For anyone dreaming of an Alaskan cruise that includes a stop at the captivating Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska, an absolute must-do is a whale watching excursion. The sheer abundance and majesty of the wildlife encountered from your guide boat are truly breathtaking, making it an experience of a lifetime. This comprehensive guide details an unforgettable adventure, highlighting why Icy Strait Point stands out as a premier destination for marine life encounters and local Alaskan culture. Please note that while this specific trip was sponsored by Princess Cruises, all opinions regarding the excursion and overall experience are entirely my own.

Discovering Icy Strait Point: Alaska’s Premier Whale Watching Destination

My journey to Icy Strait Point was part of an incredible week-long adventure with Princess Cruise Lines aboard the magnificent Island Princess. Our ship docked at this picturesque port in Hoonah, Alaska, on May 18th, greeted by the crisp Alaskan air and the promise of wilderness. Icy Strait Point, a former cannery site sensitively redeveloped to preserve its rich Tlingit heritage, now serves as a vibrant gateway to the authentic Alaskan experience. It boasts a plethora of tours and excursions, each meticulously designed to immerse visitors in the stunning natural beauty and unique culture that Alaska proudly offers.

The excitement began even before we officially disembarked from the ship. As we approached the port, the distant waters revealed a spectacular sight: two Orcas, also known as killer whales, playfully leaping and diving. This unexpected preview set the tone for the incredible wildlife encounters that awaited us, confirming that Icy Strait Point truly lives up to its reputation as a haven for marine life.

Seamless Excursion Planning: Maximizing Your Alaskan Adventure

Choosing Your Icy Strait Point Excursion

One of the invaluable benefits of cruising with Princess is the ability to browse and book all available excursions for Icy Strait Point well in advance of your trip. I genuinely underestimated how much I would appreciate this option until I witnessed the long queues of eager passengers waiting to sign up onboard. For a stress-free and truly customized experience, I wholeheartedly recommend dedicating time before your cruise to explore the excursion listings, especially through the user-friendly Princess website. This foresight allows you to secure your preferred activities without the rush, and should your plans evolve, Princess offers the flexibility to modify your choices.

Among the myriad of enticing options, my choice for this unforgettable day was the Whale Watching & Seafood Feast. This 3.5-hour tour promised not only an intimate encounter with Alaska’s marine giants but also a culinary delight. What truly sealed the deal was their bold guarantee: a whale sighting was assured. In fact, the tour operators proudly state they haven’t had to issue a refund due to a missed whale sighting since 2004, a testament to their expertise and the rich marine environment of Icy Strait Point. They certainly delivered on their promise, making this excursion an absolute highlight of my Alaskan journey.

An Immersive Whale Watching Experience in Alaska

Witnessing Alaska’s Majestic Marine Life

Joining me on this incredible Alaskan adventure was my dear friend Jackie, a fellow blogger from Happy Hooligans. While I focused on capturing the dynamic movements of the whales on video with my phone, Jackie masterfully snapped breathtaking photographs, preserving stunning moments like these incredible humpback whale sightings. The air was filled with a palpable sense of anticipation as our specialized viewing boat, equipped with convenient flip-up windows for unobstructed views, glided smoothly across the water.

Our experienced captain, a true expert on the local ecosystem, provided fascinating commentary about the diverse sea life inhabiting these frigid but nutrient-rich waters. We learned about the behaviors of various species and what to expect during our journey. We were incredibly fortunate to witness several colossal Humpback whales, their massive bodies breaching and diving with powerful grace. The waters teemed with life, offering sightings of numerous playful porpoises, adorable sea otters (including a tiny baby otter!), and even majestic bald eagles soaring overhead. The sheer volume of wildlife was astounding. It’s crucial to keep your camera ready at all times; a whale can surface and disappear in the blink of an eye, much faster than you anticipate!

Our knowledgeable guides explained the fascinating breathing cycle of whales. Typically, whales dive for about four to six minutes, during which they feed in the depths. They then surface several times in quick succession, expelling plumes of mist and gulping air to rapidly replenish their oxygen supply. This crucial reoxygenation phase is often followed by a magnificent display of their massive tail flukes as they arch their backs and disappear into the deep once more, resuming their feast on krill and small schooling fish. Witnessing this natural ballet unfold before our eyes was truly a privilege, a powerful reminder of the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

Essential Gear for Your Alaskan Whale Watching Excursion:

To ensure a comfortable and rewarding experience, here’s what I recommend packing for your Alaskan whale watching adventure:

Layered Clothing: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable. Layers are key, including a warm fleece or sweater, a waterproof rain jacket, and a hat to protect against wind and cold.
Sunglasses: Essential for reducing glare from the water and snow-capped peaks, enhancing visibility.
Binoculars: Due to regulations and respect for marine life, boats maintain a safe distance from the animals. Binoculars are absolutely vital for bringing these distant wonders into sharp, spectacular focus, allowing you to observe intricate details you’d otherwise miss.
Camera or Fully Charged Phone: You’ll want to capture every magical moment. Ensure your devices are fully charged!
Portable Mobile Charger: Shooting video and taking numerous photos can drain your battery rapidly. I was incredibly grateful to have mine, preventing any missed shots.
Closed-Toe Shoes: For safety and comfort on deck, sturdy, non-slip, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Backpack or Fanny Pack: To keep your essentials secure and easily accessible while leaving your hands free for photography and enjoying the views.

A Culinary Revelation: The Icy Strait Point Seafood Feast

From Skeptic to Seafood Enthusiast

I must confess, I’ve never been a huge fan of seafood. While I enjoy certain types of mild fish and have a particular fondness for shrimp, anything with a distinctively “fishy” taste usually sends me running. I’d even tried crab legs on a couple of occasions, only to be left unimpressed. However, the Seafood Feast at Icy Strait Point completely revolutionized my perception. This meal truly changed everything for me.

I am absolutely convinced that the unparalleled freshness of the ingredients played an enormous role in this transformation. But beyond that, whatever masterful preparation, soaking, or flavoring techniques were employed, the result was nothing short of astonishing. The crab legs were succulent, sweet, and bursting with flavor, far removed from any previous, lackluster experiences. The generous portions were a welcome sight, as we simply couldn’t get enough of this truly delicious fare. It was in that moment that I finally understood why an old friend used to rave about the unparalleled taste of seafood straight from the coast.

The accompanying photograph captures the essence of that day perfectly: good friends sharing an exceptional meal, laughter echoing, and new memories being forged. Our lavish seafood feast was a true celebration of Alaskan bounty, featuring an impressive spread of plump King crab legs, delectable shrimp, sweet corn on the cob, perfectly boiled potatoes, earthy mushrooms, savory andouille sausage, and a selection of refreshing home-brewed beers. It was a culinary experience that perfectly complemented the day’s wildlife adventures, leaving a lasting impression on our palates and our hearts.

Beyond the Excursion: Exploring Icy Strait Point’s Charms

Shopping and Browsing at Icy Strait Point

After our incredibly satisfying seafood lunch, we still had ample time before needing to return to the ship, providing a perfect opportunity to explore the various shops and soak in the picturesque views of Icy Strait Point. The iconic red “Hoonah Packing Company” building, a historical landmark that once housed a bustling salmon cannery, now serves as a vibrant hub for souvenir hunters. Inside, you’ll discover a delightful array of shops offering everything imaginable, from gourmet edibles that capture the flavors of Alaska to durable outerwear perfectly suited for the Alaskan climate.

Among the many fascinating finds, we discovered unique treasures such as flavorful salmon jerky, artisanal flavored Alaskan sea salt – perfect for culinary souvenirs, and homemade Alaskan jams bursting with local berry goodness. The shops are a true paradise for tourists, offering an abundance of distinct trinkets, handcrafted items, and fun mementos to bring a piece of Alaska back home with you. From intricate Tlingit art to locally made crafts, there’s something to appeal to every taste and interest, making it an enjoyable browsing experience.

Local Delights: Indulge Your Taste Buds

Icy Strait Point also offers delightful culinary stops for those seeking a quick treat or another taste of local flavors:

Lil’ Gen’s Mini Donuts: These adorable, truly miniature donuts are a joyful discovery. Unlike typical donut holes, these are perfectly formed tiny rings, and you can watch them being made fresh right through the window. The aroma alone is inviting! Flavors are inventive and delicious, including apple cider, birthday cake, butterscotch, and pistachio, offering a delightful twist on a classic treat.
Crab Station: While we indulged in our seafood feast, the tantalizing aromas wafting from the Crab Station were undeniable. This spot is a fantastic alternative for those who don’t choose the “Seafood Feast” excursion but still crave authentic, freshly prepared Alaskan crab. You can savor the sweet, tender meat of Alaskan crab legs without missing out on the local culinary scene.

Capturing Alaska’s Breathtaking Scenic Opportunities

The scenic beauty of Alaska is legendary, and Hoonah, with its stunning surroundings, is certainly no exception. Icy Strait Point provides an abundance of opportunities to capture postcard-perfect shots, even if you don’t opt for a dedicated scenic tour. Simply strolling along the beautifully maintained walking path reveals countless photo-worthy vistas. Take a leisurely walk or find a comfortable spot to sit along the serene shoreline, inhaling the crisp, clean Alaskan air while soaking in the majestic views of the mountains meeting the sea. Capture the rustic charm of old boats resting near the docks, or embark on a refreshing afternoon stroll (or invigorating jog!) on the paved path that winds through the natural landscape. Every turn offers a new perspective, a fresh opportunity to connect with nature’s grandeur. These tranquil moments and stunning backdrops are the perfect way to conclude your fabulous day before heading back aboard your cruise ship.

Concluding a Perfect Day at Icy Strait Point

As the day drew to a close, we reluctantly bid farewell to the enchanting Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska. Climbing back aboard the Island Princess, we were filled with a sense of wonder and contentment, eager to recount our adventures and review the incredible footage and photographs from our day. One of the most delightful aspects of a cruise is this seamless transition: no need to worry about long drives back to a hotel, battling traffic, or navigating unfamiliar roads. Instead, we simply strolled back onto the luxurious ship, ready to unwind.

What better way to toast a perfect day of Alaskan exploration than with a celebratory drink? Heading to the Wheelhouse Bar for a refreshing Key Lime Pie Martini provided the ideal culmination to our Icy Strait Point experience. It was a moment of pure relaxation, reflecting on the majestic humpback whales, the delicious seafood, and the stunning Alaskan scenery. Icy Strait Point truly offers a comprehensive and unforgettable experience, seamlessly blending thrilling wildlife encounters with cultural immersion and culinary delights.

Inspired to discover more of Alaska’s wonders? Continue our adventure by exploring my other incredible excursions: a breathtaking Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter Tour in Juneau, Alaska, and an exhilarating Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour in Skagway, Alaska!