Best of Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier, Whale Watching and Salmon Bake

Best of Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier, Whale Watching & Salmon Bake — A Detailed Review

Imagine spending a day wandering through one of Alaska’s most iconic landscapes, with a chance to see whales breaching in the distance, then sitting down to a hearty, all-you-can-eat salmon dinner in a rainforest setting. That’s exactly what the Best of Juneau tour offers. Priced at $279 per person and lasting about 6 to 7 hours, this tour blends must-see sights with engaging guides and authentic food.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines accessible outdoor adventures with cultural insights—especially the chance to watch whales in their natural habitat and see local Tlingit artists at work. Both of these add layers of genuine Alaskan flavor you won’t find in a typical cruise shore excursion.

A possible consideration is that some travelers find the glacier visit a bit rushed, and a few were disappointed by the glacier’s size and accessibility. Also, the tour’s success depends on good weather—so if the skies turn grey, the experience might not fully match expectations.

This kind of tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded Alaskan experience—from stunning glacier views and wildlife to cultural demonstrations and delicious local food. If you’re keen on seeing a good chunk of Juneau in one day while enjoying some authentic flavors, this tour works well.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience blending glacier, wildlife, and cultural activities
• Guaranteed whale sightings with a refund policy if whales aren’t seen
• Authentic Alaskan meal with an all-you-can-eat salmon bake and sides
• Expert guides and naturalists enhance understanding of the environment and culture
• Flexible schedule with some reviews noting it can feel rushed at certain stops
• Weather dependent—good weather makes the day more memorable

Exploring Juneau: An Insider’s Guide to the Best of the Area

If you’re visiting Juneau, this tour offers a great way to get a snapshot of what makes the city special. From the moment we were picked up at our hotel in downtown Juneau, the friendly guides made the trip feel personal and engaging. The first stop at the Mendenhall Glacier is a highlight. At around 12 miles long, the glacier is a spectacular reminder of Alaska’s icy past. The visitor center offers informative exhibits, and if you’re lucky, you might see bears feasting on salmon in the surrounding streams—a sight that leaves a lasting impression.

What makes this glacier visit stand out is how it’s more than just a photo-op. The guides are knowledgeable, explaining not only the glacier’s formation but also how it’s changing over time. Some reviews mention feeling rushed, with just about an hour here, which might be tight if you’re hoping for a longer walk or more photography. If you’re a serious hiker or naturalist, you might want to explore other options, but for most, this is a solid overview.

Next, you’ll set sail from Auke Bay on a custom-designed jet boat. This isn’t your average boat ride. With extra-large windows and an outside deck, the vessel is built for wildlife viewing. According to multiple reviews, spotting humpback whales is a highlight, with your captain expertly coaxing the whales into view. The guaranteed sighting policy offers peace of mind—if no whales appear, you get a partial refund, which is a thoughtful touch.

We loved the way guides and captains worked together to locate whales, with some travelers describing the experience as “the best whale watching ever.” One reviewer even mentioned witnessing a whale breach, which is one of those extraordinary moments you’ll never forget. The naturalist onboard shares insights into the marine ecosystem, adding educational value to the fun.

Post-whale cruise, the tour transitions into a Alaskan culinary experience. The Salmon Bake in the rainforest is an atmospheric feast—imagine the smell of wild salmon grilling over alder wood as you settle into your all-you-can-eat buffet. Besides the grilled salmon, the menu includes Tongass wild-rice pilaf, cheechako chicken, baked beans, and blueberry cake for dessert. Many reviewers appreciate the quality and quantity of the food, describing it as “delicious” and “more than enough,” with some noting it’s a perfect way to end a day of outdoor adventure.

A special touch is the chance to see Tlingit artisans at work, carving cedar totem poles and making jewelry. This cultural element immerses you deeper into Alaska’s native traditions, and some travelers take home a handcrafted souvenir from the gift shop.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to downtown Juneau, often accompanied by lively commentary from guides. This final stretch gives you a chance to unwind, reflect on the day, and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and waterways.

The Itinerary in Detail

Mendenhall Glacier and Visitor Center

Starting with a narrated transfer, the first stop is a chance to see one of Alaska’s most famous glaciers. The visitor center offers informative exhibits, and the grounds are ideal for photos. Some travelers mention seeing bears in the area, feeding on salmon—a rare but memorable sight. The Glacier itself is about 12 miles long, offering a striking visual of ice and rugged terrain.

