Hoonah is one of Alaska’s most captivating cruise ports, offering a genuine glimpse into coastal wildlife and native traditions. Unlike some ports that feel overly commercialized, Hoonah stands out for its raw, unfiltered access to wildlife in their natural habitat. When your cruise ship docks here, you’ll find two standout shore excursions that provide unforgettable experiences: one focusing on whale watching and the other on bears and native wildlife. Both tours deliver a chance to see Alaska’s iconic animals up close, but each caters to different interests and energy levels.
If you’re eager to spot humpback whales or learn about marine life, the Icy Strait Shore Excursion: Whale Watching Adventure Tour is a must. On the other hand, if your passion is for observing brown bears in the wild and exploring native culture, the Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion: We’re going on a bear hunt! offers an intimate, wildlife-focused experience. Here’s a detailed look at these two popular options to help you decide.
1. Icy Strait Shore Excursion: Whale Watching Adventure Tour
At number one, this whale watching tour takes you into the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait, an area renowned for its humpback whales during the summer months. The trip begins with convenient round-trip transportation from the Icy Strait Point gates, making the logistics simple and stress-free. Once aboard a small charter boat, you’ll cruise along Shaman Point, where wildlife is often visible from the road—expect to see brown bears, blacktail deer, puffins, and bald eagles even before reaching the water.
The main highlight is observing humpback whales feeding in the deep waters. These giants can reach over 50 feet and weigh up to 50 tons, making any sighting impressive. Your guide will share detailed stories about the flora and fauna of Alaska, enriching your experience with insights into their biology and behavior. The tour typically lasts about 3 hours, including snacks and water onboard, with restrooms available on the boat.
Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable crew—one reviewer noted, “Our captain was from the Tlingit nation and the first mate was a marine biologist. We saw whales, sea otters, and sea lions. I felt privileged to hear stories from the Tlingit culture.” The tour’s focus on wildlife makes it ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a genuine Alaskan adventure.
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for wildlife lovers wanting an in-depth look at Alaskan marine life, with the bonus of onboard storytelling and comfort.
2. Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion: We’re going on a bear hunt!
Ranking second, this small-group tour specializes in spotting brown bears on “Bear Island,” known for its high concentration—around 1-2 bears per square mile. The four-hour trip from Hoonah takes you into prime habitat, with stops based on current bear movements, feeding habits, and temperature data, increasing your chances of a bear sighting.
You’ll explore areas with ten different types of edible berries and get a good look at muskeg, old-growth forests, and scenic views. The guide, often a local with deep knowledge of native Tlingit culture and wildlife, shares stories and insights during the tour. The focus is on bears, but you’ll also see other wildlife such as mink, marten, bald eagles, and various seabirds. This tour is more physically engaging, requiring some walking and patience, but it offers a rare opportunity to observe brown bears in the wild, especially since Alaska’s “Bear Island” has one of the highest bear populations worldwide.
Reviews highlight the personalized service—”My mom & I went on a bear hunt with Luke and had a wonderful time. He shared so much about the area’s history and wildlife,” one note said. This tour works best for adventurers and wildlife photographers willing to spend a bit more time searching for these impressive animals.
Bottom line: If seeing brown bears up close in their natural environment is your top priority, this tour provides an intimate, educational experience with ample opportunities for wildlife photography.
How to Choose Between These Excursions
When deciding between these two excursions, consider your interests and physical comfort level. The whale watching tour is perfect if you want a relaxing, wildlife-focused cruise with plenty of marine life sightings and insightful commentary. The whale watching tour is also ideal for families or those short on time, as it lasts about 3 hours and costs $326.45 per person.
In contrast, the bear hunt offers a more active and intimate experience. At $379.92 per person, it’s slightly pricier but provides the thrill of potentially seeing brown bears in the wild and learning about native Tlingit culture. It’s best if you’re comfortable with walking and eager for a more personalized, small-group environment.
Both tours include round-trip transportation from the cruise port, so you don’t have to worry about logistics. Think about what animal you’d prefer to see—whales or bears—and your preferred pace.
Final Recommendations
Hoonah’s shore excursions serve up some truly special encounters with Alaska’s wildlife. For those wanting a relaxed, educational look at marine mammals, the whale watching adventure is hard to beat. It’s highly rated, includes storytelling, and offers a good balance of comfort and adventure.
If bears intrigue you more and you’re up for a bit of physical activity, the small-group bear hunt will give you a rare chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural setting. It also provides a more intimate experience, often with a knowledgeable local guide.
In any case, booking early is advisable—these tours fill quickly during the busy summer months. Each offers a different face of Alaska’s wilderness, and whichever you choose, you’re sure to leave with stories worth sharing.