Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour

Exploring Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour Review

If you’re heading to Juneau and looking for a well-rounded day that combines breathtaking scenery with memorable wildlife sightings, the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching tour offered by Dolphin Jet Boat Tours might catch your eye. This tour has consistently earned high praise, with a perfect 5-star rating from travelers who have been fortunate enough to experience it firsthand.

What really draws us to this experience are two things in particular: its personalized, small-group vibe that makes you feel more like a guest than just another passenger, and the expert guides who clearly love sharing their knowledge of Juneau’s natural wonders. Plus, the combination of seeing the stunning Mendenhall Glacier and getting close to whales in their natural habitat sounds like a winning combo.

Of course, no tour is perfect — and one thing to consider here is the price point. At $189 per person, it might seem a bit steep to some, especially when comparing to other options, but many reviews point out that the value you get—especially with the intimate setting and expert guidance—makes it worthwhile.

This tour suits anyone eager to experience Alaska’s wild side without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. Whether you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a scenic adventure, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Small-group experience makes for more personal attention and less waiting around.
• Expert guides add depth and insight, making the experience more meaningful.
• Diverse activities include glacier viewing, wildlife spotting, and an engaging water tour.
• Good value for the price given the combination of stops and included amenities.
• Flexible schedule with self-guided glacier stop and on-water whale watching.
• Weather-dependent — the tour is reliant on good weather, with options for rescheduling or full refund if canceled.

What to Expect from This Juneau Adventure

This tour is a well-structured day that balances iconic sights with exciting wildlife encounters. It begins with a convenient pickup at the Goldbelt Tram, right in downtown Juneau, making it easy to find even if you’re arriving on a cruise ship or staying locally.

Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

Your first stop is the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where you get about 40 minutes to explore. The highlight here is the Photo Point Outlook, which offers an unbeatable view of the glacier—a massive river of ice flowing through the landscape. If you’re into nature photography, you’ll love this spot.

But it’s not just about the view. Walking the boardwalk over salmon streams, you might catch sight of spawning salmon or even a bear if luck is on your side. The visitor center also has educational displays, so you can learn a bit about the glacier’s ongoing recession and the local ecosystem. Many reviews mention the glacier’s beauty and the chance to see wildlife close by, which adds to the feeling of being immersed in nature.

The Waterborne Expedition

Next comes the real thrill: a two-hour jet boat ride out of Auke Bay Harbor. This isn’t just any boat ride — it’s a mammal-friendly jet boat, designed to keep the whales safe while giving you the best chance to see them up close.

The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, often able to answer questions on the spot. One review praises Dr. Dan for his expertise, which hints at guides who genuinely love sharing their knowledge. The boat’s small size makes it easy to navigate tight channels and get close to the whales, which many travelers find to be a highlight.

Expect to be on the water for about two hours, during which the captain will take you wherever the whales are hanging out that day. With whales like humpbacks, you’re likely to see tail flukes, breaches, and maybe even smell their breath up close—something many reviews highlight as a surprisingly intimate moment. Multiple folks mention seeing whales swim right beneath the boat, making it an awe-inspiring experience.

Returning via Bus Ride

Finally, the tour wraps up with a 1 hour 20-minute bus ride back to the starting point. This part is mostly a convenient transfer but also offers opportunities to glimpse more of Juneau’s scenery. It’s a smooth way to conclude the day and reflect on your adventure.

The Experience: A Closer Look at Each Stop

Mendenhall Glacier: A Frozen Wonder Close Up

Many reviews mention how stunning the glacier is, even from a distance. While some wish they had more time to explore, the 40-minute stop still provides ample opportunity to get memorable photos and soak in the scenery. The overlook offers a commanding view, and if you walk down the boardwalk, you get a closer look at salmon streams—an emblem of the local salmon runs and a chance to see wildlife like bears if you’re lucky.

One traveler mentioned, “The glacier was beautiful from afar, but not visible anymore from the hiking trail due to recession,” which is a good reminder of how natural features can change over time. Still, the viewpoint delivers a breathtaking scene that’s worth every second.

Whale Watching: The Heart of the Tour

This part of the tour is what most travelers rave about. The guides’ passion and expertise shine, and many reports talk about how close the whales come. Multiple reviews mention whales breaching and tail flukes, with guides able to tell you what you’re seeing and why it’s special.

One person fondly recalls, “We could smell the whales’ breath!!” — yes, it’s that close, and many feel the experience is remarkably intimate. The small boat setup allows for quick movements and close encounters, which visitors say makes the whole trip more exciting than larger tours.

The naturalist onboard also enhances the experience with insightful commentary about whale behavior and habitat. Several reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making the trip both educational and fun.

Transportation & Logistics

The tour’s pickup point at Goldbelt Tram is easy to find, especially for cruise passengers. The entire day is smoothly organized, with quick transfers between stops, so you spend more time enjoying and less time waiting. The bus ride back is comfortable, providing a chance to relax and chat about the highlights.

Value for Money

At $189 per person, this tour is not the cheapest option in Juneau, but many reviews suggest that the small group size, knowledgeable guides, and high-quality experiences justify the cost. You get a mix of glacier scenery, wildlife encounters, and scenic transportation, which together create a comprehensive day out.

Compared to other tours that might only focus on whale watching or glacier visits, this combo gives you a richer sense of Juneau’s natural environment. Plus, the inclusion of snacks and the ease of booking add to its appeal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who value personalized attention and want to avoid large crowds. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see whales in a natural setting, and for those who appreciate good guides who can share their knowledge and enthusiasm.

If you’re traveling with limited time in Juneau or prefer a well-organized, all-in-one trip, this tour hits many marks. However, if weather is poor, be aware that the tour is weather-dependent with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching tour offers a balanced mix of Alaska’s iconic scenery and wildlife. The small group size and friendly guides are a real plus, making it feel less like a generic cruise excursion and more like a personalized trip with new friends.

Yes, the price tag may make you pause, but many travelers agree that the experience, especially the whale encounters, justify it. The opportunity to see whales up close, coupled with the stunning glacier views, makes this tour a memorable highlight for anyone wanting to connect with Alaska’s wild side.

If you’re after an authentic, engaging, and scenic day in Juneau, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the tour’s small boat and natural setting can be engaging for older children who enjoy wildlife and nature. Always check with the provider if you’re traveling with children to ensure they meet age requirements.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a self-guided visit to Mendenhall Glacier, a two-hour water tour with whale viewing, and transportation back via bus. Snacks and drinks are provided, but audio and written guides are not.

How long does the entire tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, with the glacier stop, water tour, and bus ride included.

What should I bring?
Dress in layers, bring waterproof clothing, and don’t forget your camera. The weather can change quickly, and some parts are close to water.

Is there a chance I won’t see whales?
While whale sightings are common, they depend on the day’s conditions. The guides are experienced at finding whales, but it’s not guaranteed.

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

How many people are on each boat?
The boat is designed for smaller groups, with a maximum of 60 travelers across the entire tour, likely fewer per boat for a more intimate experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but consider your mobility needs, especially for the glacier stop and boat boarding.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 92 days ahead, so early planning is recommended if you want to secure your spot.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The tour is popular in the cruise season, and best weather is typically from late spring to early fall. Always check the forecast closer to your date.

If you’re after a well-organized, engaging day that mixes glaciers and wildlife in Juneau, this tour is a solid choice. It offers meaningful encounters with Alaska’s natural beauty, guided by individuals who truly love sharing their backyard with visitors.