Ultimate Whale Watch and Tracy’s Crab Shack Combo

Juneau’s top excursion: whale watching and crab lunch in one seamless experience

If you’re visiting Juneau and want a taste of the best the town has to offer, the Ultimate Whale Watch and Tracy’s Crab Shack Combo is a standout. This tour packs in almost five hours of adventure — offering up-close whale sightings and a delicious seafood feast at Tracy’s Crab Shack, all for $274 per person. With a history of perfect reviews and a 5-star average rating, it’s clear this experience resonates with travelers seeking memorable Alaskan wildlife and authentic seafood.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guides who make whale watching both engaging and educational, and second, the generous crab meal that exceeds expectations with its size and flavor. The only caveat might be that the tour’s timing depends on weather, which can occasionally cause cancellations or delays, so it’s worth keeping flexible on your schedule.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and those wanting a straightforward, well-organized day. If you’re after a mix of awe-inspiring wildlife and hearty local cuisine, this combo tour hits a high note.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience combining whale watching and seafood dining in one booking
• Expert guides and friendly crew, focused on providing an informative and enjoyable experience
• Excellent value for the price, given the duration, included meal, and transportation
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance
• Ideal for most travelers with easy accessibility, including service animals
• Small group size (up to 49), ensuring a comfortable and personable outing

An in-depth look at the Ultimate Whale Watch and Tracy’s Crab Shack Combo

When planning a trip to Juneau, the chance to see humpback whales in their natural habitat is often at the top of many travelers’ wish lists. This tour makes that possible within a manageable timeframe, blending wildlife viewing with local culinary delights. At $274, it’s a solid investment in a memorable day, especially considering the length of the tour (about 4.5 hours) and the all-inclusive transportation and meal.

Starting point and logistics

The adventure kicks off at the Goldbelt Tram on Franklin Street, a convenient downtown meeting point. From there, your group is whisked away in a comfortable vehicle, making transportation seamless. The tour is capped at a maximum of 49 travelers, striking a good balance between intimacy and social vibe.

Whales in their element

The whale watching segment, led by knowledgeable guides like Captain Dustin, is typically about three hours long. Guides like Dustin and crew Tess and Brock are praised for their enthusiasm and expertise, making the boat ride not just a sightseeing trip but also an educational experience. Many reviews highlight how whales are abundant — with sightings of 4 humpback whales and even bubble feeding.

One traveler, Louis E, noted, “Captain Ben and crew Carrie and Mia gave us a wonderful time in Auke Bay. We saw 4 humpback whales, and one was even bubble feeding.” Such close encounters with whales are rare and unforgettable, especially when animals are actively breaching or bubble feeding, providing excellent photo opportunities.

The highlight: Tracy’s Crab Shack

After the whale watch, the tour continues with a crab feast at Tracy’s Crab Shack. Here, the crab combo meal includes soup, crab cakes, and two king crab legs — and reviews confirm it’s a generous and delicious meal. One visitor, Elizabeth H, called the crab legs “huge and delicious,” and many rave about the quality of the seafood.

However, a report from one reviewer mentioned some miscommunication: the restaurant staff weren’t immediately aware of how to redeem the prepaid meal, so be prepared to clarify your order. Despite this, the consensus is that the crab is worth the wait, and the service tends to be quick and friendly.

What makes this tour stand out?

It’s not just the sights or the meal alone — it’s the combination of expert guiding, authentic wildlife sightings, and hearty local cuisine. Many travelers comment on how well-organized and efficient the experience is, making it perfect for those who want an action-packed yet relaxed day. The included round-trip transportation means you don’t worry about logistics — just enjoy.

Considerations and tips

• Weather can impact the tour — cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling.
• Be sure to arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• The meal at Tracy’s is included, but beverages are not, so bring your own or purchase locally.
• If you’re traveling with a service animal, they are permitted onboard.

Authentic reviews from past travelers

One guest, Debra R, appreciated the friendly crew, saying, “Captain Dustin and crew Tess and Brock were very helpful and as excited as we were.” She emphasized the abundance of whales seen, calling it “far beyond my expectations.” Others praised the large crab legs and the quick, efficient service at Tracy’s.

Yet, even with the overall positive feedback, a few pointed out minor hiccups, such as the initial confusion over redeeming the meal at Tracy’s, which underscores the importance of clear communication when booking combo experiences.

Who should consider this tour?

If you’re an avid wildlife watcher and love seafood, this tour can deliver a full day of Alaskan adventure in one go. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers who want an easy, all-in-one experience. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a safe, enjoyable outing, especially if you’re new to whale watching.

Those who value local cuisine will appreciate the generous crab meal, which is often highlighted as one of the highlights. It’s also suited for travelers who prefer organized transportation and want to maximize their time without worrying about logistics.

The Sum Up

The Ultimate Whale Watch and Tracy’s Crab Shack Combo offers a well-rounded, satisfying taste of Juneau. The combination of spectacular whale sightings and a delicious seafood meal at Tracy’s makes it a smart choice for those wanting a memorable, value-packed day. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge enhance the experience, making it more than just a boat ride — it’s a genuine encounter with Alaska’s natural wonders and culinary heritage.

While weather dependency is a consideration, the tour’s flexibility and positive reviews suggest it’s a dependable choice for most visitors. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a seafood lover, or simply looking for an easy way to see Juneau’s highlights, this combo tour offers a practical and enjoyable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including whale watching and the crab meal.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers round-trip transportation from the port, the whale watching excursion, and the Tracy’s Crab Shack meal.

Are beverages included?
No, beverages are not included, so consider bringing your own or buying drinks at Tracy’s or nearby.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The group size is limited to ensure comfort and personalized attention.

What should I know about the meal?
The crab meal includes soup, crab cakes, and king crab legs. Some reviewers mentioned initial confusion over redeeming the meal, so have patience and clarify with staff if needed.

Embark on this combined adventure to see whales and indulge in fresh Alaskan crab — a true reflection of Juneau’s natural beauty and local flavors.