icy strait point glacier tour

Glacier Wind Charters

Whale watching & wildlife tours in icy strait point, alaska, join our family on an icy strait whale watching adventure, whale watching & wildlife excursion.

Enjoy the majesty of the humpback whales as they feed and frolic. Bubble net feeding is frequently witnessed. We often encounter sea otters, sea lions, porpoise, seals, orcas, and sometimes bears along the shoreline.

• Clock 3 Hours

Your visit to Alaska may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience! We’ll make sure you have a high-quality and memorable whale watching trip with us. This means going a little further to find that something special or staying a little longer to enjoy a whale that started breaching at what was to be the last minute. We work hard to make the most of the time you spend with us, starting with a prompt response from Teresa to your initial email or phone call. We’ll provide thorough answers to all questions you might have about our tours, the Icy Strait area or about Alaska in general.

We have refined and upgraded our service through the years to make your time on the water with us as memorable, comfortable, and safe as possible. APOGEE (up to 13 passengers) and CATABATIC (up to six guests) have been designed with one goal in mind; to maximize your small-group whale watching experience. Their design allows you to walk completely around the perimeter on a solid deck with sturdy rails so there is never a view that is obstructed. The boats are the smoothest riding and most stable vessels available. The cabins are fully enclosed, heated with comfortable forward-facing seats, and have large windows on all sides to allow great visibility even while traveling and viewing from inside the cabin. The boats are even equipped with a restroom.

We welcome the opportunity to be your personal point-of-contact in Alaska and are privileged to have made so many friends of our guests through the years.

Experience Majestic Whales Up-Close with Glacier Wind Charters!

"I was so excited to see the wildlife and it was fabulous, but the family that runs this company is fantastic. From the minute they meet you, the service, care, and top notch professionalism is off the charts. It's mid Sept. and they could pack it in, but we were treated as their first trip ever! I can't imagine that any group could do it better and we saw so many whales! Best excursion on our trip!"

"This is a family run business and they made our small group feel like we were part of the family. We saw whales, otters, seals, and more. Nothing was rushed, the father and son crew were passionate and caring, and you could tell this was more than just their job. Highly recommend, 10 out of 10."

"Saw great reviews so convinced friends to go with me. What a great adventure! Saw Orcas. Saw humpbacks bubble feeding. Teresa was great in managing booking. Run by nice family. Sturdy clean nice boats. Has indoor area to warm up if needed and outdoor areas to get closer to the whales. Great for photographers. The highlight of my cruise to Alaska."

"By far, this was the best day I have ever spent with the whales - without exception. (and I have done MANY whale watching tours - in Australia, Iceland, Maine, Massachusetts, Puerto Vallarta, and Hawaii). Glacier Wind Charters deserves all of the credit! Actually, Teresa and her husband, Captain Shawn do... they are an independent, locally owned and operated family business. I wanted to go whale watching in Hoonah (Icy Strait)."

Icy Strait Shore Excursions and Activities

Authentic alaskan adventures.

Surround Yourself With the Natural Beauty of Wild Alaska

Welcome to Hoonah, AK. The home of Icy Strait Point Excursions. Let us show you an untouched Alaskan wilderness. We want to share the breathtaking sights, the wildlife, and the amazing people of Hoonah Alaska with you. Join us on a whale watching tour to see the enormous humpback whales. These gentle giants of the sea spend their summers right here in the nutrient-rich waters of Glacier Bay and Icy Strait. If you are longing to see bears while you are here, then we've got you covered. Our wilderness tour will take you to Chichagof Island, where the population of brown bears per square mile is the highest of any place on Earth. And don't forget the fishing. Many outdoor enthusiasts come to Alaska for fishing, and Hoonah won't disappoint. Our fishing tour is led by a locally raised Tlingit native. He will take you to his favorite fishing areas for the best halibut and salmon fishing around.

Inspired by Nature

Wilderness Tour and Brown Bear Search - LEO, Military, Teacher Discount!

This Alaskan wilderness and bear search tour is offered on Chichagof Island, a one-of-a-kind location with the highest population of bears per square mile of any place on Earth. Depending on the season, catch the bears coming out of hibernation and looking for food; or later on in the season when the bears are mating and eating grasses on the tidal flats. Older males fight each other for dominance and mating rights with the females, who at times are not receptive and force the male to give chase. This is truly an experience for the books, and cameras.

Guaranteed Whale Watching Tours in Icy Straits - LEO, Military, Teacher Discount!

Join us for the best show in town, a 3-hour whale watching excursion (includes transportation time and approx 2.5 hours on the water) which begins when you board the bus that departs from the Icy Strait Point Excursion Hub, just a short 5-minute walk from your cruise ship. Travel just 1.5 miles through the picturesque landscape of Hoonah, Alaska. On arrival at the Hoonah Harbor, it's “All aboard!” and you’re off for the waters of Icy Straits and the ultimate whale watching experience. The area near Icy Strait Point, with its proximity to Point Adolphus and Glacier Bay, is home to one of the largest summer populations of humpback whales found in Alaska and the whale watching is second to none.

Saltwater Fishing Adventure

Join local maritime hero Captain Billy, a locally raised Tlingit of Hoonah, Alaska on this unforgettable fishing adventure. His knowledge of area waters is unsurpassed and his desire to share it with you is second to none! Southeast Alaska and Icy Strait in particular, is home to some of the best halibut and salmon fishing around. The biggest halibut on record was caught inside Icy Strait! Hoonah is just a stones throw from Icy Strait so no time is wasted getting to the fishing grounds and the hooks down!

Kayak Adventure

Your Kayak experience will take you into the peaceful waters of Port Frederick. Enjoy the serenity that can only be had while quietly gliding across the waters near Icy Strait Point enjoying the beautiful Alaskan scenery. Wildlife such as; eagles, seals, sea lions, Sitka black tail deer, whales, and even a bear on the beach are possible sightings. Take a journey into this serene kayak adventure on Icy Strait for an unforgettable experience!

Whales, Wildlife & Drones

This whale watching tour is personalized, as it takes out a maximum of 14 guests at a time. This allows for a great crew to guest ratio, ensuring your experience is personal. The areas we search near in Hoonah near Icy Strait Point and Point Adolphus are known Humpback whale feeding grounds. Josh has captained in this area for many years and knows the area well! He know how to find the whales! Add in the communication he has with other captains on the other boats, and it's a perfect whale finding system!

What really makes this tour unique is the Drone imagery. Drones are able to see below the water surface and broadcast live video back to the boat. View pods of orcas effortlessly gliding under the waves, on rare occasions, see humpback calfs playing with their mothers, on rare occasions, the amazing phenomenon of "bubble-net" feeding by groups of humpbacks is seen. Your personal view of the whales is not repaced with drones; just supplemented! You will experience seeing and hearing these amazing animals with your own eyes and ears, and then we take you to the next level with our displays onboard.

Freshwater Stream Fishing

Professionally guided stream fishing excursions on the hidden edge waters of Chichagof, Island.

Icy Strait Birding & Nature Experience

Come experience the birds and nature of Chichagof Island, near Icy Strait Point! Every trip is an adventure in this lush rainforest where Brown Bears outnumber humans. While we love delivering stunning target birds like Varied Thrushes, Chestnut-backed Chickadees, Red-breasted Sapsuckers, Bald Eagles, and Steller’s Jays, we aren’t just about birds on this tour. You will be led by an expert birder and naturalist who will set the stage by sharing the human and geological history of the area. You will then get to see how the birds, fish, mammals, plants, forests, rivers, and climate all weave together to create this lush, vibrant ecosystem!

Why choose us?

Our Local Guides Provide an Intimate and Authentic Experience

This is not a mass-market big bus tour. We are a family-run company based right here in Hoonah. Our Icy Strait Point shore excursions are run by local guides who are eager to show you the real Alaskan Wilderness. Our tours have been providing exceptional customer service for over a decade now. We keep our groups small, so we can take you off the beaten path, where the locals go. We want your port call in Hoonah, and our Icy Strait Point excursions, to be the highlight of your Alaskan cruise.

Local Guides

We care about our beautiful state and want to show it off in a genuine way while protecting and preserving the land and sea at the same time.  We are committed to keeping Alaska wild!

Authentic Alaska

Our experiences focus on the heart of Alaska.  From land to sea to sky, envelop yourself in the natural beauty of Alaska, and get close (but not too close) and personal with the wildlife, and the locals!

We have been operating and improving our small group tours for over a decade. We are constantly evaluating ourselves, innovating, and improving to ensure that every customer gets an amazing experience from the first contact to the last touch.

Icy Strait, Alaska

Cruising in Alaska Should Be On Everyone's Bucket List

Alaska is a paradise for animal lovers. Along the rugged coastline, you can spot humpback whales, brown bears, otters, seals, eagles. For the best wildlife viewing, check out our small group Icy Strait Point shore excursions

Since the arrival of cruise ship travelers, the Huna Totem Corporation has restored a former salmon cannery to support tourism in the area. The old cannery is now home to a museum, restaurants, and locally owned arts and crafts shops. The Tlingit tribe has called this area home for centuries, and they love to share their native culture. While you are here, you can even take a tour aboard a traditional hand-carved Tlingit dugout canoe!

Frequently asked questions

Do you offer any discounts or promotions.

We offer the lowest rates in Hoonah! That being said, if you call and book you will save the 6% fee the booking platform we use charges. And, we do offer discounts for groups of 4 or more on some of the tours!

Can multiple families book a tour and be together?

Yes! Multiple families may join the same tour as long as adequate space is available and the maximum is not exceeded. Just let us know and we will make sure everyone is together.

What if my ship is delayed?

