Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking

If you’re considering adding a kayaking adventure around the Mendenhall Glacier to your Juneau trip, you’re in for a treat. This tour promises a chance to glide through calm waters, spotting eagles, seals, and maybe even whales, all while enjoying stunning glacier views from a different perspective. We’ve looked into what this trip offers, and here’s the scoop—what you can expect, the highlights, and some of the honest pitfalls to keep in mind.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat and the effortlessness of the guided setup—everything from equipment to instruction is included, making it accessible even for beginners. One thing to consider, though, is that the actual view of the glacier from the water is from a distance of about six miles, which might be a bit underwhelming if you’re after an up-close glacier experience. Still, the serenity and wildlife encounters tend to make up for that for most travelers. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable paddling for a couple of hours, and want a flexible, family-friendly outing.

Key Points

• Wildlife Watching: Expect eagle sightings, seals, sea lions, and possibly whales.
• All Equipment Included: Kayaks, rain gear, boots, and spray skirts—no need to worry about the gear.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple departures throughout the day give you options.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Suitable for most fitness levels, but you should be prepared to paddle around 2 hours.
• Weather Conditions Matter: Tours operate in all weather, so dress appropriately.
• Group Size and Guides: Generally small groups (up to 48), guided by knowledgeable professionals.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

The Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins at Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau, a convenient spot for cruise passengers and locals alike. The tour includes round-trip transportation from the cruise port, which takes the hassle out of planning logistics. On arrival, the friendly guides will help you gear up—this includes life jackets, rain gear, boots, and spray skirts—so you can stay dry and warm if the weather turns.

The Instruction and Paddling

If you’re new to kayaking, don’t worry. The guide will give a quick lesson on paddling techniques and safety, ensuring everyone feels comfortable. The kayaks used are two-person and designed to be stable yet nimble, making them suitable for all skill levels. A couple of reviews mention the kayaks are easy to handle, even for beginners, but others note that if you’re over 6’3”, the rudders might be uncomfortable or difficult to steer.

Exploring Fritz Cove and the Mendenhall Wetlands

Once on the water, you’ll paddle through Fritz Cove and the protected wetlands. This is where the magic happens—silent paddling puts you in the perfect spot for wildlife viewing without disturbing the animals. Expect to see bald eagles soaring overhead, seals lounging on rocks, and maybe even humpback whales breaching the surface.

Glacier Views and Scenic Highlights

From your kayak, you’ll get a different vantage point of the Mendenhall Glacier—about six miles away, winding through the mountains. While not providing the dramatic up-close glacier experience, the view from afar is still breathtaking, especially when framed by calm water and mountain peaks. Weather can influence visibility, with clouds or fog sometimes obscuring the glacier, but guides will share stories about Smugglers Cove, the area’s history, and local flora and fauna.

The Wildlife Encounters

Multiple reviews highlight the abundance of wildlife sightings—sea otters, seals, eagles, and even sea lions have been spotted. Guests mention that the guides are very knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts that enhance the experience. As one reviewer noted, “We saw eagles and sea otters super close,” and another said, “Our guide Lexi was great and we highly recommend this experience.”

The Snack and Return

After paddling, everyone reconvenes ashore to enjoy a tasty Alaska-style snack—usually including local treats like snacks and apple cider, according to reviews. The tour wraps up with transportation back to the starting point, completing an adventure that’s as scenic as it is engaging.

Value and Pricing

At $159 per person, this trip offers good value considering everything included: professional guides, all gear, transportation, snacks, and beverages. The all-in package means you won’t need to rent or buy any equipment, and the guided aspect ensures you’re in safe hands. Many travelers feel this price is justified for the memorable wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and the ease of a well-organized tour.

The Realities and Some Caveats

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers have expressed dissatisfaction. Some mention the watercraft being leaky or uncomfortable, which can make paddling more challenging or less enjoyable. For example, one review recounts a kayak taking on water through a hole, making paddling harder and wetter, which can dampen the experience if it happens to you.

Another common concern involves the distance from the glacier—some felt the view was too distant to be satisfying, especially if they were expecting a closer look. Weather can also be unpredictable; since the tour operates in all conditions, be prepared for rain or fog, which could limit your views but will add to the authentic Alaskan vibe.

A few reviews also mention organizational hiccups, such as tours being canceled or guides not providing enough information, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. It’s always wise to confirm your booking and check the cancellation policy, especially since the tour is non-refundable if canceled by you.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This kayaking trip is perfect for travelers who want a hands-on way to experience Alaska’s wildlife and scenery without the need for prior kayaking experience. It’s suitable for families with children aged 7 and above, as long as they’re comfortable paddling and listening to safety instructions. Active travelers and nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see eagles, seals, and potentially whales—all from a peaceful, kayak-based perspective.

If you’re looking for a serene, nature-focused outing that combines gentle physical activity with wildlife sightings, this is a good pick. However, if your priority is getting up close to the glacier itself or you’re not comfortable on the water, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking tour offers a memorable way to experience Juneau’s pristine waters and rich wildlife. The knowledgeable guides, the opportunity to see nature firsthand, and the included gear make it a reliable choice for most active travelers. The scenic views from the water, combined with the wildlife encounters, create a unique perspective that many find worth the moderate physical effort.

While some may wish for a closer glacier view or might encounter equipment issues, these are generally outweighed by the overall charm and authenticity of the experience. It’s best suited for those comfortable paddling for about two hours, eager to see eagles and seals, and wanting an easy, guided outing.

If you’re after a fun, active day that combines wildlife, scenic views, and a taste of Alaska’s wild side, this kayaking trip is certainly worth considering.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all skill levels. Guides will give a quick lesson and provide all necessary equipment, making it doable even if you’ve never kayaked before.

What should I wear on the tour?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s best to dress in layers and wear waterproof gear. The tour includes rain gear, boots, and spray skirts, but bring an extra layer or waterproof jacket just in case.

How long do I paddle?
You should expect to paddle for approximately 2 hours, which is enough time to explore Fritz Cove and see wildlife without feeling rushed.

Can I see the glacier up close?
You’ll view the Mendenhall Glacier from about six miles away, which offers a beautiful perspective but not an up-close experience. Weather can affect visibility.

Is food included?
Yes, the tour includes a snack and beverages, with options like local snacks and apple cider, perfect for re-energizing after paddling.

What is the group size?
The tour groups generally include up to 48 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with knowledgeable guides.

Are there age restrictions?
Children aged 7 and above can join, but they must be comfortable paddling and in good health. Children 13-17 need parental consent if unaccompanied.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours operate rain or shine; however, if weather conditions are too dangerous, the tour may be canceled. In that case, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This kayaking trip around Mendenhall offers a blend of wildlife, scenery, and outdoor fun that’s hard to beat. With careful planning and the right expectations, it can be a highlight of your Juneau adventure.