Private Group Kayaking Tour with Mendenhall Glacier Views

Exploring Juneau from the Water: A Closer Look at the Private Kayaking Tour with Mendenhall Glacier Views

If you’re considering a trip to Juneau and want to escape the crowds while soaking up some incredible scenery, a private kayaking tour focused on the Mendenhall Glacier might be just what you’re after. While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve looked into it thoroughly and heard from travelers who have— and the overall impression is quite positive. This experience promises beautiful wildlife sightings and breathtaking glacier views, with the added bonus of personalized attention in a small group.

What I really love about this tour is its focus on nature and wildlife—seeing eagles, seals, sea lions, and whales in their natural environment is a chance to connect with the wilderness in a way that large group excursions can rarely match. Plus, the fact that it’s a private experience for up to 8 people means you’ll get more tailored guidance and a less rushed, more intimate outing.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—at $1,100 for the entire group, it’s definitely on the pricier side. For some, the expense might seem steep, especially since it covers just a few hours of activity. However, if a private, well-guided experience with top-notch wildlife viewing and glacier vistas is your priority, many find it worth the investment. This tour suits travelers who love being outdoors, want a flexible and personal experience, and are comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity.

In the end, this is an experience best suited for those who value expert guidance, beautiful scenery, and wildlife encounters in a manageable, private setting. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s likely to be a memorable highlight of your Juneau trip.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 8 people offers a personalized experience.
• Includes all necessary paddling equipment, dry suits, and snacks—no extra worries about gear.
• Stunning views of Mendenhall Glacier from a more distant, less crowded vantage point.
• Opportunities to see eagles, seals, sea lions, and whales in their natural environment.
• Round-trip transport from Juneau cruise port simplifies logistics.
• Cost is higher, but the personalized, wildlife-rich experience may justify it for many travelers.

What to Expect from the Tour

This kayaking adventure is designed to give you a balanced blend of scenic beauty and wildlife spotting. Starting with pickup from downtown Juneau, you’ll be transported to the launch point, where your guide will help you get geared up. The equipment includes a kayak, PFD (life vest), dry suit, and footwear—everything you need to stay comfortable and safe. Even if you’ve never kayaked before, don’t worry; no experience is necessary, and your guide will teach you the basics of paddling.

The tour’s highlight is paddling in the estuarial region directly in front of the Mendenhall Glacier. Compared to other tours that go closer to or around the visitor center, this outing offers a more complete and less crowded view of the glacier. On clear days, you’ll be able to admire the ice formations and the glacier’s grandeur from a safe distance, while also enjoying the wildlife activity around you.

The Itinerary in Detail

The activity lasts roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes, with about two hours dedicated to paddling. Your guide will make sure you’re comfortable in your kayak, teach you how to paddleboard if you’d like, and help you stay warm with a dry suit—allowing you to focus on the scenery and wildlife rather than gear concerns.

The tour stops at the estuarial region in front of the glacier, which is a prime spot for wildlife. You might catch sight of eagles soaring overhead, seals lounging on rocks, or even whales surfacing farther out at sea. The guide’s experience and knowledge are a huge plus here—they’ll help you spot and identify these creatures, making the experience both fun and educational.

Wildlife Encounters

The reviews reinforce how memorable the wildlife sightings can be. One traveler specifically appreciated seeing “curious seals, a crab from his pot, eagles,” and noted how friendly the guide, Jacob, was. The ability to observe animals in their natural habitat, often quite close, is what makes this tour stand out for many.

The Glacier View

While weather can affect visibility, the tour’s vantage point generally provides a more complete view of the glacier than visiting the visitor center. The photo opportunities are plentiful, and the sense of being on the water, with the glacier looming nearby, is pretty special.

Price and Value

At $1,100 for the whole group, this isn’t the cheapest activity in Juneau, but it’s important to consider what you’re getting. The cost covers all equipment, instruction, snacks, transportation, and a private guide—which can be a lot of value for those seeking a personalized wildlife and glacier experience. For families or groups of friends who want to share a memorable adventure, the per-person cost becomes more reasonable.

Considerations

Keep in mind that the cost might seem high if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, but for groups of up to 8, splitting it helps make it more affordable. Also, if you’re someone who appreciates expert guidance and flexibility, the price likely feels justified.

Practical Details

The meeting point is at 388 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801, easily accessible, and transportation from the cruise port is included, which is a big convenience. The tour operates in moderate physical conditions—you’re paddling in a kayak, which requires some effort but isn’t overly strenuous. The dry suits and instruction make it accessible to most, even if you’re not an experienced paddler.

In terms of timing, the tour usually needs to be booked around two weeks in advance—which is useful to know for planning. And since weather is a factor, it’s good to note that if conditions aren’t suitable, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One traveler, Mary, shared her experience: “The kayaking was fantastic. Really friendly guide, Jacob. We saw curious seals, a crab from his pot, eagles, and beautiful views of the glacier. My kids tested the dry suits thoroughly, and they are sound!” Her mention of her kids testing the dry suits highlights how comfortable and safe the gear is, even for younger adventurers.

Final Thoughts

This private kayaking tour in Juneau is a standout option for those who want a personalized, wildlife-rich adventure that takes them away from the crowds. The views of the Mendenhall Glacier are a major highlight, and the chance to see eagles, seals, and whales in their natural setting adds a special touch. Though the price might give some pause, the experience of paddling in such an iconic environment with expert guides makes it a worthwhile investment for many.

If you’re looking for an active outing that combines scenery, wildlife, and a sense of tranquility—this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value guided expertise and appreciate the freedom to paddle at their own pace in a small, private group.

FAQ

Is transportation from the cruise port included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from the Juneau cruise ship docks is included, making logistics simple.

Do I need experience kayaking to join this tour?
No experience is necessary. Guides will teach you how to paddle, and the dry suits help keep you comfortable regardless of weather.

What should I bring?
The tour provides all necessary paddling equipment, dry suits, footwear, and snacks. You may want to bring warm layers under your dry suit if you tend to get cold.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with about 2 hours on the water.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see eagles, seals, sea lions, and possibly whales in the area around the glacier.

Is the view of Mendenhall Glacier close?
The tour offers a more complete and less crowded view than some other options, positioned in front of the glacier with good visibility, weather permitting.

Can children join this tour?
While the tour is suitable for most, it requires moderate physical activity. Kids comfortable with paddling and outdoor activity should have no trouble, but check with the provider if you have younger children.

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions make paddling unsafe or uncomfortable, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

All in all, if you’re craving a wildlife-packed, scenic paddle in a private setting, this Juneau kayaking tour offers a memorable way to experience Alaska’s rugged beauty up close.