Please don’t worry; we’ll know if your ship is delayed. We receive a constant stream of updates on the cruise ships’ timetables. Consequently, we will automatically adjust your schedule and factor in any delays against the timing of your tour. When you arrive at the port, just check in with a Hoonah Travel Adventures representative at the Icy Strait Point Excursion Hub. (Look for them holding a Hoonah Travel Adventures sign.) If your ship doesn’t make it to port for any reason, we will refund you in full without incurring any administration fees or penalties.

Why should I book with you?

There are a few great reasons! As an established, local company with a Certificate of Excellence, we love nothing more than to enrich your experience while visiting the area of Icy Strait Point. Local knowledge is king, and having a fantastic team with a wealth of local expertise in our employ, gives us the confidence that we’ll leave you happy and wanting to return!

We shape and time all of our tours and excursions around the cruise ships’ schedules relieving you of any stress before you dock into port. What’s more, we 100% guarantee whale sightings on every whale watching tour (from May to September). Or, in the unlikely event you don’t sight a whale, we’ll refund you $100. In fact, our captains, naturalists and guides live to love whales, so it pleases them to no end to leave you wide-eyed on whales! We know where all the wilderness hotspots are. It’s always an honor to share the backyard beauty in our mist-shrouded rainforest and our coastal city, steeped in history and Native Southeast Alaska culture alike.

The Cruise ship is telling us if we don’t book with them we might get left behind. Is it safe to book with a local company that does not work with the cruise ships?

One of our favorite FAQs: The cruise industry wants ALL of your money so they try and scare you with that line. If our guests missed their ships we would not be in business. It is totally safe! And completely reliable. As a company that has been in the business of offering small group shore excursions in the Icy Strait Point area for over a decade, our tour schedules are mindfully constructed around the cruise ships’ arrivals and departures! We can guarantee you will be back to board your ship in plenty of time. Best of all, we’re able to offer more competitive rates than the cruise ships because you are booking locally. Companies that book through the ships have to pay the ships very high fees to do that. Moreover, our small group tours are purposely smaller than those offered by the cruise ship, giving you a more intimate experience, at a better rate, while visiting Hoonah near Icy Strait Point.

My ship gets in at __:__. Will I make the __:__ tour?

Yes! Our tour times are built around your ship schedule. So long as you select a tour that ends 1 hour before your ship's departure you will be fine.  We promise to have you back to your ship on time. 

Will I make it back on time to my ship?

Yes! Our tour times are built around your ship schedule. All tours offered on the day you are in port work with your ship schedule. We promise to have you back to your ship on time.

How soon should I book?

We have guests that book up to a year in advance as our tours typically sell out well before their departure date.

Where do we meet you?

If your ship is docking at the Adventure Dock, after exiting your cruise ship, disembark and proceed up the ramp to the Icy Strait Point Adventure Center. Once inside the Adventure Center, walk through the building and exit through door number 2 — this is clearly marked. Once outside of Door #2, follow the signs to the Excursions Hub where you meet your Hoonah Travel Adventures Representative.

If your ship is docking at the Wilderness Dock, you will disembark and walk up to the Gondola. Board the Gondola for a 4 minute ride through the forest toward the Adventure Center. Upon disembarking the Gondola, look for, and follow the signs to the Excursions Hub where you meet your Hoonah Travel Adventures Representative.

Mobility Concerns?

For guests with mobility concerns, the following information will help you decide if you will be able to join our tours. Guests must be able to climb in and out of a 15 passenger van. If on a boat tour you will have to walk approx 100 yards from the van to the boat. You will have to walk up and/or down a potentially steep ramp depending on the tide to access the floats where the boat will be. We do NOT have space to store wheelchairs or walkers on then van/bus or aboard the boat during your tour, even if they are the folding type. A CareCart is available to people who cannot make the 300 yard walk from the cruise ship dock to the excursions hub where we meet you. There is a high demand for the CareCart which often presents you with a delay to meeting at the prescribed time.

Are gratuities/tips expected?

Gratuities/Tips are never expected, but our crew work hard to make sure you have a great experience and a “Thank you” tip is always appreciated!

What should we wear?

The only thing you can count on in Hoonah, and the area near Icy Strait Point is that you can’t count on the weather. With that in mind, prepare for the worst and hope for the best! Even waking up to warm, sunny skies can turn cool and rainy. We recommend layers of clothing, which are easy to don and easy to remove. Typically a short-sleeve and long-sleeve mid layer and a waterproof jacket, long pants and sturdy shoes you don’t mind getting wet. It can get chilly and rainy in our temperate rain forest, although summertime often sees our coastal city enjoy mild temperatures.

What if the weather is bad? Is our tour still on?

We rarely cancel on our guests as the weather is typically pretty stable. Not only that, our sturdy fleet of boats in conjunction with our experienced captains at the helm, and guides at the wheel of the vans, are more than capable of coping with the conditions. We ensure your safety aboard our boats and tour vans. In the unlikely event we do cancel the tour, we will provide you with a full refund.

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Cruise Port Guide: Best Things to Do in Icy Strait Point, Alaska on a Cruise

Trying to choose the best things to do in Icy Strait Point, Alaska can be overwhelming. I’ve compiled my list of what to do in Icy Strait Point with only a few hours in port.

Icy Strait Point, Alaska is a purpose-built and Alaska Tlinglit native-owned cruise port. The nearest town is Hoonah, a flat, walkable 1.5 miles from the port. 

Unlike other congested Alaskan downtown cruise ports, you will find plenty of authentic Alaskan experiences to fill your day. Plus, plenty of wildlife sightings abound; bears, eagles, and whales can all be seen from the port area. 

Here’s what you can do in Icy Strait Point in one day on your Alaska cruise.

Best Things to Do in Icy Strait Point, Alaska

In This Post...

In a nutshell, you’ll want to explore the port area of Icy Strait Point, take a shore excursion in search of whales, see the cultural attractions, grab fresh seafood for lunch and possibly spot wildlife. All in one day! 

Along the way, you’ll learn how Icy Strait Point truly preserves the indigenous culture of the Tlingit people and in the nearby town of Hoonah. 

Keep reading for my detailed list of what to do, inspiring Icy Strait Point photos plus where your ship will dock, food, entertainment and more. 

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Icy strait point – 100% locally owned.

Icy Strait Point is the only cruise port in Alaska that is privately owned and operated. The port is under the authority of the Alaska Huna Totem Corporation and its Alaska native shareholders. All profits directly go to support the people and town of Hoonah.

The port features authentic replications of the culture and history of the Huna people and includes the completely restored salmon cannery that burned down in 1944. All of the proceeds from tourism in this town go back to the Huna Tlingit and the Huna Totem Corporation. 

This means that your visit helps to support the native people to remain on the land that they have called home for thousands of years. 

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In addition, Icy Strait Point is a great jumping-off point for all sorts of shore excursions. Guaranteed whale watching tours, plus more Alaskan wildlife such seals, brown bears, otters, eagles, and more!

Read on as we go over all the things you can do in Icy Strait Point on a cruise day in port. 

Where is Icy Strait Point?

Icy Strait Point is located on Chichagof Island in Southeast Alaska, about 35 miles west of Juneau, the state capital. It’s where Port Frederick Bay meets Icy Strait Point. 

There is a floating dock where two cruise ships can berth and passengers can walk directly into Icy Strait Point. 

Nearby, just 1.6 miles (2.6km) away, is Alaska’s largest native Tlingit village, the town of Hoonah. This isn’t a touristy town with lively attractions. However, if you want to get there, you can catch a shuttle bus for around $5. Surrounded by lush vegetation and a surprise sighting of wildlife, a visit into Hoonah is well worth it. 

Icy Strait Point – A Little History

Magnificient Glacier Bay, in the panhandle of Alaska, has been home to the Huna Tlingit for thousands of years. Although their homeland was traditionally farther north, glacial growth during the Little Ice Age sent the Tlingit south to Icy Strait Point, where they usually traveled in the summertime for the harvest. 

The Huna quickly made Icy Strait point their permanent home, as resources were plentiful. Since the residents are still mainly Huna Tlingit, the town is named Hoonah and located about 1 1/2 miles from the port. 

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In 1912, the Hoonah Packing Company, a prosperous salmon canning company, opened for business on Icy Strait Point, providing the locals with factory jobs. However, the cannery only stayed in operation until 1953. 

It wasn’t until May 2004 that the Huna Totem Corporation began operations at Icy Strait Point. That year saw 32 ships and 55,000 passengers visit the newly-opened cruise destination. 

The Corporation works to preserve the culture and practices of the Huna people by helping them find jobs and promoting local businesses without destroying the expansive wilderness that makes the town so beautiful and resources so bountiful. 

Currently, Icy Strait Point’s primary industry is cruise ship tourism, and 85% of the people who work in the port are Tlingit locals.

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Icy Strait?

Icy Strait Point is a destination port, meaning it has its own attractions. Your cruise ship will drop you off right in the middle of all of the action. 

There are now two cruise ship berths located on the “corner” of Icy Strait and the Port Frederick Inlet.

The port area, with most of the shops, restaurants, and excursion meet-up spots in Icy Strait Point, is the place to start. The local venues are just steps away from the cruise ship floating docks. 

Where to Eat in Icy Strait Point and Hoonah

If you stomach starts to growl, there are several restaurants in Icy Strait Point. In fact, don’t retreat to the ship for lunch…enjoy something local instead. 

One of the most popular restaurants for lunch is The Cookhouse Restaurant. It’s the first eatery you’ll find along the seawalk, just past the cute residences. Outdoor seating is abundant though if weather is not cooperating, you can enjoy your fish and chips indoors.

Just past The Cookhouse and the Cannery, is the Crab House. Go little crazy here with succulent crab legs and butter. 

