Description
Set out on an unforgettable whale watching experience just minutes from Icy Strait Point, where humpback whales breach, dive, and feed in some of Alaska’s richest marine waters. Your journey begins with a short, scenic transfer from the Excursion Hub through the charming town of Hoonah to the Commercial Dock, where your captain and crew welcome you aboard a purpose-built vessel featuring both a heated indoor cabin and a spacious open-air viewing deck.
From there, you’ll cruise into Icy Strait—widely known as one of Southeast Alaska’s top whale watching destinations. Each year from May through September, humpback whales gather here to feast on nutrient-dense krill and plankton flowing down from Glacier Bay. Sightings are frequent, and with a bit of luck, you may witness the awe-inspiring bubble-net feeding, where whales work together to corral prey into tight clusters before surfacing in unison.
The wildlife doesn’t stop with whales. Keep watch for orcas gliding through the channel, Steller sea lions lounging on rocky outcrops, harbor seals, playful Dall’s porpoise, and sea otters drifting in kelp beds. Along the shoreline, you might also spot brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and bald eagles perched high above the water.
Your guide provides engaging, real-time commentary throughout the trip, helping you spot wildlife and understand the ecosystem around you. With a small group size capped at 18 guests, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views and plenty of space to move around.
After approximately 2.5 hours on the water, return to shore with time to explore Hoonah or head back to your ship—making this one of the most sought-after whale watching tours in the area.