Juneau’s Channel Islands offer a captivating whale watching experience for the adventurous traveler. This 6-hour kayak tour transports guests into the feeding grounds of majestic humpback whales, where they can observe these gentle giants up close. While the $481.95 price tag may give some pause, the opportunity to explore the region’s stunning landscapes and diverse marine life makes this excursion a truly one-of-a-kind adventure. With proper gear and guidance, even novice kayakers can enjoy this natural wonder. But what secrets might the islands and waters hold for those willing to embark on this journey?
This experience made our list of the 11 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Juneau.
Key Points
- This 6-hour kayaking tour in Juneau offers the opportunity to explore humpback whale feeding grounds and observe a diverse range of marine wildlife.
- The tour is priced at $481.95 per person and is categorized as a premium experience due to the unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Participants of all skill levels are accommodated, with a free cancellation policy up to 15 days in advance.
- The tour includes van transfer, water taxi ride, double kayaks, dry bags, rain jackets, and a snack pack.
- Children under 8 years and pregnant women are not permitted to participate due to safety concerns.
Tour Overview
The Juneau: Channel Islands Whale Watching Kayak Adventure offers a 6-hour excursion that explores the humpback whale feeding grounds of Southern Alaska. At $481.95 per person, this tour is likely to sell out quickly, so booking early is recommended.
The tour includes a van transfer from downtown Juneau, a water taxi ride, and the use of double kayaks and essential gear like dry bags and rain jackets.
Participants will have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, and seals, while paddling through the stunning landscapes of the Channel Islands State Marine Park.
The tour is suitable for all skill levels and features a free cancellation policy up to 15 days in advance.
Ready for more marine magic? More whale watching we recommend in Juneau
Pricing
At $481.95 per person, the Juneau: Channel Islands Whale Watching Kayak Adventure is a premium-priced excursion that’s likely to sell out quickly.
However, the 6-hour tour offers incredible value with the opportunity to explore a humpback whale feeding ground in a tandem kayak.
Guests can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, birds, and seals, all while surrounded by the stunning wild landscapes of Southern Alaska.
With free cancellation up to 15 days in advance, this tour provides flexibility for travelers.
Wildlife and Highlights
Visitors can expect to spot a variety of captivating marine life during the Juneau: Channel Islands Whale Watching Kayak Adventure. This includes the majestic humpback whale, powerful orcas, playful sea lions, agile porpoises, diverse bird species, and graceful seals.
The tour offers an opportunity to explore the humpback whale feeding grounds in intimate tandem kayaks, providing a unique and immersive experience. Suitable for all skill levels, the adventure allows guests to discover the stunning wild landscapes of Southern Alaska.
Whether it’s witnessing the awe-inspiring breaching of a humpback whale or observing the social interactions of a sea lion colony, this excursion promises unforgettable encounters with the abundant wildlife of the region.
Itinerary and Activities
For the Juneau: Channel Islands Whale Watching Kayak Adventure, the experience commences with a van transfer from downtown Juneau to a motorboat that cruises the scenic Inside Passage to the Channel Islands State Marine Park.
Once on a remote beach, you will receive a brief kayaking tutorial and a light snack before embarking on the main activity – gliding in double kayaks for an intimate wildlife viewing experience.
Paddling through the stunning wild landscapes of Southern Alaska, guests will have the opportunity to spot humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, various bird species, and seals in their natural habitats.
This adventure promises an unforgettable connection with the region’s incredible marine ecosystem.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyInclusions and Gear
The Juneau: Channel Islands Whale Watching Kayak Adventure includes a van transfer from downtown Juneau to the motorboat, as well as the water taxi service.
Participants are provided with a double kayak and paddle, along with a dry bag and rain gear, including a hooded jacket, rubber boots, and pants, to ensure a comfortable and protected experience.
Plus, a snack pack and water are included in the package.
The gear and inclusions are designed to enhance the participants’ enjoyment and safety during the adventure, allowing them to focus on the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Southern Alaska.
With these thoughtful provisions, the tour ensures a well-rounded and memorable experience for all.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Juneau
Participant Restrictions
Children under 8 years and pregnant women aren’t permitted to participate in the Juneau: Channel Islands Whale Watching Kayak Adventure due to safety concerns. This tour involves kayaking in open waters, which could pose risks for young children and expectant mothers. The provider wants to ensure all participants can comfortably and safely enjoy the experience.
Participants must meet the age and physical requirements to join this excursion. The meeting point is at the ‘C’ sign near the cruise ship docks between the Mt. Roberts Tramway and Taku Smokeries building.
Hotel pickup is available for major hotels in the Mendenhall Valley, but guests should confirm this with the provider beforehand.
Meeting Point
Travelers can locate the guide at the ‘C’ sign near the cruise ship docks, situated between the Mt. Roberts Tramway and Taku Smokeries building. Hotel pickup is available for major hotels in the Mendenhall Valley, though guests should confirm this with the provider beforehand.
Meeting Point Location | Convenient for |
---|---|
‘C’ sign near cruise ship docks | Cruise ship passengers |
Between Mt. Roberts Tramway and Taku Smokeries | Easy to find landmark |
Mendenhall Valley hotels | Guests staying at major hotels |
The meeting point offers a clear and accessible starting point for the whale watching kayak adventure, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free beginning to the excursion.
Booking and Cancellation
Booking this Juneau whale watching kayak adventure is straightforward, with prices starting from $481.95 per person. Guests can conveniently cancel their reservation up to 15 days in advance for a full refund, though the tour is likely to sell out quickly.
The 6-hour excursion offers the opportunity to explore the Channel Islands State Marine Park and observe a variety of marine life, including humpback whales, orcas, and sea lions.
Suitable for all skill levels, the tour includes a kayaking tutorial, as well as the necessary gear such as double kayaks, paddles, dry bags, and rain jackets.
Pickup and drop-off at major hotels in the Mendenhall Valley are available, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?
The average group size for the tour is not explicitly stated in the given information. Typical kayak tours often accommodate small groups, usually ranging from 2 to 8 participants, to provide an intimate and personalized wildlife viewing experience.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Weight Limit for Participants?
There is typically no strict minimum or maximum weight limit for participants on this type of kayak tour. However, guests should be able to comfortably fit in the double kayaks and handle the physical activity required.
Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Personal Flotation Device?
Participants are not allowed to bring their own kayak or personal flotation device. All necessary kayaking equipment, including double kayaks and paddles, as well as life jackets, are provided by the tour operator.
Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tour?
Photos and videos are generally allowed during tours, unless otherwise specified. Participants should check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any restrictions on photography and videography to ensure an enjoyable and respectful experience for all.
Is There a Luggage Storage Option Available at the Meeting Point?
There is no information provided about a luggage storage option at the meeting point for this tour. Participants would need to plan accordingly and bring only essentials, as storage space may be limited during the excursion.
Recap
The Juneau: Channel Islands Whale Watching Kayak Adventure offers a unique opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty of Southern Alaska.
Participants can expect to spot a variety of marine wildlife, including humpback whales, while kayaking through the region’s serene waterways.
With expert guidance and comprehensive inclusions, this 6-hour excursion promises an unforgettable and thrilling experience for adventurers of all skill levels.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Kayak & Canoe Tours in Juneau
More Whale Watching Tours in Juneau
More Tour Reviews in Juneau
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Juneau we have recnetly reviewed
- 11 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Juneau
- 2 Best Private Car With Driver Services In Juneau
- Ultimate Juneau Whale Watch
- Ultimate Whale Watch and Tracys Crab Shack Combo
- Alaska Native Tour and Tram Combo
- Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour
- Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo
- Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour
- Juneau City Tour
- Juneau Jaunt Scavenger Hunt
- Waterfall Creek Brown Bear Viewing Juneau
- Flower Garden and Homestead Historical Walking Tour