Getting a glimpse of Juneau’s natural beauty—glaciers, waterfalls, and whales—without feeling overwhelmed or rushed? That’s exactly what the Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour aims to deliver. This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, gentle hikes, and marine wildlife viewing, making it a well-rounded day out.
What we love most about this experience is its small-group vibe, which keeps things intimate and relaxed, plus the generous amount of time at each stop—especially the nearly two hours at the Mendenhall Glacier area. On the flip side, it’s about five hours long, so it’s good to be prepared for a full day.
This tour is an especially good fit if you’re after a comprehensive taste of Juneau’s wilderness, with a friendly guide and manageable pace.
Amazing guides that knew exactly where to take us and informed us of so much of the culture in the area.
The guide on our whale-watching boat was excellent, very enthusiastic and entertaining. We were all told to manage our expectations, this being the end of the season before the whales migrate south, but our terrific captain kept searching, way to the north, then followed beside a mother and her calf way to the south again. Exciting, and there was some stamina needed as the boat slapped along the choppy sea. Fun snacks were provided. We arrived at the glacier after the visitor center was closed, so there was not much time to see much by 6:00, although our terrific bus driver returned to pick up those with energy to walk to the Falls at 7:00. Really fun excursion.
Unfortunately, our ship wasn’t able to dock due to weather. We did dock much later than planned so we missed our excursion. They called to check on us and when we told them our issue they immediately gave us a full refund!
- Key Points
- An Honest Look at the Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour
- The Itinerary Breakdown
- What’s Included and What to Expect
- The Experience From a Traveler’s Perspective
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- More Whale Watching Tours in Juneau
- More Tours in Juneau
- More Tour Reviews in Juneau
- Our NewestJuneau Activity Reviews
Key Points
- Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Extended time at Mendenhall Glacier means more opportunities for exploration and photos.
- Family-friendly hike to Nugget Falls is easy and accessible for most visitors.
- Expert local guides who love Juneau and are eager to share their knowledge.
- Includes snacks, binoculars, and all admissions—no hidden costs.
- Weather can impact the experience, so flexibility and good planning help.
An Honest Look at the Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour
This tour from Juneau is designed to give travelers a well-rounded day immersed in some of Alaska’s most iconic sights. It’s run by Dolphin Jet Boat Tours, a family-owned business that’s been around since 1994. That longevity suggests they know their stuff, and their small fleet of mammal-friendly jet boats hints at a focus on sustainability and wildlife safety. With a maximum of 30 travelers, it’s a far cry from crowded cruise ship excursions, making it more personal and comfortable.
You can also read our reviews of more whale watching tours in Juneau
The Itinerary Breakdown
Start in Juneau with a guided bus tour through the city. This initial drive is a quick, engaging way to get your bearings and get introduced to the area’s highlights. The commentary is usually friendly and informative, giving some local color before heading into nature. It’s an easy way to kick off the day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, especially if you’re arriving on a cruise or shorter visit.
Next, a visit to Nugget Falls. This part is a highlight for many. The walk out to the falls is described as “very easy to travel,” making it perfect for most fitness levels. It takes about 45 minutes round trip, with plenty of opportunities to pause for photos or simply enjoy the rainforest ambiance. The falls themselves are impressive, and the close proximity to the glacier makes this hike a memorable snapshot of Alaska’s wilderness. One reviewer commented, “The walk to Nugget Falls was very easy to travel,” which reassures travelers worried about strenuous hikes.
Then, a stop at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Here, you’ll get a full hour to explore more in-depth. The center offers educational exhibits about the glacier, which is valuable if you’re keen to learn more about this natural wonder. The glacier itself is stunning, and the extra time lets you visit the overlook, peer down onto the ice, or check out the Visitor Center’s displays. It’s a straightforward, family-friendly stop that balances education and awe-inspiring scenery.
The finale is a two-hour whale-watching cruise. This is the core of the experience for many, and it’s where the tour really shines. Departing from Auke Bay Harbor, the experienced captains use their local knowledge to seek out whales, with a focus on the whales’ behaviors and habitats. The small, mammal-friendly jet boats allow you to get close to the action without feeling crowded or noisy. According to reviews, participants saw humpback whales, killer whales, and even stellar sea lions. One traveler called the group size “very nice” for better viewing and interaction.
What’s Included and What to Expect
You’ll be well taken care of with snacks, hot chocolate, coffee, and binoculars — a nice touch that keeps everyone comfortable and engaged. The guide is in English, friendly, and eager to share their love of Juneau’s wildlife and scenery.
We loved this tour! We were in the rare group that got to see orcas! We also saw lots of humpback whales. The naturalist on our boat was awesome and shared a wealth of information about whales and their habits. The second part of the tour was the stop at Mendenhall Glacier which was equally enjoyable. This tour was one of our favorite things we did while in Alaska!
This is a great small group tour that avoids the cruise ship crowds! The whale watch was expertly guided by Nia with a bonus jet boat ride back to the dock with Captain Jay. Sam took us directly to the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center. I had read how some have to walk some distance. The glacier and Nugget Falls are naturally spectacular. At the end, our guide/driver Sam dropped us right at the ship. That was a big bonus since rain was just beginning to fall. It was a great excursion.
Sam was our guide as well as driver. He did a great job letting us know about the area and history and then explaining everything to us while we out whale watching. After leaving there he let us know what to expect at the glacier and we were not disappointed. Great experience seeing whales and porpoises.
Pricing at $199 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the multiple stops, the expert guides, and all the included amenities, it offers good value. Plus, the extended time at the glacier and the small group setting really enhance the experience, making it feel less like a tour and more like a day out with friends.
The Experience From a Traveler’s Perspective
From reviews, it’s clear that the tour’s small-group setting is a major plus. “Small group made it very nice,” said one guest, emphasizing the personal touch and less hurried feel. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge really shine through, making the experience more engaging than a typical large bus tour.
The stunning views at each stop are another highlight. Whether it’s the grandeur of Mendenhall Glacier or the lively marine life during whale watching, the scenery consistently impresses. It’s a great option if you’re looking to see these iconic sights without spending your whole day on a single activity.
However, it’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather can lead to cancellations or less spectacular wildlife sightings. They’re clear about the refund and rescheduling policies, but it’s good to stay flexible.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-paced, all-in-one day exploring Juneau’s natural highlights. It suits those who enjoy a mix of light hikes, educational stops, and wildlife viewing — and who appreciate the personal touch of a small group. It’s also a good pick if you value local guides who genuinely love the area.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a comprehensive, friendly, and scenic day in Juneau, this tour checks a lot of boxes. The combination of the Mendenhall Glacier, Nugget Falls, and whale watching provides a well-rounded taste of what makes Alaska special. The small-group approach and thoughtful amenities make it a more relaxed, enjoyable experience.
While it’s not the cheapest option, the value lies in the quality of sights, expert guides, and intimate setting. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed or lost in crowds. And if you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll leave with some truly memorable moments—whale breaches, glacier views, and waterfalls galore.
Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour
"Amazing guides that knew exactly where to take us and informed us of so much of the culture in the area."
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the walk to Nugget Falls is described as easy and accessible for most people. It’s a manageable hike, making it suitable for families with children who can handle a brief walk.
How long is the whale-watching part of the tour?
The whale-watching cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you ample time to spot whales and marine life while enjoying the boat ride.
What’s included in the tour price?
Your fee includes snacks, hot chocolate, coffee, binoculars, and all admission tickets for the stops at Juneau, Nugget Falls, and the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Goldbelt Tram at 490 S Franklin St, Juneau. They offer to drop you back at the meeting point or directly to your ship.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
What is the group size?
The maximum is 30 travelers, which keeps things intimate and allows for personalized attention from guides.
If you’re looking for a scenic, educational, and wildlife-packed day in Juneau, this tour from Dolphin Jet Boat Tours seems to offer a nicely balanced and memorable outing. It’s a convenient way to see some of Alaska’s most famous sights without sacrificing comfort or personal attention.
