15 Most Highly Rated Tours & Things To Do In Hoonah

Hoonah is a place that truly showcases the raw beauty of Alaska. Unlike many cruise stops, Hoonah offers a range of hands-on experiences where you can watch whales breach, spot brown bears on remote islands, or paddle along rugged coastlines.

We’re particularly fond of the Hoonah Whale-Watching Cruise, which combines comfort with a high success rate for sightings — plus, it feels like you’re on a boat with real Alaskan character.

For wildlife fans, the River Fishing and Bear Watching provides a chance to catch fish and see bears in their natural habitat. No matter your interests, Hoonah’s tours bring Alaska’s wilderness directly to your front door.

Quick Overview of Tours & Things To Do in Hoonah

Hoonah offers a variety of whale-watching tours, ranging from larger boats to small, personalized trips. Many include wildlife viewing opportunities like seals, sea otters, and eagles. For adventure, kayak tours and fishing excursions are popular, as well as unique cultural experiences like Icy Strait Village Tours with Crab Feast.

Wildlife lovers should check out the Brown Bear Search in Chichagof Island or the Guaranteed Whale Watching Adventure. Below, we explore each in detail to help you plan your perfect Alaska adventure.

1. Hoonah Whale-Watching Cruise – Near Icy Strait Point

At number 1, this Hoonah Whale-Watching Cruise hits the mark for its combination of comfort, wildlife sightings, and flexible scheduling. The 3-hour tour takes you out onto Glacier Bay and Icy Strait, areas renowned for humpback whales that arrive May through September to feed before migrating south. From the viewing deck or heated cabin, you’ll spot whales, orcas, seals, and sea otters.

Reviewers consistently praise the informative narration and the boat’s comfort, with some lucky travelers witnessing breaching whales up to seven times. The tour’s multiple departures make it easy to fit into any schedule.

Perfect for travelers who want a reliable, well-rated experience with abundant wildlife.
Bottom line: A great choice for families and wildlife enthusiasts, especially if comfort and flexibility matter most.

2. Alaska Whale Watching with bonus Drone viewing of Whales

Second on our list is the Alaska Whale Watching with bonus Drone viewing of Whales. This 3-hour trip offers a small, 14-passenger vessel, which means plenty of space for each guest. Captain Josh combines traditional whale watching with the thrill of drone footage, giving a bird’s-eye view of whales, sea lions, and bears.

The personalized commentary and the inclusion of snacks and drinks make for a relaxed, engaging trip. Reviewers love the exclusive feel and the drone’s close-up shots of whales, which you can take home on a USB drive.

With a limit of 14 people, it’s ideal for those seeking intimacy and a behind-the-scenes look at wildlife.
Bottom line: An excellent pick for tech-savvy travelers and anyone wanting a more private, high-tech wildlife encounter.

3. Kayak Tours

Next, for those craving an active experience, the Kayak Tours offer an immersive perspective on Alaska’s coastline. This 2-3 hour guided paddle takes you past an old logging camp and towards Long Island, where wildlife spotting is excellent. Equipment is provided, and the small group setting ensures personalized attention.

Reviewers rave about how breathtaking and peaceful the experience is, with opportunities to see whales, bears, and a variety of seabirds. It’s perfect for travelers comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity.

The tour also provides a chance to learn about the area’s ecological history from your expert guide.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a close-up view of Alaska’s wild coast and wildlife in a serene setting.

4. Hoonah Whale Tours

Ranking at number 4, Hoonah Whale Tours is known for maximizing whale sightings with a money-back guarantee. The 3-hour trip departs from Icy Strait and offers homemade snacks aboard, along with insights into local history and wildlife. The vessel is a comfortable catamaran with a heated cabin and an onboard bathroom.

Reviewers highlight how friendly and attentive the crew are, making this great for families or travelers wanting a relaxed environment.

The guarantee ensures that if whales aren’t seen, you can reschedule or get a refund—an excellent safety net for cautious travelers.
Bottom line: A reliable, family-friendly option offering comfort and a strong chance to see whales, with added peace of mind.

5. Wonderful Whales and Wildlife Tour

The Wonderful Whales and Wildlife Tour offers an intimate experience with only 13 guests aboard. The local, experienced captain shares engaging stories and knowledge about the wildlife and the region.

The tour’s longer duration allows plenty of time to relax and observe, making it perfect for serious wildlife lovers. Reviewers mention great care from the crew and the chance to see orcas, humpbacks, sea otters, and harbor seals.

The boat departs from Icy Strait Point and includes a drive to the harbor, making logistics straightforward.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a personalized, relaxed wildlife experience with room to move and ask questions.

6. Whale-watching, Icy Point, Hoonah , whales, Orca, killer-whales

Coming in at number 6, this Whale-watching tour is perfect for smaller groups—only 16 people—and offers heated cabins and deck seating for prime viewing. The veteran captain has a talent for locating whales, including humpbacks, orcas, and seals. Reviewers praise the friendly staff and the comfortable ride, noting sightings of mom and calf humpbacks, sea otters, and even bears.

It’s a flexible option that combines scenic cruising with wildlife spotting, ideal for travelers who want an authentic experience without crowded boats.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, comfortable choice for wildlife aficionados who prefer a smaller tour.

7. Icy Strait Whale & Wildlife Endeavor

The Icy Strait Whale & Wildlife Endeavor is a 6-passenger, custom-built catamaran designed for maximum wildlife encounters. With indoor and outdoor seating, a heated cabin, and an enclosed restroom, this tour is perfect for those seeking comfort and intimacy—plus, full refund if no whales are spotted. Reviewers love the personalized attention and the spacious deck, which is great for photography.

