Hoonah , United States

Hoonah Whale Tours in Icy Strait

Active

(173 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Hoonah Whale Tours is a family owned whale watching company that operates out of Hoonah, AK. When taking this tour you will be on a small group, up to 14 passengers, boat tour that goes out into Icy Strait. During the tour will you get the chance to see all sorts of Southeast Alaska wildlife, including bald eagles, sea lions, sea otters, sometimes brown bear and orcas and of course humpback whales! Our tours last between 3 and 3.5 hours and we guarantee you'll see whales or you money back. The boat is a 14 passenger catamaran, with a walk around deck, heated cabin, and a bathroom on board. We also provide snacks and beverages.

Available options

3 hour whale watch

Pickup included

What's included

Light refreshments

Local guide

Driver/guide

Snacks

Port pickup and drop-off

Local taxes

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

When out on our whale watching tour you will be in Icy Strait (body of water) You will get to see humpback whales (guaranteed!), sea lion, sea otter, and bald eagles. You even have the chance of seeing brown bear along the beaches, orcas and puffins flying by.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

168 reviews

5★

166

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Specialized infant seats are available

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given a full refund

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.