Hoonah: Icy Strait Shore Excursion to Bear Island

Hoonah’s Icy Strait offers an unforgettable shore excursion to Bear Island. Explore the highest concentration of brown bears globally with a knowledgeable guide. This 4-hour tour promises stunning wildlife and scenery, from bald eagles to playful otters. Capture incredible photos as you learn about the natural beauty. Explore the rich Tlingit culture and history of the region. This personalized small-group experience is sure to create lasting memories. Are you ready to embark on an Alaskan adventure?

Key Points

• A 4-hour shore excursion from Hoonah exploring the Icy Strait region, known for its high concentration of brown bears and diverse wildlife.
• Priced at $274.33 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
• Small group tour led by an English-speaking guide, focusing on personalized experiences and expert insights into bear behavior and local biodiversity.
• Meeting point is a 5-minute walk from the cruise tender pier, with port pick-up and drop-off included for a seamless experience.
• Recommended attire includes layers and sensible footwear, and bringing a camera is highly encouraged to capture the scenic views and potential wildlife sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Icy Strait shore excursion from Hoonah is a 4-hour tour that costs from $274.33 per person.

The Icy Strait shore excursion from Hoonah is a 4-hour tour that costs from $274.33 per person.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now and pay later option is also available.

This small group tour offers a personalized experience with a live English-speaking guide.

Guests will be picked up and dropped off at the cruise tender pier, with further details provided upon booking.

Wildlife and Scenic Experience

Although wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, the small group size of this tour allows for quick repositioning to optimal viewing areas. This region boasts the highest concentration of brown bears globally, with 1-2 bears per square mile. Known as Bear Island by National Geographic, the area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including Sitka black-tail deer, mink, marten, bald eagles, otter, and beaver. Visitors can expect to see a range of wildlife and breathtaking scenery throughout the 4-hour excursion.

| Wildlife Sightings | Likelihood |

|——————-|————|

| Brown Bears | Highly Likely |

| Sitka Black-tail Deer | Likely |

| Mink | Possible |

| Bald Eagles | Likely |

| Otter | Possible |

Guided Tour Details

A knowledgeable, English-fluent guide leads this small group tour, providing insightful information on the bears’ movements, feeding habits, and the native Tlingit population.

With a focus on personalized experiences, the guide offers expert knowledge on optimal wildlife viewing based on current conditions.

Offering expert knowledge on optimal wildlife viewing based on current conditions, focusing on personalized experiences.

They share key details about the area’s rich biodiversity, including the high concentration of brown bears and the sightings of other animals like mink, marten, bald eagles, otter, and beaver.

This intimate excursion allows for quick repositioning to enhance the chances of encountering the iconic Alaskan wildlife.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Five minutes’ walk from the cruise tender pier is the meeting point for this excursion.

Port pick-up and drop-off are included, ensuring a seamless experience. Further details about the exact location and meeting time will be provided with the e-ticket.

Guests can expect clear instructions and a smooth transition from the ship to the start of the tour.

With a small group size, the guide can provide personalized attention and quickly position the group for the best wildlife viewing opportunities based on current conditions.

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Recommended Attire and Photography

Since wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed on this tour, guests are recommended to wear layers with a waterproof top layer and sensible walking or hiking shoes. This will ensure comfort and protection during the outdoor exploration.

Plus, bringing a camera is highly encouraged to capture the stunning views and any potential wildlife encounters. The small group size allows for quick repositioning, increasing the chances of photographic opportunities.

Guests should be prepared to make the most of their time on Bear Island and return home with unforgettable memories and beautiful photographs.

Bear Sightings and Viewing Opportunities

The Icy Strait area boasts the highest concentration of brown bears globally, with an average of 1-2 bears per square mile. National Geographic aptly named this prime wildlife viewing destination "Bear Island." While sightings can’t be guaranteed, the small group size allows for quick repositioning to optimal viewing areas based on the guide’s expertise. Guests are likely to spot other wildlife such as mink, marten, bald eagles, otter, and beaver. The tour’s highlights are outlined in the table below:

| Viewing Opportunities | Behaviors | Locations |

| — | — | — |

| Hunting for salmon | Fishing, digging for clams | Estuaries, shorelines |

| Foraging for berries | Grazing, socializing | Meadows, open areas |

| Caring for cubs | Nursing, playing | Secluded dens, brush |

Tlingit Native Culture and History

Along With the abundant wildlife, the Icy Strait shore excursion provides guests with insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit people.

Your guide shares stories of the Tlingit’s deep connection to the land and their traditional way of life. You’ll learn about their intricate art, such as totem pole carving, as well as their reverence for the bear and other animals.

The tour highlights the Tlingit’s sustainable practices and their role as stewards of the land. This culture enhances the overall experience, offering a more holistic understanding of the Icy Strait region.

Preparing for Your Shore Excursion

To make the most of your Icy Strait shore excursion, it’s essential to prepare accordingly.

Dress in layers with waterproof outerwear and comfortable, supportive footwear. Bring a camera to capture stunning scenery and potential wildlife sightings. Don’t forget binoculars for a closer look at the area’s abundant marine life and birds.

Pack snacks and plenty of water to stay fueled during the 4-hour adventure. Plus, review the weather forecast and be prepared for changeable conditions.

With the right preparation, you’ll be set to fully learn about the natural beauty of Bear Island.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour details don’t mention any restrictions, so you’re free to pack a snack or beverage to enjoy during the excursion.

Is the Tour Wheelchair or Mobility Scooter Accessible?

The tour is not specifically advertised as wheelchair or mobility scooter accessible. Guests with limited mobility should contact the tour operator to inquire about accommodations and determine if the tour can meet their needs.

What Should I Do if I Get Seasick During the Boat Ride?

If one gets seasick during the boat ride, they should notify the guide immediately. The guide can provide motion sickness medication or suggest moving to a different part of the boat to help alleviate the discomfort.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should be able to walk short distances over uneven terrain. Guests with mobility concerns should contact the tour operator for assistance.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour if I Want to Explore More?

While the tour is normally 4 hours, guests can extend the duration if they’d like to explore more. However, any extensions would incur additional costs and should be arranged directly with the tour operator prior to the excursion.

Final Words

The Icy Strait shore excursion to Bear Island offers a remarkable opportunity to learn about the rich natural wonders of Alaska. From observing the highest concentration of brown bears globally to capturing stunning photographs of bald eagles and otters, this guided tour promises an unforgettable experience. With the expertise of a knowledgeable guide and the chance to learn about Tlingit culture, this excursion is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: