Juneau: Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure

If you’re dreaming of getting close to Alaska’s incredible marine life while soaking in breathtaking views, the Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure in Juneau promises an experience packed with natural beauty and wildlife encounters. This six-hour tour, offered by Above & Beyond Alaska, combines a boat cruise, remote island landings, and tandem kayaking—making it a perfect choice for adventurous travelers eager to see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and more in their natural habitat.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to paddle right into the heart of a humpback whale feeding ground is truly special. Second, the small group size (limited to just six participants) ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities for guide-led wildlife spotting and insightful commentary. Third, the combination of land, sea, and paddling makes this a diverse and engaging day. The only consideration? The tour’s price of $501 per person might seem steep—yet, when you consider the exclusivity and quality of the experience, it offers significant value for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

This adventure is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, don’t mind paddling a tandem kayak for up to 2 hours, and are comfortable in a marine environment. It’s ideal for curious travelers seeking an active, authentic Alaska experience. However, it’s not recommended for children under 8 or pregnant women, and a minimum of 4 guests is needed to operate each trip, so check availability ahead of time.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Encounters: Up close with humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and porpoises.
• All Skill Levels: Suitable for beginners thanks to a helpful kayaking tutorial.
• Remote Locations: Land on secluded islands for snacks and exploration.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insights and assist with wildlife spotting.
• Comfort & Safety: Includes high-quality gear, dry bags, and rain gear.
• Limited Groups: Small groups mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

The adventure begins with a convenient van transfer from Juneau, either from a central meeting point or your hotel in the Mendenhall Valley. The ride takes you through scenic surroundings before boarding a climate-controlled motorboat that cruises through the famed Inside Passage, one of Alaska’s most mesmerizing waterways. As you leave the busy harbor behind, the landscape shifts to snow-capped peaks and glaciers, setting the perfect backdrop for your wildlife pursuit.

The boat ride lasts approximately an hour, bringing you to the Channel Islands State Marine Park—a haven for whales and marine mammals. The first highlight? Landing on a remote beach, where your guides will introduce your tandem kayaks and give a basic paddling tutorial. This part is especially welcoming for beginners, as guides like Cecile from France, who recently described the tour as “magical,” ensure everyone feels comfortable before setting out.

Once on the water, the focus is on seeking out marine life. Kayaking in pairs allows you to move silently through the water, offering a more intimate wildlife viewing experience than from a boat. Expect to encounter humpback whales, often feeding in the rich waters, as well as orcas, seals, sea lions, and porpoises. Your guides, equipped with expert local knowledge, help spot these creatures, pointing out their behaviors and sharing fascinating facts along the way.

The guides’ attentiveness and their ability to balance providing information without overwhelming add to the overall quality of the tour. The reviewer Cecile mentioned that after many explanations about the whales, they appreciated the space given to the animals, respecting their habitat. This quiet, respectful approach is key to enjoying Alaska’s wilderness authentically.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Landings and Snacks

After paddling for a while, you’ll return to the remote island for a well-earned break. Here, a hearty snack awaits—perfect for recharging before you head back out. This part of the trip allows you to stretch your legs, explore the rocky shores, and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The landings are a rare treat, giving you a sense of true wilderness and a chance to observe the untouched landscape.

Wildlife & Scenery

Throughout the day, the combination of boat cruising and kayaking offers multiple vantage points for wildlife sightings. While sightings cannot be guaranteed—something to keep in mind—the guides’ expertise increases your chances of seeing whales breaching or spouting nearby. The scenery itself, with snow-capped peaks and icy glaciers in the distance, enhances the experience, making it as much about the landscape as the wildlife.

The experience is described as “magical” by past participants, with many noting the guides’ deep knowledge and passion. The small group size (limited to six) ensures that everyone gets plenty of attention and space to enjoy the environment.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The tour package covers van transfer from downtown Juneau or Mendenhall Valley hotels, a water taxi, double kayaks, paddles, dry bags, and rain gear. A snack pack and water are also included, making it easier to focus on the adventure without worrying about logistics.

It’s worth noting that hotel pickup is available only for those staying in Mendenhall Valley—so if you’re elsewhere in Juneau, you’ll meet at the designated spot near the cruise ship docks. This location is conveniently near landmarks like the Mt. Roberts Tramway and Taku Smokeries, making it easy to find.

The tour requires a minimum of four guests to run, so confirm your booking early. Also, participants should be able to paddle confidently for up to 2 hours—so if paddling isn’t your forte, this might be a good reason to practice beforehand or consider a different activity.

The Price & Its Value

At $501 per person, this tour is not cheap—but it offers an experience that’s both intimate and comprehensive. You’re getting a guided, small-group adventure that combines land, sea, and paddling, along with the chance to see iconic Alaskan wildlife in their natural environment. The inclusion of quality gear and expert guides adds to the value, especially considering the rarity of such wildlife encounters.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who want a hands-on, authentic wildlife adventure. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable in water and enjoy small-group settings with personalized guidance. It’s also well-suited to nature lovers eager to see whales and other marine creatures up close. However, if you’re traveling with young children under 8, pregnant, or prefer more relaxed sightseeing, this tour might not be the best fit.

The Juneau Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure offers a rare opportunity to connect with Alaska’s wilderness in an energetic, intimate way. From the thrill of paddling among whales to landings on secluded islands, it combines adventure with the chance to observe wildlife responsibly and quietly.

The guides’ local expertise and small group size mean you’ll receive personalized attention, making this more than just a kayak trip—it’s a genuine immersion into Alaska’s marine ecosystem. While it’s an investment, the memories of spotting whales breaching nearby and paddling in pristine waters are likely to make it worth every penny.

This tour best suits curious, active travelers who want to experience Alaska’s natural beauty firsthand. It’s a unique blend of adventure, wildlife, and scenery, offering a level of authenticity that larger cruises or land-based tours simply can’t match.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, van transfer from downtown Juneau or Mendenhall Valley hotels is included in the tour.

What is the skill level required? The tour is suitable for all kayaking skill levels thanks to a basic tutorial, though you should be comfortable paddling for up to 2 hours.

Can I see whales on this tour? Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but with guides’ expertise, your chances of seeing humpbacks and orcas are high.

What should I bring? The tour provides rain gear, dry bags, and paddles. Bringing personal water and a small bag for extra gear is recommended.

Is the tour family-friendly? Not for children under 8 or pregnant women; check your comfort level with paddling and marine environments.

How many people are in each group? Small groups are limited to six participants, ensuring personalized guidance.

What’s the best time of year to do this? While not specified, Alaska’s whale feeding season peaks from late spring to early fall, making summer months ideal.

What is included in the price? Van transfer, water taxi, double kayak and paddles, rain gear, dry bags, snack pack, and water.

How do I book? Check availability and book through the tour provider, Above & Beyond Alaska, for a secure reservation.

This guided kayak adventure from Juneau promises a well-rounded, authentic Alaska experience—perfect for those looking to combine wildlife, scenery, and active exploration in one unforgettable day.

You can check if your dates are available here: