If you’re dreaming of getting out on the water in Juneau and having a chance to see whales and other marine creatures in their natural habitat, this Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it suits your travel style.
What really stands out about this experience are two things: the opportunity to paddle in a whale feeding ground and the chance to land on a remote island for snacks and exploration. It’s a surprisingly intimate way to see Alaska’s wildlife – you’re not just looking from afar but sharing the water with these incredible creatures. But, a word to the wise, it’s not ideal if you’re not comfortable paddling a tandem kayak for about two hours, especially if you’re a beginner.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy active adventures, love wildlife, and want a deeper connection to Alaska’s natural beauty. It might not be ideal for very young kids or pregnant women, but if you’re up for a physically engaging day with some stunning scenery, keep reading.
Key Points
- Wildlife encounters: Spot humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, and a variety of bird species.
- Small group: Limited to 6 participants, making it more personal and allowing for better wildlife viewing.
- All skill levels: The kayak gear and guide instructions make it accessible even for beginners.
- Remote location: Land on a secluded island, away from crowds, for snacks and exploration.
- Duration & logistics: About 6 hours total, including van transfer, boat ride, and kayaking.
- Price: At $501 per person, it’s a premium experience, but many find the wildlife and scenery worth it.
Starting Point and Transportation
Your day begins in downtown Juneau, where you’ll meet your guide at a designated spot near the cruise ship docks. The meeting point is easy to find — look for the ‘Above & Beyond Alaska’ sign near the C sign, between Mt. Roberts Tramway and Taku Smokeries. If you’re staying in the Mendenhall Valley, there’s often an option for hotel pickup, which adds convenience.
Once gathered, you’ll hop into a climate-controlled van for the short drive to the marina, where a motorboat awaits. This combination of land and water transportation is actually quite practical: it speeds up the journey and gets you right into the heart of the wilderness efficiently.
Hoping to spot marine life? We've covered these other whale watching options in Juneau Alaska
The Boat Ride to the Channel Islands
The boat ride along the Inside Passage is a highlight on its own. It’s not just the transportation; it’s part of the experience. As you cruise past snow-capped peaks and glaciers, you’ll get a sense of the wild, untouched landscape that makes Alaska so special. The trip takes you to the Channel Islands State Marine Park, known as a hotspot for humpback whale feeding.
The boat itself is likely to be a smaller vessel, designed for the comfort and safety of small groups. The ride offers good chances to see marine life from a distance, and the guides are usually knowledgeable about spotting wildlife along the way. The hour-long cruise sets the tone; it’s scenic, exciting, and primes you for the adventure ahead.
Landing on the Remote Island
Upon arrival, you’ll step onto a quiet, remote beach — away from any crowds or touristy spots. Here, your guide will introduce you to your double kayaks, give a quick tutorial, and ensure everyone feels ready to paddle. This is where the experience becomes more personal. The calm, pristine environment offers a peaceful setting to connect with nature.
The tutorial is straightforward, making this activity accessible even if you’re new to kayaking. You’ll be paddling tandem kayaks, which helps with balance and control, especially for beginners. Once on the water, you’ll glide past rocky outcroppings and lush islands, with the towering glacial landscape as your backdrop.
Wildlife Viewing from the Water
The core of this tour is wildlife observation. Experts and guides will help you spot whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, and seals in their natural habitat. Because this is a feeding ground for humpbacks, there’s a good chance you’ll see them breaching or slapping their tails, and maybe even get close enough to appreciate their size.
The guides are seasoned and know how to find the best wildlife spots, sharing insights about the animals’ behaviors and habitats. As one reviewer noted, the guides provided many explanations about the whales, which added depth to the experience. Another guest described it as “magical,” emphasizing the thrill of seeing whales so close.
Keep in mind, though, wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Nature is unpredictable, and part of the adventure is patience and a bit of luck.
More Great Tours NearbyA Snack Break and More Exploration
Midway through, you’ll land again on the island for a hearty snack. This pause offers a chance to relax, chat with your fellow adventurers, and enjoy the stunning surroundings. It’s a good moment to take photos, breathe in the fresh air, and prepare for more paddling.
After the break, you’ll continue exploring the waters in your kayaks, with the chance to see more marine life and take in the sweeping views of the glaciers and mountain ranges. The experience is designed to be intimate and engaging, giving you a genuine connection to Alaska’s wild coast.
Duration and Overall Experience
The entire tour lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, boat ride, and kayaking. The kayaking itself is approximately 2 hours, which is perfect for those wanting an active participation without overdoing it. The small group size (limited to 6) ensures personalized attention and better wildlife spotting opportunities.
One thing to keep in mind: Participants must be able to confidently paddle a tandem kayak for this duration. The tour is not suitable for children under 8 or pregnant women, as it involves physical activity.
Price and Value
At $501 per person, this tour is on the higher end, reflecting the personalized nature, remote locations, and wildlife encounters. Many travelers find the price justified given the uniqueness of the experience, the quality of gear, and the knowledgeable guides. The small group setting enhances the feeling of adventure and safety, which can be worth the extra cost.
Juneau: Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure
Final Thoughts
This kayaking adventure in Juneau offers a rare chance to see Alaska’s marine life up close, in a setting that’s both adventurous and tranquil. The combination of boat ride, landings on remote islands, and wildlife viewing makes it a well-rounded experience for active travelers who love nature and are comfortable paddling.
While it’s not inexpensive, many guests, like Cecile from France, describe it as “an EXCEPTIONAL experience,” emphasizing the sense of magic and closeness to nature. The guides’ expertise and the stunning scenery set this tour apart from typical wildlife cruises.
If you’re after a more personal and immersive wildlife encounter, enjoy paddling, and want to experience Alaska’s wild coast in a meaningful way, this tour is likely to deliver.
This kayak adventure is perfect for travelers seeking a hands-on experience. If you’re comfortable with paddling and enjoy active outings, you’ll probably love the physical challenge balanced with awe-inspiring wildlife sightings. It’s especially suitable for those wanting to get off the beaten track and land on a remote island.
However, if you’re traveling with very young children, pregnant, or less confident in paddling for a couple of hours, you might want to consider other options. This experience is best enjoyed by those who appreciate the combination of adventure, nature, and the chance to see whales in a wild setting.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all kayaking skill levels. The guide provides a basic tutorial, and tandem kayaks help with stability.
What wildlife might I see?
You might encounter humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, seals, and various bird species, depending on the day.
How long is the kayaking portion?
The kayaking lasts about 2 hours, with some time for landings and breaks in between.
Are meals included?
A hearty snack is provided during the island stop, but food isn’t included beyond that.
What should I bring?
You’ll be provided with rain gear and a dry bag for your essentials. It’s good to wear layered clothing, waterproof shoes, and bring sunglasses and sunscreen.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 15 days in advance for a full refund.
Is hotel pickup available?
Clients staying at major hotels in the Mendenhall Valley may be picked up; otherwise, you meet at the designated spot near the cruise docks.
Is this a family-friendly activity?
It’s not suitable for children under 8 or pregnant women, mainly due to the physical nature of paddling.
This tour offers a chance not just to see wildlife but to truly connect with Alaska’s wild coast. If you’re looking for an active, intimate, and scenic adventure, it’s hard to beat the experience of paddling in these pristine waters.
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