Juneau Whale Watching and Salmon Bake

Juneau’s Whale Watching and Salmon Bake tour is a captivating experience for visitors to Alaska’s capital. Guests embark on a state-of-the-art vessel to spot migrating humpback whales and then indulge in a mouthwatering all-you-can-eat salmon feast, complete with live music and campfire activities. Guided by knowledgeable naturalists, the tour offers a chance to take in the natural wonders and cultural richness of this picturesque gold rush setting. But what truly sets this experience apart is the opportunity to witness the majestic creatures of the sea up close.

Key Points

• The Juneau Whale Watching tour combines whale watching and a salmon bake, offering a full-day experience in Juneau, Alaska.
• The tour guarantees whale sightings and provides a refund if no whales are spotted, exploring the prime humpback whale migration area of Auke Bay.
• The state-of-the-art vessel offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with a naturalist guide providing commentary on the humpback whales and local ecosystem.
• The salmon bake features an all-you-can-eat buffet with freshly grilled Alaska salmon, parmesan chicken, and other delicacies in a historic gold rush setting.
• The tour has overwhelmingly positive reviews, with 94% of travelers recommending the experience, though some have noted issues with timing and organization, particularly regarding the salmon bake.

Overview of the Tour

The full-day Juneau Whale Watching tour features a combination of whale watching and a salmon bake, recommended by 94% of travelers with an overall rating of 4.7 from 186 reviews.

Guests are guaranteed whale sightings, with a $100 refund ($50 for children) if no whales are spotted. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so visitors should dress appropriately.

Participants will explore Auke Bay, a prime humpback whale migration area, aboard a state-of-the-art vessel with large windows, binoculars, and an exterior observation deck for optimal wildlife viewing.

Whale Watching Experience

Guests on the Juneau Whale Watching tour will get to explore Auke Bay, a prime location where over 65 humpback whales migrate annually.

Aboard a state-of-the-art 48-passenger vessel, they’ll enjoy large windows, binoculars, and an exterior observation deck for optimal viewing.

A naturalist guide will provide commentary on the humpback whales, local ecosystem, and other wildlife sightings, which may include Steller sea lions, Dall’s porpoises, bald eagles, and harbor seals.

On clear days, the tour may offer stunning views of the Mendenhall Glacier.

The whale watching experience promises an up-close and educational encounter with these majestic creatures.

Salmon Bake Experience

After the whale watching adventure, guests can enjoy a freshly grilled Alaska salmon in a historic gold rush setting.

The all-you-can-eat buffet includes not only salmon, but also parmesan chicken, au gratin potatoes, baked beans with reindeer sausage, and wild-rice pilaf. Salads and blueberry cake for dessert round out the meal.

Activities like roasting marshmallows over a campfire and exploring the Salmon Creek Trading Post and waterfall provide additional entertainment.

Live music adds to the lively atmosphere of this historic salmon bake venue.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point for the tour is the Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau, Alaska.

Travelers should arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.

Shuttle service departs for the pier every 15-20 minutes, allowing for return at leisure.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 90 travelers, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

The tour is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and service animals are allowed.

• Shuttle service departs every 15-20 minutes for return at leisure
• Maximum of 90 travelers; children under 12 must accompany an adult
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible; service animals allowed

Guaranteed Whale Sightings

If no whales are spotted during the tour, the company offers a $100 refund for adults and a $50 refund for children. This guarantee ensures customers have a whale-watching experience, regardless of wildlife sightings.

The tour explores Auke Bay, a prime destination for over 65 migrating humpback whales annually. Aboard a state-of-the-art 48-passenger vessel, guests can view the whales through large windows, binoculars, and from the exterior observation deck.

A naturalist guide provides expert commentary, educating travelers on the humpbacks and local ecosystem. With this guarantee, visitors can enjoy the tour with confidence, knowing their money is protected if the whales don’t make an appearance.

Exploring Auke Bay

As the tour vessel departs from the pier, passengers are treated to a scenic journey through Auke Bay, a renowned destination for humpback whale sightings.

The state-of-the-art 48-passenger boat is equipped with a hydrophone system, allowing guests to listen to the whales’ haunting songs. Large windows and an exterior observation deck offer optimal viewing opportunities.

The naturalist guide provides expert commentary, sharing insights about the humpbacks and the local ecosystem. Sightings may also include Steller sea lions, Dall’s porpoises, bald eagles, and harbor seals.

On clear days, the majestic Mendenhall Glacier may even come into view.

• Large windows and exterior observation deck for optimal whale watching
• Hydrophone system to listen to the whales’ songs
• Knowledgeable naturalist guide provides expert commentary

Dining Options at the Salmon Bake

After the whale watching tour, passengers disembark and make their way to the historic gold rush setting of the Salmon Bake.

There, they’re greeted with an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring freshly grilled Alaska salmon, parmesan chicken, au gratin potatoes, baked beans with reindeer sausage, wild-rice pilaf, and a variety of salads.

For dessert, guests can indulge in blueberry cake.

The Salmon Bake also offers activities like roasting marshmallows over a campfire and exploring the Salmon Creek Trading Post and waterfall.

Live entertainment provides a lively ambiance, completing the immersive gold rush experience.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

The Juneau Whale Watching tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, with 94% of travelers recommending the experience.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, fantastic whale sightings, and enjoyable salmon bake.

However, some travelers noted issues with timing and organization, particularly regarding the salmon bake.

Suggestions for improvement include:

• Better communication about schedule changes
• More menu variety at the salmon bake
• Improved overall coordination of the tour

Despite these minor concerns, the majority consider the Juneau Whale Watching and Salmon Bake a must-do activity, providing a memorable experience in Juneau.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade My Tour Package With Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour package can likely be upgraded with additional activities. Travelers should inquire about any add-on options, such as hiking, glacier tours, or cultural experiences, when booking to customize their Juneau excursion.

What Happens if the Weather Is Inclement During the Tour?

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so guests should dress appropriately. The tour provider guarantees whale sightings, and if no whales are spotted, they’ll provide a partial refund.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

No, passengers cannot bring their own food and drinks on the boat. The tour provides a full salmon bake experience, and outside food and beverages are not permitted to ensure the quality and enjoyment of the event.

Do the Tour Guides Offer Options for Dietary Restrictions?

The tour guides accommodate various dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options at the salmon bake. They recommend informing them of any restrictions when booking to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 48 hours in advance for a full refund. If no whales are spotted, you’ll receive a $100 refund ($50 for children).

The Sum Up

The Juneau Whale Watching and Salmon Bake tour offers an unforgettable adventure for visitors. Guests can spot majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat and indulge in a delectable all-you-can-eat salmon feast, all set in a picturesque gold rush setting. With knowledgeable guides, guaranteed whale sightings, and a range of dining options, this tour provides an exceptional Alaskan experience that shouldn’t be missed.