Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier

If you’re heading to Juneau and want a chance to see some of Alaska’s most iconic sights—glaciers and whales—this tour might catch your eye. Offered by Alaska Tales, it promises a balanced mix of breathtaking natural scenery and exciting wildlife encounters. With a solid 5-star rating from over 5,000 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, it looks like a dependable choice for travelers eager to experience Alaska’s wilderness up close.

What really stands out about this experience are the spectacular views of Mendenhall Glacier and the guaranteed whale sightings, which keep the adventure both scenic and lively. Plus, the hassle-free round-trip transfers from the cruise terminal make planning easier for those on tight schedules. That said, it’s important to note that the tour duration is around four and a half hours, so it works best for those with flexible itineraries.

One consideration worth mentioning is the fixed schedule and limited exploration time at the glacier—if you’re hoping for a long hike or deep dive into the park, you might find the 45-minute glacier stop a bit brief. But if you’re after a snapshot of the stunning ice and wildlife, and want a smooth, well-organized experience, this tour could suit you well.

All in all, if you’re a nature lover, keen on seeing whales in their natural habitat, and want an efficient way to enjoy two of Juneau’s top attractions, this tour could be a very good fit. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a comfortable, informative ride.

Key Points

• Stunning Glacier Views: You’ll get close-up views of Mendenhall Glacier, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Wildlife Guarantee: The tour boasts a 100% guarantee to see whales, which is a major plus.
• Expert Guides & Commentary: The staff and naturalists are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude.
• Comfortable Transportation: Hassle-free round-trip transfers from the cruise terminal simplify logistics.
• Flexible Schedule: Multiple departure times give you options to fit your plans.
• Short yet Sweeping Experience: About four and a half hours, balancing glacier exploration with whale watching.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Glacier Stop: Mendenhall Visitor Center

Your adventure begins at the cruise ship terminal, where you’ll hop onto an air-conditioned bus heading to the Mendenhall Glacier. This part of the tour is roughly 50 minutes long. What makes this stop so rewarding is the chance to get great views of the glacier from viewing platforms and walkways. The glacier itself stretches over 13 miles (21 km), and seeing it in person is quite something—massive, blue-tinged ice that’s continually changing.

The Visitor Center adds an educational layer, with exhibits and trails for exploring the glacier’s surroundings. Some reviews mention they wish they had more time here, but generally, the 45-minute window is enough for quick photos and a peek at the glacier’s grandeur. You’ll also have access to trail walks and bear-viewing platforms, if you’re interested in a brief outdoor stroll.

The Whale Watching Cruise

Next, your trip transitions to the coast, where you’ll board a specially designed vessel. These boats are comfortable, with oversized windows and a heated cabin, making wildlife spotting easy and relaxing. The outdoor deck wraps around the boat, perfect for catching the action in the open air.

The crew and naturalists on board are a highlight—reviewers rave about their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to spot whales. The expectation is wildlife viewing is guaranteed, and many describe it as an active, engaging experience. You might see humpback whales breaching, spy seals, eagles, or even blue herons. One reviewer noted witnessing whales breaching twice—a breathtaking moment that really sticks with travelers.

Food & Refreshments

To keep everyone comfortable, a complimentary snack and bottled water are provided on board. You’ll have enough to stay cozy and energized while scanning the waters for wildlife.

Return & Reflection

After hours on the water, the boat heads back to the harbor. Your driver will transfer you back to the cruise ship with plenty of time left to explore Juneau or prepare for your next port adventure.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Mendenhall Glacier Visit (Approx. 50 minutes)

This part of the tour is designed for quick, impactful exposure to one of Alaska’s most awe-inspiring natural features. Expect to see spectacular icy vistas from designated viewing platforms, with opportunities to snap photos and learn from the visitor center exhibits. Some reviews mention that this part of the trip is too brief for those wanting deep exploration, but most appreciate the opportunity to see the glacier without sacrificing too much time.

