Planning a cruise stop in Hoonah and considering a wildlife tour? This Icy Strait small group excursion promises a chance to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic creatures — brown bears, eagles, and more — all within a manageable four hours. It’s designed for those who want a closer look at nature without committing the whole day or dealing with large crowds.
What we really like about this tour is the small group size, which tends to make the experience more personal and less rushed. Plus, the knowledgeable guides aren’t just pointing out animals — they’re sharing insights about the area’s wildlife and native Tlingit culture, adding layers of context to your adventure. However, one thing to keep in mind is the price of around $380 per person, which isn’t cheap, especially considering it’s a half-day trip without included food or drinks. Still, for wildlife enthusiasts or those eager for a scenic, educational outing, it’s a solid choice.
This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate structured wildlife viewing with expert guides, and it’s suitable for those comfortable with a short, outdoor-focused activity. If you’re craving an immersive, nature-filled experience that balances scenery, wildlife, and culture, this could be a good fit. But if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more flexible, spontaneous outing, you might want to weigh your options.
Key Points
- Small group format enhances the experience and personal interaction with guides.
- High bear density in the area increases chances of sightings, with 1-2 bears per square mile.
- Expert guides share valuable insights about wildlife and the Tlingit community.
- The 4-hour duration is manageable even for those with limited time in port.
- Wildlife diversity includes otters, beavers, bald eagles, and other creatures.
- Transportation is included, making logistics easy for cruise passengers.
Exploring the Tour in Depth
Planning more time in Hoonah? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Setting the Scene: Hoonah and Bear Island
This excursion kicks off in the charming town of Hoonah, a hub for wildlife and native culture. Known as “Bear Island” thanks to the astonishing bear populations, the area offers a unique chance to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat — just a short boat ride away.
The tour typically lasts about four hours, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed. You’ll start with a pickup from your cruise ship, which is included, making this a hassle-free option to get your wildlife fix. Knowing that the tour capacity is limited to a group of 12 enhances the intimacy, allowing for closer animal encounters and more personalized storytelling from your guides.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Your journey begins with a transfer from Hoonah to the shoreline, setting the stage for what’s to come. The first thing to note is the focus on bear sightings, but the guides are also well-versed in spotting and narrating about other local wildlife. You might see otters, beavers, bald eagles, and red squirrels, among others, depending on animal activity and weather conditions.
The tour makes several short stops at vantage points, chosen based on current bear movements, feeding habits, and temperature. This approach maximizes your chances of catching a glimpse of the bears — especially during feeding times — and is supported by the guides’ expertise in animal behavior.
Wildlife and Nature Highlights
One of the bigger draws here is the chance to see brown bears — the “king of the island” — in their natural environment. With the highest concentration of bears per square mile in the world, this area is a wildlife lover’s dream. According to one review, “My mom & I went on a bear hunt excursion with Luke & had a wonderful time. Luke gave us a lot of information about Hoonah, its history, & what it’s like to live there as well as information about the Tingass National Forest.” That suggests a well-informed guide enhances the experience, sharing not just wildlife facts but cultural stories as well.
The Landscape and Scenery
Beyond wildlife, you’ll be treated to spectacular Alaskan scenery. Expect views of the old-growth forests, muskeg, and edible berries — ten kinds, in fact. The natural beauty combined with wildlife sightings makes this tour a visual feast, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the tranquility of the wild.
The Guides and Experience Quality
Guides are a standout feature here. The positive review from “trisham731” highlights Luke’s knowledge, indicating guides are well-trained and enthusiastic. Their understanding of animal behaviors, current movements, and Tlingit culture adds a rich layer to your outing, transforming it from a simple wildlife drive into an educational experience.
Price and Value
At roughly $380 per person, this tour isn’t cheap. But considering the included transportation, the small group atmosphere, and the expertise provided, many would say it offers acceptable value. It’s a specialized experience — more than just a scenic boat ride, it’s an educational wildlife adventure. If bears and native culture interest you, it’s likely worth the investment.
Practical Considerations
Since food and drinks aren’t included, plan to bring a snack or water, especially if you’re sensitive to outdoor conditions. The tour operates from early May through September, with open hours from 7 am to 5 pm, giving flexibility for your cruise schedule.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This excursion is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts eager for a chance to see bears in the wild, with the benefit of knowing guides are knowledgeable and friendly. It’s also good for travelers who want a structured, small-group experience that maximizes wildlife viewing opportunities without a full-day commitment. Families with older children who can handle a boat ride and outdoor observation might find this engaging, but it’s less suited for very young kids due to the nature of the activity.
If your main goal is a quick but immersive wildlife encounter paired with scenic views and cultural insights, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more flexible, spontaneous adventures, you might want to explore other options or simply enjoy the views from your cruise deck.
The Sum Up
All in all, the Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion offers a well-rounded wildlife experience for those visiting Hoonah. You’ll have a good shot at spotting brown bears and other native creatures, all while learning about the local ecosystem and Tlingit heritage from guides who genuinely know their stuff. The small group size helps keep the experience intimate and engaging, and the stunning scenery in the area makes every moment picture-worthy.
While it’s on the pricier side, many travelers find value in the combination of wildlife, scenery, and cultural insights packed into just a few hours. It’s an adventure for nature lovers, curious explorers, and those eager to see Alaska’s wild side up close.
If you’re comfortable with outdoor activities and are excited about wildlife sightings, this tour could be a highlight of your cruise in Alaska. Just remember to bring your camera, warm layers, and a sense of adventure — the bears might just make an appearance!
Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion: We’re going on a bear hunt!
“My mom & I went on a bear hunt excursion with Luke & had a wonderful time. Luke gave us a lot of information about Hoonah, it's history, & what it'…”
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about four hours, including transportation from your cruise ship.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from the cruise port is included, making it easy to hop on and off.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll have a good chance to see brown bears, otters, beavers, bald eagles, sea birds, and possibly other wildlife like mink or marten.
Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s generally accessible for most travelers, it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities and short boat rides. Very young children might find it less ideal.
How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.
What’s the best time of year to do this?
The tour runs from May 1 to September 30, with the best wildlife viewing usually during the warmer months when animals are more active.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring a snack or water for the trip.
This wildlife-focused adventure from Hoonah can truly be a memorable part of your Alaska visit if you’re looking for a mix of scenic beauty, native culture, and a chance to see some of the wildest animals around. Just go in with realistic expectations, and you might find it’s one of those special moments you’ll remember long after the cruise has ended.
