Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Juneau, Alaska, the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour offers an unforgettable adventure. Combining the grandeur of glacial formations with the thrill of spotting majestic humpback whales, this 4-hour excursion promises an immersive experience in the heart of the state’s wilderness. With guided insights, wildlife sightings, and scenic boat rides, this tour entices adventurers to discover the natural wonders that make Juneau a must-visit destination.

Key Points

• This 4-hour tour combines exploration of Mendenhall Glacier with whale watching in the surrounding waterways, departing from downtown Juneau.
• The tour includes roundtrip transportation, binoculars, and refreshments, and offers opportunities to spot wildlife like humpback whales and spawning salmon.
• Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk at Mendenhall Glacier, learn about the glacier at the visitor center, and take a boat excursion for whale watching.
• The tour is guided by a naturalist and has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the transportation and value for money.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with back problems or mobility impairments, and alternative options may be needed for travelers with physical limitations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour offers a comprehensive 4-hour experience that showcases some of the area’s most renowned natural wonders.

Priced from $189 per person, the tour departs from downtown Juneau, taking visitors to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and nearby boardwalk trails.

After exploring the glacier, guests board a boat for a whale watching excursion in the Favorite Channel, Stephens Passage, Lynn Canal, or Saginaw Channel.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation, use of binoculars, and complimentary refreshments.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a flexible and memorable adventure.

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with a bus departure from downtown Juneau, transporting guests to the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area.

At the visitor center, travelers gain educational insights about the glacier. They then stroll along the boardwalk over Steep Creek, where they may spot spawning salmon and black bears.

Next, participants board a boat at Auke Bay Harbor for whale watching in the surrounding waterways. Throughout the tour, a naturalist provides guidance on spotting humpback whales.

The tour concludes with a return to downtown Juneau, where guests enjoy complimentary refreshments.

Wildlife and Natural Features

One of the main highlights of the tour is the opportunity to view the natural beauty of Mendenhall Glacier. Guests can observe the glacier’s massive ice formations and glistening blue hues up close.

The tour also provides chances to spot local wildlife, including humpback whales. Guided by a naturalist, travelers may witness these majestic creatures surfacing, breaching, and feeding in the surrounding waterways.

Plus, the tour allows visitors to see spawning salmon and potentially spot black bears along the Steep Creek boardwalk. Through these diverse natural encounters, guests gain a deeper appreciation for Juneau’s captivating wilderness.

What to Expect

Guests embark on an immersive journey through Juneau’s natural wonders, beginning with a bus ride to the renowned Mendenhall Glacier.

An immersive journey through Juneau’s natural splendor, beginning with a bus ride to the renowned Mendenhall Glacier.

At the visitor center, they gain educational insights about the glacier’s formation and the surrounding ecosystem. The experience continues with a stroll along the boardwalk, where they may spot:

• Spawning salmon

• Foraging black bears

• Soaring bald eagles

Next, they board a boat for whale watching, scanning the waters with the guidance of a naturalist.

The tour concludes with a return to downtown Juneau, accompanied by complimentary refreshments.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

Although the Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour includes a boat trip, roundtrip transportation, complimentary water, coffee, hot chocolate, and snacks, as well as the use of binoculars and a self-guided tour at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, it’s not suitable for people with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. Pets, smoking, and large bags are also not allowed. The tour provides an excellent opportunity to view the natural beauty of Mendenhall Glacier and spot humpback whales, but travelers with certain physical limitations may need to consider alternative options.

| Included | Not Included |

| — | — |

| Boat trip | Not suitable for people with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users |

| Roundtrip transportation | Pets |

| Water, coffee, hot chocolate, snacks | Smoking |

| Use of binoculars | Luggage or large bags |

| Self-guided tour at Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area | |

Customer Reviews and Ratings

The Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour has received an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 62 reviews.

Travelers have praised the tour, highlighting:

• Exceptional transportation with a rating of 4.6/5

• Excellent value for money, earning a 4.5/5 rating

• Positive experiences with knowledgeable guides and memorable wildlife sightings

The reviews suggest that this tour provides a well-organized and enjoyable experience, allowing visitors to explore the stunning Mendenhall Glacier and witness the majestic presence of whales in their natural habitat.

Getting to the Tour

Travelers can reach the Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour by departing from downtown Juneau on the provided bus transportation.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation, making it convenient for visitors to focus on the scenic experiences without worrying about driving.

The bus will take guests directly to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, allowing easy access to explore the glacier and surrounding area.

From there, the tour continues with a boat trip for whale watching in the nearby waters.

The all-inclusive transportation ensures a seamless and hassle-free excursion for participants.

Plan Your Juneau Adventure

How can you make the most of your Juneau adventure? Start by booking the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour to learn about the region’s natural beauty.

The tour includes:

• Visiting the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center for educational insights

• Spotting humpback whales with the guidance of a naturalist

• Observing spawning salmon and potential black bear sightings

With complimentary transportation, refreshments, and use of binoculars, this tour provides an inclusive and memorable experience.

Don’t miss your chance to witness Juneau’s stunning glaciers and diverse wildlife up close.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, outside food and drinks are not allowed. However, the tour provides complimentary coffee, hot chocolate, water, and a small snack for participants. Guests are advised to refrain from bringing their own items.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a stated minimum age requirement. However, it may not be suitable for very young children as it involves boat travel and outdoor activities. Parents should ensure their children can safely participate in the tour.

Is the Tour Available Year-Round or Seasonal?

The tour is seasonal, typically running from May through September when whale watching opportunities are at their peak in the region. Exact dates may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the latest availability.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Clothing or Gear?

Participants should dress warmly and wear comfortable, waterproof shoes. The boat tour may get chilly, so layering clothing is recommended. Binoculars are provided, but bringing your own can enhance the wildlife viewing experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the duration of the tour. The tour is fixed at 4 hours, and the itinerary is pre-determined. Extending the length of the tour would likely require booking a separate or customized tour option.

Final Words

The Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour offers a captivating 4-hour experience, blending the beauty of the Mendenhall Glacier with the thrill of whale watching. With a strong rating, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure in Alaska’s magnificent wilderness, complete with transportation, expert guidance, and refreshments. Whether you’re marveling at the glacier or spotting humpback whales, this tour promises an extraordinary day in Juneau’s stunning natural surroundings.

You can check availability for your dates here: