Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier

Experience the Wilds of Juneau: Whale Watching and Mendenhall Glacier

Imagine standing on a platform overlooking Mendenhall Glacier, a massive, shimmering river of ice stretching over 13 miles, as it carves its way through the landscape. After soaking in the views, you’ll hop aboard a well-equipped boat for whale watching, with the chance to see humpbacks, orcas, seals, and soaring eagles in their natural habitat.

This tour, priced at $249 per person, lasts about four and a half hours, making it an ideal half-day adventure from Juneau’s cruise terminal. We love how smoothly the itinerary combines spectacular glacier scenery with the thrill of wildlife spotting. The round-trip transfers mean no fuss about logistics, and flexible departure times throughout the day make it easy to fit into your schedule.

One of the standout features is the guarantee to see whales, which provides peace of mind and confidence that you’ll return with incredible stories. The expert guides and crew, like Captain James and naturalists Will and Nate, are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to enhance the experience.

A small consideration is that, while the tour is well-organized, some travelers found the visiting time at the glacier could be a bit tight—about 50 minutes—so if you’re eager for a long exploration, you might wish for more time.

If you love nature, wildlife, and iconic Alaskan scenery, this tour is perfect. It suits those who want a well-rounded taste of Juneau’s natural wonders without spending an entire day on excursions. Families, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Glacier views combined with whale watching in one trip.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable staff enhance your understanding and chances of wildlife sightings.
• Guaranteed whale sightings: You’re assured of seeing whales, a highlight for many travelers.
• Comfortable transportation: Hassle-free round-trip transfers from the cruise port.
• Flexible timing: Multiple departure times throughout the day.
• Value for money: Combining glacier and whale experiences at a reasonable price.

Exploring Juneau’s Wildlife and Glaciers in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins at Juneau’s main cruise ship terminal, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into an air-conditioned bus. This comfortable ride takes you through the scenic landscape to Mendenhall Glacier, located just a short drive from the harbor. The round-trip transportation is a big plus, removing the hassle of organizing separate travel or shuttles.

Travel time to the glacier is typically about 45 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy commentary from your driver, who often shares interesting tidbits about Juneau’s environment and history. As one reviewer mentioned, “Our bus driver provided great commentary as we drove to the site,” which adds a layer of context to the stunning scenery.

Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

Once at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, you’ll have around 50 minutes to explore. The glacier’s spectacular views are front and center—viewing platforms and walkways offer excellent angles for photos. You might also want to head to the trails or the bear-viewing platforms. Reviewers report that the glacier is “beautiful” and note how impressive it is to be so close to a mass of ice this size.

While the time at the glacier is manageable, some wish for more, as one traveler noted: “Wish we had more time to explore the park!” If you’re a glacier aficionado or eager to hike, this brief stop might leave you craving more.

Whales and Wildlife at Sea

After your glacier visit, it’s time for the marine adventure. You’ll board a vessel built for wildlife viewing—equipped with oversized windows, a warm cabin, and a wrap-around outdoor deck. This setup ensures comfort whether you prefer observing from inside or outside in the fresh air.

The crew, especially guides like Nate and Will, are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. They help spot whales, seals, eagles, and more, often making wildlife sightings feel like a shared triumph. In fact, the “100% guarantee to see whales” policy offers reassurance, assuring you’ll get to witness these magnificent creatures.

Many reviews mention the thrill of seeing whales breach and flip—such as a reviewer who exclaimed, “We saw orca and a baby whale flipping in the water.” Others highlight the abundance of wildlife, including sea lions, bald eagles, and even sea lions.

Snacking and Comfort

A thoughtful touch is the complimentary snack and beverage onboard, which keeps everyone cozy during the cruise. The vessel’s comfortable seats and ample windows make whale watching both relaxing and exciting.

The naturalist commentary enhances the experience, providing insights about the whales’ behaviors and environment—adding depth to what might otherwise be just a boat ride. Many reviewers praise their crew for “being informative, friendly, and accommodating,” making the trip more memorable.

Return and Reflection

Back at the harbor, your driver will transfer you smoothly back to the cruise ship with enough time to enjoy the rest of your day. The overall timing feels well-managed, with most travelers reporting they returned with plenty of time before their ship departs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to maximize their time in Juneau without sacrificing scenery or wildlife encounters. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to see whales in their natural environment and want the safety of a guaranteed sighting. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike have found it to be a well-organized, engaging, and picturesque outing.

If you’re a nature lover who appreciates stunning glaciers and active wildlife, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Alaska’s outdoor magic. And if you’re traveling with kids or prefer a comfortable, guided experience, the combination of transportation, informative guides, and scenic stops makes this trip highly practical.

The Sum Up

This tour delivers an outstanding balance of glacier scenery and marine wildlife, making it a solid choice for your Juneau visit. Its value is evident in the seamless organization, expert guides, and the guarantee of whale sightings—meaning you’re likely to come away with memorable photos and stories.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a half-day escape from the cruise ship, offering diverse experiences without feeling rushed. The comfortable boat and professional staff create a relaxed environment, letting you focus on the awe of Alaska’s wilderness.

Travelers who appreciate authentic encounters with nature, breathtaking views, and educational insights will find this tour both enjoyable and worthwhile. Whether you’re keen on capturing perfect photos or simply soaking in the wild landscapes, this trip stands as a reliable, rewarding choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket covers round-trip transportation from the cruise terminal, Mendenhall Glacier admission, a guided glacier visit, whale watching cruise, snacks and bottled water, and live commentary onboard.

How long is the glacier visit?
You’ll spend about 50 minutes at the glacier, which is enough to take photos and enjoy the views but may leave some wanting more time for a longer exploration.

Is whale watching guaranteed?
Yes, the tour guarantees whale sightings, so you can be confident you’ll see humpbacks, orcas, and other wildlife—many travelers describe it as “amazing” and “unforgettable.”

What’s the best time of day to depart?
The tour offers multiple departure times throughout the day, allowing you to choose a slot that fits your schedule, ensuring flexibility for cruise plans or other activities.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, but most travelers report that the experience is suitable for families and kids who are comfortable on boats and walking around outdoors.

How is the transportation arranged?
You’ll be picked up directly at the cruise port in an air-conditioned bus, making the journey to the glacier and back smooth and stress-free.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress warmly in layers—weather in Alaska can change quickly. Bring a raincoat, hat, and comfortable shoes for walking at the glacier and on the boat.

This tour offers a well-rounded, immersive taste of Alaska’s natural beauty—from glaciers to whales. With expert guides, reliable organization, and stunning scenery, it’s a worthy addition to any Juneau itinerary.