Imagine soaring above the rugged beauty of Juneau’s wilderness, watching majestic Brown Bears in their natural habitat, all tailored just for your group. This private seaplane tour offers a full day of adventure — from the air to the shoreline — with a focus on authentic wildlife encounters and stunning scenery. For around $2,500 per person, you’ll spend about 6 hours exploring one of Alaska’s most iconic landscapes, led by expert local guides who know every nook and cranny of this wild terrain.
What truly sets this experience apart? First, the personalized nature of the trip means you’re not sharing the viewing with strangers — your group gets the best spots and undivided attention. Second, the airplane flight over Admiralty Island and the Tongass National Forest isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the experience. You’ll love the way the scenery unfolds beneath you, especially if you’re a fan of glaciers, forests, and pristine wilderness.
One potential consideration is the price tag, which might seem steep for some travelers. However, the value lies in the exclusive nature of the tour, the comfort of a private trip, and the chance to see bears in their undisturbed environment. Also, since the tour operates year-round, you can plan this adventure in spring, summer, or fall, depending on your Alaska itinerary.
This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, nature photographers, or anyone craving a meaningful, up-close experience of Alaska’s wilderness. If you’ve dreamed of seeing bears in the wild, enjoying breathtaking aerial views, and having a customized adventure, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip to Juneau.
Key Points
- Exclusive Access: Private tour ensures a personalized experience with your own group.
- Stunning Flights: Fly over Admiralty Island and Tongass National Forest, enjoying spectacular scenery.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spend 3-4 hours observing Brown Bears in their habitat — a rare opportunity.
- Expert Guides: Local guides with extensive knowledge enrich the experience with fascinating insights.
- All-Inclusive: Includes gear like rain and rubber boots, landing fees, and lunch.
- Eco-Friendly: All trips are carbon-negative and environmentally responsible.
The Itinerary Breakdown: A Day in Alaska’s Wilderness
Starting Point and Departure:
Your adventure begins at Ward Air located at 8991 Yandukin Drive in Juneau. From here, your journey takes off early in the morning around 7:30 AM, aligning with the tour hours from May to October. The check-in process is straightforward, and since this is a private tour, you’ll have the flexibility to customize your departure time within the window.
The Flight Over Admiralty Island:
Once airborne, you’ll quickly leave Juneau’s urban landscape behind. The views of glaciers and forests fading into the distance are nothing short of breathtaking. The flight lasts about 20-30 minutes as you glide over the Admiralty Island National Monument, home to one of the densest populations of Brown Bears in North America.
This part of the trip is a highlight for many visitors. We loved the way the landscape opens up, revealing a tapestry of dense woods, shimmering waterways, and mountain peaks. The scenery is beautiful, and the flight itself is smooth — a chance to enjoy Alaska’s grandeur from a comfortable vantage point.
Bear Viewing in the Wilderness:
Once you arrive at the designated viewing area, the real magic begins. The time here is flexible — anywhere from 2 to 4 hours — depending on your preference. During this period, you’ll likely see several bears foraging, fishing, or simply basking in the natural environment. Reviewers frequently mention seeing multiple bears and even a mother with her cub, making for unforgettable wildlife moments.
The guides are seasoned experts, often locals who have spent their lives exploring these lands. They’re friendly, approachable, and eager to share their knowledge about bear behavior, safety tips, and the ecosystem. As one reviewer put it, guides like Peter Nave make the experience “that much more enjoyable.”
Since all guests must be able to walk over slippery beach terrain, this part of the trip involves some physical activity and caution, so it’s not suited for those with mobility issues.
Return Flight and Scenic Return:
After your time observing bears, you’ll board the seaplane again for the return trip. The flight back offers a fresh perspective, flying over the Tongass National Forest and glacial landscapes. Many travelers find this part of the day equally memorable, capturing photos of towering trees, icy fjords, and distant mountain ranges.
Optional Extensions:
For those seeking even more adventure, extra flightseeing over the Juneau Icefield can be arranged, adding another layer to your Alaska experience. It’s a great way to make a full-day trip even more special.
What’s Included and Practical Details
The tour cost of $2,499.50 per person covers much of what you’ll need for a comfortable day. The package includes rubber boots and rain gear—important for wet or muddy terrain—and all landing and facility fees. Lunch is also part of the package, ensuring you’re fueled for the day’s adventures.
The activity is private, meaning just your group will participate, enhancing both comfort and flexibility. The tour operates daily from May to April, with hours from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM, making it easy to fit into most Alaska itineraries.
Weather considerations:
Since the experience depends on good weather, cancellations due to poor conditions are a possibility. If this happens, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, making the experience relatively low-risk.
Authentic Experiences and Authentic Reviews
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One shared, “The trip with Peter Nave was excellent. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and we got to see all kinds of Brown Bears.” Another raved about seeing five bears during the tour, including a mom with her cub.
Many mention how well-organized the trip is, with reviews emphasizing the smooth float plane flights and the delicious lunch provided. The personal touch, combined with the opportunity to witness bears in the wild, makes this tour stand out.
Why Choose This Tour?
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager to see Brown Bears in their habitat, this is a rare opportunity. The private nature means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, and the aerial views add an extra layer of beauty to the adventure.
It’s also perfect for those who enjoy photography; the flights provide numerous scenic opportunities, and bear sightings often make for extraordinary photos. It’s suitable for travelers who are comfortable walking over uneven terrain and who value expert guidance.
However, keep in mind the price may be a barrier for some, but many feel the quality of experience, exclusivity, and stunning landscapes make it well worth the cost.
The Sum Up
This Private Bear Viewing By Seaplane tour offers an immersive, authentic glimpse into Alaska’s wilderness. The combination of spectacular flights over glaciers and forests, personalized bear encounters, and expert guides makes it a memorable experience. It’s especially suited for wildlife lovers and those looking for a luxurious, yet genuine adventure far from crowds.
While it’s a significant investment, the value lies in the exclusivity, stunning scenery, and the chance to witness majestic Brown Bears in the wild, capturing the essence of Alaska’s untamed beauty. If you want a tailored, high-quality wilderness experience with a strong emphasis on natural habitat and scenery, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but you need to be able to walk over 1 mile of slippery beach terrain, so it’s better suited for those in good physical condition.
What should I wear?
The tour provides rain gear and rubber boots, but bring layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes suitable for outdoor walking.
How long is the flight?
The flight over Admiralty Island lasts about 20-30 minutes each way, with plenty of scenic views.
What if the weather is poor?
Trips are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I customize the timing?
Since this is a private tour, you can likely discuss your preferences with the operator for departure times and durations of bear viewing.
Is this tour environmentally responsible?
Yes, all trips are carbon-negative and designed with environmental and cultural sensitivity in mind, allowing you to enjoy wilderness responsibly.
This tour offers a rare chance to connect with Alaska’s wild side in an intimate, breathtaking way. Prepare for an adventure that combines flightseeing, wildlife, and the vastness of the Alaskan wilderness — a true bucket-list experience!