Your Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching & Adventure at Icy Strait Point, Hoonah, Alaska

Embarking on an Alaskan cruise promises an unforgettable journey through some of the world’s most pristine wilderness. If your itinerary includes a stop at the captivating Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska, you are in for a truly spectacular experience. This unique destination, steeped in Tlingit culture and surrounded by abundant wildlife, is a highlight for many travelers. Among the myriad of activities offered, a whale watching excursion stands out as an absolute must-do. The opportunity to witness magnificent marine wildlife in its natural habitat from the comfort of a guided boat is nothing short of breathtaking and undoubtedly worth every moment. From breaching humpback whales to playful otters and majestic bald eagles, the sights are truly magnificent and will create memories that last a lifetime. This post and trip was sponsored by Princess Cruises, but all opinions expressed regarding this incredible excursion and destination are 100% my own.

Whale Watching in Icy Strait Point: A Premier Alaskan Wildlife Experience

My adventure began in May, during an incredible week-long journey with Princess Cruise Lines aboard the elegant Island Princess. On May 18th, our ship gracefully sailed into the picturesque port of Icy Strait Point, located near Hoonah, Alaska – the largest Tlingit village in the world. Icy Strait Point is not just a port of call; it’s a gateway to authentic Alaskan experiences, offering an abundance of tours and excursions meticulously designed to immerse visitors in the natural grandeur and rich cultural heritage that Alaska proudly presents. The former salmon cannery, now beautifully restored, serves as a hub for adventure and exploration, combining historical charm with modern amenities for an unparalleled visitor experience. Even before we formally “disembarked” – that’s cruise ship parlance for stepping off the vessel – the excitement was palpable. We were treated to an early show, watching two Orcas playfully splashing in the distance. It was an exhilarating preview of the incredible Alaskan wildlife encounters that awaited us.

Choosing Your Unforgettable Excursion: Tips for Planning Ahead

One of the most valuable lessons I learned, and highly recommend to any cruise traveler, is the importance of planning and booking your excursions well in advance of your trip. Prior to the cruise, we had the fantastic opportunity to browse through all the available excursions that Icy Strait Point had to offer. This pre-trip selection process proved to be an absolute lifesaver. I truly didn’t realize how much I appreciated this option until I was onboard the ship and witnessed the lengthy queues of eager passengers waiting to sign up for tours, often finding their desired options fully booked. If you’re traveling with Princess Cruises, their user-friendly website makes it incredibly easy to view, select, and even edit your excursion choices from the comfort of your home. This foresight ensures you secure your spot on popular tours and allows you to tailor your Alaskan adventure precisely to your interests without any last-minute stress. Beyond whale watching, Icy Strait Point boasts a diverse range of activities, including the thrilling ZipRider, authentic Tlingit cultural performances, world-class fishing charters, and scenic bus tours, ensuring there’s an adventure for every taste and preference. Taking the time to research these options will greatly enhance your overall experience.

After careful consideration, I opted for the highly acclaimed Whale Watching & Seafood Feast excursion. This 3.5-hour tour offered the enticing promise of guaranteed whale sightings – a bold claim that immediately piqued my interest. In fact, the tour operators proudly boast that they haven’t had to issue a refund for not seeing a whale since 2004, a testament to the rich marine life in these waters. And let me assure you, they absolutely delivered on their promise, and then some!

Immersive Whale Watching: An Alaskan Wildlife Spectacle

Joining me on this incredible Alaskan adventure was my good friend Jackie, a fellow blogger from Happy Hooligans. While I was engrossed in capturing the dynamic movements of the whales on video with my phone, Jackie skillfully documented many memorable moments with her camera, including some truly magnificent photographs of humpback whales fluking. The anticipation of what you might see next, combined with the pristine Alaskan scenery, creates an electrifying atmosphere on board. The sheer vastness of the ocean and the knowledge that incredible marine life thrives beneath the surface make every second a thrilling prospect.

