Ultimate Whale Watch and Tracy’s Crab Shack Combo

Discovering Juneau’s Top Experience: Whale Watching & Tracy’s Crab Shack Combo

If you’re looking to make the most of your time in Juneau, this Ultimate Whale Watch and Tracy’s Crab Shack Combo might just be what you need. Combining two of Juneau’s most celebrated activities—spotting whales in their natural habitat and savoring fresh crab at a popular local spot—this tour offers a balanced, engaging day out.

What really makes this experience appealing is its high praise from travelers, maintaining a perfect 5.0 rating from over 600 reviews. Two standout features are the expert guides who know their stuff and the delicious, generous crab meal that caps off the adventure.

That said, there’s one thing to keep in mind: the coordination between the tour and Tracy’s Crab Shack has had some feedback on timing issues, so you might want to plan for some patience if you’re eager to get your crab right after the whale watch.

This tour suits travelers wanting a well-rounded excursion in Juneau, especially those who love wildlife and good food — or simply want a reliable, highly-rated experience that covers two iconic local highlights.

Key Points

• Highly Rated: With a 5.0 rating from 606 reviews, it’s clear this combo is well-loved.
• Balanced Itinerary: Includes both whale watching (3 hours) and a crab feast at Tracy’s (1 hour).
• Value for Money: For $274 per person, you get round-trip transportation, a full whale watch experience, and a tasty crab meal.
• Expert Guides & Great Views: Travelers highlight knowledgeable crew and stunning marine sightings.
• Food Quality: The crab meal gets consistent praise for size and flavor.
• Booking & Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

Meeting Point & Logistics

Your adventure begins at the Goldbelt Tram at 490 S Franklin St, Juneau. From there, transportation is provided, making things straightforward. You’ll be part of a group limited to 49 travelers, which feels intimate enough for good interaction but still social.

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, so you’ll want to plan your day accordingly. Most book this 109 days in advance, which hints at popularity and the need to secure a spot early.

The Whale Watching Tour

The core of this experience is a 3-hour whale watch operated by Juneau Tours. Expect to head out in Auke Bay, where the chances of seeing humpback whales are high, as multiple reviews mention. Our reviewers particularly loved the guides—Captain Dustin, Tess, and Brock—who were described as “helpful, knowledgeable,” and just as excited as the visitors, which always makes the experience more authentic.

One reviewer, Louis E, shared that they saw 4 humpback whales, including one bubble feeding—an incredible sight that shows just how engaging this tour can be. The guides’ enthusiasm really shines through, and they’re quick to share facts and help spot these magnificent creatures.

Tracy’s Crab Shack Stop

Following the whale watch, you’ll head to Tracy’s King Crab Shack for a 1-hour crab feast. The reviews are glowing: the crab legs are described as “huge and delicious,” and the seafood, including crab cakes and soup, is said to be “outstanding” and “extraordinary.” One reviewer even claimed it was the best crab legs they’ve eaten in 40 years, which is high praise.

However, a mention from a less enthusiastic reviewer notes that coordination might be a bit off—the restaurant staff and tour guides weren’t initially clear on how to redeem the prepaid meal. So, while the food is worth the wait, don’t be surprised if there’s a slight hiccup at the start.

What Travelers Love Most

Multiple reviews emphasize not only the quality of the whale sightings—”Far beyond my expectations”—but also the generous portions and flavor of the crab. The guides’ passion and knowledge consistently stand out, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Considerations & Downsides

The main potential downside is timing coordination. Some guests have experienced slight delays or confusion about meal redemption, which might mean your schedule could shift slightly. Also, beverages aren’t included, so plan to bring your own if you’d like something to sip during or after the tour.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When we break down the value, it’s clear that for $274, you’re getting a comprehensive day in Juneau that includes wildlife viewing, local cuisine, and transportation—all with high praise and positive reviews backing it up. The guides’ expertise and the quality of the seafood make this a solid choice for travelers who want a dependable, immersive experience.

Yes, it’s a little pricier than some other tours, but the overall experience—seeing whales in their natural habitat and indulging in fresh crab—is worth it for many. Plus, the free cancellation policy allows flexibility if weather turns or plans change unexpectedly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This combo is ideal for wildlife lovers, foodies, and those wanting an all-in-one experience in Juneau. It suits travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and memorable views but don’t want to spend hours arranging separate activities. While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for most travelers comfortable on boats and with patience for minor scheduling hiccups.

It’s perfect if you’re visiting Juneau and want to tick off two must-do experiences—whale watching and tasting Alaska’s famous king crab—without the hassle of booking separately or worrying about weather.

FAQs

How long is the entire tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours 30 minutes, including the whale watching and crab feast.

What’s included in the price?
You get round-trip transportation from the port, a 3-hour whale watch, and a Tracy’s Crab Shack combo meal.

Are beverages included?
No, beverages are not included, so you might want to bring your own if you’d like something to drink.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It generally suits those comfortable on boats and interested in wildlife and seafood.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour requires good weather to run smoothly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Just be sure to cancel in time to get a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Ultimate Whale Watch and Tracy’s Crab Shack Combo offers a dependable, enjoyable day in Juneau for those wanting to combine wildlife with great food. The high ratings reflect consistent positive experiences, especially for travelers who value knowledgeable guides and hearty, delicious seafood. While minor coordination hiccups have been noted, they seem to be the exception rather than the rule.

If you’re after a well-rounded, fun, and scenic tour that captures the essence of Juneau’s marine life and culinary delights, this one’s worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want a straightforward, reliable experience with plenty of memorable moments—be it whale sightings or those perfect crab legs.