Wildlife & Whale Watching (Approx. 2-2.5 hours)

The vessel departs after the glacier visit, heading out to the nearby waters. The boat’s design ensures excellent visibility for wildlife spotting, and the crew’s expertise means you’re likely to see humpback whales, seals, eagles, and more. The reviews consistently highlight the crew’s friendliness and the naturalists’ informative commentary, which enriches the experience.

Return & Logistics

Back at the harbor, the bus or driver ensures smooth transportation back to your cruise or hotel, completing the experience efficiently. Many reviews praise how well-organized the whole process is, which is important when you’re on a tight schedule.

Analyzing the Value

At $249 per person, this tour is priced to reflect the quality and quantity of experiences included. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the fact that it offers both glacier views and guaranteed whale sightings makes it a solid deal for nature lovers. The reviews show that most travelers feel they got good value, especially considering the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see active whales in their environment.

Plus, the tour’s flexibility with multiple departure times makes it convenient to fit into varied schedules. The included snacks and bottled water are small touches that make the journey more comfortable.

Real Traveler Insights

Many reviewers emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of staff. One noted, “Everyone on board was kind and helped us have an incredible experience,” which underscores how important good guides are. Several mention that the guides and crew are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, making the trip more enjoyable.

The whale sightings are consistently praised. One reviewer said, “Seeing a whale breach twice on our tour was a highlight,” and many others highlighted the active behavior of whales, which makes for memorable moments.

The glacier, while shorter in time, still impresses with its immense size and beauty. Multiple reviews mention the glacier as “beautiful” and “spectacular,” making it clear that this natural wonder holds its own even in a quick visit.

A few pointed out the need for better signage or information about where to meet, but overall, the organization is highly regarded.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is perfect for travelers who want a balanced experience of Alaska’s stunning scenery and wildlife without dedicating a full day. It’s suitable for those on cruise stops, as the logistics are streamlined. If you’re eager for whale encounters and glacier views but don’t want to spend hours in transit or hiking, this tour hits the mark.

While it’s not specifically tailored for families with young children, it’s generally accessible for most travelers. Those with mobility concerns should consider the brief glacier walk and the boat’s layout.

The Sum Up

If you’re seeking a well-organized, wildlife-rich half-day adventure in Juneau, this tour offers a compelling mix of glacier scenery and whale encounters. The natural beauty of Mendenhall Glacier paired with the thrill of spotting humpback whales in the wild makes it an appealing choice for nature enthusiasts. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable vessels turn what might be a simple excursion into an engaging, memorable experience.

For travelers who value authentic wildlife sightings and beautiful scenery without excessive hassle or cost, this tour is hard to beat. It provides a direct, honest look at the raw wilderness of Alaska, making it a strong contender for your cruise or land-based trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, glacier viewing, and whale watching.

Is there transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transfers from the cruise ship terminal are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

What will I see during the glacier visit?
You’ll enjoy views of the Mendenhall Glacier from viewing platforms and walkways, with ample photo opportunities and some trails for quick outdoor exploration.

Are whales guaranteed to be seen?
Yes, the tour has a 100% whale sighting guarantee. Many travelers report seeing humpbacks, orcas, seals, and eagles.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks, bottled water, live commentary, naturalist guides, and transportation are all included. There are no additional costs unless you want to visit the shuttle to the Gold Belt Tram, which costs $3.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Most travelers find it suitable, but consider the boat ride and brief glacier walk if traveling with young kids.

What is the best time to book?
The tour is popular and often booked 94 days in advance, so early reservations are recommended, especially if you want a preferred departure time.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. Any later, the full amount is non-refundable.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes are advisable, especially for the outdoor glacier viewing and boat deck.

Whether you’re eager to gaze at ancient ice or seek the thrill of whale sightings, this Juneau tour provides a solid, enjoyable introduction to Alaska’s wild side. It’s a well-reviewed, dependable option that many travelers find absolutely worth the price.