Best Icy Strait Point Shore Excursions: 9 Experiences Worth Booking

The best Icy Strait Point shore excursions bring you closer to Alaska’s wildlife, coastal scenery, and Tlingit culture. Watch humpback whales, explore mountain trails by UTV, paddle along the coast, or join a guided brown bear search. Chris and I have visited Icy Strait Point on several Alaska cruises. Whale-watching trips, the tribal dance performance, and time exploring the waterfront have made this a favorite port for us. Below, we compare nine excursions and experiences, including fishing, ZipRider, and a car rental for self-guided exploring. You’ll find our firsthand insights, each option’s main highlights, and practical booking details.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

Our Experiences Taking Shore Excursions in Icy Strait Point

Whale watching has been a highlight of our visits to Icy Strait Point, one of the best places to spot whales on an Alaska cruise. Chris and I have taken boat tours here, including Catch of the Day, and photographed whales from the waterfront.

Seeing whales from shore was a wonderful bonus. However, a boat excursion lets you explore farther from the port with a captain who knows the local waters.

We also enjoyed the Tribal Dance & Cultural Legends performance. Hearing Tlingit stories alongside songs, drumming, and dance added another dimension to our visit. The gondola ride offered a different perspective, with views across the surrounding coastline.

When planning one day in Icy Strait Point, we usually choose one main excursion first. Then we leave time for the waterfront, a meal, or a shorter cultural activity.

We most often book tours independently through Viator, comparing the experience, price, and booking terms with cruise-line options. Our recommendations below combine firsthand experiences with selected adventures for different interests and group sizes.

Best Icy Strait Point Shore Excursions at a Glance

Compare these nine experiences by their highlights, duration, and who they suit best. Below, we explain each option and share practical tips for booking.

Excursion or experience	Approx. duration	Main highlights	Best for
Catch of the Day Whale Watching	3 hours	Whale watching, coastal wildlife, heated cabin, and outdoor viewing deck	Wildlife lovers and photographers
Four-Passenger Ranger 570 UTV Wilderness Tour	2.5 hours	Mountain trails, historic logging roads, scenic overlooks, and Port Frederick views	Couples, families, and smaller groups
Six-Passenger UTV Wilderness Tour	2.5 hours	Wilderness scenery and photo stops in a UTV with a climate-controlled cabin	Larger families and groups seeking cabin comfort
River Fishing and Bear Watching	4 hours	River fishing, wildlife opportunities, and supplied fishing gear and waders	Active anglers seeking a guided outdoor experience
Small-Group Brown Bear Search	4 hours	Guided search for brown bears and other wildlife on Chichagof Island	Travelers who want to prioritize land-based wildlife
Car Rental for Self-Guided Island Exploration	5-hour rental	Flexible exploring around Hoonah, suggested driving routes, and coastal stops	Independent travelers who prefer their own pace
Guided Kayak Tour	2–3 hours	Guided coastal paddling, mountain views, and wildlife opportunities; equipment included	Active travelers who want to explore at water level
Tribal Dance & Cultural Legends	About 45-60 minutes	Tlingit storytelling, songs, drumming, and dance	Cultural experiences and a shorter indoor activity
ZipRider	Varies by package	High-speed descent above the forest, mountain access, and coastal views	Thrill-seekers

Our Top Picks for Icy Strait Point Excursions

• For whale watching: Choose Catch of the Day, an outing we enjoyed firsthand.
• For a wilderness adventure: Choose the four-passenger UTV tour for mountain scenery and guided exploring.
• For a larger group: Choose the six-passenger UTV tour for extra seating and a climate-controlled cabin.
• For adrenaline: Choose ZipRider for a fast-paced mountain-to-coast experience.

Bear sightings are never guaranteed, including on dedicated searches. If bears or fishing are your priority, match the excursion’s seasonal availability with your cruise dates.

9 Best Icy Strait Point Shore Excursions and Experiences

1. Catch of the Day Whale-Watching Tour

Catch of the Day is our top pick for whale watching in Icy Strait Point. We enjoyed this outing firsthand and recommend it for travelers seeking a smaller boat experience.

The approximately three-hour excursion takes you into waters where humpback whales feed. Along the way, look for sea otters, seals, eagles, and other coastal wildlife. Orcas are also possible.

The boat carries up to 16 passengers, with a heated cabin and an outdoor viewing deck. You can warm up between sightings, then step outside for photographs and unobstructed views.

Our whale watching in Icy Strait Point article shares more firsthand details and compares additional whale-watching tours.

Transfers connect the port pickup point with the boat. Catch of the Day meets near the main vehicle entrance, rather than the Excursion Hub. The minimum age is five.

Best for: Wildlife lovers and photographers who want a smaller whale-watching boat.

2. Four-Passenger Ranger 570 UTV Wilderness Tour

Explore beyond the waterfront on mountain trails and historic logging roads with views across Port Frederick. This 2.5-hour excursion combines guided wilderness exploring with scenic photo stops.

A shuttle takes you from Icy Strait Point to the trailhead basecamp for a safety briefing and helmet fitting. Then, travel into Tongass National Forest aboard a Polaris Ranger 570 with seating for up to four guests.

The route climbs from sea level to nearly 1,800 feet, opening views of mountains, forest, and coastline. Your guide stops at overlooks and shares insights into Hoonah’s history, Tlingit culture, and local wildlife.

Round-trip shuttle transportation, a guide, and snacks are included. This is an appealing option for travelers who want to see the island’s mountainous interior during a manageable outing.

Best for: Couples, families, and smaller groups seeking wilderness scenery and an adventurous ride.

3. Six-Passenger UTV Wilderness Tour

Enjoy Chichagof Island’s mountain scenery in a UTV with seating for up to six guests and a climate-controlled cabin. This 2.5-hour excursion suits larger families and friends who want to explore together.

The Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar adds cabin comfort to the wilderness experience, especially on cool or wet days. Follow your guide along historic logging roads and mountain trails, with stops for photographs overlooking Port Frederick and the surrounding coastline.

Along the way, hear about Hoonah’s logging heritage, Tlingit culture, and local wildlife. The route reaches nearly 1,800 feet above sea level, offering a different perspective from the waterfront.

Round-trip shuttle transportation, a guide, and snacks are included. Arrive at the designated pickup location 30 minutes before departure.

Best for: Larger families and groups seeking mountain views with the comfort of an enclosed cabin.

4. Guided Brown Bear Search on Chichagof Island

Explore Chichagof Island with a local guide in search of brown bears and other wildlife. This approximately four-hour excursion suits travelers who want to make land-based wildlife viewing the focus of their port day.

The tour combines Alaska’s coastal scenery with commentary about local wildlife and Tlingit culture. Along the way, look for brown bears, bald eagles, and other animals while learning about the habitats around Hoonah.

Although the booking title says “We’re going on a bear hunt!”, this is a wildlife-viewing excursion. Bring your camera and binoculars for observing animals from a respectful distance.

Bear sightings are never guaranteed. Choose this outing for the guided search, scenery, and local knowledge, with your cruise dates influencing seasonal viewing opportunities.

Port pickup and drop-off are included. Your booking confirmation provides the meeting instructions.

Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts who want a guided brown bear search beyond the port.

5. River Fishing and Bear Watching

Spend your port day fishing in Chichagof Island’s wilderness, with opportunities to look for brown bears and other wildlife. This four-hour guided excursion combines hands-on fishing with time exploring beyond the cruise port.

Fishing gear and waders are provided, making this convenient for cruise passengers who aren’t traveling with their own equipment. Your guide accompanies a group of up to six travelers.

This is an active outing for visitors who enjoy being outdoors and want fishing to be part of their Alaska experience. Bear sightings depend on animal activity and seasonal conditions, so the fishing and surrounding scenery remain central to the day.

Transportation connects the main vehicle entrance at Icy Strait Point with the excursion. Departure and return times are coordinated around your ship’s schedule. Participants need a strong fitness level, and the operator lists a maximum weight of 230 pounds.

Best for: Active anglers seeking river fishing and wildlife opportunities in a small group.

6. Car Rental for Self-Guided Island Exploration

Explore Hoonah and nearby Chichagof Island roads at your own pace with a five-hour vehicle rental. This option suits travelers who want to choose their stops and spend more time wherever interests them.

The rental includes suggested driving routes and snacks, with pickup offered at Icy Strait Point. You can combine coastal viewpoints and forest-road scenery with local shops and a meal in Hoonah.

Exploring things to do in Hoonah adds a community perspective beyond the cruise port. Leave time to browse local businesses and enjoy the waterfront between scenic drives.

This is a self-guided rental, with no accompanying tour guide. Follow the rental company’s permitted routes and allow time to return the vehicle before your ship’s all-aboard deadline.

Best for: Independent travelers, couples, and families who value flexibility over a fixed tour itinerary.

7. Guided Kayaking

Paddle along coastline for mountain views, wildlife opportunities, and a closer look at Alaska from the water. This two- to three-hour guided excursion offers an active alternative to a sightseeing boat.

The route passes an old logging camp and heads toward the area locals call Long Island. Your guide leads the way as you explore the shoreline and watch for wildlife.

Whales sometimes appear during kayaking outings here, adding excitement to an already scenic experience. Choose this tour for the paddling and coastal exploring, with wildlife encounters as a bonus.

Kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and spray skirts are included, along with light rain ponchos when needed. Pickup is available from Icy Strait Point, with check-in at the Excursion Hub 15 minutes before departure.

Best for: Active travelers who want guided coastal paddling and opportunities to observe wildlife at water level.

Check availability and book your guided kayak tour.

8. Tribal Dance & Cultural Legends

Experience Tlingit storytelling, songs, drumming, and dance in the Native Heritage Center Theater at Icy Strait Point. Local performers share traditions and ancestral stories, adding cultural depth to your Alaska cruise.

Chris and I attended this performance and appreciated hearing the stories behind the dances. It was a memorable addition to our visit and paired well with exploring the waterfront.

The show lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it easier to combine with a longer excursion. The indoor setting also offers a comfortable break on a cool or rainy day.

The Tribal Dance & Cultural Legends performance is worth considering if you want to learn about the community whose homeland you’re visiting. Follow the hosts’ guidance about photography and recording.

Best for: Travelers interested in Alaska Native culture, families, and visitors seeking a shorter indoor experience.

Check your cruise line’s excursion listings or the port’s ticket desk for available performances.

9. Icy Strait Point ZipRider

Soar down the mountainside at speeds of up to 60 mph, with forest and coastal scenery below. ZipRider is an exciting choice for travelers who want an adrenaline-filled Alaska cruise experience.

The outing begins with a Mountain Top Gondola ride, followed by a short transfer to the launch platform. After harness fitting and a safety briefing, you’re ready for the descent.

Six parallel cables let friends and family ride alongside one another on the 5,495-foot course. You finish at the Drop Zone near sea level, back within Icy Strait Point.

Allow approximately 1.5 hours for the complete excursion, including mountain access and preparation. The descent itself is much shorter. Participants must weigh 75–275 pounds and meet the operator’s health requirements.

Best for: Thrill-seekers and families with eligible children or teens who enjoy heights and speed.

Look for the ZipRider excursion in your cruise line’s booking options and visit the official website.

How to Choose the Right Icy Strait Point Excursion

Start with your main interest, then consider your time ashore, group size, and preferred activity level. These details help narrow your choices:

• Time in port: Include pickup, check-in, and return transportation. A four-hour excursion needs more than a four-hour port call.
• Group size: The UTV options seat up to four or six guests. The larger vehicle also has a climate-controlled cabin.
• Activity level: Kayaking requires paddling, while river fishing has specific fitness requirements. The cultural show offers a shorter, seated experience.
• Seasonal priorities: Fishing conditions and bear activity vary through the season. Choose dates suited to your main interest.
• Guided or self-guided: A guide adds local knowledge and handles the route. A car rental gives you more control over stops.
• Your other cruise plans: Consider how this port complements excursions elsewhere. You might pair whale watching here with glacier adventures in Juneau.

Choose one main excursion before adding a second activity. Leaving some flexibility makes it easier to enjoy a meal, explore the waterfront, and return comfortably to your ship.

Booking Icy Strait Point Excursions From Your Cruise Ship

You don’t need to book every Icy Strait Point excursion through your cruise line or travel agent. The whale-watching, UTV, kayaking, fishing, bear-search, and rental options above are available through Viator, and prices are more affordable than via cruise line.

We most often book independently and compare prices with the cruise line’s equivalent excursion. Check the full experience, including transportation, group size, and cancellation terms. These vary between bookings.

Port-operated attractions have separate booking arrangements. Look for ZipRider through your cruise line. For Tribal Dance & Cultural Legends, check cruise-line listings or available performances at the port’s ticket desk.

Ocean Landing, Wilderness Landing, and Tour Pickup

Icy Strait Point has two cruise docking areas: Ocean Landing and Wilderness Landing. Your arrival location affects how long it takes to reach your excursion.

From Ocean Landing, many meeting points involve a walk through the main port area. From Wilderness Landing, you may first need the complimentary green Transporter Gondola connecting the docking areas. Include time for lines and walking after the ride.

The Icy Strait Point cruise port guide explains the piers, gondola connections, and port layout.

