Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking

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Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking Review

Planning a trip to Juneau? Then you’ve likely come across the Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking tour, a highly-rated adventure that promises a blend of wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and active fun. This experience is ideal for anyone wanting to see Alaska’s natural beauty from a different perspective — on the water, paddling near glaciers and spotting eagles.

What we love about this tour is its accessibility: all skill levels are welcome, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Plus, with snacks and round-trip transportation included, it offers excellent value for the price of $159 per person. However, one thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need a moderate physical fitness level since you’ll paddle for about two hours, and the weather can be unpredictable.

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for an active, family-friendly experience that combines wildlife encounters, scenic views, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-timer, this tour offers memorable moments that will stay with you long after you leave Juneau.

Key Points

All skill levels are accommodated with equipment and instruction provided.
Wildlife sightings include bald eagles, seals, sea lions, and possibly whales.
Spectacular views of Mendenhall Glacier from an ocean vantage point.
Incredible local stories about Smugglers Cove and the surrounding area.
Includes snacks, beverages, and transportation for convenient, all-in-one experience.
Weather conditions may vary, so dress accordingly.

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What Is the Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking Tour?

This scenic tour involves paddling in the waters around Juneau, focusing on Fritz Cove and the protected Mendenhall Wetlands. Guided by experienced professionals, you’ll explore these calm, scenic waters in stable yet nimble two-person kayaks, providing a quiet way to approach Alaska’s abundant wildlife.

For many travelers, the highlight is the chance to see eagles, seals, sea lions, and even whales — the kind of sightings that make Alaska’s wilderness so special. The tour offers a different perspective on the Mendenhall Glacier, which is visible from about six miles away — a vantage point that’s hard to beat and impossible to see from land or air on a bad weather day.

The guides are known for their storytelling, sharing local history and interesting facts about flora and fauna, making the experience educational as well as fun. After paddling, you’ll enjoy a tasty Alaska-style snack before heading back to the cruise port.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Meet at Mount Roberts Tramway

Your adventure begins at the Mount Roberts Tramway, where friendly guides will help you gear up with life jackets, rain gear, boots, and spray skirts. This initial briefing is crucial as it prepares you physically and mentally for paddling. Many reviews highlight how guides like Lexi, Nisha, and Shane are personable, professional, and full of local knowledge.

Kayaking Technique and Safety

Once suited up, you’ll get a quick paddling primer, emphasizing safety and technique. The guides ensure that even complete beginners feel comfortable. Expect to paddle for around two hours, which is plenty of time to explore the wetlands and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

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Wildlife and Glacier Views

As you set off, the real magic begins. The calm waters make it easy to silently approach and observe wildlife such as bald eagles, otters, seals, and sea lions. Reviewer Donna D. remarked, “We thought we’d be closer to the Mendenhall Glacier, but the view from the water is still stunning,” highlighting how this perspective provides a fresh take on Alaska’s glaciers.

Stories and Local Lore

Throughout the trip, guides entertain and educate with stories about Smugglers Cove and the area’s history, adding depth to the experience. Many mention how guides like Jameson engage children well and are eager to share their knowledge.

Return and Refreshments

Back ashore, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved snack and beverages, often described as “Alaska-style” — typically hearty, fresh, and satisfying. The tour ends at the same meeting point, with plenty of moments to chat about the highlights of your paddling adventure.

Equipment, Safety & Comfort

All necessary equipment — including rain gear, boots, spray skirts, and life jackets — is provided, making this a hassle-free outing. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the gear and the attentiveness of guides, which enhances safety and comfort.

Given the unpredictable weather, dressing appropriately is essential — waterproof clothing, warm layers, and sturdy footwear are recommended. While the kayaks are stable, some reviews note that the experience can be wetter than expected, especially if the kayak develops a leak or if you encounter choppier waters.

Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of 48 travelers, the tour maintains a friendly, manageable atmosphere. Several departure times throughout the day accommodate different schedules, making it flexible for cruise passengers or day-trippers.

Transportation

Transportation from the cruise pier is included, allowing you to focus on the experience instead of logistics. Guides often pick up directly from the dock or meeting spot, which reviews find very convenient.

The Value of This Experience

For $159, this tour offers a comprehensive package: professional guides, all gear, snacks, transportation, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Many reviews highlight that the experience feels like excellent value, especially considering how close you get to wildlife and scenic vistas without needing specialized skills.

Some travelers note that the trip might be shorter or less glacier-focused than expected, but the upside is the chance to see wildlife in action and enjoy peaceful paddling in pristine waters. The inclusion of snacks and drinks makes it feel more like a leisure activity combined with adventure.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Reviewers praise guides like Lexi, Mishka, Shane, and Jameson for their friendliness and knowledge. Comments like “Cami and Shane were both great guides” and “Nisha was very friendly and fun” highlight the personal touch that guides bring to this tour.

Many mention the spectacular scenery and wildlife sightings, with some seeing seals, eagles, and otters up close. A few noted the weather can be variable — with cloudy or foggy conditions obscuring views — but the guides do their best to maximize wildlife sightings and explain the surroundings.

One reviewer expressed disappointment about a kayak leak, reminding future travelers to be prepared for the possibility of wetter conditions. Another had a less-than-ideal experience due to tour operator miscommunication, but overall, most reviews emphasize how much fun and how worthwhile the trip was.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a gentle yet active adventure. It suits those who appreciate the outdoors, want to learn about local ecosystems, and are comfortable paddling for a couple of hours.

Because all equipment and instruction are provided, it’s accessible for beginners, but you should be reasonably fit and prepared to paddle in potentially wet conditions. The tour’s flexible schedule and manageable group size also make it a good choice for cruise passengers looking to see the highlights of Juneau without hassle.

Final Thoughts

The Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking tour offers a wonderful way to see Alaska’s wilderness from a different perspective. Thanks to knowledgeable guides, stable kayaks, and the chance to spot local wildlife, it’s an experience that offers both adventure and education without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a memorable, outdoor activity that combines scenic views, wildlife encounters, and a touch of physical activity, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in seeing glaciers from the water and enjoy being surrounded by nature’s tranquility.

While weather can influence the experience, the overall value and authentic encounters make this a highly recommended choice for active travelers and families alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7-12 can participate if accompanied by an adult. Kids aged 13-17 need parental consent if they’re traveling without a parent or guardian.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers all necessary equipment (rain gear, boots, spray skirts, life jackets), beverages, snacks, professional guides, and round-trip transportation from the Juneau cruise port.

How long is the kayaking portion?
You’ll paddle for approximately 2 hours during the tour, which is enough time to explore the wetlands and enjoy wildlife sightings.

Can I see the Mendenhall Glacier from the water?
You can view the glacier from about six miles away on this tour, which many find offers a unique, unobstructed perspective impossible to get from land.

What should I wear?
Dress for variable weather — waterproof layers, warm clothing, and sturdy footwear are recommended. The provided rain gear helps, but bring additional warm layers if needed.

Are there any physical requirements?
Participants should be in good health and have a moderate physical fitness level. You’ll need to paddle for about two hours, so comfort with physical activity is helpful.

What are the group sizes?
The tour caps at 48 travelers, ensuring a friendly atmosphere with plenty of space to enjoy the scenery.

What if the weather is bad on the day of my trip?
This tour operates in all weather conditions. If safety or visibility is compromised, it may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund or alternative date offered.

In essence, this sea kayaking tour around Mendenhall Glacier combines adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty into a package that’s well worth considering for your Juneau visit. Just be prepared for whatever weather comes your way, and brace yourself for some truly memorable Alaska moments.