.
The knowledgeable local guides offer insightful commentary on the animals’ behavior and the region’s rich history and culture.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s an engaging experience for all ages, making it a highlight for many during their Hoonah visit.
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Hoonah: Whale Watching Cruise
For those seeking an unforgettable encounter with Alaskan marine life, the Hoonah Whale-Watching Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity.
This 3-hour tour departs from Icy Strait Point, promising sightings of majestic humpback whales, orcas, seals, sea lions, and more. Priced at $191.25 per person, the cruise operates from May to September, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers will enjoy guided exploration, scenic vistas, and knowledgeable staff providing engaging stories. With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 14 reviews, this cruise is a must-do for anyone visiting the Hoonah area near Glacier Bay and Icy Strait.
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Alaska Whale Watching With Bonus Drone Viewing of Whales
Travelers seeking a remarkable encounter with Alaska’s magnificent marine creatures can look forward to the Alaska Whale Watching with Bonus Drone Viewing of Whales tour in Hoonah.
This small-group experience, rated 5.0 overall with 99% recommendation, promises an up-close look at humpbacks, orcas, sea lions, otters, and more. Knowledgeable crew, drone footage, and a USB drive with aerial shots ensure a comprehensive and immersive adventure.
While some guests noted limited snacks, the majority praised the tour’s highlights. With a starting price of €233.74 and flexible booking, this Hoonah excursion offers a unique opportunity to witness Alaska’s wildlife from both sea and sky.
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Hoonah: Icy Strait Whale Watch With Drone Filmography
Frequently, visitors to Hoonah, Alaska, embark on the Icy Strait Whale Watch With Drone Filmography tour, a captivating 3-hour excursion that immerses them in the region’s stunning marine wildlife.
Led by Captain Josh, a certified drone pilot with a 100% whale sighting success rate, the tour promises an unforgettable experience. Passengers can expect to witness humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and other marine life, with the added benefit of unique drone footage capturing the wildlife from above.
The tour includes pickup and dropoff at the cruise ship dock, a private boat for up to 14 passengers, snacks, and a USB of the day’s drone footage.
With a 5/5 rating based on 60 reviews, this tour offers an intimate and educational wildlife encounter.
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Hoonah Whale Tours
Hoonah Whale Tours offers captivating catamaran tours in the waters surrounding Hoonah, Alaska, with a primary focus on observing the majestic humpback whales that frequent the region.
The tour is highly recommended, with 99% of travelers rating it 5 out of 5 based on 159 reviews. Guests can expect scenic views of the Alaskan landscape and a chance to spot native wildlife like bald eagles, sea lions, and bears.
The tour features a heated cabin, on-board bathroom, and complimentary snacks, refreshments, and insights from the captain. With a maximum of 6 travelers, the experience promises an intimate and personalized encounter.
Pickup from Icy Strait Point is included, and a money-back guarantee is offered if whales aren’t seen.
Read our full review: Hoonah Whale Tours Review
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Wonderful Whales and Wildlife Tour
The Wonderful Whales and Wildlife Tour offers a captivating opportunity to witness the majesty of humpback whales and the abundant wildlife in the waters surrounding Hoonah, Alaska.
This 5-star tour provides a comfortable and informative experience, with snacks, restrooms, and convenient pickup and drop-off locations.
With a maximum group size of 13, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized adventure.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
The tour’s 99% recommendation rate and 151 total reviews with a 5.0 average rating make it a top choice for those seeking an unforgettable whale watching experience in Hoonah.
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Whale-Watching, Icy Point, Hoonah , Whales, Orca, Killer-Whales.
One of the premier whale-watching experiences in Hoonah, Alaska is the Whale-Watching tour that departs from Icy Point.
The tour operates on a 38-foot vessel with a heated cabin and deck seating, accommodating up to 16 passengers for an intimate encounter. Guests have excellent chances of spotting humpback whales, orcas, seals, eagles, and more, while enjoying scenic Alaskan coastline views.
The veteran captain provides insightful commentary on the local wildlife and geography. Travelers can enjoy snacks and water onboard, though the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible.
With a 4.9-star rating from over 140 reviews, this small-group experience is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Hoonah.
Read our full review: Whale-Watching, Icy Point, Hoonah , Whales, Orca, Killer-Whales. Review
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6 Passenger Whale Watching Adventure in Icy Strait From Hoonah AK
Embarking on a wildlife adventure, visitors to Hoonah, Alaska can experience a 6 Passenger Whale Watching Tour in the Icy Strait.
This private tour offers the chance to spot humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, bald eagles, and sea lions. The relaxing onboard experience includes hot coffee and tea, and opportunities for wildlife photography.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 33 reviews, and 100% recommendation from travelers, this tour is a must-do.
Transportation to the Excursion Hub at Icy Strait Point is provided, with easy access from the cruise port.
The 2-3 hour tour departs at 7:00 AM, subject to availability, and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
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Icy Strait Shore Excursion: Whale Watching Adventure Tour
Travelers visiting Hoonah, Alaska can embark on the Icy Strait Shore Excursion: Whale Watching Adventure Tour, a half-day expedition focused on spotting native Alaskan wildlife.
The tour departs from the Icy Strait Point gates, just a 5-minute walk from the cruise tender pier. Onboard, guests will enjoy snacks, bottled water, and restrooms as knowledgeable guides, including a Tlingit captain and marine biologist, provide in-depth commentary on the local flora and fauna.
Past sightings have included 6-8 whales, sea otters, and sea lions, with close encounters reported. Priced from $307.55 per person with a lowest price guarantee, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Whale Watching Charters Through Icy Strat Alaska
For those seeking a more intimate whale watching experience, Icy Strait Alaska offers private charters that allow for personalized encounters with the region’s diverse marine life.
These charters, led by the knowledgeable Captain Billy and his daughter, accommodate a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring better views and more interaction. Priced from $250 per person, the tours include sightings of humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, sea lions, and eagles.
With a 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the charters provide a magical and memorable experience, though some guests have noted disappointment in whale sightings compared to their expectations.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Charters Through Icy Strat Alaska Review
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Icy Strait Whale & Wildlife Endeavor
Nestled in the heart of Hoonah, the Icy Strait Whale & Wildlife Endeavor offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the natural splendor of Alaska’s marine ecosystem.
This highly rated, small-group tour provides close encounters with a variety of wildlife, including orcas, humpback whales, seals, and even a 600-pound brown bear.
Led by the knowledgeable and personable Captain Seth, the tour offers a flexible itinerary and personal attention, allowing guests to witness unique behaviors like bubble-net feeding.
With a 100% recommendation rate, this excursion is a must-do for visitors seeking an intimate and unforgettable wildlife experience in Hoonah.
Read our full review: Icy Strait Whale & Wildlife Endeavor Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Whale Watching Tours Typically Last?
Whale watching tours typically last 2-4 hours, allowing time to observe whales in their natural habitat. Most tours depart from the local harbor and provide expert guides to enhance the experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Whale watching tour operators typically allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check the specific policy with the tour company before your trip to ensure you can bring what you need.
What Is the Best Time of Year for Whale Watching in Hoonah?
The best time for whale watching in Hoonah is typically from April to October, when the waters are filled with migrating humpback whales. Visitors can expect to see these majestic creatures breaching and feeding during this prime viewing season.
Can I Take Pictures and Videos During the Tour?
Yes, you can take pictures and videos during the whale watching tour. Most tour companies encourage guests to capture the experience, as long as it doesn’t disturb the whales or interfere with the tour.
Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Tours?
The whale watching tours typically don’t have age or health restrictions, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. They’ll be able to provide specifics on any requirements or accommodations for guests.
Recap
Hoonah offers exceptional whale-watching experiences. Visitors can embark on cruises, tours, and charters to spot whales in the Icy Strait. From intimate 6-passenger adventures to large group excursions, there are options to suit various needs. Drone footage provides an added bonus, capturing whales from above. With knowledgeable guides and prime whale-watching locations, Hoonah is an excellent destination for those seeking to observe these majestic marine mammals.