Ultimate Juneau Whale Watch Plus Mendenhall Glacier Photo Stop

Ultimate Juneau Whale Watch Plus Mendenhall Glacier Photo Stop

This highly-rated tour in Juneau combines an exciting whale watching adventure with a scenic photo stop at Mendenhall Glacier. Priced at $156 per person, it offers a substantial 3-hour experience with round-trip transportation from the Mt. Roberts Tramway. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 711 reviews and 99% recommendation, it clearly appeals to those seeking a well-organized, wildlife-focused excursion.

The tour is operated by Juneau Tours and features a small group size—a maximum of 49 travelers—which helps ensure a more intimate experience. An expert naturalist guides the trip, providing insightful commentary on marine animals and Alaskan wildlife. This tour suits visitors wanting up-close whale encounters and scenic photo opportunities, although it’s important to dress warmly as the boat is exposed to the elements.

Key Points

• 3-hour whale watching tour from Juneau, including a photo stop at Mendenhall Glacier (weather permitting)
• Price: $156 per person with round-trip transportation from the Mt. Roberts Tramway
• Focus on humpback whales and orcas, with chances to see bald eagles, sea lions, seals, and black bears
• Onboard heated cabin with wide viewing windows and spacious decks for wildlife spotting
• An expert naturalist provides commentary, enhancing understanding of Alaskan marine life
• Snacks included, with additional bottled water and plenty of photo opportunities

Starting Point and Transportation from Juneau

The tour begins at the Mount Roberts Tramway parking lot, located in downtown Juneau at 490 S Franklin St. Guests board a coach bus that takes about 25 minutes through the scenic scenery of Southeast Alaska to Auke Bay Harbor. The bus ride itself offers views of the lush landscape and helps set the mood for the aquatic adventure ahead.

Once at Auke Bay Harbor, passengers board a custom-designed vessel—either a 24-passenger jet boat or a 49-passenger catamaran—designed for optimal whale watching. The transportation logistics are straightforward, and the meeting point is under the cables in front of the Mt. Roberts Tramway.

The Excursion: Whale Watching with a Naturalist Guide

The main focus of this tour is searching for humpback whales, which are often seen playing, breaching, or feeding. The captain will slow the vessel once a whale is spotted, allowing passengers to view from spacious decks or through wide viewing windows inside the heated cabin. The naturalist onboard explains the behaviors of the whales, sharing insights about migratory patterns, species distinctions, and other local wildlife.

You’ll also keep an eye out for orcas, which are known to frequent the waters around Juneau. Beyond whales, the tour offers opportunities to spot bald eagles, sea lions, seals, and even black bears. The guides are praised for their knowledgeability and friendly attitude, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The Mendenhall Glacier Photo Stop

Later in the cruise, weather permitting, the vessel makes a brief 5-minute stop on the water for photo opportunities at the Mendenhall Glacier. This glacier is one of Juneau’s most iconic sights, and being able to capture it from the water provides a unique perspective. Keep in mind that weather conditions can impact this stop, and some reviews mention that at times the glacier stop is not possible.

Despite this variability, the spectacular views and opportunity to photograph Alaska’s icy landscape add a memorable element to the tour. The boat’s design allows for unrestricted views, so you can take photos from inside the cabin or outside decks.

Onboard Comfort and Facilities

The vessel is equipped with a heated cabin, making it easy to stay warm and comfortable, especially in Alaska’s cool weather. The wide windows provide excellent views without the need to be outside, although the outdoor decks are perfect for spotting wildlife.

The bathrooms onboard add to convenience during the 3-hour tour. Snacks, including a trail mix bar and filtered water, are provided, maintaining energy levels during the adventure. The small group size enhances the experience, enabling more personalized attention from the crew.

Booking and Availability

Most bookings are made around 71 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should dress in layers, including waterproof jackets and comfortable slip-proof shoes. This ensures comfort whether the weather is sunny, rainy, or windy.

Guests can enjoy multiple tour times for flexibility, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering peace of mind. The tour includes round-trip transportation from downtown Juneau, making logistics easy and straightforward.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The combination of whale watching with a photo stop at Mendenhall Glacier makes this tour stand out. The small group size and expert guides are often highlighted for making the experience more engaging and informative. The focus on wildlife observation with unrestricted viewing from the vessel’s decks offers excellent chances to see multiple whales and marine animals.

On top of that, the positive reviews emphasize the knowledgeable crew, up-close encounters with whales and orcas, and good value compared to pricier cruise ship excursions. Many guests note that the crew communicates well and coordinates with other boats to maximize sightings.

Limitations and Considerations

The main limitation is that the Mendenhall Glacier photo stop is weather dependent and may not always occur. Some reviews mention disappointment when this part of the original expectation is not fulfilled, but this is a common challenge for tours relying on weather and sea conditions.

Plus, the tour is operated in all weather, so packing warm, layered clothing and rain gear is essential. The group size of up to 49 travelers might feel crowded for some, but it generally allows for a lively, social atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on the Juneau Whale Watch Experience

This 3-hour whale watching tour in Juneau offers excellent value with its focus on marine wildlife and scenic water views. The expert naturalist guides, comfortable vessel, and opportunities to see humpbacks and orcas make it a compelling choice for visitors eager to witness Alaska’s famous marine mammals.

The additional glacier photo stop adds a scenic touch, even if weather conditions sometimes impact this part. This tour appeals most to those interested in wildlife, photography, and the natural beauty of Southeast Alaska.

For anyone visiting Juneau and seeking a well-organized, wildlife-focused adventure, this tour remains a top recommendation. Its strong reputation, friendly crew, and spectacular sightings make it a memorable part of any Alaskan itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include transportation from downtown Juneau?
Yes, round-trip transportation is provided from the Mount Roberts Tramway parking lot in downtown Juneau.

What wildlife might I see during this tour?
Expect to see humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, sea lions, seals, and possibly black bears.

How long is the whale watching experience?
The whale watching portion lasts approximately 2 hours, with a total tour duration of about 3 hours including transportation and the glacier stop.

Is the glacier photo stop guaranteed?
No, the photo stop at Mendenhall Glacier is weather dependent and may be canceled if conditions are unfavorable.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress in layers, including waterproof jackets and comfortable slip-proof shoes. The vessel has a heated cabin for comfort.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time, providing flexibility and peace of mind.