Juneau, the vibrant capital of Alaska, offers a captivating day trip that combines the grandeur of the Mendenhall Glacier with the thrill of a whale watching cruise. Visitors can enjoy the region’s natural beauty, witnessing the mighty glacier’s imposing ice formations and the graceful movements of humpback whales and orcas in their natural habitat. With knowledgeable guides providing insightful commentary, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re seeking a closer connection with the Alaskan wilderness or simply aiming to create lasting memories, this day trip in Juneau has something remarkable in store.
Key Points
- This day trip includes a visit to the Mendenhall Glacier and a whale watching cruise, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
- The Mendenhall Glacier experience offers 45 minutes of free exploration time to hike and view the glacier.
- The 2-hour whale watching cruise provides opportunities to observe humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles in their natural habitats.
- The tour is operated by knowledgeable naturalist guides who provide insights throughout the experience.
- The tour operates rain or shine, and transportation options are available for both cruise ship passengers and overnight guests.
Exploring Juneau’s Highlights
On this Juneau day trip, travelers can explore the area’s natural highlights.
The tour begins with a 45-minute bus ride to the Mendenhall Glacier, where visitors have free time to wander the trails, view the immense ice formation, and visit the visitor center.
Next, the group embarks on a 2-hour whale watching cruise, seeking out humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles.
Throughout the excursion, a knowledgeable naturalist guide provides commentary and insights, ensuring participants make the most of their Alaskan adventure.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, plus included snacks and beverages, this comprehensive tour offers a seamless way to discover Juneau’s natural wonders.
Ready for more marine magic? More whale watching we recommend in Juneau City Alaska
Mendenhall Glacier Adventure
The scenic bus ride to Mendenhall Glacier transports visitors through the lush Alaskan wilderness.
Upon arrival, guests enjoy 45 minutes of free time to explore the area. Options include visiting the visitor center, hiking to the stunning Nugget Falls, or trekking the East Glacier Loop Trail.
With the guidance of a knowledgeable naturalist, guests can learn about the glacier’s formation and the local wildlife. The awe-inspiring views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains create a truly memorable experience.
Whether visitors choose to relax or embark on a hike, the Mendenhall Glacier portion of the tour offers a chance to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of Juneau.
Whale Watching Cruise
Departing from the dock, the whale watching cruise takes visitors on a 2-hour journey to observe the captivating marine life of the area. Guests have the opportunity to spot humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles in their natural habitat. The knowledgeable naturalist guide provides insightful commentary, enhancing the experience.
| Whale Watching Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Humpback Whales | Majestic giants of the sea, known for their acrobatic breaching and tail slapping |
| Orcas (Killer Whales) | Apex predators, often seen hunting in family groups |
| Sea Lions | Charismatic marine mammals, commonly found resting on rocky outcroppings |
| Bald Eagles | The national bird of the United States, frequently spotted soaring overhead |
| Alaskan Scenery | Breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains and pristine fjords |
Wildlife Sightings and Scenery
During the whale watching cruise, guests are often treated to a captivating display of marine life.
The tour operators are skilled in locating humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles in their natural habitats. Passengers have ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs of these creatures as they breach the surface or bask in the Alaskan scenery.
The crew provides expert narration, sharing fascinating insights about the wildlife and their behaviors. This portion of the day trip allows visitors to enjoy the wonders of the Alaskan ecosystem and create lasting memories of their whale watching adventure.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTransportation and Meeting Details
Guests can conveniently access the tour’s central meeting point at the Gold Belt Tramway building, located within the main Cruise Ship Terminal. For cruise ship passengers docking at the AJ dock, a shuttle service is available, typically costing $5 for an all-day pass. Alternative meeting instructions are provided for overnight guests with their own transportation.
| Transportation Options | Meeting Point |
|---|---|
| Shuttle for cruise ship passengers (AJ dock) | Gold Belt Tramway building |
| Own transportation for overnight guests | Main Cruise Ship Terminal |
| $5 all-day pass | Alternative instructions provided |
The tour operates rain or shine, ensuring guests can enjoy the whale watching and glacier exploration regardless of weather conditions.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Juneau City Alaska
Reservation and Cancellation Policies
For this Juneau day trip, guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.
The reservation policy allows travelers to book their tour and pay later. If plans change, the cancellation policy offers a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. This provides flexibility and peace of mind when booking the tour.
Payments can be made securely online or by phone. With a few simple steps, adventurers can secure their spot on this Juneau excursion and look forward to a memorable day of whale watching and exploring the Mendenhall Glacier.
Customer Feedback and Experiences
Travelers have largely praised the Juneau day trip, awarding it an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 47 reviews.
Positive comments highlight the trip’s organization and informative nature, with travelers appreciating the knowledgeable naturalist guide.
However, some have requested more time at the Mendenhall Glacier, feeling rushed during the exploration portion.
Plus, a few customers expressed disappointment over missed wildlife photo opportunities during the bus ride.
The day trip offers an exceptional chance to witness Alaska’s natural wonders, from the majestic Mendenhall Glacier to the awe-inspiring marine life.
With the flexibility of a convenient pickup and free cancellation, it’s an experience worth considering.
Weather and Important Information
The tour operates rain or shine, ensuring that travelers can enjoy the day’s activities regardless of the weather conditions.
For cruise ship passengers docking at the AJ dock, a shuttle is available for an all-day pass, typically costing $5.
Overnight guests with their own transportation will receive alternative meeting instructions.
It’s important to note that the tour goes on as scheduled, so visitors should come prepared for the Alaskan weather.
With this information, travelers can plan their day with confidence, knowing they’ll be able to make the most of their Juneau adventure, regardless of Mother Nature’s whims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes light snacks and beverages, but you’re welcome to pack additional items to enjoy during the trip.
Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for This Activity?
There is no age limit for this activity, though young children may need to be accompanied by an adult. Infants are typically welcome as long as their needs can be accommodated on the tour.
Is the Tour Wheelchair/Disability Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair and disability accessible, with buses equipped to accommodate mobility needs. Guests with special requirements should contact the tour operator in advance to ensure proper arrangements are made for a seamless experience.
Can I Make Changes to My Reservation After Booking?
Yes, customers can typically make changes to their reservation after booking, such as modifying the date or number of participants. However, they should review the tour’s cancellation policy for any applicable fees.
What Should I Bring or Wear for This Tour?
For this tour, visitors should dress in warm, waterproof layers and wear comfortable walking shoes. It’s recommended to bring a camera, binoculars, snacks, and water to fully enjoy the outdoor activities and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Recap
Juneau’s whale watching and Mendenhall Glacier day trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Alaska’s natural wonders. From the awe-inspiring glacier to the majestic humpback whales, this excursion provides an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s captivating beauty. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible policies, it’s the perfect way to make the most of your time in this stunning Alaskan destination.
You can check if your dates are available here: