Ear Mountain Charters tours: whale watching or fishing

A Practical Guide to Ear Mountain Charters: Whale Watching and Fishing in Alaska

If you’re dreaming of seeing whales breach the icy waters or trying your hand at Alaska-style fishing, Ear Mountain Charters offers a compelling option. Based at Icy Strait Point near Hoonah, this tour combines the thrill of wildlife encounters with the rugged beauty of Alaska’s inside passage—all in a small, intimate group setting. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just eager to glimpse whales in their natural habitat, this experience has a lot to offer.

What we love about these tours is the personalized attention you get — limited to just six guests — and the chance to witness Alaska’s astonishing wildlife and scenery up close. The boat is modern and well-equipped, ensuring comfort even in unpredictable weather. On the downside, rain gear isn’t included, so you’ll want to come prepared for wet conditions. These tours are ideal for travelers who value genuine, small-group experiences and are okay with the typical Alaska weather.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates authentic outdoor adventures and isn’t looking for a luxury cruise but rather a hands-on, memorable day in nature, Ear Mountain Charters should be on your list. It’s especially great for those who want to combine wildlife viewing with a taste of Alaska’s rugged coast.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a quieter experience.
• Expert guides and captains enhance wildlife sightings and safety.
• Stunning scenery and wildlife including whales, otters, sea lions, and more.
• Modern boat with amenities like a heated cabin and bathroom for comfort.
• Flexible options for whale watching or fishing, both offering immersive experiences.
• Duration options from 3 to 6 hours, mainly available in the morning, fitting various schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience: Whale Watching and Fishing in Alaska

Starting Point and Logistics

From the moment your adventure begins, the experience is designed to be straightforward and convenient. All guests are picked up at the Excursion hub near Icy Strait Point, with clear instructions for those arriving at different docks. The tour is typically scheduled 30 minutes after your cruise ship lands, giving you time to relax and get ready.

The transportation is comfortable and efficient. The group travels in a van to the nearby town of Hoonah, just a mile away, where the boat awaits. This short ride is a nice chance to get your bearings and maybe chat with your guide about what to expect.

The Boat: Comfort and Equipment

The tour takes place on a 32-foot North River offshore powerboat, which is surprisingly spacious and well-equipped. The boat features a heated cabin—a real treat on chilly days—and a bathroom, making longer outings more comfortable. Seating is limited to six guests, so you’ll find yourself with plenty of space and personalized attention from your captain and guide.

Power comes from twin 250hp motors, ensuring swift travel across the water, and a 25hp kicker motor adds maneuverability. For fishing tours, all gear is provided, but you’ll need to purchase a $15 day license if you plan to fish.

Wildlife and Scenery: What You’ll See

Expect to marvel at the spectacular scenery of Alaska’s inside passage—towering cliffs, lush forests, and the shimmering water. The real highlight, of course, is the chance to see whales, particularly in the icy strait, where these amazing creatures often appear breaching, spouting, and gracefully diving. Several reviews highlighted the quality of wildlife sightings, with one traveler noting, “We saw whales, killer whales, otters, and sea lions,” confirming the tour’s potential for diverse animal encounters.

Along With whales, you might see playful otters, noisy sea lions, or even eagles soaring overhead. The guides are known for their knowledgeable narration, enhancing the experience with interesting facts about the local ecosystem.

Whale Watching: A Must-Do

The whale watching option is perfect if you’re eager to connect with Alaska’s marine life. The large, well-maintained boat makes spotting whales easier, and the proximity to the inside passage means you’re likely to see orcas and humpbacks in their natural environment. Travelers who have taken this tour praise the spectacular scenery and the expert guides, with one reviewer saying, “Excellent tour, excellent tour guide and captain. We saw whales, killer whales, otters, and sea lions.”

Fishing in Alaska: An Adventure

For those who prefer fishing, the tour is equally rewarding. You’ll get a taste of Alaska fishing—a true adventure—while enjoying the stunning backdrop. The gear is provided, making it easy to just step in and start catching fish. Remember, a $15 license is required, but the experience of fishing in such pristine waters can be priceless.

Timing and Duration

Available mainly in the morning, these trips typically last between 3 and 6 hours. The shorter options are ideal for cruise visitors with tight schedules, while longer trips might suit those wanting a deeper dive into the ecosystem. The tours are scheduled with flexibility in mind, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours beforehand.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• A modern 32-foot boat with heated cabin and bathroom
• All necessary fishing gear (if applicable)
• Guided tour with an English-speaking guide
• Pick-up and drop-off at the Excursion hub

Not Included

• Rain gear, so come prepared if the weather looks wet
• Food or beverages, other than water
• Fishing license (required for fishing tours)

Practical Tips for Your Tour

To make sure your trip goes smoothly, bring essentials like passport or ID, credit card, and rain gear. Dress in quick-dry clothing and layers—Alaska weather can change quickly. Closed-toe shoes are a must, and don’t forget any personal medication.

While the boat is comfortable, remember that high heels, sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes are not allowed for safety reasons. Also, alcohol, smoking, and glass objects are prohibited onboard.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate smaller groups and personal attention. It’s also suited for travelers looking for an authentic outdoor adventure—not just a sightseeing cruise, but a genuine encounter with Alaska’s marine life. The tours are wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility concerns, and the small group size (limited to six) ensures a more intimate experience.

If your goal is to capture stunning photos of whales and scenery or to enjoy Alaska’s rugged outdoors, Ear Mountain Charters offers excellent value. However, those expecting luxury amenities or looking for a longer trip might find the 3-6 hour duration a bit brief.

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Final Thoughts

Ear Mountain Charters offers an authentic, accessible way to experience Alaska’s spectacular wildlife and scenery. The modern boat, expert guides, and small-group format make for a memorable adventure whether you’re whale watching or fishing. The value for the price shines through in the personalized attention and the chance to see animals in their natural habitat.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to get away from crowds and enjoy the raw beauty of Alaska up close. Its flexible scheduling, small-group size, and focus on wildlife encounters make it a good choice for families, couples, or solo explorers seeking a genuine outdoor experience.

If you’re ready to see whales breach or try your hand at fishing in one of the world’s most iconic settings, Ear Mountain Charters promises a day filled with stunning views, wildlife surprises, and genuine adventure.

FAQ

What are the pick-up times and locations?
Guests are picked up approximately 30 minutes after their cruise ship arrives, at the Excursion hub. Those arriving at different docks follow clear signage to find the pickup area.

How long does the tour last?
Tours last between 3 and 6 hours, mainly scheduled in the morning, fitting well into cruise schedules or day trips.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, credit card, rain gear, clothes suitable for getting dirty or wet, a fishing license if fishing, personal medications, closed-toe shoes, and quick-dry layers.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, only water is included. You should bring snacks or drinks if desired.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the boat?
The boat has a heated cabin, bathroom, seating for six, twin 250hp motors, and gear for fishing (if applicable).

Will I see wildlife?
While wildlife sightings depend on conditions, reviews highlight chances of seeing whales, otters, sea lions, and more—often described as spectacular.

Is this suitable for children?
Children under 2, 3, or 4 years old are not recommended, but older children and families with an adventurous spirit will enjoy the experience.

In summary, Ear Mountain Charters offers a well-rounded, authentic Alaska experience that emphasizes wildlife, scenery, and small-group comfort. Perfect for those seeking a memorable outdoor adventure that won’t break the bank but will leave you with stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: