Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier

Discover the breathtaking wildlife and glacial landscapes of Juneau on this immersive half-day tour that promises an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

Juneau’s captivating wildlife and glacial landscapes come alive on this immersive half-day tour. Travelers embark on a wildlife-viewing cruise, spotting humpback whales, bald eagles, and more as knowledgeable guides share insights. After the cruise, they’ll explore the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier, a natural wonder that has captivated visitors for decades. With convenient transportation and a flexible schedule, this tour promises an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

Key Points

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier - Key Points

  • Half-day excursion featuring Mendenhall Glacier and whale-watching cruise with flexible departure times.
  • Comfortable wildlife-viewing vessel offering 100% guarantee to see whales during the cruise.
  • Opportunity to marvel at the towering ice formations and serene beauty of Mendenhall Glacier.
  • Diverse range of marine and avian species, including humpback whales, bald eagles, and blue herons.
  • Roundtrip transportation provided from the cruise terminal with shuttle service available to the glacier.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences nearby.

Overview of the Tour

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier - Overview of the Tour

The Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier tour offers a captivating half-day excursion that showcases the region’s natural wonders.

Travelers embark on a journey to witness the majestic Mendenhall Glacier and enjoy a whale-watching cruise. Spectacular views of the glacier can be seen from platforms, the visitor center, and during the coastal cruise.

Wildlife spotting is a highlight, with the opportunity to observe humpback whales, bald eagles, and blue herons.

Departure times are available throughout the day, providing flexibility for visitors.

The tour promises an unforgettable experience amidst the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife of Juneau.

Whale Watching Experience

Though the whale-watching portion of the tour is only one part of the overall experience, it’s undoubtedly a highlight for many travelers.

Aboard a comfortable, wildlife-viewing vessel with oversized windows and an outdoor deck, guests are guaranteed the chance to spot a variety of whales, including the majestic humpback.

Knowledgeable guides provide live commentary, offering insights into the whales’ behaviors and the surrounding ecosystem.

With a 100% guarantee to see whales, the cruise allows visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of Juneau’s coastal waters, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Mendenhall Glacier Exploration

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier - Mendenhall Glacier Exploration

Complementing the whale-watching experience, the tour offers a captivating exploration of the Mendenhall Glacier.

Visitors can marvel at the glacier’s towering ice formations and serene beauty from the platforms and visitor center. The 45-minute stop allows ample time to capture stunning photographs and learn about the glacier’s formation and retreat through informative exhibits.

Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary, enriching the overall experience. With easy access and shuttle service, guests can fully enjoy the glacier’s grandeur before rejoining the wildlife cruise.

The Mendenhall Glacier exploration completes the tour, offering a well-rounded adventure in Juneau’s magnificent natural landscape.

Wildlife Spotting Opportunities

As guests embark on the whale-watching cruise, they’re treated to an array of wildlife-spotting opportunities. Humpback whales are the main draw, often breaching and displaying their majestic presence.

In addition, bald eagles soar overhead, while blue herons wade in the shallows. Curious seals may pop up to observe the passing boat.

The knowledgeable guides provide live commentary, sharing insights about the local flora and fauna. With the glacier’s stunning backdrop, the wildlife sightings create an unforgettable experience.

Travelers are virtually guaranteed to witness a diverse range of marine and avian species during this half-day adventure.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour provides roundtrip transportation from the cruise terminal, making it convenient for guests to reach the meeting point.

Roundtrip transportation from the cruise terminal makes it convenient for guests to reach the meeting point.

Once there, the team can be found under the green canopy tent on the water side of the 490 S Franklin St building.

The tour has a maximum of 49 travelers and includes shuttle service to the Gold Belt Tram building for $3.00.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, collapsible wheelchairs are allowed, and the experience is stroller-friendly.

Service animals are also permitted.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier - Meeting and Pickup Details

Guests are advised to meet the tour team at the 490 S Franklin St building in Juneau, Alaska.

The team is located on the water side of the building under a green canopy tent. The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end.

  • The meeting point isn’t wheelchair accessible, but collapsible wheelchairs are allowed.
  • The tour is stroller accessible, and service animals are permitted.
  • The shuttle cost to the Gold Belt Tram building is $3.00.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier - Accessibility and Accommodations

Although the meeting point isn’t wheelchair accessible, the tour does allow for collapsible wheelchairs. Strollers are also permitted, and service animals are welcome.

The tour isn’t entirely wheelchair-friendly, but the staff will accommodate passengers’ needs to the best of their ability.

The shuttle to the Gold Belt Tram building costs $3.00.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier - Customer Ratings and Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier tour, awarding it an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on over 5,020 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable and friendly guides, unforgettable whale sightings, stunning glacier views, and informative commentary.

Recommendations include:

  • Reserving front seats for accessibility
  • Experiencing the tour’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife interactions
  • Taking advantage of the free cancellation and flexible booking options

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour in Multiple Languages?

Yes, this tour offers multilingual options. Travelers can enjoy the whale watching and Mendenhall Glacier experience in various languages, ensuring an inclusive and informative adventure for guests from diverse backgrounds.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There’s no minimum age requirement for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join, though parents should use their discretion based on their kids’ interests and ability to appreciate the experience.

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

Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. Complimentary snacks and bottled water are provided, but bringing additional provisions is permitted. Consuming outside food and beverages is allowed during the excursion.

Is There a Discounted Rate for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounted rates for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a 40% discount, while seniors aged 65 and above receive a 10% discount off the regular adult price.

Can I Customize the Tour Duration or Activities?

While the tour has set durations and activities, customers can’t customize the experience. However, the tour operator offers flexible booking options and free cancellation, allowing some flexibility in planning the visit.

The Sum Up

The Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier tour offers an unforgettable Alaskan experience. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable cruise, spot humpback whales and bald eagles, and explore the breathtaking Mendenhall Glacier. With convenient transportation and a flexible schedule, this tour provides a memorable opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Alaska.