Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast
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Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast

Active
(42 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience

Join us for an Alaskan village tour and crab feast! Our locally owned and operated tour is your chance to form a deeper connection.

We will teach you how we catch, cook, and crack our delicious local Alaskan dungeness crab. We will also take you around the village and to our favorite foraging spot to show you a little of how we survive and thrive in this remote paradise.

Available options

Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast

What's included

Fresh Alaskan Dungeness crab with wild berry dessert
Fresh Alaskan dungeness crab with wild berry dessert

Detailed itinerary

1

The first stop is the dock in the village of Hoonah. This is where we keep our commercial crabbing boat and our morning catch of crab.
Pick out your fresh crab as we answer any questions you might have about Alaska commercial fishing and crabbing.

We fish for pink salmon to use as bait for our commercial crabbing. All the gear is on board so we can give you a demonstration on how it works right at the dock.

2

The next stop is the deck over the water at Hoonah Beach House. This is just a quick stop to put our crab on ice for later, and maybe use the restroom if necessary.

We will be returning to this location later for the crab feast!

3

The next stop is some forested private property just outside the village. We occasionally see coastal brown bears here, so have your camera ready.

This is where Srisa and I pick the wild Alaska berries you will be enjoying in your dessert at the crab feast. We also have a small garden and orchard. We enjoy talking about what it takes to survive and thrive in our remote location.

4

Next, it's back to the village to see our friends at the carving shed.
This is your chance to watch local Tlingit master carvers craft totem poles from yellow cedar logs.

5

The final stop is the deck at Hoonah Beach House for some fresh crab!
The crab we iced down earlier is now ready to be cooked and prepared.
Relax and watch as we show you the local way to cook crab. Most people have never tried crab fresh off the boat. Typically, crab shacks serve pre cooked, frozen and re-heated crab. Even the ones that advertise "fresh".

Not us! This is the real deal, and you won't believe the difference. Most people tell us it's the best crab they have ever had.

Available languages

Guide guide
TH EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
23 reviews
5★
23
4★
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3★
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1★
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Tripadvisor 5.0
19 reviews
5★
19
4★
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3★
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1★
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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will meet you at the Excursion hub at Icy Strait Point. Your ticket will have detailed instructions on how to get there from your cruise ship dock.

Important notes

If your ship is docked at the Adventure Dock, proceed ashore to the Icy Strait Point Adventure Center. Once inside the Adventure Center walk through the building and exit through door number “2”. (This is clearly marked above the door). Follow the signs on the gravel path to the Excursion Hub. The total walking time is 6-8 minutes, please allow extra time if you are not a fast walker. We ask that you check in for your tour 15 minutes early and we leave on time. If your ship is docked at the Wilderness Dock, walk all they way up the dock and to the right. Ride the FREE Green Transporter Gondola(4 minute ride). Exit the Gondola and go left, follow the signs on the gravel path to the Excursion Hub, a 3 minute walk.

About Hoonah

Hoonah, known locally as Xunáa, is a picturesque town located on Chichagof Island in southeastern Alaska. It is the largest Tlingit community in Alaska and offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich Native American culture, and outdoor adventure opportunities. The town is surrounded by lush rainforests, pristine fjords, and towering mountains, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is a popular tourist attraction offering stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. It features a historic cannery, a zip-line adventure, and guided nature walks.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate

Hoonah Indian Association Cultural Center

The Hoonah Indian Association Cultural Center showcases the rich Tlingit heritage of the region. Visitors can learn about the history, art, and traditions of the Tlingit people through exhibits and guided tours.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to Moderate

Glacial Adventures

Glacial Adventures offers guided kayaking and hiking tours to nearby glaciers and fjords. Visitors can explore the stunning natural landscapes and learn about the local ecosystem.

Adventure Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon

Freshly caught salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a staple of Alaskan cuisine. It is typically served with local vegetables and grains.

Main Course Gluten-free, but may contain allergens like fish.

Halibut

Halibut is another popular seafood dish in Hoonah, often served grilled or fried with a side of local vegetables.

Main Course Gluten-free, but may contain allergens like fish.

Berry Jam

Made from locally foraged berries, this jam is a delicious treat and a great souvenir to take home.

Dessert Vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts.

Popular Activities

Kayaking Hiking Zip-lining Wildlife viewing Scenic boat tours Spa and wellness Visiting the Hoonah Indian Association Cultural Center Participating in cultural workshops

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The summer months offer the best weather for outdoor activities, with mild temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the ideal time for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The town also hosts several cultural events and festivals during this period.

10°C to 18°C 50°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Tlingit
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKST - UTC-9, AKDT - UTC-8 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hoonah is a small, tight-knit community with a low crime rate. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure their safety.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious when exploring remote areas
  • • Always follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities
  • • Avoid leaving valuables unattended

Getting there

By air
  • Hoonah Airport • 5 km from city center

Getting around

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Hoonah Portage Cove

Day trips

Admiralty Island National Monument
30 km from Hoonah • Full day

Admiralty Island is known for its dense population of brown bears and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can take guided tours to observe bears in their natural habitat and explore the island's lush forests and rugged coastline.

Juneau
80 km from Hoonah • Full day

Juneau, the capital of Alaska, offers a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor attractions. Visitors can explore the Alaska State Museum, Mendenhall Glacier, and the historic downtown area.

Festivals

Hoonah Days • Mid-July Icy Strait Point Native Celebration • Late July

Pro tips

  • Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
  • Dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, and ask for permission before taking photographs of people or sacred sites.
  • Join guided tours for a safer and more informative experience, especially when exploring remote areas.
  • Support local businesses and cultural experiences to contribute to the community's economy and preservation of its heritage.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 3-120
1
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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