Witness Coastal Brown Bear in Their Natural Habitat – 2026 Icy Strait Tours Now Booking

Published on November 21, 2025

Wilderness Island Tours, LLC, is opening bookings for the 2026 Chichagof Coastal Brown Bear Tour, which is an incredible opportunity to the cherish the wilderness of Icy Strait, Alaska, home of the Coastal Brown Bear. Icy Strait is filled with an abundance of wildlife along the shores of the Arctic, and a perfect place to experience the strength and beauty of the brown bears.

This small group, land based tour is suited for both cruise passengers and independent travelers looking for an immersive and ethical wildlife viewing experience. Saftey, wildlife, & cultural respect make these tours an ideal way to connect with the resources of nature.

The Chichagof Coastal Brown Bear Tour Experience

The Chichagof Coastal Brown Bear Tour takes visitors on an unforgettable 2–3 hour journey around Chichagof Island, an area renowned for its abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Guests will embark on a guided excursion led by local experts who provide insightful commentary on the bears, the region’s ecosystems, and the cultural significance of the land.

The tour focuses on maintaining a respectful distance from the animals, ensuring that sightings are memorable while prioritising the well-being of the wildlife. A combination of coastal and stream-adjacent routes increases the likelihood of encountering bears, particularly during the peak salmon run, when the bears are most active.

Tour Details and What’s New for 2026

For the 2026 season, Wilderness Island Tours has maintained its commitment to small groups, which ensures a more intimate and personalized experience. The tours are scheduled to align with port calls at Icy Strait Point, providing a seamless experience for cruise passengers. The tour’s format remains flexible, taking into account the day’s conditions to offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Highlights include:

• Small-group tours designed for a more intimate and safe experience.
• Guided excursions with safety briefings and expert insights into local wildlife.
• No-baiting policy to ensure the bears are viewed in their natural environment, with an emphasis on maintaining a safe distance.
• Cultural context about the Tlingit people and their stewardship of the land.
• Pickup and drop-off at the Icy Strait Excursion Hub for convenience.

Ethical Wildlife Viewing Focus

One of the key features of Wilderness Island Tours is its commitment to ethical wildlife viewing. The guides are trained to assess the best viewing conditions for each tour, taking into account tides, weather, and animal behaviour. By following a strict no-baiting policy and maintaining appropriate viewing distances, the company ensures that guests experience the wildlife without disturbing their natural behaviours.

In addition, the tours aim to educate guests on the local flora and fauna, enriching the experience by offering insights into the ecosystem beyond just the bears. For example, some tours may include glimpses of berry patches or foraging areas, adding depth to the experience.

Safety and Guest Experience

Before embarking on the tour, guests receive a safety briefing covering the appropriate behaviours for wildlife viewing. This includes maintaining silence and patience to avoid disturbing the animals. Tour guides also provide advice on camera etiquette, ensuring that wildlife is photographed without disturbing its natural patterns.

Guests are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing and bring cameras or binoculars for the best viewing experience. The tours are designed to allow for plenty of time to observe and photograph the bears, while also respecting their space.

Why Choose Wilderness Island Tours?

Wilderness Island Tours offers a unique experience for those looking to connect with nature in a safe and ethical way. By focusing on small-group, land-based excursions, the company ensures a personal and enriching experience for each guest. With knowledgeable local guides, the tour offers more than just bear sightings – it provides a deep connection to the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

As part of the Tongass National Forest, Wilderness Island Tours operates under a special-use permit and follows all local regulations to ensure that its tours have minimal environmental impact. This dedication to sustainable and responsible tourism has earned the company a reputation for providing high-quality, low-impact wildlife experiences.

How to Book Your Tour

Due to overwhelming feelings from the public and small group sizes, Wilderness Island has now opened booking for the 2026 season. Travelers interested in tour pricing or availability can visit the Wilderness Island Tours site. Tours for Wilderness Island include the Chichagof Coastal Brown Bear Tour, which allows you to experience the Alaskan wilderness like never before. Whether you are a photographer, nature lover, or just want to go on a unique adventure, this one is for you!