The tour emphasizes learning about the ecosystem, and wildlife sightings often include bears, otters, and eagles.
Bottom line: An excellent pick for travelers who want a small-group, educational, and comfortable wildlife tour.

8. Hoonah: Icy Strait Whale Watch with Drone Filmography

Ranked eighth, this Whale Watch with Drone elevates the experience with amazing drone footage of whales, captured from the air. The 3-hour tour combines traditional whale watching with professional-grade filmography, letting you take home stunning videos. The friendly captain takes care to provide in-person viewing of humpbacks and orcas, along with other marine life like sea lions.

Reviewers admire how memorable the footage makes the trip, especially for families and photography buffs.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a visual keepsake of their time in Alaska, with a focus on sharing the experience through video.

9. Guaranteed Whale Watching Adventure

The Guaranteed Whale Watching Adventure offers a small-group experience with guaranteed whale sightings. The 3-hour tour travels through Icy Strait and Point Adolphus, where whales often return year after year.

Reviewers highlight the panoramic views and the expertise of the crew, led by local guides. The tour also includes time for spotting orcas, sea lions, and sea otters, with a focus on personalized attention.

The money-back guarantee provides extra confidence for travelers concerned about missing wildlife.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a dependable, comprehensive Alaska wildlife experience.

10. River Fishing and Bear Watching

For a completely different adventure, the River Fishing and Bear Watching combines fishing with bears in their natural habitat. Over about 4 hours, you’ll visit a remote river and learn how to fish for salmon and halibut, while also spotting brown bears along the shoreline.

Reviewers call it “the most incredible experience”, praising the expert guides and the opportunity to see large bears and abundant fish. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a full-day experience that combines sport fishing with wildlife viewing.

Be prepared for a bit of adventure — wearing waders and carrying bear spray is recommended.
Bottom line: Best for adventurous, fit travelers who want a true Alaskan wilderness experience.

11. 6 Passenger Whale Watching Adventure in Icy Strait from Hoonah AK

Limited to just 6 people, this small-group whale adventure offers personalized service and hot drinks as you watch humpbacks and orcas. The captain is highly knowledgeable and knows exactly where to find wildlife. Reviewers mention seeing a mother and calf and bears on shore, which adds to the excitement. The intimate size makes it ideal for travelers seeking flexibility and a personal touch.

The tour departs from Icy Strait Point at 7:00 am, fitting easily into cruise schedules.
Bottom line: For wildlife lovers craving an exclusive, flexible experience, this tour delivers.

12. Halibut Fishing Charter

Ranking high for anglers, the Halibut Fishing Charter is a 3-5 hour trip focusing on catching fresh Alaskan halibut. The small group means plenty of personalized attention, and all gear is included, making it hassle-free. Reviewers love how experienced Captain Billy is at locating fish, and many remark on seeing sea lions, whales, and eagles along the way.

If you’re looking for a hands-on fishing experience that ends with a delicious dinner, this trip is hard to beat.
Bottom line: Ideal for anglers wanting a productive, guided fishing experience with added wildlife sightings.

13. Icy Strait Village Tour and Crab Feast

A true taste of local culture, the Icy Strait Village Tour with Crab Feast combines crabbing, totem carving, and forest foraging. You’ll learn how to catch crab and pick wild berries, then enjoy a hand-cooked crab feast at a scenic coastal home.

Reviewers describe the experience as “amazing” and “highly recommended” for its genuine local flavor. The small group setting and personal guides make it a memorable culture.

Perfect for those wanting a relaxed pace and a full sensory experience of Alaska’s coastal life.
Bottom line: Best for travelers interested in local traditions, food, and storytelling.

14. Hoonah: Whale Watching Cruise

This Hoonah Whale Watching Cruise offers a straightforward 3-hour outing to see humpback whales near Glacier Bay and Icy Strait. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want reliable wildlife sightings without extra frills. Reviewers mention the opportunity to see seals, sea lions, and orcas in a comfortable boat environment.

It’s simple, effective, and well-rated, making it a dependable pick for first-timers or those on a tight schedule.
Bottom line: Practical and trusted, perfect for a quick wildlife fix.

15. Chichagof Island Tour: Brown Bear Search

Finally, at number 15, the Chichagof Island Brown Bear Search is a 3-hour exploration targeting the island’s largest concentration of bears. The small group enhances the experience, with local guides sharing insights about Alaska’s wilderness. Reviewers say it’s perfect for nature lovers and families, with the chance to see bears, coastal scenery, and other wildlife like eagles.

It’s a remote, authentic adventure that offers a glimpse of true Alaskan wilderness.
Bottom line: For those seeking a focused, wildlife-rich outing in a less touristy setting, this tour is a winner.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Hoonah

When selecting your tour, think about your priorities: Are you after reliable whale sightings? The Guaranteed Whale Watching Adventure offers a solid option. Want a personal, small-group experience? The 6 Passenger Whale Watching Adventure excels here.

For wildlife photography or drone footage, the Drone Filmography Tour is hard to beat. Budget-conscious travelers can consider the Hoonah Whale Tours for their reliability and comfort.

Active travelers should look into the Kayak Tours or River Fishing and Bear Watching.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak season (May to September), to guarantee your spot and the best times for wildlife.

In summary, Hoonah offers a diverse array of tours — from thrilling whale-watching cruises and intimate wildlife safaris to cultural excursions and fishing adventures. For lovers of marine life, the Hoonah Whale-Watching Cruise and Guaranteed Whale Adventure are top choices.

For those craving more active pursuits, kayaking and fishing trips provide an authentic, hands-on experience. And if you want a taste of local culture, the Crab Feast & Village Tour is a memorable highlight.

No matter what fits your style, booking early will help you secure the best experience in this rugged, beautiful corner of Alaska.