gee016

Our cruise stops here and are curious what to do. Should we book an excursion or are there enough stuff to do on our own? We'll be traveling with our 2 boys (7 and 5 years old). Thanks!

janisj

It is actually Icy Strait Point

ISP/Hoonah was one of our favorite stops. Whales, Native dance performances, the museum and shops in the cannery complex, a zipline.

gee016

Thanks! Did you book excursions or just do your own thing? Our kids are too small for the zip line, so would you recommend a whale watching tour??

janisj

>>so would you recommend a whale watching tour??<<

We saw a couple whales right from the dock (!)

But no, I probably wouldn't do a whale trip out of ISP - since I assume you have other ports of call with more options. ISP was created by the local Tlingit residents as a cruise-specific destination but they limit the number of ships allowed and keep things about a 'non-commercial' as possible.

I'd spend the time on shore - definitely go to the Native Heritage Center where there is a theater for dance and folklore performances -- just terrific. Plus it has a nice collection of totem poles.

There is also a land-based wildlife tour which was fun.

There us a good restaurant and a wonderful gift shop.

gee016

Thanks!