Alaska Whale Watching with bonus Drone viewing of Whales

If you’re dreaming of spotting whales and other iconic Alaskan wildlife in their natural habitat, this whale watching tour out of Hoonah might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a truly immersive experience. It’s especially appealing if you love small-group settings and are eager for a unique perspective — thanks to the drone footage — on the marine world.

Two things really stand out about this tour. First, its personalized atmosphere on a 14-passenger vessel creates a more intimate experience than the big boat crowds. Second, the professional drone footage adds a remarkable layer, allowing you to see whales and wildlife from above, giving an insight you can’t get from the surface alone. A potential snag to keep in mind is that, like many outdoor tours, weather can impact the experience, and some reviews mention technical hiccups, like a drone crash or headset issues. Still, the overall feedback suggests this is a high-value trip, especially for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking exclusive access.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, crave close encounters with marine animals, and enjoy a bit of tech to enhance their adventure. If you’re after a relaxed, small-group outing with the chance to see a wide variety of Alaskan wildlife, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: The boat hosts only 14 passengers, offering a more personal, less crowded experience.
• Wildlife Success Rate: Captain Josh has a 100% success rate in finding humpback whales, which is quite impressive.
• Drone Bonuses: The professional drone footage provides a unique aerial view, capturing whales and other animals from above.
• All-Inclusive: Snacks, sodas, and a USB drive with drone footage are included, adding value to the tour.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes planning easier.
• Weather Dependent: Since weather can impact the tour, be prepared for possible rescheduling or cancellations.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting from Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, this approximately 3-hour tour promises a well-paced exploration of Alaska’s waters. You’ll hop aboard Captain Josh’s custom boat, which is designed for excellent indoor and outdoor viewing. The small size of the vessel means you’re not just another face in a crowd — you’re part of an intimate group, which enhances the chance of getting close to the action.

Once out on the water, the goal is to find and observe whales, including Humpback whales, Orcas, and possibly others like sea lions, otters, and bears. The captain’s 100% success rate in spotting humpbacks suggests you’re likely to see plenty of marine life. The boat’s design ensures good visibility whether you prefer to stand outside on the deck or stay protected inside the cabin if the weather isn’t cooperating.

What makes this tour stand out, however, is the deployment of a professional filmography drone. During the trip, the crew will fly the drone and film from above, capturing breathtaking overhead footage of whales and wildlife in their environment. This is especially exciting because it adds a completely different perspective. Imagine watching a mother whale and her calf from the water, and then being able to see those same whales from above — the aerial footage makes it all come alive in a new way.

Reviews consistently highlight how special this extra footage is. One traveler called the drone shots “amazing,” and everyone appreciates the USB drive they receive afterward, filled with overhead videos of the wildlife seen during the trip. It’s a memorable keepsake, perfect for sharing or reminiscing long after your trip.

What’s Included and How It Enhances Your Experience

The tour package covers snacks and sodas, which are nice touches, especially on a 3-hour journey. The USB drive with drone footage is a generous bonus, giving you a chance to relive the experience from a bird’s-eye view. For many, this is the highlight — seeing whales and wildlife from above offers a new level of fascination and understanding of their environment.

The tour also offers pickup service, making logistics easier, and the small vessel size ensures everyone gets a good view. The safety and comfort levels are high, with reviews noting the boat’s cozy, well-maintained setup, suitable for those who prefer a more intimate adventure.

Wildlife Encounters: What You Might See

Beyond whales, many travelers are thrilled by the variety of wildlife. Sea lions, seals, bald eagles, and otters are common sights, and some lucky visitors have even spotted bears and cubs. The boat’s location in Icy Strait is ideal for wildlife spotting, and the captain’s expertise means you’ll be well-informed about what you’re seeing.

One reviewer raved, “We saw whales, otters (with babies!), bald eagles, and bears including two cubs!” This kind of diversity makes the trip especially rewarding for nature lovers. The expert guide commentary, combined with the drone footage, elevates the experience from just a boat ride to an educational and visually stunning adventure.

The Itinerary and How It All Comes Together

Your trip begins at Icy Strait Point, with a pickup option available, making it hassle-free to start your adventure. In the first part of the tour, you’ll cruise the waters looking for whales or other wildlife. Captain Josh uses his extensive knowledge to position the boat close to the animals, ensuring you get the best possible views.

Once whales are spotted, you’ll have plenty of time to observe from the deck, with the option to stay inside if the weather isn’t ideal. As you watch these magnificent creatures glide through the water, the drone is deployed to capture overhead footage. During this time, you might witness whales bubble net feeding — a spectacular activity that many reviews mention as a highlight.

Throughout the trip, the guide provides commentary, sharing stories and facts about the animals you see. The small group size means the experience feels personalized, and the crew’s friendliness and knowledge shine through, according to multiple reviews.

The Value of This Tour

At $242 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck, especially considering the amount of wildlife you’re likely to see, the personalized experience, and the exclusive drone footage. Many travelers mention that they felt it was worth the price, particularly since they received a USB drive filled with aerial videos of whales and other wildlife.

When you think about the value, it’s not just about ticking off a bucket-list activity but gaining a deeper, more intimate look at Alaska’s marine environment. The inclusion of snacks and the hassle-free pickup also add to the overall convenience and enjoyment of the trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value small, intimate tours and are keen on wildlife photography, especially aerial shots. Nature lovers who enjoy a mix of adventure, education, and tech will appreciate the drone footage as an unforgettable addition. It’s also well-suited for those who want a relaxed, guided experience, rather than a large, crowded boat tour.

It’s worth noting that weather can influence the trip, so a flexible attitude and readiness for possible rescheduling are good ideas. Families or groups of friends who want a shared, memorable wildlife encounter will find this tour particularly rewarding.

FAQs

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts about 3 hours, providing a comfortable window to enjoy wildlife sightings without feeling rushed.

• What wildlife will I see?
  The main focus is on whales, especially humpbacks, but you may also see orcas, sea lions, otters, eagles, and even bears if luck is on your side.

• Is the boat comfortable?
  Yes, the custom boat is designed for good indoor and outdoor viewing with a cozy interior, accommodating 14 passengers comfortably.

• Are snacks and drinks included?
  Yes, snacks and sodas are provided, plus a USB drive with drone footage, adding extra value to your experience.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• How many people are on each tour?
  A maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and less crowded experience.

• Do I need to bring anything special?
  Just bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure. The tour provides the essentials, including snacks and drinks.

This whale watching tour from Hoonah offers a rare chance to connect with Alaska’s remarkable marine life in a small-group setting. The blend of expert guides, close wildlife encounters, and the breathtaking aerial drone footage creates an experience that’s not just about seeing whales but truly understanding and appreciating their environment.

If you’re someone who values personalized service, informative guides, and the thrill of seeing whales from multiple perspectives, this tour will likely meet your expectations. The inclusion of drone footage is a standout feature, turning a standard whale watch into a memorable visual story you’ll cherish long after the trip ends.

While weather can be unpredictable, the prospect of seeing a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat makes the effort worthwhile. This trip is especially suited for curious wildlife enthusiasts, photography buffs, and anyone looking for a meaningful, less crowded adventure in Alaska.

Embark on this small, carefully curated journey, and you’ll come away with more than just photos — you’ll have stories of whales, bears, and eagles, all seen through the eyes of expert guides and a drone flying high above.