Mendenhall Glacier and Ultimate Whale Watch Combo

The Mendenhall Glacier and Ultimate Whale Watch Combo offers an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Combining stunning glacier views with an exhilarating whale watching experience, the tour provides round-trip transportation and knowledgeable guides. With opportunities for photography and exploration at Mendenhall Glacier, this combo tour boasts a high customer satisfaction rate. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for an exceptional Alaskan experience, this tour might be worth considering.

Good To Know

• Combo tour that includes a visit to Mendenhall Glacier and a 2-hour whale watching experience on a jet boat or catamaran.
• Flexible morning or afternoon tour options with round-trip transportation and entrance fees included.
• Knowledgeable guides and naturalists provide informative commentary during the tour.
• Opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and learning about the local environment.
• High customer satisfaction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 681 reviews.

Tour Overview

This combo tour allows visitors to experience both the breathtaking Mendenhall Glacier and the thrilling opportunity to spot whales in their natural habitat.

With 680 reviews and 94% recommendation rate, this excursion is an ideal shore excursion or quick trip.

Travelers can choose from flexible morning or afternoon tour durations, with multiple departures throughout the day.

The tour includes round-trip transportation and entrance fees, as well as informative guides and naturalists.

Guests can expect an informative ride, whale watching with photo opportunities, and free time at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and nature trails.

Transportation Details

Round-trip transportation is provided from the Mount Roberts Tramway, which serves as the meeting point for this tour.

The tour representatives, wearing bright blue hats with "Juneau Tours" signage, will greet guests at the tramway. Passengers are then shuttled to the boat harbor for the whale watching portion.

After the glacier visit, a shuttle departs from the glacier to the Mount Roberts Tramway every 30 minutes.

All ports are within a 10-minute walk, except for A Dock, where a shuttle is available.

With multiple departure times, this tour offers flexibility for cruise ship passengers.

Whale Watching Highlights

After the informative ride through Juneau to the boat harbor, guests embark on a 2-hour whale watching tour aboard a 24-passenger jet boat or 49-passenger catamaran.

The heated cabin, spacious decks, wide viewing windows, and onboard bathrooms provide a comfortable experience.

A professional driver guide and naturalist offer informative commentary, while guests have opportunities for:

• Photography of whales and other marine life
• Asking questions about the region’s wildlife and ecology
• Spotting a variety of whale species, including humpbacks, orcas, and more
• Enjoying complimentary water and light snacks during the tour.

Mendenhall Glacier Experience

The tour then transports guests to the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier.

Situated within the Tongass National Forest, this stunning natural wonder covers 13.6 square miles.

Visitors have free time to explore the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and walk along the nature trails, taking in breathtaking views of the glacier and the surrounding landscape.

No food is allowed in this area, as it’s important to preserve the pristine environment.

The shuttle departs every 30 minutes, ensuring a smooth transition between the glacier experience and the whale watching portion of the tour.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour includes a 2-hour whale watching experience aboard a 24-passenger jet boat or a 49-passenger catamaran.

Guests can expect:

• A heated cabin, spacious decks, and wide viewing windows for optimal wildlife spotting
• Bathrooms on board for convenience
• An informative professional driver guide and naturalist to share their expertise
• Complimentary water and light snacks to fuel the journey

In addition, the tour provides round-trip transportation to the Mendenhall Glacier as well as entrance fees, allowing guests to explore the Visitor Center and nature trails at their leisure.

What to Expect

Guests begin the excursion with an informative ride through Juneau to the boat harbor, where they embark on the 2-hour whale watching portion of the tour.

Aboard the jet boat or catamaran, they’ll have opportunities to take photographs and ask questions, as the professional driver-guide and naturalist provide insights.

After the whale watching, guests transfer to Mendenhall Glacier, where they can explore the visitor center and nature trails at their own pace.

Afternoon tours reverse the order, starting at the glacier first. Moderate walking is involved, and no food is allowed at the glacier site.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watch Combo tour, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 681 reviews.

Highlights include:

• Frequent whale sightings and the opportunity to capture stunning photographs
• Knowledgeable crew who provide informative commentary on the local wildlife and geography
• The friendliness and helpfulness of the staff throughout the tour
• The breathtaking views of the Mendenhall Glacier and surrounding landscapes

While some feedback noted issues with timing and organization during peak hours, the overall consensus is that this combo tour is a highly recommended excursion for wildlife and glacier enthusiasts.

Booking and Availability

Booking the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watch Combo tour is straightforward. The tour offers flexible morning and afternoon departures, catering to various schedules.

Visitors can easily reserve their spots online or by contacting the tour operator directly. With multiple daily departures, guests can choose the time that best suits their needs.

The meeting point at the Mount Roberts Tramway is conveniently located, within walking distance of most cruise ship ports. The tour’s operators provide clear instructions and transportation, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure desired tour times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Under 12 Participate in the Tour?

Yes, children under 12 can participate in the tour. The tour is suitable for all ages and families are welcome to join the whale watching and Mendenhall Glacier visit activities.

Is There a Requirement for Physical Fitness?

The tour doesn’t have any strict physical fitness requirements. But moderate walking is involved, so participants should be able to move around comfortably. Those with mobility concerns can discuss options with the tour operator.

Are Cameras and Binoculars Allowed on the Boat?

Cameras and binoculars are allowed and encouraged on the whale watching boat. Passengers can use them to capture photos and get a closer look at the whales and other wildlife. The boat’s open decks and large viewing windows provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers can’t bring their own food or drinks on the tour. The tour includes a light snack and water is provided. Bringing outside food or beverages is not allowed at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?

In inclement weather, the tour operator will make adjustments to ensure guest safety. Alternate indoor activities may be substituted, and the operator will work to provide the best possible experience given the conditions.

The Sum Up

The Mendenhall Glacier and Ultimate Whale Watch Combo offers an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Participants can expect seamless transportation, an exhilarating whale watching excursion, and the opportunity to explore the stunning Mendenhall Glacier. With high customer satisfaction and inclusions such as round-trip transportation, this tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking an exceptional Alaskan experience.