Quick Details
Starts At
Per Person
Ages: 9+
$ 200
Whale Watching is one of the Most Incredible Icy Strait Things to Do!
Glacier Wind Charters provides customized, small group whale watching tours aboard our specially-designed catamarans. Our excursions afford you plenty of space to spread out on the boat and enjoy an uncrowded, relaxing whale watching in Alaska.
Our attention-to-detail, with the cleanliness of our boats, comfort levels of our guests, and little thoughtful extras are second to none. Guests must be able to walk short distances to get on/off the boat and in/out of a van. For those with mobility issues, before booking, please read the details on the FAQ page.
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Icy Strait is home to a regular population of humpback whales. We travel the waters of Icy Strait and Port Frederick where the whales and other marine mammals congregate to feed on the huge schools of bait fish concentrated in the cold currents that meet in this rich area.
Humpback whales can often be seen feeding at the surface using their unique “bubble nets.” Singles and small groups of whales are often spotted using this unique method of catching fish. On occasion, we are able to find a super-pod (as many as 20 individuals) bubble feeding near town. The bubble feeding technique is used in only a few areas of the world and the beaches near Hoonah are one of these locations.
Along with feeding, the whales engage in all sorts of frolic; breaching, slapping their flippers, waving their tails and exchanging trumpets, groans, and grumbles. Enjoy hearing what the whales are “saying,” with our onboard hydrophone.
Frequently during the summer, a group of orcas moves through the area giving us the opportunity to watch these magnificent animals in their natural element. Elusive and awesome, seeing these playful but efficient hunters make for a truly special day on the water.
The waters and shoreline of Icy Strait and Port Frederick also afford us some amazing wildlife viewing and photography opportunities as we travel back and forth to the most productive whale watching areas. You can expect to see stellar sea lions, harbor seals, and porpoises as well on your whale watching tour in Hoonah. Many days we also find a brown bear feeding near the shoreline.
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- Camera (with extra battery)
- Binoculars
- Rain Jacket (if you have one)
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Snacks, such as individually packaged chips, and beverages – water and hot chocolate are available on board. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, especially those with dietary restrictions.