If you just want a snack or a sugar rush, stop by Lil’ Gen’s Donuts shack. Their freshly made donuts are fabulous.

Also in Icy Strait Point is the Duck Point Smokehouse, right next to the docks. For some reason, it’s never been open for business when I’ve been there…but if you want a nice cocktail and a pizza, it looks like the place to go. 

Finally, if you decide to visit Hoonah (and you should), have lunch at The Fisherman’s Daughter. Excellent salmon quesadillas and a lot more. 

Getting Around in Icy Strait Point

From the map, you can get a good idea of the layout of Icy Strait Point and scope out the areas at the port that most interest you.

There’e a shuttle bus that operates from Icy Strait Point to Hoonah for just $5 per ticket for a round-trip ride. Or if you want a one-way ticket, it’s only $3. 

Either you walk or take the shuttle; there are no ride share services like Uber or Lyft available in Icy Strait Point. 

If you walk into town and don’t want to walk back to the ship, shuttle bus tickets are available to purchase at Huna Outfitters, located next to City Hall.

Here’s what you can expect for average walking time from the ship, beginning with the closest:  

• Adventure Center: 3 minutes
• Excursion Hub: 5 minutes
• Historic Cannery where you’ll find dining, shopping and the museum: 7 minutes
• Crab House Restaurant at the Cannery: 8 minutes
• Cultural Theatre, Tickets and the bus from town drop-off:  9 minutes

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Shopping in icy strait point.

At the Cannery complex, you’ll find excellent shopping for souvenirs. There are about 12 shops located within the historic Cannery. All are 100% owned by Alaskans with a wide-range of authentic Alaska items.

From small jars of Devil’s Club ointment and salmonberry jam to kitchen essentials, t-shirts and hand-carved treasures, you won’t have to lug your purchases very far to get back to your ship.

Be sure to stop by the Icy Strait Museum and gift shop for more Alaskan memorabilia to purchase. Bring home a box of smoked salmon, beautiful hand-carved sterling silver jewelry with Alaska Tlingit moieties; the Raven and Eagle.

Best Things to Do in Icy Strait Point

What to Do in ISP – Read on for all the details to plan your day.

• Go whale watching.
• Try the ZipRider.
• Take a birdwatching tour.
• See the bears at the Wildlife & Bear Search.
• Take the Ocean Raft Adventure.
• Join a tasting session at Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen.
• Explore the beach and nature trails.
• Have lunch at the Cookhouse Restaurant.
• Go shopping at the Warehouse Shops.
• Visit the Historical Cannery Museum.
• Watch the Tribal Dance & Cultural Legends Show.
• Walk into the town of Hoonah – have lunch at Fisherman’s Daughter

1. Take a Whale Watching Cruise

Icy Strait Point offers some of the best opportunities for whale watching on your Alaskan cruise, so don’t miss the Whale & Marine Mammals Cruise here! 

Point Adolphus, a one-hour boat ride away from Icy Strait Point, is the prime site to catch a view of humpback whales. 

Whales flock from Hawai’i to Point Adolphus in the summertime to enjoy the bountiful food in the area. There are so many humpback whales here that all of the tour guides at Icy Strait Point guarantee that you’ll see at least one when you take the tour.

On the tour to Point Adolphus, you might also see other Alaskan wildlife, such as seals, porpoises, sea lions, otters, and killer whales. Keep your eyes on the shoreline and you could spot brown bears and bald eagles, too. 

So, if you want to see the most wildlife possible in one 2.5-hour trip, look for a whale watching tour while you’re here. You won’t regret it!

2. Try the ZipRider

Icy strait point has the world’s largest ZipRider, which will send you on a breathtaking coast down a 5,330-foot zipline in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness. 

Before your exhilarating trip down the mountain, you’ll ride to the start, via gondola. Look around to catch a glimpse of the old forests, possibly wildlife, the bay and its stunning islands that surround Icy Strait Point’s port. 

Once you’re over 1,300 feet (396.2 m) up the mountain, you’ll undergo a safety briefing and be strapped into a sturdy seated harness. Then down you go! 

Listen to my interview with Tyler Hickman, Vice President Operations at Icy Strait Point. This interview was recorded before I ever visited Alaska or moved there. Tyler is very proud of Icy Strait Point and loves to talk about this small slice of heaven.

As you glide down from the scenic old-growth mountains, you’ll get a spectacular view of all of Icy Strait Point’s landscapes and the sea. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might even see bears, whales, birds, and other wildlife. 

You can’t miss this excursion, so check your ship’s plans to get the best prices for this unforgettable ride. 

3. Sign up for a Birdwatching Tour

If you’re a bird enthusiast or want to take in all of the fantastic local wildlife Icy Strait Point has to offer, take the Discovering the Birds of Hoonah Tour .  

Hoonah is home to hundreds of species of birds with its unique mixed coastal and rainforest ecosystem.

On this tour, your guide will take you on a hike to explore the native habitats of the many birds in Icy Strait Point. 

They’ll help you identify and find bald eagles, gulls, ducks, warblers, sparrows, flycatchers, jays, woodpeckers, sapsuckers, wrens, kinglets, swifts, hummingbirds, creepers, chickadees, thrushes, and so many more! 

This tour is always a big hit for families and birdwatching enthusiasts, so take advantage of it while you can!

4. See Bears at the Wildlife & Bear Search

If you want to catch a glimpse of native Alaskan brown bears and other unique forest wildlife, sign up for the Wildlife & Bear Search  excursion.

On this tour, you’ll travel by tram through Hoonah into the rainforests of Icy Strait Point. Your guide will tell you all about the village, the animals, birds, and plants that live nearby, teaching you all about the forest’s ecosystem. On the way, you’ll see Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and many species of birds. 

Then, your guide will lead you to a specially designed platform that overlooks the clearings near the Spasski River, where brown bears often hunt for the salmon that leap from the water. 

This tour offers some of the best opportunities to see the forest wildlife of Alaska since the locals have never cut down or developed the wilderness that surrounds them. If you want to have a wild time, don’t miss this excursion. 

5. Take the Ocean Raft Adventure

One of the best boat tours available in Icy Strait Point is the Ocean Raft Adventure . 

Your guide will take you out onto the water in a large engine-powered ocean raft, traveling at high speeds in the open sea’s air. During the tour, your guide will also teach you more about the local Tlingit peoples and the wildlife in the area. 

They’ll also take you searching for deer, bears, whales, otters, sea lions, seals, eagles, and puffins. 

So, if you want an exciting ride on the stunning Strait Point Sea, go on this tour. You’ll never forget it. 

6. Join a Tasting Session at Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen

Have you ever been curious about authentic Alaskan cuisine and cooking practices? Well, you can learn all about it with this one-of-a-kind cooking class! 

Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen offers cooking-class-style demonstrations and tastings led by a local Alaskan fisherwoman and wilderness chef. 

In the interactive tour, she will teach you how to cut and prepare fresh, locally-caught salmon and halibut while telling you stories about the local wildlife and cuisine. 

Then, you’ll get an opportunity to season, cook, and eat your own fish fillet on the kitchen’s huge, authentic alder grill. So, with this tour, you get a fun experience and lunch, too!

You’ll also get an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage included in the cost of the tour, and you’ll get to take home some recipe cards to help you bring traditional Alaskan cooking into your home!

For a taste of what you’ll experience at Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen, check out this short YouTube Video by Norwegian Cruise Line: 

7. Explore the Beach and Nature Trails

There are a lot of exciting things to do in Icy Strait Point if you want to skip the excursions. Go wilderness walking on your own, but always stick to the Icy Strait Point and Nature trail! 

The Icy Strait Point and Nature Trail is a paved path that starts right beside the port and wraps around the coastline to the west. It’s an excellent spot to catch some stunning views and get a glimpse of the local wildlife. 

The trail is a 0.9-mile (1.4 km) loop, and it isn’t strenuous or steep, so expect a relaxing and short walk. However, as you pass the beach and work your way into the woods, there are three other short trail loops that you can take if you want to get deeper into the forest and see some more local animals and birds on your own. 

While you’re walking, keep an eye out for whales off the coast, deer in the brush, and eagles and other birds high in the trees. 

Also, be aware of your surroundings to ensure that you don’t run straight into a bear when you’re in the woods! Bears love Icy Strait Point. Don’t worry too much, though. They’re pretty used to the tourists, and they won’t attack unless you provoke them, so just watch out and ensure that you make plenty of noise as you walk. 

8. Have Lunch at the Cookhouse Restaurant

Icy Strait Point is most famous for its authentic Tlingit traditions. So, while you’re here, why not eat like a local? 

The Cookhouse, once the go-to restaurant for the old cannery’s workers, has plenty of options for everyone. Most of their food has a local flair, and their menu includes freshly fried halibut, salmon burgers, crab, shrimp tacos, reindeer burgers, and more. 

They also offer locally-brewed beers, such as Icy Strait’s signature brew, Cannery Red Ale. Their beers are brewed with unique locally-grown ingredients, so be sure to give them a try if you’re a beer drinker!

The Cookhouse also has a fantastic atmosphere with scenic ocean views, and you might even get a performance from local singers and dancers while you eat! 

If you can’t decide what to get, I recommend their best-selling halibut and chips! The halibut is perfectly flaky and crisp with a flavor that you can’t get outside of Alaska!

9. Go Shopping at the Warehouse Shops

You can find most of the shops in Icy Strait Point near the Cannery Museum in the long red buildings. These shops are all locally owned businesses stocked with Alaska-made products.

Hoonah is well-known for its expertly crafted soaps, candles, canned salmon, and native art, so be sure to browse the shops or buy a souvenir to make your trip even more unforgettable! 

10. Visit the Cannery Museum

In the center of the port district, don’t miss a brief walk through the Icy Strait Point Historical Cannery Museum. The museum, housed in the restored Hoonah Packing Company of 1912, will teach you all about the salmon industry’s long-standing history in the area. 

In the museum, you’ll learn about all of the different varieties of local salmon, and you’ll get a glimpse of what the factory would have looked like in its heyday. 

Be sure to check out all of the restored machines, which were once used to smoke and can salmon. It’s unbelievable to think that they still stand where they did over 100 years ago!

11. Watch the Tribal Dance and Cultural Legends Show

If you want to sit back and relax after a long day of whale-watching, wildlife-spotting, walking, and touring, head on over to the Tribal Dance and Cultural Legends show on the east side of the port. 

This show makes for a perfect introduction to Hoonah’s culture and the unique legends that the natives have carried down here for centuries. 

Performed by the native Hoonah Tlingit, the performances include music, dancing, and storytelling in a lively and entertaining atmosphere that will teach you more about what makes Icy Strait Point so unique and memorable. 

While you’re at the theater, be sure to stop and admire the enormous totem poles outside the entrance! They’re quite marvelous. 

12. Walk or Take the Shuttle into Hoonah

The walk into Hoonah is about 1 1/2 miles from the Shuttle Bus ticket stand. It’s a flat, scenic walk along the sea. There’s a good chance to spot a whale or if you feel like something’s starting at you, there could be a bear up in the hill overlooking the seawalk. 

Don’t worry. As long as you can run faster than the person you’re with, all should be okay. Just kidding. Don’t do something stupid like I did and munch on my salmon quesadilla on the walk back to the ship. Yes, a bear was following me from above. 

Conclusion: What to Do in Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is an amazing place to view Alaskan wildlife, especially humpback whales. You’ll have a chance to do everything from soft adventure like a nature walk to the adrenaline-pumping ZipRider high above the treetops. 

Everything’s authentic here, from the old-growth forests and local cuisine to the Tlingit people and their cultural displays. 

From a historic and cultural standpoint, you’ll learn a lot about the Tlingit people who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. Grab some fresh seafood and an Alaska-brewed beer. For such a small town, Icy Strait Point has more to choose from than is visible at first glance.

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11 comments.

Hi Wendi, Thank you for taking the time to report back after your cruise. I’m happy to learn that your lunch in town was really good and worth the walk into Hoonah. I hope the rest of your Alaska cruise was just as wonderful! And thank you for reading my Icy Strait article.

I just visited Icy Strait last week and your blog was very informative. The Salmon tacos (not quesadilla) were amazing! Worth the hike into Hoonah.

Thanks for your follow-up comment from your cruise. I agree about the souvenir prices. But it sounds like you had a good day after all. Seafood in all Alaska restaurants is expensive. Gas was $5.10/gallon last week. Everything costs more up here.

You are right, I have been to this port three times. The food is way overpriced, though I did not take the walk to Hoonah. The only part I liked was the walking trail directly behind where the cruise ships park. We walked the beach, and continued up the trail and around. It was a beautiful walk. The souvenirs are overpriced, get an ice cream, sit on a bench and wait for the whales to do their show.

Hi Peggy, Thanks for reading my article! That’s a really good question and I am sorry that I do not know the answer. You should give them a call and ask. Or you might be able to rent one online. I’ve never done that but I know others who have rented cameras and lens for their trips.

And you’re right! It would be a great video taken on that zip line! Have a wonderful cruise to Alaska! Sherry

Hi Sherry, I am going on my cruise in July. My question is do you know if they have go-pro cameras for rent at the ziprider in Icy Strait Point? I think it would be fun to film that ride, I am not sure I want to buy the camera though.

I just visited icy straight point on the cruise inwas on last week. I can honestly say i have never ever been more disappointed in a port than ibwas at this one, none of the resturants were open at the port we went minto town and had food at the fishermans daughter it was absolutely disgusting the food had no flavor at all, my soda was piss warm and sonwas my milk shake. The town looks like a complete dump buildings falling apart all over and super dirty. The souvenirs were way over priced and had a horrible selection. The people were extremely rude at the port shops. The excursions are outrageous price almost double the price from the other ports we visited and everyone that did an excursion at the port was severely disappointed. I have seen that this port won port of the year in 2020 and was on the travel channels 50 places that are a must see i am completely confused about how this is possible i would have had a better time eating a sewer rat in the ghettos in detroit than we had at this port

Hi Amber, Thanks for reading my article. It certainly isn’t necessary to spend a ton of money to enjoy all of Alaska’s amazing cruise ports. I’m glad my Icy Strait Point suggestions were helpful. Be sure to stop by the “playground” trail. There’s plenty for the kids to do there to burn off steam, lol. Enjoy your cruise! And thanks again for taking the time to leave a comment.

Super helpful, we are taking all five kids on an Alaska cruise in a few weeks. We are looking for lower-cost options to have fun at all the ports. Thank you for taking the time to put this thoughtful list together.

Hi Lyn, Thank you for reading my Icy Strait Point article! Your fishing adventure sounds amazing. For such a small place (ISP and Hoonah) there is SO much to do. Interesting that you had guards at the ready in case of bears. Bears outnumber the people on Chichagof Island and easy pickings for a free and effortless meal! I curious now and will look into your fishing tour. Some people might really prefer to do that as well. Thank you very much for taking the time to leave your comment. I’m sure it will be helpful to others, too.

The last time we were in Icy Straight, we arranged a Salmon fishing expedition with 2 local guides at a river on the far side of the island for our family of 10. It was great fun, everyone hauled in a few beautiful Salmon & released them quickly. The guides took turns standing guard with their rifles at the ready in case any bears tried to join our fishing outing. The high point of our cruise!

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WORLD'S LARGEST ZIPRIDER

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World’s Largest ZipRider

Take in the views on the ride to the top, then race to the bottom on the world’s largest ZipRider! Icy Strait Point features the world's largest ZipRider, with six 5,330’ ziplines dropping 1330’. After launching, you will quickly accelerate to speeds exceeding 60 mph as you soar 300 feet above the rainforest below. If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, then the ZipRider is for you. With up to six guests descending at once, this is also a great family or group activity! Your adventure begins when you board your bus for the scenic drive to the top of 1550’ Hoonah Mountain. Your driver will narrate as you pass through the village of Hoonah and then up the mountainside. Keep a watch out for wildlife! Deer, eagles, and bears are occasionally seen. Several overlooks offer spectacular vantage points of Hoonah, Port Frederick, and Icy Strait. On clear days, you can see the towering peaks of Glacier Bay National Park in the distance! Once on top, you will take a short walk through towering old-growth rainforest to the launching area. Upon reaching the tower, you will be given a safety briefing and organized into groups of six. After being seated and secured in a special harness, you will prepare for take-off. As you race down the zipline, your initial surge of adrenaline will be replaced by genuine appreciation of the magnificence of the local scenery. Your ZipRide will conclude with a break-activated landing on the beach back at Icy Strait Point. Please bring warm clothes and raingear as necessary. No open-toe shoes, please. While we will make every effort to keep groups together, we cannot guarantee every group will be able to descend together. Participants must weigh between 75 and 275 pounds and be comfortable with heights. This ride is not recommended for individuals with back or neck problems, or those who are pregnant. ZipRider photos will be available for purchase at the end of your ride.

Approximately 1.5 hours

Participants must be between 75 and 275 pounds and be comfortable with heights. Closed-toe shoes required. No expectant mothers or guests with back or neck injuries.

• Gayle H.: We couldn't wait to ride the highest zipline in the world & it was worth it Read full Testimonial
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Icy Strait Point - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

21 Unique Things To Do in Icy Strait Point Alaska

Icy Strait Point is a unique destination for those lucky enough to visit. This is the only private cruise ship destination in Alaska created on Chichagof Island for the cruising passengers to enjoy. I had the pleasure of exploring this destination myself on our first port of call during our Alaskan cruise on Princess.

Here is an amazing list of 21 different activities and things to do in Icy Strait Point in Alaska.

How to Get to Icy Strait Point

🛳️ cruise ship.

Most visitors arrive by cruise ship since Icy Strait Point is a popular port of call when cruising the Inside Passage of Alaska. The departure point could be Seattle, Vancouver, or another port on the Pacific Ocean. This is the way my mother and I arrived, on a cruise from Seattle and Icy Strait Point was our first port of call.

Help Getting From the Ship to Land

If you cruise to Icy Strait Point, check to see if there are accommodations for getting you across the walkway bridge to the mainland. Due to my walking with a cane on this trip, we rode an open golf cart styled vehicle that held 7 passengers at a time and had room to carry wheelchairs as well. This definitely helped me save my walking energy for exploring all the things to do in Icy Strait Point.

Although you can reach Hoonah by private boat, Icy Strait Point is only open when cruise ships are docked. When a ship is in port, then the rest of the facilities are also open to the public.

The nearest large airport is located in Juneau, Alaska which is about 70 miles away. From Juneau, you can catch a flight into Hoonah, the nearest town with an airport on Chichagof Island.

Private flights can be arranged with local airlines to get you over to Chichagof Island. Make sure to check for rates and schedules, or have your travel agent make arrangements for you. If you’d like help booking any Alaskan travel, click here to send me a message.

If arriving in Hoonah, it is a quick car ride to Icy Strait Point. You can rent a car at the Hoonah Airport to get you over to Icy Strait Point. Make sure to check ahead of time for car availability in the Hoonah area for your trip.

21 Fun and Amazing Things to Do in Icy Strait Point

1 ride the gondola.

There are two separate gondola rides available at Icy Strait Point. The green one is free and the red one is a set price for unlimited rides.

You can board the free green gondola to cross the woods to the large gift shop and activity area. Once there you have the option to shop, ride the red gondola up the mountain, or sign up for the zip line.

My mother and I opted to ride the red gondola up to the top of the mountain. I have to admit that there aren’t many things to do once at the top. We traveled here in early May and there was still plenty of snow on the ground. The views of the nearby islands and your cruise ship below were absolutely stunning. But other than photo opportunities, there isn’t much to do up there. We rode the complete loop from bottom to top twice since we had paid for the gondola ride to the mountain peak and I did take some stunning pictures.

Accessibility Concerns

On this particular day I wasn’t walking too well, but did not bring my cane. The gondola operator saw my slow progress and actually stopped the gondola car so we could get in without any issues. Once at the top, the young man up there helped us both out. The cars can be stopped at either end to assist with you safely stepping out of the gondola without fear of being dragged along with it. This made both of us feel much safer.

2 Wander Through the Gift Shop

There were actually two different gift shops at Icy Strait Point. The first one is located at the base of the mountain and is the building you walk through to access the rest of the area. If you did not pre-purchase your specific excursion from the cruise line, there was a counter for you to book excursions, buy gondola tickets, or ride the ZipRider.

Although not too many passengers ever get really hungry on a cruise, you could buy drinks and snacks in the gift shop area. Plenty of t-shirts, sweatshirts, and common gift shop items were available for purchase, as well as unique items local to Hoonah and the Tlingit people.

If we check out the second gift shop, this one is located where the green gondola drops people off to the activity area. Outside of the gift shop was a large outdoor fire to warm your bones. It was May but the air temperature was chilly enough for hats and gloves. This gift shop carried the same merchandise as the lower one and is where I bought a pair of binoculars that helped when I got to Glacier Bay.

If the adrenaline pumping thrill of flying down the mountainside is your idea of a good time, then the ZipRider at Icy Strait Point is just for you. This is the world’s longest zip line at 5495 feet (1.67 kilometers) and opened in 2007. We watched the last group of passengers ride down from the top before they closed it down. Thick fog at the mountain top launching point caused an early closure for safety reasons.

I actually believe this was a good thing because my 81-year-old mother was considering taking the cold ride down. If she wanted to do it I was going to be right there with her, but I have to admit I was secretly relieved when they closed it early. But I promised her a zip line ride soon. Click here to learn more about the ZipRider.

4 Climbing Course

Although I didn’t see any people using it, we spotted a ropes and climbing course through the trees below the gondola. This is something I can see older kids or teens challenging themselves to tackle.

The lack of people could have been due to the condition of the land all around the course. It was a mess of snow and mud which makes sense with the early May date. We were the first cruise ship to dock at Icy Strait Point in the 2023 season.

5 Tour the Cannery

The Icy Strait Point Cannery was once one of the most productive salmon canneries in the world. At their peak, the cannery exported nearly 4000 tons of canned salmon per year.

The Cannery has now been converted into a museum so visitors have the opportunity to learn about the salmon canning industry. We walked around the canning area looking at the antique machinery. Along the wall and at the machines are plaques sharing original photographs and describing the process of canning the salmon. You can almost imagine the people working the machines as you gaze at the pictures from so many years ago.

6 Visit the Cannery Shops

As you walk through the Cannery building, make sure to check out the small shops on either side of the main walkway. In addition to many salmon products, local Alaskan foods, jellies, jewelry, and handmade crafts are available for purchase. Browse through the small local shops and check to see if any local artisans are in their craft workshops during your visit.

Alaska Wood Creations features sculpted and etched products created by Tlingit natives. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions about their creative processes.

7 Sit Out on the Patio at The Duck Point Smokehouse

Duck Point Smokehouse restaurant was located just across from the lower gift shop and near to the green gondola ride. Sitting on the shoreline, the restaurant is an open area with a counter to order and pick up your food.

The options are limited but include halibut, salmon, or a smoked buffalo burger. Pizzas were also on the menu along with beer, soda, water, coffee, and hot chocolate. Check for any specials too!

It is a cafeteria style setting but the special place was out on the back patio. Here were several wooden chairs set up to capture the view across the water while staying warm with the fire burning cozily in front of you. This was the perfect place to sip my hot chocolate and gaze out across the still water. Gorgeous.

8 Seafood Tasting – Try the Crab!

The Crab House may be nothing fancy, but you are here for the food! Alaskan crab is a world-renowned specialty and the prices were reasonable at the Crab House. Food was ordered at the counter and then taken to a picnic table for enjoying. You can’t get fresher crab than from the area right near to where it was caught.

9 Activities and Things to Do in and Near Hoonah

Alaska’s Icy Strait Point is home to the Huna Tlingit tribes which have stayed in this same area for over 2000 years. Tlingit translates to “where the north wind doesn’t blow.” They have kept their home environment free from outside pollutants and wildlife roam freely across the rugged landscape around Hoonah.

Less than 1000 people live in the village of Hoonah and visitors are welcomed to explore their culture and land. The town sustains itself through fishing, timber, and tourism.  Once the Icy Strait Point port was added to the Alaskan cruises through the Inside Passage, the tourism side increased dramatically. There are many interesting places in Hoonah to explore and here are some of them.

• Tlingit totem poles
• Icy Strait Brewing
• Warehouse shops
• Cultural Center
• Dei L’e.aan – Lisa’s Art Store
• Huna Tribal House
• The Fisherman’s Daughter Restaurant
• Oso Gordito Food Truck
• Tideland Tackle and Marine Coffee Corner

10 Cultural Excursions – Tlingit performances, art displays, historical displays

The Native Heritage Center stands as the perfect spot for delving into the history of this remote part of Alaska. It offers cruise passengers a chance to explore authentic Tlingit artifacts that have endured for centuries, followed by a live cultural performance.

Situated within the Native Heritage Center, the theater hosts live shows that not only entertain but also educate. The performances portray the vibrant history and legends of the Tlingit people, which is one of the most entertaining ways to learn about another culture.

11 Cultural Interactive Exhibits

Step into the beautiful Native Heritage Center, where Tlingit culture comes to life. A troupe of talented performers in colorful regalia will portray Native stories through traditional song and dance. Listen to storytellers share tales of the tumultuous days when a rapid glacial advance forced the people from Glacier Bay, their ancestral home. You’re invited to participate in this lively celebration.

12 Meet Local Artisans

Meet and talk to the local Tlingit dancers, storytellers, or crafters. Learn about how these artisans keep their cultural stories alive by sharing their history through their work.

13 ATV Ride

Cruise ship passengers have the opportunity to explore and view the rugged coastline and deep wilderness around Icy Strait Point. Excursions on ATVs allow a ride through the forest at a more physical level. You can book an ATV excursion on your cruise ship or through another tour operator. Stay safe and have fun.

14 Whale Watching

One of the most popular excursions booked at most ports in Alaska is the whale watch. The frigid waters around Alaska are a haven for whales, orcas, porpoises, and sea lions. Whether you choose through the cruise line or a separate tour company, there are many options when choosing your whale watch tour. Click here to check out whale watching tours.

Most of the tours are a few hours long. Some provide snacks and drinks and others have an enclosed area to stay out of the elements. Decide which features best suits your needs and choose from there. If you’d like help selecting excursions for your Alaska trip, contact me by clicking here.

Just a friendly tip, it can get a wee bit chilly out on the water. Make sure to dress in layers for comfort and warmth and add in a waterproof jacket to be on the safe side. You won’t enjoy your thrilling views of whales if you’re wet and freezing cold.

15 Fishing Trips

This part of Alaska is filled with opportunities to join a small group fishing charter experience out on the water. Explore the Icy Strait and Hoonah area and learn why this is a fishing haven. You can fish for halibut which is plentiful in these frigid waters.

Fish and explore the area around Chichagof Island while hearing tales and folklore from the seasoned captains. Groups are kept small for a comfortable excursion aboard your fishing vessel. If you wish to book this activity, you must have a valid fishing license prior to the departure of the boat. No exceptions to this rule.

16 Fresh Water Fishing

If fresh water fishing is your preference, then sign up for a scenic drive through the wilds of Southeast Alaska to the seasonal fish runs.

• Char and trout run throughout the summer
• Pink and chum salmon run from late June through September
• Silver salmon runs from late August through October

Most of these fresh water fishing excursions are catch and release. An Alaskan state fishing license is required before you set off on this fishing trip.

17 Bear Watching

Icy Strait Point is home to the largest concentration of brown bears in the world. Although I would have loved to see one, I am also rather glad I didn’t. At the top of the mountain there’s a sign warning of bears in the area and they are being serious. I’m not sure what I would have done if I’d seen one up close. Probably be the sacrifice since I definitely can’t run very fast. 😂🐻

If you sign up for a bear watching excursion, you will be able to see them in their natural habitat. Have your camera ready to snap a picture and perhaps even capture a photo of the bears catching salmon for dinner. Click here to go looking for bears!

18 Kayaking

Set off from the beach in Icy Strait Point in a 2-person kayak to explore the protected waters of Port Frederick. You are led by a certified local guide as you paddle along the shoreline and the Hoonah waterfront. Check out a kayak tour here.

Stay alert for signs of bald eagles and humpback whales. For additional safety, a motorized boat accompanies the tour. Here are a few bits of additional information to help decide if this is the activity for you.

• be able to paddle in small waves and against a moderate current
• be out for 2 1/2 hours
• must be at least 8 years old
• minimum height of 4’10” and maximum height of 6’6″
• weight must be between 50-250 pounds

All of these requirements and restrictions are for the safety of the kayakers in the boats being used for the experience.

