Hoonah: Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast

If you’re heading to Icy Strait Point and looking for a tour that combines local culture with a delicious seafood experience, this Hoonah: Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast might just be what you’re after. It’s a well-rounded, small-group excursion that offers a glimpse into village life, a chance to pull fresh crab from the ocean, and a tasty feast that brings the flavors of Alaska right to your plate.

What really appeals about this tour is how it balances learning about local traditions with enjoying fresh, locally caught Dungeness crab. Plus, the fact that the hosts own a permit to harvest their own crab adds a genuine, authentic touch you don’t often find elsewhere. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this tour is quite specific in its focus — it’s not a sightseeing extravaganza but rather an intimate experience centered around food and community.

This experience is perfect for those who want a hands-on taste of remote Alaskan life—especially travelers who appreciate good food, genuine storytelling, and a bit of local craftsmanship. That said, if you’re not a seafood lover or have mobility restrictions, it’s good to know what to expect beforehand.

Key Points

• Authentic village visit with local guides sharing genuine insights.
• Fresh crab pulled from the ocean, offering an unbeatable seafood experience.
• Includes a delicious Thai fried rice and a wild berry dessert, blending local and international flavors.
• Hands-on experience with crab harvesting and learning about local food production.
• Short duration (3 hours) makes it easy to fit into a day of cruise port adventures.
• Limited accessibility for those with mobility issues or vegan preferences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Meeting Point and Ease of Access

Your adventure begins right at the cruise dock, whether you arrive at the Adventure Dock or the Wilderness Dock. The instructions are clear—allow about 6-8 minutes to walk to the Excursion Hub, and if you’re not a speed walker, it’s wise to give yourself a little extra time. The guide holding a sign that says “Village Tour and Crab Feast” makes spotting everyone straightforward.

This quick walk sets the tone for the experience: an easy, relaxed start leading to a genuine connection with the local guides and the community. The tour is a small-group affair, which means you’ll get plenty of personal attention and opportunities to ask questions.

The Village Tour — A Peek Into Local Life

Once on board the van, your guide will take you on a short but meaningful drive into Hoonah’s small village. These tours are especially valued by guests who enjoy stories from residents themselves—here, you’re not just a tourist looking at sights, but someone getting a window into everyday life in an Alaskan wilderness community.

You’ll stop at a beautifully restored Beach House, which acts as the tour hub, and here, the real magic begins. The hosts are local Alaskans, and their knowledge about village life, traditions, and the surrounding environment shines through. It’s a chance to learn how residents live sustainably—growing their own food, upcycling, bartering, and trading—as well as how they preserve their cultural heritage through woodworking and carving.

Crab Harvest — An Authentic Seafood Experience

The highlight for many guests is the crab pulling activity. Here’s a little gem: it’s nearly impossible to find fresh crab in Alaska. When you do, it’s a special treat, and this tour is fortunate enough to have a permit to harvest their own Dungeness crab. Watching the hosts pull the traps from the water is like witnessing a secret fishing ritual—simple, straightforward, and engaging.

Once the crabs are iced down, they’re ready to be cooked. This is where things get really tasty. The hosts prepare a local crab feast, featuring the freshly caught crab served with Srisa’s famous Thai fried rice—a unique fusion element that elevates the meal beyond just simple seafood. The addition of a wild Alaskan berry dessert wraps up the meal on a sweet note.

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The Carving Shed and Local Craftsmanship

Another highlight is a visit to the carving shed, where you’ll see master artisans craft traditional totem poles from Alaskan yellow cedar. This gives you a tangible connection to the island’s cultural traditions and the skills that keep those traditions alive. Watching the woodcarvers at work adds depth to your understanding of local artistry and heritage.

The Final Feast — A Memorable Meal

Back at the Beach House, everyone gathers around the table for the meal. The crab and Thai fried rice are the main stars, and based on reviews, the quality and freshness are excellent. Guests have raved about the delicious crab legs, with some even going back for seconds. The dessert, made from wild berries, provides a fresh, sweet finish.

While the tour price is $195 per person, many guests feel that the combination of fresh seafood, cultural insights, and scenic views offers solid value. It’s an experience that’s more about quality and authenticity than just ticking off a sightseeing list.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who:
– Want an authentic glimpse into island life and local traditions.
– Appreciate fresh seafood and enjoy hands-on experiences.
– Are comfortable with a short, active tour that involves some walking and standing.
– Are open to trying new flavors and enjoy cultural storytelling.
– Prefer small-group settings for a more personalized experience.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues, vegans, or those seeking a longer, more extensive tour of the area.

Final Thoughts

What makes the Hoonah Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast stand out is its focus on authenticity. You’re not just observing from a distance; you’re participating—pulling crab from the ocean, learning about local food production, and tasting a meal prepared with local ingredients. The guides and hosts are genuinely passionate, making the experience warm and engaging.

While it’s a relatively short experience, those three hours pack in a lot of meaningful moments. It’s a great way to connect with the community, enjoy fresh seafood, and take home stories that go beyond typical tourist fare.

Overall, if you’re after a small, authentic, and tasty slice of Alaskan village life**, this tour deserves a spot on your cruise itinerary or visit to Icy Strait Point. It’s honest, enjoyable, and full of local charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with short walks and are interested in seafood and local culture. Keep in mind that the experience involves pulling crab traps and some standing, so younger kids should be prepared for that.

Can I book this tour if I only have a short time at the port?
Absolutely. The tour lasts about three hours, making it a feasible option if you have limited time but want a genuine experience.

Are drinks included?
No, alcohol such as beer and wine are not included in the tour price, and they’re not permitted in the vehicle.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, non-folding wheelchairs, or non-folding strollers, due to walking and terrain considerations.

What language is used during the tour?
The tour is conducted in English, so some familiarity will help you get the most out of the storytelling.

What’s the price and value like?
At $195 per person, the price reflects the inclusion of fresh crab, local guide, cultural experiences, and a unique meal. Many find it a worthwhile expense for the authentic and memorable experience.

How do I find the meeting point?
Meet your guide with the “Village Tour and Crab Feast” sign at the designated dock area, either at the Adventure Dock or Wilderness Dock, depending on where your ship is docked.

If you’re looking for a down-to-earth, flavorful, and culturally rich experience in Icy Strait Point, this tour is a solid pick. It offers a genuine connection to local life, fresh seafood, and a taste of Alaska that you won’t soon forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: