Exploring the rugged beauty of Alaska’s Mendenhall Glacier by sea kayak is an unforgettable experience. Visitors can glide across the tranquil waters, surrounded by the glacier’s towering ice walls and snow-capped peaks. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, kayakers have the chance to spot local wildlife, including bald eagles and humpback whales. With all necessary equipment provided, this tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the stunning natural landscape. But the true thrill lies in the journey itself, as paddlers navigate the serene coves and wetlands, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Key Points
- Guided kayak tour allowing visitors to explore the scenic waters surrounding the Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau, Alaska.
- Opportunity to spot local wildlife like bald eagles and humpback whales during the kayaking experience.
- Provision of all necessary equipment, including rain gear, boots, and spray skirts, along with a snack and round-trip transportation.
- Paddling primer to ensure guests feel confident and comfortable in their kayaks.
- Weight and height limitations to ensure proper fit and safety in the kayaks, with a minimum weight of 40 pounds.
Tour Overview
The Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking tour allows visitors to kayak in the waters surrounding the Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau, Alaska, on a guided excursion.
The tour includes a paddling primer, followed by a journey through Fritz Cove and the Mendenhall Wetlands. Participants may spot bald eagles and humpback whales during the tour.
All necessary equipment, such as rain gear, boots, and spray skirts, is provided, along with a snack and round-trip transportation.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, and children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Guests should be in good health and able to paddle for up to two hours, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.
Kayaking Experience
During the kayaking experience, guests embark on a guided journey through the scenic waters surrounding the Mendenhall Glacier, where they may catch glimpses of local wildlife like bald eagles and humpback whales. The adventure begins with a paddling primer to ensure everyone feels confident in their kayaking skills. Guests then follow the guide through the tranquil Fritz Cove and Mendenhall Wetlands, taking in the stunning natural beauty of the area. All necessary equipment, including rain gear, boots, and spray skirts, is provided, and a snack is included to fuel the journey. With the worry-free Shore Excursion Guarantee, guests can relax and fully enjoy the serene Alaskan wilderness.
| What’s Included | Details |
|---|---|
| Paddling Primer | Ensures guests are comfortable in their kayaks |
| Guided Tour | Follows the guide through Fritz Cove and Mendenhall Wetlands |
| Hiking Gear | Rain gear, boots, and spray skirts provided |
| Snack | Included to energize guests during the journey |
| Worry-free Guarantee | Allows guests to fully enjoy the experience |
Scenery and Wildlife
Along the guided kayak journey, travelers can marvel at the breathtaking scenery and spot diverse wildlife.
Majestic bald eagles may soar overhead, while the powerful yet graceful humpback whales might breach the serene waters surrounding the Mendenhall Glacier.
The tranquil waters of Fritz Cove and Mendenhall Wetlands provide an ideal habitat for an array of birds and marine life.
Paddling through this pristine natural environment, adventurers will be treated to stunning views of the Mendenhall Glacier’s imposing ice walls and the snow-capped peaks that surround it.
With the guidance of experienced professionals, guests can fully enjoy this awe-inspiring landscape and have the chance to witness the region’s incredible wildlife up close.
Safety and Requirements
For this guided sea kayaking tour, participants must meet certain safety requirements and restrictions.
Guests should be in good health and able to paddle for up to 2 hours. Children ages 7-12 must be accompanied by an adult, while those 13-17 require signed parental consent.
Plus, there are weight and height limitations to ensure proper fit and safety in the kayaks. Guests must weigh at least 40 pounds to fit into the required lifejacket, and no more than approximately 250 pounds depending on waist size to fit in the kayak. Those over 63 inches tall may not be able to use the kayak’s rudders.
The tour operates in all weather, so dressing appropriately is crucial.
What’s Included
The tour package includes a variety of amenities to enhance the kayaking experience. Guests receive beverages and snacks, as well as professional guidance from an experienced tour leader. On top of that, all necessary equipment such as rain gear, boots, and spray skirts are provided. Lastly, round-trip transportation from the meeting point is included, ensuring a worry-free shore excursion.
The tour’s inclusions are designed to:
- Ensure comfort and safety throughout the adventure
- Provide valuable insights and expertise from the guide
- Eliminate the hassle of equipment rental and logistics
- Offer a seamless and carefree experience for the participants
Pickup and Dropoff
The meeting point for the tour is the Mount Roberts Tramway, located at 490 S Franklin St in Juneau, Alaska.
Participants will be picked up and returned to this same location at the conclusion of the kayaking adventure.
Confirmation of the booking will be provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.
Cruise ship passengers must provide their ship details at the time of booking.
The tour ends at the same place it began, allowing for easy return to your starting point after the excursion.
Guests are advised to arrive at the meeting point on time to ensure a smooth and timely departure for the kayaking experience.
Exclusions and Restrictions
Aside from the included beverages, snacks, professional guide, transportation, and equipment, travelers should be aware of several exclusions and restrictions for the Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking tour.
Gratuities, souvenirs, and souvenir photos aren’t included and available for purchase separately.
Plus, there are several physical requirements to participate:
- Minimum weight of 40 pounds to fit into the required lifejacket
- Maximum weight of approximately 250 pounds depending on waist size to fit into the kayak cockpit
- Maximum height of 63 inches to use the rudders
- Guests must be in good health and able to paddle for 2 hours
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Booking and Confirmation
Booking the Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking tour requires providing the meeting point location at the Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau, Alaska. Participants receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
| Booking Details | |
|---|---|
| Meeting Point | Mount Roberts Tramway, 490 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801 |
| End Point | Same as meeting point |
| Confirmation | Within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability |
| Cruise Ship Details | Must be provided at booking |
The tour provides round-trip transportation and departs from and returns to the same meeting point. Cruise ship passengers must share their ship details when booking to ensure availability and coordination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to See Glacial Ice in the Water During the Tour?
Based on the tour details provided, it is possible to see glacial ice in the water during the tour. The tour allows kayaking in the waters around the Mendenhall Glacier, which could offer opportunities to view floating glacial ice.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?
The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or children. However, the tour notes that children 7-12 must be accompanied by an adult, and children 13-17 require parental consent. Pricing details should be confirmed at the time of booking.
Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Water on the Tour?
Yes, travelers can bring their own snacks and water on the tour. The tour provides beverages and a snack, but allowing guests to bring additional food and drinks gives them more flexibility and choice during the excursion.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if the Weather Is Poor?
The tour’s cancellation policy allows guests to receive a full refund if the tour is canceled due to poor weather conditions. Guests will be notified of any cancellations prior to the scheduled departure time.
Is It Possible to Store Our Luggage at the Meeting Point?
The tour operator doesn’t offer luggage storage at the meeting point. Guests are advised to make their own arrangements for storing any extra belongings before the tour starts, as the operator can’t accommodate luggage during the excursion.
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Recap
The Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the stunning scenery of Alaska’s waters.
Guided by experienced professionals, visitors can paddle through tranquil coves and wetlands, with the chance to spot local wildlife like bald eagles and humpback whales.
With all necessary equipment provided, this tour delivers an exhilarating adventure amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Mendenhall Glacier and snow-capped peaks.
