Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion: Were Going on a Bear Hunt!

Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure in Hoonah, USA, with the "Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt!" This personalized tour offers a 90% probability of bear sightings during the peak season, transporting you through the stunning Tongass National Forest. Led by knowledgeable guides, the excursion includes transportation, food, and drinks, ensuring a seamless experience. Limited to just 12 participants, this shore excursion promises an intimate encounter with the majestic creatures that call this region home. Whether you’re a cruise passenger or hotel guest, this excursion is a must-add to your itinerary. What awaits you on this thrilling adventure?

Key Points

• The Icy Strait small group shore excursion offers a 90% probability of bear sightings during the peak season from May to September.
• The tour includes a driver/guide and local guide, port pickup and drop-off, and meals, providing a convenient and all-inclusive wildlife viewing experience.
• The excursion is limited to a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate encounter with the Alaskan wilderness and its diverse wildlife.
• Scenic drives through the Tongass National Forest allow visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the region, including towering evergreens, sparkling streams, and rugged mountains.
• The tour can be easily integrated into cruise or hotel itineraries, making it an accessible and flexible option for travelers.

Tour Overview

The Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion offers an opportunity for travelers to embark on a bear hunt in Hoonah, USA.

This tour is limited to a maximum of 12 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Priced at $355.90 per person, the excursion includes a driver/guide, local guide, port pickup and drop-off, as well as food and drinks.

While bear sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour operator notes a high chance of 90% during favorable seasons. Guests can also expect to spot deer and eagles while enjoying scenic drives through the Tongass National Forest.

The tour operates daily from May to September, with participants advised to confirm the start time with the local provider.

Inclusions and Pricing

The Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion includes a driver/guide and local guide to lead the tour.

They’ll provide port pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience.

What’s more, the tour includes food and drinks, so you won’t have to worry about packing snacks.

The price for this adventure starts at $355.90 per person, which is a reasonable rate considering the inclusions and the unique opportunity to spot bears in their natural habitat.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, you can book with confidence, knowing you can adjust your plans if needed.

Operating Dates and Schedule

Visitors can experience the Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion during the peak bear-viewing seasons, running from May 1st to September 30th in 2024 and 2025.

The tour operates daily during this time, with departures scheduled between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM. However, travelers should confirm the exact start time with the local provider upon booking, as schedules may vary.

This ensures participants have the flexibility to fit the excursion seamlessly into their cruise or hotel itinerary.

With a maximum group size of 12, the adventure offers an intimate and personalized experience for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an up-close encounter with the region’s majestic bears.

Accessibility and Requirements

This excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Cruise ship passengers will need to provide their ship name, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time at booking. Hotel guests can also join the tour, making it a great option for those not sailing.

With a maximum group size of 12 people, this intimate experience allows for personalized attention from the driver/guide and local guide.

Whether you’re a cruise passenger or staying in the area, this bear hunt shore excursion offers an opportunity to explore the Icy Strait region and potentially spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

Traveler Reviews and Experiences

Travelers have shared a range of experiences with this Icy Strait shore excursion.

Those who were lucky spotted bears during their wildlife hunt, though sightings aren’t guaranteed. Many praised the scenic drives through the Tongass National Forest, where they encountered deer and eagles.

The tour’s overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 indicates a generally positive experience, though some were disappointed by the lack of bear sightings.

Ultimately, this shore excursion offers the chance to explore the stunning natural landscape of Icy Strait, with the thrill of potentially seeing a bear in its natural habitat.

The Likelihood of Bear Sightings

Although bear sightings aren’t guaranteed, tour operators note a 90% chance of spotting these majestic creatures during the favorable season.

The Icy Strait shore excursion offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the region’s diverse wildlife, including bears, deer, and eagles.

While the elusive nature of bears adds an element of excitement, the tour’s experienced guides are skilled at maximizing your chances of encountering them.

Here are three key reasons why the bear hunt is a highlight of this excursion:

1. Optimal Timing: The tour is scheduled during the prime bear viewing period, when these animals are most active and visible.

2. Knowledgeable Guides: The local guides possess extensive expertise in spotting and tracking bears, ensuring a high likelihood of successful sightings.

3. Responsible Wildlife Viewing: The small group size and guided approach prioritize the bears’ well-being and provide an immersive, educational experience.

Scenic Drives Through Tongass National Forest

As the Icy Strait shore excursion winds its way through the majestic Tongass National Forest, travelers are treated to a breathtaking display of Alaska’s natural splendor.

Towering evergreens, sparkling streams, and rugged mountains create a serene and awe-inspiring backdrop. The scenic drive offers ample opportunities to spot wildlife, from majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to the occasional glimpse of a deer or elk.

With its lush foliage and tranquil atmosphere, the Tongass National Forest provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing visitors to enjoy the pristine beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

Things To Known

Are There Any Special Clothing or Gear Requirements?

Participants should wear layers, comfortable hiking boots, and bring rain gear. Insect repellent is also recommended. The tour provider advises guests to dress for the weather and outdoor conditions for the best experience.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

Guests are welcome to bring their own camera equipment on the tour. However, they should ensure it’s portable and easy to carry, as the excursion involves hiking through the Tongass National Forest in search of bears and other wildlife.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, but infants must sit on laps. Children of all ages are welcome to join the bear hunt adventure, providing they can safely participate in the activities.

Can I Request a Private Tour or Customize the Experience?

Travelers can request a private tour, but this may incur additional fees. While the experience cannot be fully customized, the provider may accommodate special requests or dietary needs. Group sizes are limited to provide a more personalized excursion.

What Happens if the Weather Is Poor on the Day of the Tour?

If the weather is poor, the tour provider will work with guests to reschedule or offer an alternative activity. They prioritize guest safety and aim to provide the best experience possible, even if weather conditions are unfavorable.

Sum Up

The "Icy Strait Small Group Shore Excursion: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt!" offers an exceptional opportunity to spot bears in their natural habitat. With a 90% probability of sightings, knowledgeable guides, and scenic drives through the stunning Tongass National Forest, this personalized tour provides an unforgettable wildlife adventure for cruise or hotel guests. It’s a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts visiting Hoonah, USA.