Mendenhall Glacier and Ultimate Whale Watch Combo

Combining the breathtaking views of the Mendenhall Glacier with the thrill of whale watching, this Juneau adventure offers an unforgettable half-day experience. Aboard a comfortable boat, guests can spot majestic humpback whales and powerful orcas, guided by knowledgeable naturalists. After the whale watch, visitors explore the stunning glacier and its picturesque surroundings, including the captivating Nugget Falls. With flexible scheduling, convenient transportation, and high customer satisfaction, this tour promises an immersive encounter with Alaska’s natural wonders. But the real question is, what surprises await those who embark on this remarkable journey?

Key Points

• This combo tour offers a half-day experience featuring Mendenhall Glacier and a 2-hour whale watching excursion.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and gratuities, providing a convenient and inclusive package.
• Customers praise the numerous whale sightings, scenic views, and knowledgeable staff during the tour.
• The tour is suitable for shore excursions with flexible departure times and a maximum capacity of 49 travelers.
• The whale watching portion is conducted on boats equipped with amenities such as heated cabins and wide viewing windows.

Tour Overview

This combo tour offers visitors an opportunity to experience two of Juneau’s top attractions – the majestic Mendenhall Glacier and the thrilling whale watching excursion.

Located in the USA, this half-day tour boasts 680 reviews with a 94% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence. Guests can choose from flexible departure times, making it ideal for shore excursions or quick trips.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, 2-hour whale watching, entrance fees, and gratuities, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.

What’s Included

The tour includes round-trip transportation from the Mt. Roberts Tramway.

Travelers will ride to the boat harbor for a 2-hour whale watching excursion on a 24-passenger jet boat or 49-passenger catamaran.

The boats have heated cabins, spacious decks, wide viewing windows, and bathrooms.

A professional driver guide and naturalist provide spotting assistance and announce whale sightings.

Light snacks and water are provided aboard the whale boat.

The tour also includes bus transportation and entrance fees to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where guests can explore the trails and take photos.

Gratuities are included.

Itinerary

Travelers check in at the Mt. Roberts Tramway in Juneau to begin their combined glacier and whale watching tour. After taking the tramway ride, they head to the boat harbor for the whale watching portion of the experience. During the 2-hour whale watch, a guide and naturalist provide spotting assistance, and the captain announces any whale sightings.

Order	Activity
1	Whale Watching
2	Visit Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
3	Afternoon tours reverse order: Glacier first, then whale watching

Following the whale watch, participants visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where they have free time for photos and exploring the nature trails. Shuttle buses depart every 30 minutes from the glacier to return guests to their starting point.

Getting There

Visitors can reach the starting point of the Mendenhall Glacier and Ultimate Whale Watch Combo tour at the Mt. Roberts Tramway in Juneau.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from this location, making it convenient for participants. Guests can take the tram up the mountain, where they’ll meet the tour guides and board the vehicles for the whale watching portion.

From the tramway, it’s a short ride to the boat harbor where the whale watching excursion departs. The glacier visit follows, with shuttles departing every 30 minutes from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center to provide flexibility.

What to Expect

After being transported to the boat harbor, guests can expect a 2-hour whale watching excursion aboard a 24-passenger jet boat or 49-passenger catamaran.

The heated cabin, spacious decks, and wide viewing windows provide excellent opportunities to spot whales such as humpbacks and orcas. Professional driver guides and naturalists assist with spotting and identifying the marine life.

Complimentary water and light snacks are provided on the whale watching tour.

Once the whale watching is complete, guests will visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where they can explore the trails and take in the scenic views of the glacier and Nugget Falls.

Practical Information

The tour begins at the Mt. Roberts Tramway in Juneau. From there, guests are transported to the boat harbor for the whale watching portion of the excursion.

The tour includes several practical considerations:

1. Attire – Visitors are advised to dress in layers and wear appropriate clothing for the weather, as the whale watching boat has an outdoor viewing deck.

2. Accessibility – The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are permitted.

3. Group Size – The tour has a maximum capacity of 49 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior to the tour.

Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watch Combo tour consistently delivers an exceptional experience.

Reviewers praise the numerous whale sightings, including humpbacks and orcas, as well as the scenic views of the glacier and Nugget Falls. The knowledgeable and friendly staff receive high marks, with many customers recommending the tour to future travelers.

However, some feedback indicates the need for better communication regarding shuttle times and departure schedules.

Booking and Cancellation

Customers receive confirmation of their Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watch Combo tour booking within 48 hours.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are allowed. Moderate walking is involved, so travelers should dress appropriately in layered clothing. The tour has a maximum of 49 travelers.

Customers can cancel their booking free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancelling within 24 hours incurs a fee. This flexible policy allows travelers to adjust their plans as needed without significant financial penalty.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provides water and a light snack, but you’re welcome to bring additional refreshments to enjoy during the excursion if desired.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Whale Watching?

The tour provides all the necessary equipment for the whale watching portion, including heated cabins, viewing windows, and a naturalist. Travelers should dress warmly in layers and bring any personal items like cameras, but no special equipment is required.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Combo Tour Online?

The tour does not offer a discount for booking the combo tour online. However, the tour provides excellent value with round-trip transportation, whale watching, and a visit to Mendenhall Glacier, all at a fixed price.

How Flexible Are the Departure Times for the Tours?

The tour offers flexible departure times, with multiple departure options throughout the day. Visitors can choose a schedule that best fits their needs, providing convenience and flexibility for shore excursions or quick trips.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Whale Watching Boat?

Customers can’t request a specific type of whale watching boat, as the tour operator determines the vessel based on factors like group size and weather conditions. However, both jet boats and catamarans are available with heated cabins, wide viewing windows, and other amenities.

Recap

The Mendenhall Glacier and Ultimate Whale Watch Combo offers a remarkable opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of Juneau. With the chance to witness majestic whales and explore the breathtaking Mendenhall Glacier, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure that’s tailored to the needs of your. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an exceptional Alaskan experience, this combo tour is sure to create lasting memories.