19 Wilderness Island Tour

If you’d like to explore the beauty of the island from land, then a driving tour across Chichagof Island may be your best choice. Watch for Alaskan wildlife as your local guide shares stories and local history to bring the scenes to life. Sit comfortably and learn about the indigenous people and how they live in harmony within the surrounding area. This is a great excursion for those wanting to experience the Alaskan wildlife in their natural habitat, but without walking or hiking to get to the best viewing spots.

20 Hiking and Walking

There is a 1.1 mile loop starting from the dock that brings you through a nature trail and along the local roads toward Hoonah. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed.

Walk along the rocky beach near the ship and enjoy the fresh air and beauty all around you. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures!

21 Photography Opportunities

The chance to create beautiful memories with your camera are endless. Capture scenes of the untouched landscape, the soaring mountains and trees, or any wildlife you are fortunate enough to see. Everywhere I turned was an opportunity to memorialize what I was seeing because it often seemed unreal. This place is real and totally unforgettable.

FAQs About What to Do in Icy Strait Point

Is icy strait point worth a visit.

If you have read this far, then you know there are many exciting and fun activities and excursions from and at Icy Strait Point. It is definitely worth a visit in my opinion.

Is the gondola at Icy Strait Point free?

There are 2 different gondolas. The green one is free and brings you across to another area at the base of the mountain. The red one is about $50 for unlimited rides up the mountain for amazing views.

How many people live in Icy Strait Point?

This is a private cruise ship destination port built specifically for the several cruise lines that sail the Inside Passage of Alaska. There are several small Tlingit communities on Chichagof Island, with Hoonah being the largest with nearly 1000 residents.

Do you get off the ship at Icy Strait Point?

You have the choice to get off the ship or not, but I highly recommend exploring all Icy Strait Point has to offer. It was my first taste of the natural beauty and fun of Alaska. The ship is docked here for the day, so make the most and get out there to explore the majestic sights of Chichagof Island.

In Conclusion: Have an Amazing Time in Icy Strait Point!

I didn’t know what to expect when we arrived at a place specifically developed for the cruise lines. But there were so many different things to do in Icy Strait Point to give you a taste of the Alaskan experience. Plus everything was very close to the dock. This was an excellent introduction to the amazing beauty and culture of Alaska and I look forward to learning more about this unique land.

Wildlife and Wilderness

Icy strait point shore excursions.

This enchanting spot calls out to everyone, offering a variety of exciting and diverse shore excursions suitable for all ages and interests. No matter if you're an adventurer, a relaxation seeker or a culture enthusiast, Icy Strait Point caters to everyone's desires.

Nature walks, whale watching and beachcombing offer fantastic experiences for families. Seniors looking for laid-back experience can embark on guided walking tours or explore the charming town of Hoonah. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge their appetite for adventure with guided kayak tours or invigorating zipline experiences. With such a diverse range of options, Icy Strait Point guarantees unforgettable experiences for all.

For all the adventure enthusiasts out there, the Icy Strait Point zipline promises an exhilarating adrenaline rush unlike any other! This adrenaline-pumping ride isn't just about speed; it's a full-on adventure blending heart-racing thrills with the stunning vistas of the Alaskan wilderness. This zipline adventure lets you soar through lush forests, providing stunning mountain and ocean views - a must for every adventurer's bucket list.

A trip to Icy Strait Point is never complete without experiencing the stunning sight of whales in their natural home. Join the Icy Strait Point whale watching excursions for an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures. Catch a front-row seat to the spectacular world of humpback whales and playful orcas, watching their amazing moves, hearing their mighty blows. If you’re lucky, you'll find them breaching the surface in an incredible show.

Apart from these exciting experiences, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Icy Strait Point. Immerse yourself in the rich local culture with a tribal dance show, where performers showcase traditional dances and share stories of their heritage. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the native Tlingit people and their vibrant traditions.

After all the excitement, you might be ready for a delicious meal. Icy Strait Point offers a mouthwatering seafood feast that showcases the region's fresh and flavorful seafood. Treat yourself to a mouthwatering array of dishes like succulent salmon, tender halibut and flavorful crab. As you feast, soak in the breathtaking sights of the ocean and bask in the tranquil ambiance around you.

For those seeking a relaxed experience, the Icy Strait Point Gondola provides a serene and picturesque journey up Hoonah Mountain. Along the way, savor the panoramic vistas of Icy Strait and the untouched wilderness that envelops it. Upon reaching the summit, indulge in a leisurely stroll back down or simply bask in the magnificent panoramas.

Icy Strait Point in Alaska has an array of activities to suit every interest. Whether you're seeking thrills on a zipline, taking in the beauty on a gondola ride or even being amazed by whale watching and cultural dance shows, there's something for everyone. With its stunning natural surroundings and welcoming locals, Icy Strait Point provides the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion and delicious food. Come and join us for an Alaskan experience you'll never forget.

Experience Icy Strait Point Shore Excursions with these sailings

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Glacier Bay or Icy Strait Point?

By powell , September 10, 2009 in Alaska

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Trying to decide between Millenium with Icy Strait Point or Island Princess with Glacier Bay. Any opinions please?

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Icy Straits is a fabulous port that you get off the ship and spend several hours There are many choices of what you can do.from Bear viewing to watching Native Dance show.I happen to love Celebrity and The Millie.

Glacier Bay is beautiful but it is just cruising by for a couple of hours.I have never been on Princess so I can't comment on that.

The important difference is that the Millenium goes to Hubbard Glacier, the Island Princess goes to Glacier Bay. Many of us here prefer Hubbard (me included) while many others prefer GB.

Glacier Bay is a stunning place, a World Heritage Site and deservedly so. You will probably never have another chance to see anything like it. There are multiple glaciers as well as other amazing scenery. A Park Ranger normally comes on board the ship to give information. I highly recommend Glacier Bay.

Hubbard Glacier is also spectacular, and well worth seeing. Some people prefer it over Glacier Bay. Personally I don't.

Icy Strait Point is an entirely different experience. It is small, relatively unspoiled, a great place for wildlife including either bear or whale searches. There are a lot of things to do.

I would never choose ISP over Glacier Bay if that were the direct choice. However, ISP plus Hubbard is a good combination and might well be as good as Glacier Bay.

You have to balance off the possibilities and choose. What is right for me not be right for you. That is where YMMV comes from.

Pics of Glacier Bay are at

http://www.elite.net/~thehalls/alaskaZ.html

pics of ISP and Hubbard are at

http://www.elite.net/~thehalls/volendam.html

Maybe that will be a bit of help in deciding.

Whichever you pick I know you will have a GREAT cruise!

Mike, I just wanted to say that I love reading your reviews. They are so well done and the pictures are always fabulous. You give people great ideas and I also like the links. Keep cruising!

sandytoes03

We did an awesome whale watching tour in Icy Strait. The only thing is, I think you really have to do an excursion here since there isn't much of a town or much to see other than the few shops at the dock. If you see an excrusion for this port that you like (try to research some independent ones too) then go ahead and book this trip! BTW, Hubbard glacier was AMAZING!

allentownahoy

Icy Strait is my favorite port and a whale watch here is a must IMHO. That said, if this is your first trip to Alaska you need to know that sometimes you can't get too close to Hubbard Glacier. When we sailed there in late June 2 yrs ago we were totally fogged in and did not see the glacier at all. You can always see the glaciers in glacier bay and the sail is spectacularly beautiful..

So if this is your first trip, and if you are not doing a one way where a Prince William Sound Glacier excursion can be tacked on before you embark or disembark, I would go with Princess. Otherwise I would opt for Celebrity.

Budget Queen

As you can see, both are excellent choices. And picking one is going to be a compromise. You might want to look further and maybe see about port times, and your preferred activities in ports. Then pick one. :) You'll have a great time either way.

Icy Straits is a fabulous port that you get off the ship and spend several hours There are many choices of what you can do.from Bear viewing to watching Native Dance show.I happen to love Celebrity and The Millie.   Glacier Bay is beautiful but it is just cruising by for a couple of hours.I have never been on Princess so I can't comment on that.

Glacier Bay was actually an all day activity stopping at multiple glaciers and presentations by the national park service who were on board from 9am till 7:30pm at night.

That is good to know as we will be cruising Glacier Bay and not doing Icy Straits on our up coming cruise.We don't have a balcony so we will be spending a lot of time on deck.Thanks

Icy Strait is my favorite port and a whale watch here is a must IMHO. That said, if this is your first trip to Alaska you need to know that sometimes you can't get too close to Hubbard Glacier. When we sailed there in late June 2 yrs ago we were totally fogged in and did not see the glacier at all. You can always see the glaciers in glacier bay and the sail is spectacularly beautiful..   So if this is your first trip, and if you are not doing a one way where a Prince William Sound Glacier excursion can be tacked on before you embark or disembark, I would go with Princess. Otherwise I would opt for Celebrity.

Our day at Hubbard was spectacular. We got to within 1/2 mile of the glacier. But, the cruise director said that was very rare.

Our solution was...we had to do both. You have to cruise Alaska multiple times to see everything. That said:

- Princess and Celebrity were both very good. Neither was any better, but both were better than any other line we have taken.

- Glacier Bay was light-years better than Hubbard. It was in a different league. The only time I could see Hubbard being maybe better is if you were in an interior or an obstructed stateroom. You're at Hubbard for a set time (when you would be on deck), whereas Glacier Bay was for a much more extended time. On a balcony, that means scenery, right outside your window. All day.