Before heading out, our specialized guide boat, equipped with convenient flip-up viewing windows for optimal visibility, provided a comfortable and immersive platform for our journey. Our knowledgeable captain and onboard naturalists offered fascinating insights into the diverse sea life inhabiting these rich Alaskan waters, detailing what species we might encounter. They shared valuable information about the behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts related to the local fauna. We were incredibly fortunate to witness several colossal Humpback whales, their massive forms breaching and diving with powerful grace. These gentle giants, known for their elaborate songs and acrobatic displays, are a true wonder of the natural world. Beyond the whales, our journey was enriched by sightings of numerous playful porpoises darting through the waves, adorable sea otters lounging on their backs and grooming, and even the majestic sight of several bald eagles soaring overhead, stark symbols of the Alaskan wilderness. This incredible abundance of wildlife truly underscored why Icy Strait Point is considered a prime location for nature enthusiasts.

A key piece of advice for this excursion: always keep your camera or phone ready! Whale sightings can happen in an instant, and they often surface and dive much faster than you anticipate. Those moments when a whale’s tail flukes high into the air before its final dive are fleeting but utterly captivating. To capture these quick movements, consider using burst mode on your camera. According to our expert tour guides, whales typically follow a breathing cycle lasting four to six minutes. They surface several times in quick succession to efficiently replenish their oxygen supply before displaying their massive tail flukes and disappearing into the ocean depths, where they feed on krill and small schooling fish. Observing this precise behavior firsthand was an awe-inspiring highlight of our trip, offering a profound connection to the natural rhythms of the ocean.

I dedicated most of my time during the trip to shooting video with my phone, aiming to capture the fluid motion and grandeur of these creatures rather than still images. To share a glimpse of this incredible experience, I’ve compiled a short video compilation below that beautifully showcases the whales, playful otters (including an adorable otter baby!), and a soaring bald eagle that graced our presence.

Essential Gear for Your Alaskan Whale Watching Excursion:

To ensure you have the most comfortable and rewarding experience, here’s a comprehensive list of what to pack for your Alaskan whale watching adventure:

Layered Clothing, Rain Jacket, and Hat: Alaskan weather can be incredibly unpredictable, even during the summer months. The temperature can fluctuate significantly, and sudden rain showers or strong, chilly winds are common. Dressing in multiple light layers (e.g., a long-sleeve base, a fleece, and a waterproof shell) allows you to easily adapt to changing conditions. A good quality, waterproof rain jacket and a warm, moisture-wicking hat are crucial for protection and comfort.
Sunglasses: Essential for reducing glare off the water and protecting your eyes from UV rays, especially on bright, sunny days when the reflection can be intense.
Binoculars: Due to strict regulations and the paramount need to respect wildlife, boats are required to maintain a safe distance from animals. High-quality binoculars will significantly enhance your viewing experience, bringing distant whales, playful otters, and soaring eagles into spectacular, detailed focus, allowing you to observe their natural behaviors without disturbance.
Camera or Fully Charged Smartphone: Don’t miss a single moment of this once-in-a-lifetime experience! Ensure your device is fully charged and has ample storage space ready to capture stunning photos and videos of the wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
Portable Mobile Charger: This is a true lifesaver! Shooting video and taking numerous photos can drain battery life incredibly quickly, especially in colder temperatures or when your phone is constantly searching for signal. Having a portable charger ensures your device stays powered throughout the excursion, so you won’t miss capturing any grand finales or unexpected sightings.
Closed-Toe Shoes: For both comfort and safety on the boat deck, which can sometimes be wet or slippery. Shoes with good grip are recommended, and waterproof options (like hiking boots or sturdy sneakers) are a definite bonus for exploring Icy Strait Point itself.
Backpack or Fanny Pack: To comfortably carry your essentials like water, snacks, binoculars, and extra layers, keeping your hands free for photography and enjoying the views.
Seasickness Medication (if prone): While the waters in Icy Strait Point are often relatively calm, it’s always wise to be prepared if you are susceptible to motion sickness. Taking medication an hour before departure can make a significant difference in your comfort.
Water Bottle and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized, especially during a 3.5-hour tour. Pack some non-perishable snacks like granola bars or nuts.

