Chichagof Wilderness Brown Bear Search Tour

Visitors consistently rave about the exceptional whale watching experiences led by knowledgeable captains like Denise, Lisa Marie, and Paul. These guides don't just know where to find the wildlife—they share fascinating local stories, traditional oral histories (shared with elder permission), and personal insights about life in Hoonah that make the tours memorable beyond the animal sightings. The smaller boat size gets mentioned as a real advantage for getting up close to the action. The wildlife encounters are genuinely impressive. Guests regularly spot humpback whales and orcas at remarkably close range, with multiple reviews mentioning whales breaching, bubble net feeding, and even circling the boat. Sea otters, sea lions, and eagles round out the sightings. What stands out is how the crew combines these wildlife moments with cultural storytelling, creating an experience that feels both educational and deeply personal. The fast boats help reach sighting locations quickly, and captains communicate with other charters to maximize viewing opportunities.