What to Expect: About an hour here, with some reviews noting the experience felt rushed, limiting time for longer walks or exploring Nugget Falls. A quick but valuable stop for first impressions of the region’s icy grandeur.

Whale Watching at Auke Bay

The main event happens next—a 2 hours and 45 minutes cruise on a state-of-the-art jet boat. Traveling with a naturalist and captain, you’ll get a thorough education about marine life and the geology of the region. Expect to see humpback whales in their natural environment. Many reviews highlight the high success rate, with some travelers witnessing whale breaches and pod behaviors like bubble net feeding.

The boat’s design allows for optimal views, and the outdoor deck offers a different perspective than the enclosed cabin. The refund policy adds a layer of confidence—if no whales are seen, each adult gets $100 back.

The Salmon Bake Experience

After the cruise, settle in for a relaxing meal at a rainforest setting. The all-you-can-eat salmon is grilled over alder wood, and the sides include hearty options like baked beans, wild rice pilaf, and pasta. Many reviewers rave about the quality of the food, describing it as “delicious” and plentiful. A dessert of blueberry cake caps off the meal nicely.

Cultural insights come from watching Tlingit artisans carve cedar totem poles and create jewelry. This demonstration adds an educational touch that enhances the overall experience.

Optional Activities and Free Time

You might want to explore Salmon Creek Waterfall or visit the Salmon Creek Trading Post. The tour allows some leisure time after the meal—so you can take photos, browse souvenirs, or just soak in the lush surroundings.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Authentic, engaging guides seem to be a key feature of this tour, with many reviewers praising their naturalist expertise and friendly demeanor. As one reviewer noted, “Claire & Capt Melissa found us plenty of whales and sea lions,” making the experience feel both educational and awe-inspiring.

The food also gets high marks—“the atmosphere was entertaining, the food delicious, and the sides numerous,” according to Maureen. The setting for the salmon bake, amid the rainforest, is often described as beautiful, adding to the appeal.

However, some travelers found the glacier visit a bit rushed, wishing for more time or a more immersive experience. A couple of reviews mention disappointment with certain aspects, like the quality of the food or the service, but these seem to be outliers.

This tour offers great value for the price—combining top wildlife viewing, iconic glacier scenery, cultural demonstrations, and a hearty meal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking to tick off multiple must-see sights in Juneau without the hassle of organizing separate trips, this tour hits most of the highlights. It’s perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who wants a well-organized, comprehensive day with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife encounters.

It’s also suitable for those interested in Alaskan culture, thanks to the native art demonstrations, and for food lovers who want to indulge in a traditional salmon feast. However, if you’re a serious hiker or seeking an in-depth glacier trek, you might find this experience somewhat limited.

The Sum Up

The Best of Juneau tour provides a balanced, engaging overview of what makes Alaska special—stunning glaciers, incredible whale encounters, and authentic cultural experiences, all wrapped into one day. The guides and naturalists clearly care about sharing their knowledge, making the trip both fun and educational. The included salmon bake adds a hearty, satisfying end to a busy day, giving you a taste of local cuisine in a scenic setting.

While some may find the glacier visit a little rushed, most travelers will appreciate how much variety they get for the price. The whale sightings seem to be a highlight for many, with the guarantee giving extra confidence that you’ll see these magnificent creatures.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full-day adventure that captures the essence of Juneau, from icy glaciers and whales to native art and hearty food. If you’re after a well-paced, authentic slice of Alaska, this experience offers excellent value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in downtown Juneau, making it convenient to start your day without extra logistics.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What are the main sights visited?
You’ll visit Mendenhall Glacier, go whale watching at Auke Bay, and enjoy a salmon bake in the rainforest. You also get a cultural demonstration with Tlingit artisans.

Is whale sighting guaranteed?
Yes, the tour guarantees whale sightings. If no whales are seen, you’ll receive a refund of $100 per adult and $50 per child.

Can I participate if I don’t like seafood?
The main meal is a salmon bake, but the buffet also includes chicken, pasta, and side dishes. Be sure to specify dietary preferences if needed.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and those 13-17 need parental consent if unaccompanied.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you can opt for a different date or a full refund.

Can I book this tour if I’m on a cruise?
Absolutely, just remember to specify your ship or hotel when booking to ensure timely pickup.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Juneau’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture—all packed into a single, memorable day. Perfect for those wanting an immersive, hassle-free experience that truly captures the spirit of Alaska.