An Unforgettable Alaskan Seafood Feast: A Culinary Revelation

I’ll be honest, historically, I haven’t been a huge aficionado of seafood. While I enjoy certain types of fish and absolutely love shrimp, anything with a strong “fishy” taste usually has me opting out. I’ve even tried crab legs a couple of times in the past and was not particularly impressed, often finding them watery or bland. However, this Alaskan seafood feast, included as part of our excursion, was nothing short of a culinary revelation. It genuinely changed everything for me and redefined my perception of what fresh, perfectly prepared seafood could taste like.

I am absolutely convinced that the unparalleled freshness of the catch played a monumental role in this transformation. Imagine seafood caught just hours before it reaches your plate! But beyond that, the exquisite preparation – whatever magical seasoning or soaking method they employed – was utterly amazing! The crab legs were sweet, tender, and incredibly flavorful, a stark contrast to my previous experiences. We were generously presented with piles of food, and honestly, we couldn’t get enough. Every bite was truly delicious, from the tender crab meat to the perfectly cooked shrimp. It was in that moment that I truly understood why an old friend of mine used to passionately declare that “there’s nothing like seafood from the coast.” The taste of the ocean, brought directly from the pristine Alaskan waters to our plates, was an experience unparalleled, highlighting the incredible bounty of the Gulf of Alaska and its surrounding waters.

This particular photo, capturing friends sharing a meal and making memories, is one of my favorites from the entire trip. Our bountiful seafood feast was a veritable spread of Alaskan delicacies, featuring succulent King crab legs (the undisputed star of the show, requiring a little effort but yielding immense reward!), plump shrimp, sweet corn on the cob, tender boiled potatoes, savory mushrooms, spicy andouille sausage, and a selection of delightful home-brewed beers. It was a communal, joyous occasion, perfectly complementing the thrill of our whale watching adventure and cementing Icy Strait Point as a destination not just for incredible wildlife, but for unforgettable local cuisine as well. The vibrant atmosphere, paired with such a delicious meal, made for a truly memorable afternoon.

Exploring Icy Strait Point: Shopping, Local Crafts, and Unique Finds

After indulging in our sumptuous seafood lunch, we still had ample time before needing to return to the ship. This provided the perfect opportunity to explore the charming shops and soak in the scenic beauty of Icy Strait Point on foot. The historic red “Hoonah Packing Company” building, a beautifully preserved relic of the area’s cannery past, serves as the main hub for retail therapy and cultural immersion. Inside, you’ll discover a treasure trove of souvenir shops, each offering a diverse array of items that capture the spirit of Alaska, from delectable edibles and artisanal food products to practical outerwear and exquisite local crafts fashioned by Tlingit artisans. The building itself is a part of the experience, with historical displays offering insights into the cannery’s operations and the lives of those who worked there.

Among the most interesting finds were savory salmon jerky, available in various flavors and perfect for a quick snack or a unique gift; gourmet flavored Alaskan sea salt, harvested from the pristine waters and adding a distinctive taste of the Last Frontier to your culinary endeavors; and homemade Alaskan jam, bursting with the natural sweetness and tartness of local berries like blueberry and salmonberry. These distinctive products, alongside a plethora of other trinkets, apparel featuring Alaskan designs, and artistic creations such as carvings and jewelry, make Icy Strait Point a true tourist’s dream for finding memorable mementos and gifts to take back home. Supporting these local businesses also contributes directly to the vibrant community of Hoonah, allowing you to bring a tangible piece of authentic Alaska with you and cherish the memories of your visit.

