Juneau: Whale Watching and Mendenhall Glacier Day Trip — A Balanced Look at Alaska’s Natural Gems
Imagine standing on a sturdy boat, eyes peeled for a breaching humpback whale, while in the background, the Mendenhall Glacier looms majestically, shimmering in the Alaskan sunlight. This tour, priced at $230 per person and lasting about 4.5 hours, combines two of Juneau’s most iconic sights: the spectacular glacier and the thrilling whale watching. Led by knowledgeable naturalist guides and captained by trained crew, this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into the diverse wildlife and icy landscapes that define Southeast Alaska.
What we love about this trip? First, the guided insights about local wildlife and natural features make the experience not just about sights but about understanding the environment we’re witnessing. Second, the opportunity to see whales and other marine life up close—with the added bonus of snapping stunning photos of these gentle giants—makes it memorable.
A possible consideration? The glacier stop provides about 45 minutes of free time, which some travelers find too short if they want to explore trails or the visitor center more thoroughly. If you’re keen on hiking longer or taking detailed photos, you might feel slightly rushed.
This tour is ideal for travelers who value a mix of land and sea adventures, guided explanations, and wildlife sightings. It suits those who appreciate a good balance of free time and guided commentary, especially if seeing whales and glaciers is a priority for your Alaskan itinerary.
Key Points
- Combination of Glacier and Whale Watching: You get both incredible glaciers and wildlife sightings in one trip.
- Expert Guides: Naturalist guides and trained crew enhance your understanding of the environment and ensure safety.
- Flexible Exploration Time: 45 minutes at Mendenhall Glacier gives you ample opportunity for photos and short walks.
- Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, bald eagles, and possibly black bears.
- Comfort and Snacks: The boat provides snacks and water, making the trip comfortable even if you’re not used to outdoor adventures.
- Punctual and Well-organized: Many reviews praise the tour’s timeliness and professional staff, which helps keep your day on track.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
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The Bus Ride to Mendenhall Glacier
Your adventure begins with a scenic, air-conditioned bus ride from downtown Juneau to the Mendenhall Glacier. The bus trip takes you through the Alaskan countryside—lush, green, and full of potential wildlife sightings. Your guide shares interesting facts about the area, making the drive both informative and entertaining. Several reviews highlight the driver’s enthusiasm and knowledge, with some even joking along the way, which helps set a lively tone for the day.
Exploring Mendenhall Glacier
Once at the glacier, you’re granted about 45 minutes of free time. This is enough for a quick visit to the visitor center, a walk to Nugget Falls, or a hike along the East Glacier Loop Trail. Some travelers, like Andrea, felt that the glacier stop was a bit short—about 30 minutes would be ideal if you want to hike more or take detailed photos. Nevertheless, the views of Mendenhall Lake and the glacier itself are breathtaking.
Several reviews mention the thrill of spotting black bears fishing for salmon or observing seals and waterfowl. The area is rich in wildlife, and even a brief walk here rewards you with stunning scenery and plenty of photo opportunities. The glacier’s massive ice face, often framed with green forest, makes for great pictures.
Transition to Whale Watching
After exploring the glacier, you board a specialized whale-watching boat. This vessel is designed for optimal viewing, with open decks and large windows. The guides onboard are quick to share fascinating facts, making the 2-hour cruise both educational and exciting. You’ll cruise along the shoreline, looking out for humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles.
More Great Tours NearbyWildlife Encounters and Photos
The reviews highlight the expertise of the guides—they’re passionate and knowledgeable, eager to explain the behaviors of whales and other creatures. One reviewer, Bill, noted that the crew “made sure everyone was safe and comfortable,” which is crucial when on the water. Many travelers enjoy the chance to capture pictures of whales breaching or showing their flukes, with some describing their photos as “the best ever.”
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Wildlife Sightings — What You Might See
Humpbacks are often the star of the show—breaching, tail slapping, or bubble-net feeding. Occasionally, you might spot orcas traveling in pods, and sea lions lounging on Benjamin Island or buoy. Bald eagles soar overhead, completing the quintessential Alaskan scene. Several reviews mention how close the whales come to the boat, making for extraordinary photo moments.
Returning and Reflecting
After the cruise, you’ll head back to the dock, with a last glance at the glacial landscape as you depart. Many reviewers, like Cyndi and Vivian, emphasize how incredible the day was, full of whale sightings and scenic views. Nearly all praise the professionalism of the guides and the overall organization.
Analyzing the Tour’s Value
At $230, this trip offers a comprehensive experience—combining land, sea, wildlife, and glaciers—all guided by experts. While some reviewers suggest that the glacier stop could be longer, the included whale watching cruise is often highlighted as a highlight worth the price. The boat’s design, with open decks and friendly crew, ensures good visibility, and the snacks add to the comfort.
The tour’s scheduled timing makes it a convenient choice, especially since many reviews mention how well the staff manages time, ensuring you return to the dock promptly. For cruisers, this tour aligns perfectly with timing, and the meeting point is centrally located, making it accessible even if you’re short on time.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re after a well-rounded day that checks off glaciers and whales, this tour delivers. It’s great for travelers who appreciate guided explanations and want to maximize wildlife sightings. It’s especially suited for those who want a comfortable, organized experience without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions. If you’re looking for a short but impactful trip that combines scenic beauty with wildlife encounters, this tour hits the sweet spot.
Final Thoughts
This day trip from Juneau offers a practical, engaging way to see some of Alaska’s most impressive sights without overextending your time or budget. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff, you’ll gain insight into the local ecosystem while enjoying close-up wildlife watching from a boat built for visibility and comfort. The visit to Mendenhall Glacier, although brief, provides a stunning backdrop for memorable photos and peaceful moments in nature.
While some might wish for more glacier exploration, the combination of the scenic drive, the glacier walk, and the whale cruise makes this a well-balanced day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful taste of Alaskan wilderness—a day filled with awe-inspiring vistas, fascinating creatures, and friendly guides who make the journey enjoyable and educational.
For anyone craving a value-packed adventure that mixes scenery, wildlife, and expert commentary, this tour stands out as an excellent choice—especially if your schedule is tight but your desire for authentic experiences is high.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a bus trip to Mendenhall Glacier, a 2-hour whale watching cruise, a naturalist guide, and snacks and beverages onboard.
Is transportation provided to and from the tour?
You meet at the Cruise Ship Terminal in Juneau and are escorted to the bus by the tour staff. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, but the meeting point is centrally located.
How long is the glacier stop?
You get approximately 45 minutes of free time at Mendenhall Glacier to explore, walk to Nugget Falls, or visit the visitor center.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, sea lions, and possibly black bears. Several reviews mention close whale encounters and bird sightings.
Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is designed for whale watching with open decks and large windows. Many reviewers praise the comfort and visibility.
What should I bring?
Bring layers, waterproof clothing, and a camera. The weather can be changeable, and good clothing enhances your experience.
Can I do this trip if I have limited mobility?
While the tour involves some walking at Mendenhall Glacier, the experience is generally accessible for most travelers able to handle short walks and standing.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in wildlife and scenic landscapes. The naturalist guides cater to a variety of ages and interests.
This tour offers a practical, well-organized way to experience some of Alaska’s most striking natural features. With knowledgeable guides, ample wildlife sightings, and the stunning backdrop of Mendenhall Glacier, it’s a trip that will likely become a highlight of your Alaskan journey.
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