Independent operators don’t all meet at the same location. For example:

• Catch of the Day: Near the main vehicle entrance, beyond the City of Hoonah visitor information booth.
• Guided kayaking: At the Excursion Hub, with check-in 15 minutes before departure.
• River Fishing and Bear Watching: Outside the main vehicle entrance.
• Six-passenger UTV tour: At the designated shuttle pickup point, 30 minutes before departure.

Save your operator’s directions offline before leaving the ship. Follow the meeting instructions on your confirmation, and leave a comfortable buffer before all-aboard.

What to Wear and Bring on Your Excursion

Bring a waterproof jacket, comfortable layers, and footwear suited to your activity. Boat trips can feel chilly, while mountain outings may bring wind and changing conditions.

• Whale watching: Pack binoculars, a warm hat, and a spare camera battery. Protect electronics from rain and spray.
• UTV tours: Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting muddy.
• Kayaking: Choose clothing that dries quickly and keep personal items in a waterproof bag. Kayaking equipment is included.
• River fishing: Wear comfortable layers beneath the supplied waders.
• ZipRider: Wear secure footwear and follow the operator’s clothing and loose-item instructions.

Our Alaska cruise packing list covers clothing, excursion gear, and onboard essentials, with a free printable checklist.

Carry drinking water and any personal medication. Save your booking confirmation and pickup directions offline before leaving the ship.

Icy Strait Point Shore Excursions FAQ

What is the best excursion in Icy Strait Point for first-time visitors?

Whale watching is our top choice for first-time visitors. Catch of the Day offers a smaller boat experience with a heated cabin and outdoor viewing deck.

If you prefer exploring on land, consider a UTV wilderness tour. The tribal dance show adds Tlingit culture to your visit.

Can you book Icy Strait Point excursions independently?

Yes. Many local excursions are available independently through Viator, including whale watching, kayaking, UTV outings, and bear searches.

Port-operated attractions, including ZipRider, have separate booking arrangements. Your cruise line’s excursion listings are a starting point for those experiences.

Which Icy Strait Point excursions are good for families?

The tribal dance show offers a shorter cultural experience for families. The UTV tours let smaller or larger groups explore together.

Catch of the Day welcomes children ages five and older. ZipRider suits eligible children and teens who meet its weight and guardian requirements.

What is the difference between the four- and six-passenger UTV tours?

The main differences are vehicle capacity and cabin comfort. The Ranger 570 seats up to four guests. The Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar seats up to six and has a climate-controlled cabin.

Both excursions last approximately 2.5 hours and include guided wilderness exploring, scenic stops, and shuttle transportation.

Are bears guaranteed on a wildlife tour?

No. Brown bears are wild animals, and sightings depend on their movements, seasonal food sources, and conditions.

A dedicated search provides a guide’s local knowledge and access to wildlife-viewing areas. Choose it for the full outing, including scenery and other wildlife opportunities.

Can you see whales while kayaking?

Yes, whales sometimes appear during kayaking excursions near Hoonah, but encounters are never guaranteed. Choose kayaking for the paddling and coastal scenery.

If whales are your main priority, book a dedicated whale-watching boat tour.

Is Hoonah the same place as Icy Strait Point?

Hoonah is the nearby community; Icy Strait Point is the cruise destination outside town. Tour listings may use either name because excursions serve passengers arriving at Icy Strait Point.

Pickup may take place at the port before transportation to a boat, trailhead, or another starting location.

Do you need an excursion to enjoy Icy Strait Point?

No. You can enjoy waterfront walks, the cannery museum, and beach time without booking a tour. Our free things to do in Icy Strait Point article includes more options.

An excursion is worthwhile when you want a guided wildlife search, time on the water, or access beyond the port.

Final Thoughts

The best Icy Strait Point shore excursions help you experience the wildlife, scenery, and culture that make this port special. Whale watching remains our first choice, but UTV adventures, kayaking, fishing, and Tlingit storytelling offer other rewarding experiences.

Chris and I have enjoyed returning here because each visit brings something different. Watching whales from a boat and attending the cultural performance remain highlights of our time ashore.

Use the booking links above to check availability and reserve the experience that fits your interests and port schedule. Leave time for transportation and a comfortable return to your ship.

For your other ports, compare the best Alaska cruise excursions, including glacier adventures, scenic flights, and cultural tours.

The Alaska Cruise Planner helps you compare routes, plan port visits, budget for excursions, and prepare for your sailing.

More Alaska Shore Excursions

• Best Juneau Shore Excursions
• Best Ketchikan Shore Excursions
• Best Skagway Shore Excursions
• Best Sitka Shore Excursions
• Best Haines Shore Excursions

Do You Like It? Pin It For Later!