Planning a trip to Juneau and looking for a way to see the best of Alaska’s wilderness in a manageable time? This half-day tour, costing around $151 per person, combines the awe-inspiring sight of Mendenhall Glacier with the thrill of spotting humpback whales from a boat. It’s a well-rounded option for travelers who want an authentic taste of Alaska’s natural wonders without committing to a full-day excursion.
What we love about this tour? First, the stunning views of the Mendenhall Glacier and surrounding mountains really are something special. Second, the opportunity to see whales and bears in their natural environment makes it both exciting and educational. Third, the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting insights about the area’s wildlife and geology. That said, a potential drawback is the short duration at the glacier, meaning you won’t get time to hike out to Nugget Falls—a consideration if you’re hoping for a full-on glacier adventure.
This tour suits anyone eager to combine short but immersive wildlife encounters with iconic sightseeing. It’s especially ideal for those with limited time who want a balanced, natural experience of Juneau’s highlights. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized way to see the glacier and spot whales, this is a solid choice.
Good To Know
- Balanced itinerary that combines glacier viewing and whale watching in 4 hours
- Expert naturalist guides enrich the experience with local insights
- Good value for money, including transportation, snacks, and binoculars
- Limited time at the glacier, no hiking to Nugget Falls included
- Accessible boat trips with open viewing areas for whale sightings
- Booking flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
What You Can Expect from the Tour
This 4-hour adventure begins with a bus ride from downtown Juneau to the Mendenhall Valley. The scenic drive alone is worth the trip, offering views of lush forests and rugged mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where the expansive ice formation dominates the landscape. The center provides educational displays, and from the viewing platforms, you’ll get a close-up look at this impressive natural wonder.
Exploring Mendenhall Glacier and Surroundings
A highlight here is the boardwalk over Steep Creek, where you can watch for spawning salmon—a busy, energetic sight. Reviewers frequently mention the chance to see black bears patiently waiting for a meal, which adds an element of wildlife anticipation. One visitor noted, “We saw a bear waiting patiently for a catch,” highlighting the chance to observe Alaska’s wildlife in their natural habitat.
While the tour stops short of hiking out to Nugget Falls—which some travelers may find a bit disappointing—there’s enough time to enjoy the views, learn from interpretive displays, and take photos of the glacier against the backdrop of mountain peaks.
The Boat Trip: Whale Watching and Waterway Exploration
After the glacier visit, you’re whisked off to Auke Bay Harbor for the boat portion. The vessel is well-equipped with open viewing areas at both the front and back, making it easier to spot whales in the water. The naturalist guide, such as Mia or Simon (mentioned by reviewers), provides commentary on whale behavior, helping you understand what you’re seeing.
Expect to cruise through Favorite Channel, Stephens Passage, Lynn Canal, or Saginaw Channel, where humpback whales are commonly spotted. Reviewers have noted seeing multiple whales, including pods of orcas and calves breaching multiple times. One guest said they witnessed up to seven breaches, making the trip truly memorable.
What Makes the Experience Special?
What sets this tour apart is the combination of stunning scenery and wildlife encounters in a compact timeframe. It’s clear from reviews that the guides are highly knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the experiences even more engaging. Several reviews praise the crew’s ability to position the boat for optimal whale-viewing, often resulting in close-up sightings.
After the boat tour, there’s a warm-up break with coffee, hot chocolate, water, and a snack, which helps relax you after the chilly water or wildlife excitement. The return trip to downtown Juneau wraps up the morning or afternoon, depending on your schedule.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPractical Details and Tips
- Duration: 4 hours, with morning and afternoon options available
- Price: $151 per person, which includes transportation, boat trip, snacks, hot drinks, and binoculars
- Not included: Hiking to Nugget Falls or hotel transfers—you’ll need to arrange those separately if interested
- Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or back problems due to the steep ramp and boat access
- What to bring: Layered clothing, rain gear, thermal wear, and sturdy shoes
- Booking: Flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
This tour’s value proposition lies in delivering a comprehensive wildlife and glacier experience in a short time, with knowledgeable guides ensuring you get the most out of every moment.
Authentic Experiences from Reviews
Numerous travelers have praised guides like William and RIO for their friendly and informative service. One reviewer shared, “William had lots of information about Juneau, making the drive and tour very enjoyable.” Others highlighted how the boat crew did a “fantastic job getting us in position for quite a show,” referring to the whales.
The short glacier stop was frequently mentioned as a minor disappointment, with some saying it was “a bit too short,” but most agreed that the whale sightings more than made up for it. The calm, clear waters and good weather conditions often contributed to successful whale viewing, as noted by reviewers who saw orcas, humpbacks, and calves breaching.
The Sum Up
This Juneau tour offers a well-rounded taste of Alaska’s natural splendor, blending the majestic Mendenhall Glacier with the excitement of marine wildlife. It’s a great option if you’re after high-value experiences in a limited time, especially with guides who know the local environment inside out. The included amenities—snacks, binoculars, and transport—help make the experience smooth and comfortable.
While it doesn’t include hiking or extra glacier walks, it excels at providing authentic wildlife encounters and stunning scenery in just four hours. Perfect for travelers who want a balanced and informative snapshot of Juneau’s wilderness, especially if whale sightings are a priority.
This tour is best suited for those who value expert guides, wildlife viewing, and scenic spots without the need for strenuous activity or full-day commitments. It offers a solid, memorable glimpse into Alaska’s wild side, making it a worthwhile addition to any Juneau itinerary.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from the designated meeting point is included in the price.
What is the meeting point for the tour?
Look for a Dolphin Jet Boat Tours representative outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building, with a blue sign saying “whale watching tour meets here.” Do not go inside the Tramway building.
How long do we spend at the Mendenhall Glacier?
You’ll have enough time to visit the Visitor Center and walk along the boardwalk, but not to hike out to Nugget Falls. The stop is designed to give you a good photo opportunity and wildlife viewing.
Are binoculars provided?
Yes, the tour supplies binoculars to enhance wildlife observation, especially for whale sightings.
Can I see bears during this tour?
Yes, from the boardwalk over Steep Creek, you might see black bears waiting for spawning salmon.
Is there any hiking involved?
No, the tour does not include hiking, and navigating the ramp at the glacier can be steep depending on the tides.
What should I bring?
Layered clothing, rain gear, thermal clothing, and sturdy shoes are recommended to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions.
In all, this tour balances scenery, wildlife, and educational insight, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a concise but impactful Juneau experience.
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