Paddling the calm, protected waters near Icy Strait Point offers one of the most serene and intimate ways to experience Alaska’s legendary coastline. This excursion places you at water level, gliding through kelp-fringed coves at the mouth of Glacier Bay, with the stunning Fairweather mountain range painting the horizon. It’s an active, yet peaceful, adventure ideal for wildlife lovers and families.
What to Expect
Your kayaking adventure begins at the Icy Strait Point Excursion Hub, a central meeting point easily reached via a short walk or a scenic ride on the green Transporter Gondola from your ship’s dock. After meeting your guides, you’ll walk to the kayak beach on the shores of Port Frederick.
Here, you’ll be outfitted with all the necessary gear, including a stable, two-person touring kayak, a spray skirt, and a personal flotation device (PFD). Guides provide a thorough safety briefing and paddling instructions suitable for complete beginners.
Once on the water, you’ll paddle for approximately two hours. The route follows the sheltered shoreline, taking you past the historic waterfront of Hoonah and into quiet coves. The guides lead the way, managing the pace and navigating through dense kelp forests where sea otters are commonly seen floating on their backs. The waters are typically calm, protected from the main strait, making for a relaxing paddle.
Throughout the tour, guides share their knowledge of the local ecosystem and Tlingit culture. Keep a lookout for bald eagles in the trees, harbor seals, and even the occasional humpback whale that sometimes feeds in the area. After exploring, you’ll paddle back to the launch point with plenty of time to explore other Icy Strait Point attractions.
Who This Is For
This kayaking tour is perfect for beginners and families seeking an active, low-impact adventure. No prior kayaking experience is necessary. The stable, two-person kayaks are difficult to tip, and a motorized safety boat often accompanies the group.
It’s an ideal choice for:
- Wildlife Enthusiasts: The water-level perspective offers incredible opportunities to see sea otters, eagles, and other marine life up close.
- Families: With a typical minimum age of 8-10 years, it’s an engaging activity for children who meet the height and weight requirements.
- Active Cruisers: For those who want to get some light exercise and move beyond bus tours, this provides a great physical connection to the environment.
- Photography Buffs: The dramatic scenery of the Glacier Bay approaches and potential wildlife encounters provide stunning photo opportunities.
This is not an adrenaline-pumping, high-intensity workout. The pace is leisurely and focused on observation. Participants should be comfortable sitting in a kayak for about two hours and be able to paddle at a relaxed pace. There are physical requirements, with most operators having a weight limit of 250 lbs and height restrictions.
Ship vs. Independent Booking
For kayaking at Icy Strait Point, there is little difference in price or convenience between booking through your cruise line or independently. The main tour operator is Icy Strait Point itself, meaning the excursion sold on the ship is often the exact same one you could book on-site.
- Booking with the Ship: This is the most straightforward option. It guarantees your spot and comes with a “back-to-ship” guarantee, eliminating any worry about delays. Prices are competitive, often ranging from $120 to $155 per person.
- Booking Independently: You can sometimes book directly with operators at the Excursion Hub upon arrival, but this risks the tour being sold out. Independent operators like Fairweather Kayak Tours are based in Hoonah and may offer a slightly different experience, though you will need to arrange meeting them. The main advantage here might be a smaller group size, but the core experience is very similar.
For this specific tour, booking with your cruise line in advance is the most reliable and stress-free method.
What to Bring
Even on a sunny day, the water in Alaska is cold and the weather can change quickly. Layering is key.
- Waterproof Outer Layers: A waterproof rain jacket and rain pants are essential to stay dry from splashes and potential rain.
- Warm Layers: Wear fleece or other synthetic (non-cotton) layers for warmth.
- Sturdy, Waterproof Shoes: Your feet may get wet getting in and out of the kayak. Water-resistant hiking shoes, rubber boots, or secure water sandals are good choices.
- Hat and Gloves: A warm hat and waterproof gloves will keep you comfortable on the water.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunglasses and sunscreen. The sun’s reflection off the water can be intense.
- Waterproof Camera/Case: A waterproof camera, GoPro, or a waterproof case for your phone is highly recommended. Guides provide dry bags, but extra protection is wise.
How to Book
The most common kayaking tour, often called the “Kayak Adventure” or “Coastal Exploration by Kayak,” is run directly by Icy Strait Point.
- Through Your Cruise Line: The easiest way to secure a spot is to book in advance through your cruise ship’s online shore excursion portal. Look for tours with a duration of 2.5 to 3 hours.
- On-Site: You can book at the Icy Strait Point Excursion Hub upon arrival, but availability is not guaranteed.
- Independent Operators: For a potentially more intimate tour, you can research Fairweather Kayak Tours, which operates out of Hoonah. Be sure to coordinate meeting points and times carefully to align with your ship’s port schedule.
Booking several months in advance is highly recommended for this popular tour, especially during the peak months of June through August.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Icy Strait Point kayaking tour actually like?
You'll meet your guides at the Excursion Hub, then walk a short distance to the kayak beach. After a safety briefing and paddling instruction, you'll launch in a two-person kayak. The tour paddles for about 1.5 to 2 hours in the calm, protected waters of Port Frederick, exploring kelp forests and shorelines. Guides will point out wildlife and share information about the area before you paddle back to the launch point.
Is it better to book my kayaking tour through the ship or independently?
For this excursion, both options are good. The tours are operated by local companies who work directly with the cruise lines, so the price is often very similar. Booking with the ship gives you a back-to-ship guarantee. Booking independently might offer slightly more flexibility, but since the operators are right at the port, convenience is high either way.
What should I wear for kayaking in Icy Strait Point?
Dress in warm, synthetic layers (avoid cotton) and bring a waterproof rain jacket and pants. Wear sturdy shoes you don't mind getting damp, like hiking shoes or water shoes. Also bring sunglasses, a warm hat, and gloves, as it can be cold on the water even on a sunny day.
Are there any age, weight, or fitness requirements for this tour?
Yes, there are typically restrictions. Participants generally must be at least 8-10 years old, weigh between 50 and 250 pounds, and be between 4'10" and 6'6" tall. No prior kayaking experience is needed as this is a beginner-focused tour in calm waters. However, you should be able to sit in a kayak and paddle for about two hours.
What happens if the weather is bad and the tour is canceled?
If the tour operator cancels the excursion due to unsafe weather conditions like high winds or heavy storms, you will receive a full refund. This applies whether you booked through the cruise line or directly with the operator.
How far in advance should I book the Icy Strait Point kayaking tour?
It's best to book this excursion at least a few months in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak season of June, July, or August. These tours have limited capacity and are very popular, so they often sell out.
Who runs the kayaking tours and what does the price include?
The primary operator for tours booked through the cruise lines and at the port is Icy Strait Point itself. Independent operators like Fairweather Kayak Tours also offer trips from nearby Hoonah. The price includes all necessary gear: a two-person kayak, paddles, a spray skirt to keep you dry, a personal flotation device (life jacket), and a dry bag for your belongings. A certified guide leads every tour.