Alaska Whale Watching with bonus Drone viewing of Whales

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of spotting majestic whales and Alaskan wildlife, this Alaska Whale Watching tour with bonus drone footage promises an engaging and intimate experience. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a tour packed with marine marvels, expert guidance, and a unique aerial perspective.

What makes this tour stand out? First, Captain Josh’s impressive success rate in finding humpback whales, ensuring you won’t be left waiting. Second, the personalized, small-group environment offers a more relaxed and intimate experience than crowded vessels. Third, the aerial drone footage adds a whole new dimension, allowing you to see the scene from above—an extra bonus for wildlife lovers and photo aficionados alike.

That said, a potential downside is that, like many outdoor adventures, weather can impact the experience. Fog, rain, or wind might limit visibility or drone operation. Still, with flexible cancellation policies, you’re well-protected if conditions turn unfavorable.

This trip is best suited for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, or anyone wanting an authentic and immersive Alaskan adventure. If you appreciate a personalized touch and cutting-edge tech, this tour could be the highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Small-group setting with only 14 passengers for better views and personal attention
• Expert guide Captain Josh boasts a 100% success rate in whale sightings
• Drone footage offers a stunning aerial view of whales and other wildlife
• Includes snacks, drinks, and a USB drive with drone footage to take home
• Perfect for wildlife lovers seeking an authentic, immersive experience
• Weather-dependent activity, with flexible cancellation options

An In-Depth Look at the Alaska Whale Watching Experience

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

This 3-hour cruise departs from Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, AK, with Captain Josh at the helm of a small, custom-built 14-passenger vessel. The intimate size ensures you won’t be lost among crowds, and the boat’s design offers excellent indoor and outdoor viewing options—crucial when wildlife spotting can sometimes require patience and a good vantage point.

Your journey begins with a pickup option, meaning transportation logistics are simplified and convenient. Once on board, Captain Josh and his crew will head out into the Icy Strait, a renowned hotspot for marine activity. The goal? To find whales, seals, sea lions, otters, and sometimes even bears or eagles—depending on what nature is offering that day.

Wildlife Encounters and Why They Matter

Captain Josh’s success in locating humpback whales is often highlighted, with reviewers mentioning a 100% success rate. Expect to see Humpbacks, Orcas, and possibly other marine creatures like seals and sea lions. The crew’s expertise means they often get close enough for fantastic sightings, but there’s also a focus on respectful wildlife viewing that minimizes disturbance.

Reviewers have described seeing mother whales with calves, calves playing, and even bubble net feeding behavior—a spectacular sight that not all tours guarantee. One reviewer fondly recalls capturing a full breach with their camera, thanks to the close proximity and attentive captain.

Land-based wildlife sightings are also common—spectacular eagles, bears, including a couple of cubs, and even deer, all add to the adventure. The guides’ knowledge and keen eye are evident, with many reviewers noting how informative and friendly Captain Josh and his crew are, providing commentary that enhances understanding without overwhelming.

The Drone Experience: A Game Changer

What sets this tour apart is the professional drone used to film the whales from above. During the tour, the drone captures stunning overhead footage—a perspective that transforms your experience from watching from the boat to seeing the scene from a bird’s-eye view.

The drone footage isn’t just a gimmick; it adds a new layer of understanding of whale behavior and movement. Several reviewers mention how amazing the drone shots are, with one describing it as “icing on the cake.” You’ll receive a USB drive with these videos afterward, perfect for sharing or just reliving the adventure.

One reviewer noted that seeing whales from above showed them what was really happening beneath the surface, making the entire trip more memorable.

Comfort, Convenience, and Value

The vessel’s design emphasizes comfort and visibility. There is enough space inside and outside to relax, even for a small group. Snacks and drinks are included, providing some sustenance during the trip—important when you’re out on the water for three hours.

The tour’s price of $242 per person might seem steep, but many travelers agree it offers great value—especially given the small group size, expert guidance, and the drone footage. The reviews underscore that this is a high-quality experience that exceeds expectations, with many travelers calling it a highlight of their Alaskan visit.

What the Tour Includes

You’ll enjoy snacks and non-alcoholic drinks during the cruise, along with a USB drive containing your drone footage. The pickup service adds convenience, and the tour’s mobile ticket format makes check-in simple.

It’s worth noting that weather plays a role in the experience, so flexible cancellation policies are appreciated. If conditions aren’t suitable, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Review from Travelers: What They Love and What They Notice

Feedback from travelers paints a clear picture of what to expect:

• Many praise Captain Josh’s expertise and friendly attitude, with one saying, “He worked hard to put us close to humpbacks and orcas,” which is a huge plus for wildlife enthusiasts.
• The small vessel size is a big hit, allowing for more personal interactions and unobstructed views.
• The drone footage consistently receives glowing reviews, with travelers saying it “made the whole experience even better.”
• Some mention minor hiccups, like one reviewer who noted the drone crashed initially, but most felt the overall experience was unaffected.

A few travelers comment on weather unpredictability—an inherent aspect of outdoor trips in Alaska—but most still found the trip worthwhile, describing it as “the best whale watching experience” they’ve had.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration: Approx. 3 hours—perfect for those wanting a substantial wildlife experience without overextending.

Group Size: Limited to 14 travelers, creating an environment where everyone gets good views and personal attention.

Price: At $242 per person, the tour offers a premium experience, especially considering the inclusion of drone footage and snacks.

Best Time to Book: The tour is booked well in advance—on average 124 days ahead—highlighting how popular this experience is among travelers.

Meeting Point: Starts at Icy Strait Point, with easy access, and ends back at the same location, simplifying logistics.

Weather Considerations: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable; cloudy or rainy days might affect visibility or drone operation. The flexible cancellation policy ensures you’re protected if conditions aren’t ideal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for wildlife lovers who appreciate close encounters with whales and other creatures. Photographers will enjoy the unique drone footage that offers breathtaking aerial shots. Small-group travelers seeking a more personal, relaxed experience will find this trip perfect.

It’s also suited for those who want to maximize their wildlife sightings—with Captain Josh’s impressive track record, you can expect a high chance of seeing humpbacks, orcas, bears, and more.

The Sum Up

This Alaska whale watching tour delivers a rare blend of expert guidance, intimate vessel size, and innovative drone footage that truly elevates the experience. You’re likely to see a good variety of wildlife, from humpbacks and orcas to bears and eagles, with the added thrill of aerial perspectives that turn good sightings into unforgettable memories.

The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and the drone footage makes this a comprehensive value for a 3-hour adventure. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind in case of weather changes.

If you’re after a personalized, wildlife-rich tour with some extra tech flair, this trip is a top choice. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone craving a genuine connection with Alaska’s wild side.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from designated meeting points, making logistics simple and convenient.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

What wildlife am I likely to see?
You can expect to see humpback whales, orcas, seals, sea lions, otters, bald eagles, and possibly bears.

Does the tour guarantee whale sightings?
While wildlife sightings depend on nature, Captain Josh has a 100% success rate in finding humpback whales, and reviewers confirm frequent sightings.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and a USB drive with drone footage are part of the package.

Can I see whales from inside the boat?
Yes, the boat’s design offers excellent indoor and outdoor viewing from multiple angles.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions are unfavorable, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How many people are on this tour?
A maximum of 14 travelers ensures a personal experience with less crowding.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable clothing, camera gear, and an interest in wildlife are recommended. Snacks and drinks are provided.

Is the drone footage safe and respectful of wildlife?
Yes, the drone is operated professionally to avoid disturbing animals, and it adds a valuable perspective without impacting the environment.

This whale watching tour with drone footage in Hoonah offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife encounters, expert guidance, and innovative imaging—an experience that’s both authentic and special enough to become a highlight of any Alaskan trip.