Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier

Visitors to Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier tour are in for a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Picture this: as the tour boat glides through the crystal-clear waters, a massive humpback whale breaches just meters away, its sleek body glistening in the sunlight. The thrill and wonder of witnessing these magnificent creatures up close is truly indescribable.

But that’s just the beginning. The tour also takes you to the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, where you can explore the icy wonderland and learn about its fascinating history.

There’s so much more to discover on this extraordinary journey, so let’s dive in and uncover the unforgettable moments that await.

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Juneau.

Good To Know

• Mendenhall Glacier is a stunning natural wonder in Juneau, stretching over 13 miles.
• The tour offers opportunities to view the glacier from platforms and walkways, as well as visit the Visitor Center.
• The tour includes an exciting whale-watching cruise along the coast, with the chance to see humpback whales, bald eagles, and blue heron.
• The tour departs from the main cruise ship terminal in downtown Juneau, with a shuttle available for cruise ship passengers and options for hotel guests staying outside of downtown.

Overview of Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier, spanning over 13 miles, is a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder that captivates visitors with its sheer size and stunning beauty. Located in Juneau, Alaska, this glacier is a must-see attraction for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

As visitors approach the glacier, they’re greeted by breathtaking views from viewing platforms and walkways, allowing them to appreciate the magnitude of this icy giant. The glacier’s icy blue hues and intricate crevasses leave visitors in awe of its grandeur.

At the Visitor Center, guests can delve deeper into the glacier’s formation, history, and impact on the surrounding environment. The Mendenhall Glacier isn’t only a sight to behold, but it also serves as a reminder of the impressive forces of nature that shape our planet.

Departure Point and Meeting Instructions

As visitors marvel at the grandeur of the Mendenhall Glacier, their next step is to make their way to the departure point and receive the meeting instructions for their unforgettable adventure.

The tour check-in is conveniently located at the main cruise ship terminal in downtown Juneau. Specifically, visitors can find the meeting point under the tent on the wooden pier on the water-side of the Mt. Roberts Tramway Building. The address to remember is 490 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801.

For cruise ship passengers docking at the AJ dock, a shuttle is available to transport them to the departure point. Hotel guests staying outside of downtown Juneau can arrange to meet at the harbor in Auke Bay.

With these clear instructions, visitors can ensure a smooth start to their wildlife whale watching tour.

What to Expect on the Tour

Embarking on this thrilling wildlife whale watching tour, you will be treated to an unforgettable experience in the scenic wonders of Juneau.

Here’s what to expect on the tour:

• The adventure begins with a bus ride to Mendenhall Glacier, allowing ample time for exploration and photography. Visitors can enjoy the visitor center, trails, and bear-viewing platforms, seeing the beauty of this impressive natural wonder.

• Afterward, participants board a wildlife-viewing vessel equipped with comfortable seating, oversized windows, and a warm cabin. As the captain navigates the waters, everyone can look forward to spotting humpback whales, seals, eagles, and other fascinating wildlife. The tour guarantees wildlife sightings, ensuring an up-close and personal encounter with nature’s wonders.

• Throughout the cruise, complimentary snacks and beverages are provided, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views as they create lasting memories of their time in Juneau.

Cancellation Policy

After seeing the beauty of Mendenhall Glacier and enjoying a thrilling wildlife whale watching cruise, participants should familiarize themselves with the cancellation policy for this unforgettable tour.

Cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance of the experience are eligible for a full refund. It’s important to note that to receive a full refund, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the start time.

Unfortunately, cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time aren’t eligible for a refund. Plus, changes made less than 24 hours before the start time won’t be accepted. The cut-off times for cancellations are based on the local time of the experience.

It’s always a good idea to review the cancellation policy before booking to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Traveler Reviews

The tour has received rave reviews from travelers, with a 5-star rating based on 3,957 reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor.

• Fantastic weather, knowledgeable guides, and close encounters with whales are frequently mentioned in positive reviews.
• The tour is highly recommended for its great experience, friendly staff, and successful whale sightings.
• Some reviewers suggest going earlier than October for better whale watching opportunities.

Travelers have praised the tour for its exceptional quality and unforgettable experiences. Many have expressed their satisfaction with the knowledgeable and friendly guides who provide valuable information about the wildlife and the Mendenhall Glacier. The close encounters with whales have been a highlight for many, leaving them in awe of these majestic creatures. Plus, the tour’s success in spotting wildlife, including humpback whales, seals, and eagles, has received high praise.

However, a few negative reviews have mentioned that the group sizes can be large, resulting in limited commentary and a lack of personalization. The overwhelmingly positive reviews indicate that this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Juneau.

Common Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier tour. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the breathtaking views of the glacier and the thrilling experience of spotting humpback whales and other wildlife.

Is There a Restroom Available on the Wildlife-Viewing Vessel During the Tour?

Yes, there is a restroom available on the wildlife-viewing vessel during the tour. Guests can use it for their convenience while enjoying the breathtaking views and wildlife sightings along the coast.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy snacks and beverages while experiencing the breathtaking views of the Mendenhall Glacier and wildlife sightings.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges That Participants Should Be Aware Of?

Participants should be aware that there are no additional fees or charges for the Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier tour. The tour price includes all necessary expenses, such as transportation and snacks.

Is It Possible to See Other Types of Wildlife Besides Humpback Whales During the Tour?

Yes, participants have the opportunity to see other types of wildlife besides humpback whales during the tour. Possible sightings include bald eagles, seals, and blue heron, adding to the excitement and diversity of the experience.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, the Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier tour offers an incredible opportunity to witness the beauty of the Mendenhall Glacier and spot majestic whales in their natural habitat.

With comfortable seating, guaranteed wildlife sightings, and breathtaking landscapes, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Don’t miss the chance to embark on this thrilling adventure and create lasting memories in the stunning landscapes of Juneau.