You've decided you'd like to see the magnificent humpback whales in Alaska, but which Juneau whale watching tour is right for you? With this Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour, you're getting a little more bang for your buck and ensuring you're not missing any of Juneau's highlights! This tour includes a stop at the Mendenhall Glacier visitor's center in addition to the whale watching adventure. Including all of the features of the popular Whale Watching Tour, you'll leave the waters of Auke Bay and continue with a transfer over to the famous Mendenhall Glacier.
With a convenient downtown pick-up location within walking distance of the cruise ships, a 25-minute transfer over to Auke Bay takes you through downtown Juneau while your guide narrates the journey, providing a great introduction and orientation to Alaska's capital city. Load up on the customized whale watching boat and then it won't take long to arrive at prime whale watching waters. Spend the next 2 hours in the midst of whales, sea lions, seals and bald eagles, experiencing Alaska's diverse wildlife first-hand. Upon returning to the harbor, board the bus for a transfer to the glacier. Take a self-guided stroll to the glacier viewpoint or into the visitor's center (admission is included in tour price) which provides a wealth of knowledge and information. You have over and hour to explore the area before boarding the bus back to town.
Please note: This tour may run in reverse with the glacier visit first followed by whale watching.
* Please note that the Visitor Center building will be closed on Saturdays during the 2025 season. The park area, trails, and restrooms will all remain open, still providing exceptional views of Mendenhall Glacier.
There are two different boats used for this tour. The enclosed jet boats seat up to 28 people, and the larger catamarans can accommodate up to 49 people (if the tour is at full capacity). There is no way to request or know in advance which boat will be used for your departure.
What if our cruise ship's schedule is canceled or delayed?
We will try our best to work with you to reschedule the tour to a later time. If that is not a possibility or your ship doesn't make it into port, then you will receive a refund, less any non-refundable fees.
Is there a restroom on board the boat?
Yes, there is a small restroom on board the boat and also an opportunity before leaving at Auke Bay Harbor. We certainly recommend using the facilities at Auke Bay before leaving, as the onboard restrooms are quite small.
What should we wear and bring?
This tour operates rain or shine, and rain is common as we lie in a temperate rainforest! For comfort, we typically recommend long pants, closed-toed shoes and a waterproof jacket. Some guests choose to bring a small bag or backpack along to store extra layers, a bottle of water and cameras.
How can you guarantee that we will see whales?
The captain and crew are out there everyday, and understanding the whales' patterns and behavior is their job! Whales are creatures of habit like us and prefer certain feeding locations.
Know Before You Book
Minimum Age: There is no minimum age to join this tour
No minimum age to participate on this tour
Walkers or folding wheelchairs are allowed. Electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Please note that the ramp down to the boat will be steep and may be difficult to navigate at low tide.
Either a 24-passenger jetboat for a 49-passenger catamaran. Guests cannot make requests for vessel type.
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor's Center portion is a self-guided tour and guests WILL NOT get on/near the glacier
* Please note that the Visitor Center building will be closed on Saturdays during the 2025 season. The park area, trails, and restrooms will all remain open, still providing exceptional views of Mendenhall Glacier.
Guests docking at AJ Dock will need to select a departure at least 60 minutes after arrival.
Cancel up to 14-days before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 14-days of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.
