Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour (2024)

Want to get out onto the open Alaskan waters?

Our captains and naturalists will take you in search of humpback and killer whales, sea lions, porpoises and so much more! Your Juneau whale watching journey will take you through Favorite Channel, Stephens Passage, Lynn Canal, or Saginaw Channel, all popular spots for spotting some of Southeast Alaska's finest wildlife. Take a guided bus ride from downtown Juneau out to Auke Bay, where you will board one of our specially designed boats with large windows, heated cabins, and outdoor decks. Come aboard for up-close viewing of Alaska's most incredible creatures, while listening to a naturalist and experienced guide. There is a 100% guarantee or your money back to see the majestic humpback whales that travel to Alaska for feeding in the nutrient-rich waters. Once a whale is spotted, our captain will slow down and passengers are allowed out on the decks for a truly unique and up-close experience. With plenty of time out on the water, you're sure to see an array of spouts, tails, breaches, and more from these magnificent whales!

Coupled with this tour is a stop at the world-famous Mendenhall Glacier!

Take in the massive and mighty glacier, an explosive river of ice with rugged crevasses and vibrant blue color. At the glacier visitor center, you will have approximately 45 minutes to explore the walking paths and the U.S. Forest Service Visitor Center. Make sure you have your camera ready to snap photos of the famous Black Bears feeding on Wild Alaskan Salmon as you walk along raised trails over salmon spawning streams. It's truly a wild experience! This tour operation is under permit with the Tongass National Forest and is an equal opportunity provider.

There are 2 different sizes of boats used, with a maximum capacity of either 38 or 49 guests. Compare this with the boats used by the cruise lines which hold up to 150 guests at once!

Every boat has open seating as well as outside viewing areas when permitted.

The interior of the boat is heated when needed due to weather conditions to keep a comfortable environment.

Yes, the boat has a restroom.

Humpback whales and other sea animals are protected species and a safe distance of at least 100 yards must be maintained at all times according to NOAA regulations.

Sightings are guaranteed or you'll receive a full refund for the whale watching portion of your tour.

Air temperature can drop as much as 20F with the wind chill factor when viewing whales outside.

The maximum capacity for this tour is 51 guests.

There is open seating on the tour bus, however if you require a certain seat due to physical impairment then please inform your tour guide.

No, unless you can walk 2 miles within 45 minutes. Nugget Falls is located about 1 mile from the Visitor Center and can be seen from the parking lot and various walking trails and view points around the Visitor Center building.

Wildlife is abundant in Southeast Alaska and sightings are possible on any tour. Bears are often seen near the glacier during the late summer salmon spawning season, however this is not a designated bear watching tour and nothing can be guaranteed!

Walking on or getting up close to the glacier is not possible during this tour.

Yes, admission is included.

There are no age restrictions for this tour.

Backpacks, small bags, and purses are allowed on this tour.

Non-alcoholic beverages in a closeable containters and snacks are allowed on tour.

Beverages, bottled water and a light snack (granola bar) are included.

Guest Reviews

Marilyn K

On Jun 2024

Had a nice time at the Glacier Muesuem. Our boat trip with Ben was great. He was very knowledgeable about whales and the ones we saw. He even knew one of its names by her tail marking.

Catrina M

On Jun 2024

The best tour of our vacation! Saw so many active whales! We just happened to be on a boat with one other family so we didn t have to struggle around people to see anything. Everyone and everything was just incredible! Would definitely book through them again!

David J

On Jun 2024

This excursion was the best of all my excursion experiences. The guarantee to see whales was reassuring, and the boat ride in itself was a great way to experience being on water for those who might not have had that kind of experience. Time is limited at Mendenhall Glacier and unless your a fast walker, the 2 mile round trip to the falls is not possible if you want to explore the visitor center for what it has to offer.

Cindy P

On May 2024

This was the highlight of our trip. The boat was very comfortable and warm and the staff was very knowledgeable. It was easy to find the group and everything went quite smoothly.

Janet K

On May 2024

Amazing!Seen orcas!!!Seen 2 pods of humpbacksAlso seen Sasha the humpback!Tour guides were awesome!

Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour (2024)
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