- Icy Strait vs. Glacier Bay is comparing apples & oranges. I realize you have to make a choice; I just don't know how you would compare it. I guess I would choose Icy Strait if it was an interior stateroom. The reason being, you get to enjoy the natural scenery in port. The balcony folks really don't need yet more scenery in port. They've already had plenty of scenery--they need to get off their chairs and go do stuff. The interior folks are already out & about doing stuff (on the ship)--what they need is more scenery.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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The 16 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions for 2024

A cruise to Alaska is one of the best ways to visit many parts of the 49th state, including the Inside Passage and the southeastern port towns of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. You can also see dozens of glaciers on a cruise, plus remote places reachable only by water, like Glacier National Park & Preserve. Traveling by ship allows you to get closer to one-of-a-kind experiences in Alaska's interior, especially if you extend your vacation with a cruisetour (a package that includes the cruise and a land portion either before or after your voyage).

When it comes to excursions, many cruise lines offer the same experiences ashore for larger ports of call, often with a slight variation in the itinerary. The most popular tours highlight the best activities and attractions, such as the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour in Juneau, the Misty Fjords National Monument in Ketchikan and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway. You'll also find entertaining offerings from cruise lines that call on smaller, less visited ports, like Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Sitka, Seward and Haines.

While some tours cost less than $100, don't be surprised to find over-the-top experiences that run about $750 per person – such as heli-flightseeing tours, where you'll land on a glacier and go dog-sledding with a team of Alaskan huskies. If you're comfortable with going it on your own, you might find lower prices on some excursions by booking directly with tour operators. Alaskan outfitters are used to working around cruise ship arrival and departure times, so their tours tend to fit into those schedules.

U.S. News has compiled this list to help you find the best Alaska cruise excursions, from the most popular (and affordable) options to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

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Even though it's surrounded by water and mountains – and there's no road into town – Juneau is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer. You'll find plenty to do in Alaska's capital, including whale watching tours, salmon bakes and more.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, so many tours include a visit to the Tongass National Forest to view the 12-mile-long sheet of blue ice. Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises , offer self-guided trekking excursions that include a ride on the Juneau Goldbelt Tram, which affords views of the Chilkat Mountains and other panoramic scenery. You can also opt to see the glacier from the water by boat or kayak, or on a float trip.

However, if you're going to splurge on any one excursion, it's this one: Sign up for a helicopter landing on Mendenhall Glacier, followed by a dog-sledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies. During the approximately 30-minute helicopter ride, you'll fly over rainforests and spectacular summits, but the real fun is when you arrive at the camp to go zipping through the snow led by your team of dogs and a professional musher.

The Mendenhall Glacier helicopter excursion is offered on Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest

Whale watching is another top activity when visiting Juneau, and many cruise lines offer several options for tours. Holland America Line has a five-hour, small-group excursion for just 20 guests; you'll search for humpback whales on a safari vessel, then hike on Mendenhall Glacier where you can look for beavers, Arctic terns, porcupines and black bears. If you prefer an even smaller group, Princess Cruises offers a 3.5-hour private whale watching tour for six people. Possible sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, eagles, harbor seals, lighthouses, glaciers and maybe even a bear along the shoreline.

One of Viking Ocean Cruises ' excursions, the Best of Juneau, lasts more than six hours and takes guests on a naturalist-led whale watching cruise by catamaran. Before heading back to shore, you'll have a lunch of local wild-caught Alaska salmon on remote Colt Island, followed by a scenic drive to Mendenhall Glacier to end the day.

Alaska whale watching and wildlife excursions are offered on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Taku Lodge Salmon Bake

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a 3.5-hour Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast excursion that will tick several quintessential Alaska adventures off your bucket list. After flying over the Juneau Icefield (the fifth-largest ice field in North America) in a classic De Havilland seaplane, guests will land in the river at the historic Taku Glacier Lodge across from Juneau's largest glacier, the 5-mile-wide Taku Glacier.

A traditional Alaska salmon bake (with all the fixings) and drinks made with glacier ice are another highlight of the day. You might even see a black bear sniffing around for leftovers after your feast. Following lunch, take a walk in the lush Tongass National Forest before heading back from the wilderness.

Salmon bake excursions are offered on Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Ketchikan sits at the southernmost entrance to Alaska's Inside Passage. It is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Visitors come to this part of the state for the beautiful scenery, Alaska Native culture and fresh seafood, including Alaska salmon and king crab. And they just might enjoy an entertaining lumberjack show or floatplane ride to kick off their day while in town.

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Watch Alaska's hearty lumberjacks battle British Columbia's tough woodsmen in a head-to-head competition to see who can win the title of "Bull of the Woods." The thrill-a-minute show – a guest favorite – features a 50-foot tree climb, ax throwing, log rolling, buck sawing and springboard chopping, along with plenty of lumberjack lore. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer just the show; it lasts a little over an hour, so there will be plenty of time for a self-guided tour of Ketchikan before heading back to the ship. You may also be able to book a combination tour that includes the show and an ax throwing lesson (plus a competition of your own), or a trip to Totem Bright State Park, where you'll learn about the significance of totem poles and the Native Tlingit and Haida cultures.

Holland America Line offers a tour with the lumberjack show and a feast of local Dungeness crabs. For another culinary option, check out the 3.5-hour excursion with Norwegian Cruise Line . It includes a visit to Saxman Native Village, where you'll sample smoked wild game meats, dine on chef-selected dishes prepared with regional ingredients, and taste local wines and beers.

Lumberjack shows are offered on Alaska voyages with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

Embark on the Aleutian Ballard, the Bering Sea fishing boat made famous by the Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" television series. The approximately three-hour excursion gives guests a firsthand experience of what it's like to sail on the vessel as a Bering Sea crab fisherman and catch massive king crabs, octopuses and other marine life with 700-pound crab pots. The boat may also stop at nearby Annette Island, where you'll have the chance to see whales, sea lions, seals and bald eagles soaring overhead (one may even try to snag your catch!). You may also get to watch local fishermen at work.

Some lines that offer the fisherman's tour include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Misty Fjords by Floatplane or Cruise

The more than 2 million-acre Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the top attractions in Alaska . Described by naturalist and author John Muir as "the Yosemite of the North," the awe-inspiring destination is best viewed from above on a floatplane. From the sky, you'll see towering 1,000-foot waterfalls, the volcanic Revillagigedo Island, snowcapped peaks, verdant forests and 3,000-foot walls of granite descending into the fjords. On a floatplane tour, you'll also have the chance to land on the water and take in the spectacular scenery from another viewpoint.

If you're not a fan of small planes, some lines offer the option of taking a cruise from Ketchikan's harbor. You'll sail into Behm Canal surrounded by the scenery of Misty Fjords, and you may even see wildlife or bald eagle nests. You'll also cruise by Eddystone Rock, a massive volcanic spire emerging from the sea, as well as waterfalls and 3,000-foot cliffs sculpted by glaciers.

Cruise lines that offer floatplane or cruisetours of Misty Fjords include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

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Skagway is another busy and popular cruise port in Alaska. It's one of the most popular towns on the Inside Passage itinerary; its fascinating Klondike Gold Rush history dates back to 1897. Take notice of the historic false-front shops reminiscent of the gold rush days as you explore. Many of these buildings are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and you may even see people strolling down the streets dressed in period costumes.

White Pass & Yukon Route

One of the top-rated attractions in Skagway is the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad journey through Alaska's wilderness. The narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark – an honor shared by the Panama Canal, the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. Dating back 125 years, the historic railway features vintage rail cars and climbs to a steep 2,865 feet at the summit over just 20.4 miles. Along the way to the summit – located at the official international border between the U.S. and Canada – you'll listen to the history of the Klondike Gold Rush while passing by Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls. After making a loop at the top, the train will head back down the mountain. You might even see snow on the ride if your cruise to Alaska is early in the season .

Excursions on some lines combine the rail journey with other activities, like biking on the Klondike Highway from the summit or visiting Liarsville, a gold rush trail camp. Others include a stop (and a cold beer) at the Skagway Brewing Company. In addition, some cruise providers offer the train ride in a luxury class rail car, which includes complimentary beverages, snacks and a private guide who will explain the history of the railroad as you watch the scenery pass by.

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-hour excursion features a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route, a salmon bake at Liarsville and an adult beverage with one of the "madames" at the renowned Red Onion Saloon. Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises ' new 5.5-hour tour includes the train ride; a trip to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which sits 65 feet above the white water rapids of the Tutshi River; and a hearty lunch of bison chili.

Cruise lines that offer the railroad (and combination) tours include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Discovery

If you want to cuddle with Alaskan husky puppies, then this excursion is for you. Norwegian Cruise Line's approximately three-hour excursion takes guests to a professional musher's summer camp in Dyea Valley, where they train sled dogs for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod races. After a thrilling ride into the rainforest on a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you'll head out on a summertime dog sled with 16 Alaskan huskies at the helm. Before puppy play time, you'll learn how the mushers care for the dogs and prepare for the races. Depending on the cruise line, some tours may end with roasting s'mores by the fire.

Some lines that offer this excursion are Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Adventure

The historic Chilkoot Trail was the main route for those in search of untold riches during the famous gold rush years. Today, the trail, located in Gold Rush National Historical Park, is a rainforest full of birds and wildflowers. Excursions to the park include hikes with river floats on the Taiya River (there are no rapids) or bike tours of the trail. There are also wilderness kayaking outings to Chilkoot Lake, which is home to the five species of Pacific salmon, waterfowl, bald eagles and one of the largest brown bear populations in southeast Alaska.

Some cruise lines that offer these excursions include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Sitka is the only community in the Inside Passage that sits on the Pacific Ocean. The small city – home to just 8,500 residents – was owned by Russia before the U.S. purchased the land in 1867. Today, you'll find remnants of this Russian heritage, like onion-shaped domes and Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Sitka also has a strong Tlingit culture. In terms of shore excursions, you'll find plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing surrounded by pristine landscapes.

Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest

Royal Caribbean International's three-hour jet boat cruise on Sitka Sound features panoramic scenery (including snow-capped peaks) and the chance to see abundant wildlife. During the tour, look for playful sea otters, whales and brown bears walking along the coast. The line also offers another tour – Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My – that features a naturalist-guided catamaran cruise followed by visits to the Alaskan Raptor Center (a rehabilitation center for birds of prey) and the Fortress of the Bear (a rescue operation for orphaned bears).

In comparison, Carnival Cruise Line 's VIP wildlife quest in search of whales, sea otters, coastal brown bears and more concludes with a feast of wild salmon cooked over a wood-fired grill, Alaska crab and prime rib at the Fin Island Lodge. Following a wildlife Zodiac cruise around the archipelago, Holland America Line's version of this excursion also visits the lodge for lunch in partnership with Food & Wine magazine.

You can find this excursion on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

The Best of Sitka

Several cruise lines offer a version of this tour, which features an exploration of the top attractions in Sitka. On this excursion, you'll visit the Fortress of the Bear in Tongass National Park to learn about the facility's work with orphaned bears. There's also a stop at Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska" between the Russians and the Tlingits was fought. Here, you'll see handcarved totem poles created by skilled Tlingit artists and get to meet local Native artists to learn more. The excursion also includes a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

Icy Strait Point in Hoonah may be a much smaller port than others on this list, but it is a jumping-off point for endless outdoor explorations, including whale watching tours and searching for coastal brown bears. Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native-owned and -operated and is home to the largest Native Tlingit village in Alaska. While here, explore the wilderness areas of Chichagoff Islands, visit the 1912 cannery museum, and grab lunch with fresh Alaska king and Dungeness crabs before taking a ride on the world's largest ZipRider. (Or, play it safe and plan to take that ride down the mountain before lunch.)

Whale Watching & Bear Search

The waters surrounding Icy Strait Point host the largest summer population of humpback whales in the state, especially around the Point Adolphus area. If you purchase a tour directly with the Icy Strait Point website, they'll even guarantee you'll see whales – or they'll refund your money. During the tour, look for orcas, Steller sea lions, porpoises and seals. But be sure to also gaze overhead for bald eagles and search along the shore for bears; the Spasski River Valley in the remote wilderness of Chichagof Island has one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world. Some cruise lines offer a variation of this excursion that includes a boiled seafood feast back on shore at Icy Strait Point.

You can find this excursion on voyages with Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World's Largest ZipRider

Thrill-seekers (who love heights) will jump at the chance to ride the world's largest and longest zip line, which sits more than 1,300 feet above sea level at the top of Icy Strait Point. The ride to the summit on the SkyGlider mountaintop gondola is also a rush, but the real excitement comes as you zoom down 5,330-foot zip lines with five other riders at 60 mph – with views of the forest below and Glacier Bay National Park in the distance. A break-activated landing on the beach brings riders safely back to the ground. The price also includes unlimited rides on the gondola.

Cruise lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

A less visited port than some others on this list (according to CLIA), Seward is the ancestral home to the Alutiiq, or Sugpiaq, people. Its breathtaking natural beauty – with mountains on one side and Resurrection Bay on the other – has been shaped by glaciers over thousands of years. Top attractions in Seward include the Alaska SeaLife Center and a charming downtown area. It also offers access to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

During your stop in Seward, take a full-day excursion to see the astounding beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park. The impressive fjords are surrounded by mountains standing more than 6,000 feet tall and an ecosystem rich in wildlife. While there, watch for a variety of whale species, sea otters, porpoises and sea lions, and onshore, you might see bears and mountain goats. There are also 191 documented species of birds in the park and many glaciers. As you get up close to Holgate Glacier, listen as chunks of blue ice calve into the water.

Some cruise lines, such as Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, offer this as an individual tour, while others like Holland America Line include it as part of a cruisetour. You can also book the excursion directly with a local tour operator if you're embarking or disembarking in Seward.

Haines, a small port about 20 miles north of Skagway, is best known for its Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The 49,000-acre preserve has the largest natural gathering of eagles during the late salmon runs and boasts pristine forests, marshlands and rivers brimming with wildlife.

Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Norwegian Cruise Line's five-hour excursion takes guests on an adventure into the wilderness by boat while cruising North America's deepest and longest fjord, the upper Lynn Canal. You might even see breaching whales and playful sea lions en route to Glacier Point, where you'll disembark at the beach upon arrival. After a drive through the forest and a hike in the woods, you'll have unforgettable, up-close views of the Davidson Glacier by canoe.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises. Holland America Line offers this excursion from Skagway.

Eagle Preserve Rafting Float Adventure

Look for bald eagles soaring overhead as you raft down the gentle Chilkat River through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The waters are overflowing with salmon that come to spawn, serving as food for as many as 400 bald eagles living in the Chilkat Valley. Don't be surprised to see brown bears or 1,600-pound moose coming to feast along the riverbank during your rafting adventure.

Some lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Lin e. Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises host this excursion from Skagway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

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• Juneau Tours
• Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure
• Mendenhall Lake Canoe
• Dog Sledding
• Juneau Icefield Helicopter Tour
• Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier
• Mendenhall Glacier Dog Sledding
• Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter Tour
• Musher's Camp
• Whale Watching & Salmon Bake
• Taku Lodge Flight & Feast
• Things to Do in Juneau
• Skagway Tours
• White Pass Railroad
• Bennett Scenic Railroad
• Yukon Discovery
• White Pass Summit & Beyond
• Glacier Helicopter Tour
• Chilkoot Horseback
• Glacier Point Wilderness Safari
• Wildlife Safari & Bear Viewing
• Things to Do in Skagway
• Ketchikan Tours
• Deluxe Misty Fjords National Monument
• Mahoney Falls Extended Tour
• Trolley Tour
• George Inlet Lodge Crab Feast
• Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour
• Things to Do in Ketchikan
• Icy Strait Point Tours
• Whale Watching
• Wildlife & Bear Search
• Stream Fishing
• Things to Do in Icy Strait
• Sitka Tours
• Premium Scenic Tour
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• Things to Do

Icy Strait Exclusive Wildlife and Bear Search Tour

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Excursion Overview

Discover the secrets of icy strait on this exciting wildlife search.

Chichagof Island has been named "Bear Island" by National Geographic because it has the highest concentration of bears in the world at 1-2 brown bears per square mile, making it a great destination for bear watching from Icy Strait Point. This Exclusive Wildlife and Bear Search small group tour will give you a flexible, up-close experience that large group tours simply cannot offer. On this 4-hour van tour, there are many exciting things to see, such as the scenic view of muskeg, some of the ten varieties of edible berries found on the island, viewing an old-growth forest, and potential sightings of the king of the island: brown bears. Based on current bear movements, feeding habits, and daytime temperatures, there are short stops in key locations to scope out a magnificent view of these captivating creatures - and your wildlife guide knows them all! They will also share information about the area and the Tlingit Native population. There is also a host of other wildlife that are quite frequently spotted during excursions, including mink, marten, red squirrels, otter, beaver, ducks, sea birds, Sitka black-tail deer, and plenty of bald eagles. So be sure to bring your camera. Please note: Your departure time for this tour can start 30 minutes (or more) after your cruise ship's arrival to Icy Strait. Wildlife is not guaranteed.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Roundtrip guided transportation from Icy Strait Excursions Hub to the wildlife viewing locations.
• Bottled water

Requirements:

• There are no additional requirements for this excursion.

Duration: 4 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)

• 4 hours narrated scenic drive around the island

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets at the Icy Strait Excursions Hub. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is limited mobility accessible. Guests must be able to climb 4 steps into and out of the van. There is limited space for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. There is no storage available for motorized scooters. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible equipment will be required on tour.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tour van size can vary from 12 to 14 passengers.

Our success rate for seeing bears is very high, however, wildlife cannot be guaranteed. Our area has more bears per square mile than any other place in Alaska with 1.7 bears per square mile.

A large male brown bear can be over ten feet from tail to nose and weigh up to 1800 lbs.

Yes, we have one car seat available upon request. Please leave a note at checkout if you will require a car seat.

We have one car seat available and you are more than welcome to bring your own car/booster seats with you. Our vans have seatbelts.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On oct 2023.

We loved this trip. Daylan was such a great guide. He is a native Alaskan and knows everything there is to know. We saw a mother and baby bear together with deer and eagles. The scenery was stunning. We had stops along to way and we were told so much about the forest and surrounding areas. We learnt a lot! Thank you. We will certainly book again when we visit in 2025.

On Sep 2023

Amazing Tour! Loved our guide, he gave us a lot of facts and history about the tribes and culture. And the best part is that we got to see 5 bears on the way back! it was awesome!

Although no bears were seen on our tour the guide could not be faulted for trying to locate these shy creatures. We were fortunate to be guided by a senior figure of some standing within the local community who imparted his local knowledge with both pride and feeling.

Our tour guide was amazing! We didn't see a bear but he still made the excursion well worth the money. He was a local with great information on the area.

Enjoyed it! Tour was led by a local, we decided to book a tour not through our cruise ship & we're so glad we did because the people who booked through the cruise ship saw nothing on their tour and we saw 9 Bears! Additionally, having a local do our tour he knew so much about the area and where the good viewing spots were. We were picked up on time, guide was wonderful and even gave us a little extra time since no one had to be back to the ship yet. There is nothing to do in Icy Straight Point, so this was definitely worth it to take this tour!! Definitely book with Alaska Shore Excursions

• Reviews Showing: 226

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Duration: 4 hours

Date Required

Time Required

# of Passengers Required

Adult: $ 150.00

Child (6-15): $ 75.00

Infant (5 and Under): $ 0.00

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