Delightful Bites: Culinary Gems at Icy Strait Point

Beyond the grand seafood feast, Icy Strait Point offers several delightful spots to grab a quick bite or a sweet treat, perfect for fueling up between adventures or simply enjoying a moment of relaxation:

Lil’ Gen’s Mini Donuts: How utterly charming are these tiny donuts? Forget donut holes; these are genuinely miniature donuts that you can watch being freshly made right through the window of the charming shop. The warm, inviting aroma alone is enough to draw you in from down the path! With unique and enticing flavors like apple cider, birthday cake, butterscotch, and pistachio (among others), they offer a sweet, warm, and comforting snack perfect for a brisk Alaskan day. It’s a fun experience watching the specialized donut machine in action, transforming batter into these delightful morsels, and then enjoying them warm and fresh. They’re a fantastic treat for all ages.
Crab Station: While we didn’t get a chance to dine here ourselves, the tantalizing aromas wafting from inside were absolutely wonderful and spoke volumes about the fresh offerings. This is fantastic news for anyone who might not have opted for the “Whale Watching & Seafood Feast” excursion but still craves that authentic Alaskan crab experience. The Crab Station provides an excellent opportunity to savor fresh, local seafood without needing a specific tour package. It’s a testament to the abundance of fresh catch available right at Icy Strait Point, ensuring that everyone can experience a taste of Alaska’s renowned marine bounty. You can enjoy crab legs, crab bisque, and other seafood delights in a casual setting.
Other Local Eateries: Keep an eye out for other smaller food carts or stands that might offer local delicacies or quick snacks, from coffee to savory pastries, providing a chance to sample a variety of Alaskan flavors.

Capturing the Beauty: Scenic Opportunities at Icy Strait Point

The panoramic views throughout Alaska are consistently spectacular, and Icy Strait Point in Hoonah is absolutely no exception. Beyond organized tours, the area itself is a photographer’s paradise, offering endless opportunities to capture breathtaking landscapes and serene moments. While Icy Strait Point provides various excursions, including dedicated scenic tours, you don’t need to join one to find plenty of photo-worthy shots. Simply strolling along the well-maintained walking paths that wind through the property will lead you to stunning vistas at every turn. These paths are designed to offer easy access to some of the most beautiful spots, making it enjoyable for visitors of all mobility levels.

Take a moment to walk along the shoreline, breathing in the crisp, fresh Alaskan air and listening to the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore. The sense of tranquility and connection to nature here is profound. Position yourself near the charming old boats docked along the waterfront for a rustic, picturesque backdrop that tells a story of the region’s maritime history. Or, embark on a leisurely afternoon stroll – or even a brisk jog – on the paved path that offers continuous, uninterrupted views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, dense temperate rainforests, and the sparkling, often mirror-like waters of Port Frederick. From wide-open scenic overlooks perfect for panoramic shots to intimate close-ups of vibrant wildflowers, intricate driftwood, or the weathered texture of an old log wall, there are countless lovely views to be savored and photographed. It’s the perfect way to spend your remaining time, soaking in the tranquil beauty and reflecting on your day’s adventures before heading back aboard your cruise ship, completing your fabulous day in this unique Alaskan gem. The natural beauty of Icy Strait Point ensures that every corner turned offers another postcard-perfect moment.

As the day drew to a close, we bid a fond farewell to the enchanting Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska. Climbing back aboard the Island Princess, there was a shared sense of contentment and exhilaration, already reliving the day’s incredible wildlife sightings and culinary delights. The journey back to the ship, just a short walk from the main activity areas, felt effortless – truly one of the many unparalleled perks of cruise travel. There’s nothing quite like the convenience of not having to worry about a long drive back to a hotel, navigating unfamiliar traffic, or searching for parking after a day full of adventure. Instead, you simply return to the comfort and luxury of your floating hotel, where every amenity awaits. To perfectly cap off a day filled with stunning wildlife, delicious food, and scenic beauty, we headed straight to the Wheelhouse Bar for a relaxing evening, perhaps enjoying a delicious Key Lime Pie Martini or recounting our favorite moments with fellow passengers. It was the ideal conclusion to an absolutely perfect day in one of Alaska’s most captivating and authentic destinations, leaving us refreshed and ready for the next adventure.

Eager to discover more about my Alaskan cruise adventures and plan your own unforgettable journey? Continue your exploration with me by checking out my exhilarating Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter Tour experience in Juneau, Alaska, where I soared over ancient ice formations, and the unforgettable Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour in Skagway, Alaska, for a more hands-on glacial encounter! Alaska truly offers an endless array of incredible experiences.