Juneau’s whale watching adventure is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Alaska. This immersive tour promises up-close encounters with majestic humpback whales, playful porpoises, and sea lions set against the stunning backdrop of the region’s natural beauty. Aboard a spacious sightseeing boat, guests can expect informative commentary from a knowledgeable naturalist guide and potential views of the breathtaking Mendenhall Glacier. With complimentary hot beverages and ample opportunities for photography, this excursion offers both excitement and education, making it an unforgettable experience. But what truly sets this adventure apart is the chance to witness the captivating behaviors of these magnificent marine mammals.

Good To Know

Juneau Whale Watching Adventure - Good To Know

  • Whale-watching tour from Juneau, USA, offering opportunities to observe humpback whales, porpoises, sea lions, and bald eagles.
  • Tour aboard a 48-passenger sightseeing boat with large windows and guided by a knowledgeable naturalist.
  • High likelihood of spotting humpback whales and sea lions, with potential views of Mendenhall Glacier.
  • Informative commentary from the naturalist guide enhances the educational and immersive experience.
  • Tour priced at $189.00 per person, with inclusions such as transportation, shore excursion guarantee, and gratuities.

Tour Overview

Juneau Whale Watching Adventure - Tour Overview

This whale-watching tour from Juneau, USA, offers guests the opportunity to observe a variety of marine life, including humpback whales, porpoises, sea lions, and bald eagles, in the picturesque Auke Bay.

Aboard a 48-passenger sightseeing boat with large windows, a naturalist guide provides commentary on the wildlife and local geology. Travelers have a chance to capture photos of breaching whales against the backdrop of the Alaskan mountains.

On clear days, the Mendenhall Glacier may also be visible. The tour give you an immersive and educational experience for guests to appreciate the natural wonders of the region.

Whale Sightings and Experiences

Juneau Whale Watching Adventure - Whale Sightings and Experiences

Guests aboard the whale-watching tour can expect to see a variety of marine mammals during their excursion. Lucky observers may spot breaching humpback whales, graceful porpoises, and stately sea lions as the boat navigates the waters of Auke Bay. The knowledgeable naturalist guide provides commentary on the local wildlife and geology, enhancing the experience. Visitors can capture stunning photos of whales against the backdrop of the majestic Alaskan mountains, weather permitting. If conditions are clear, the iconic Mendenhall Glacier may also come into view.

Sightings Likelihood
Humpback Whales High
Porpoises Moderate
Sea Lions High
Mendenhall Glacier Moderate

Boat and Amenities

Juneau Whale Watching Adventure - Boat and Amenities

The 48-passenger sightseeing boat features large windows, allowing guests to comfortably observe the surrounding wildlife and scenery.

Onboard, a knowledgeable naturalist guide provides informative commentary on the local geology and the animals spotted during the tour. Passengers can step outside onto the viewing decks for closer looks at breaching whales and soaring eagles.

Complimentary hot beverages are available, and souvenirs can be purchased to commemorate the experience.

With a maximum capacity of 100 travelers, the boat offers an intimate whale-watching adventure amidst the stunning Alaskan landscape.

Naturalist Guide and Commentary

Juneau Whale Watching Adventure - Naturalist Guide and Commentary

As guests embark on the whale-watching tour, they’re accompanied by a knowledgeable naturalist guide who provides captivating commentary throughout the journey.

The guide shares insights about the local wildlife, including humpback whales, porpoises, sea lions, and bald eagles.

Travelers learn about the fascinating geology of the region, including the majestic Mendenhall Glacier.

The guide’s expertise enhances the overall experience, allowing guests to fully appreciate the natural wonders they witness.

With the guide’s narration, the tour becomes an educational and enriching adventure, deepening the connection between the travelers and the breathtaking Alaskan landscape.

Photo Opportunities

Juneau Whale Watching Adventure - Photo Opportunities

What better place to capture the majestic grace of whales than against the backdrop of the Alaskan mountains?

The 48-passenger sightseeing boat offers large windows, providing prime viewing and photo opportunities. As the boat glides through Auke Bay, travelers can aim their cameras at breaching humpbacks and other marine life.

The knowledgeable naturalist guide‘s commentary helps identify the species and behaviors, allowing visitors to time their shots.

Though weather conditions can be unpredictable, clear days offer the chance to photograph the whales with the Mendenhall Glacier in the distance, a breathtaking scene not to be missed.

Pricing and Inclusions

Juneau Whale Watching Adventure - Pricing and Inclusions

According to the information provided, the whale-watching tour from Juneau, USA is priced from $189.00 per person.

The tour includes a naturalist guide, transportation, a shore excursion guarantee, and gratuities. Travelers can purchase souvenirs during the tour, which accommodates up to 100 people.

The tour has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 218 reviews, with 93% of travelers recommending the experience.

While the tour is generally well-received, some customers have reported issues with cancellations, rescheduling, and communication, despite the overall enjoyment and wildlife sightings.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Juneau Whale Watching Adventure - Meeting and Pickup Details

The meeting point for the whale-watching tour is the Mount Roberts Tramway, located at 490 S Franklin St in Juneau, Alaska.

Look for the Alaska Travel Adventures representative in a red jacket or hat to check in.

Once the tour begins, you’ll travel aboard the sightseeing boat to Auke Bay, where you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales, porpoises, sea lions, and eagles.

At the end of the tour, the boat will return you to the original meeting point.

Confirmation of your booking will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Accessibility and Conditions

Juneau Whale Watching Adventure - Accessibility and Conditions

The whale-watching tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly.

Service animals are allowed, but infants must sit on laps.

Children aged 13-17 need signed parental consent if unaccompanied.

The tour is subject to favorable weather, and cancellations due to poor conditions offer alternative dates or full refunds.

Guests can expect a smooth, comfortable experience with the tour’s accessibility accommodations, ensuring everyone can enjoy the whale-watching adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to See Whales in Juneau?

The best time to see whales in Juneau is during the summer months, from May to September, when humpback whales return to the nutrient-rich waters of Alaska to feed on krill and small fish.

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

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator encourages guests to pack a lunch or snacks to enjoy during the whale watching excursion. Beverages like water or soda are also permitted.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum age requirement, but infants must sit on laps. Children aged 13-17 need signed parental consent if unaccompanied. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.

How Long Is the Travel Time From the Meeting Point to the Whale-Watching Area?

The travel time from the meeting point to the whale-watching area is not specified. However, the tour departs from Auke Bay, which is located just outside of Juneau, so the journey likely takes 15-30 minutes.

Are Lifejackets Provided on the Boat, and Are They Required to Wear?

Yes, life jackets are provided on the boat and passengers are required to wear them for the duration of the tour. This safety measure ensures everyone’s well-being during the whale-watching excursion.

The Sum Up

The Juneau Whale Watching Adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majesty of Alaska’s marine life. Aboard a comfortable boat with knowledgeable guides, guests can expect to see humpback whales, porpoises, and sea lions in their natural habitat, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Mendenhall Glacier. This tour is a must-do experience for any wildlife enthusiast visiting Juneau.