Whales and Mendenhall Glacier
- Guaranteed sightings of whales in their natural habitat
- Get all the bucket-list Juneau experiences in one day
- See Southeast Alaska's only "drive-up" glacier
- Unobstructed views of glacier from Photo Point Trail
- Learn about glaciers at Mendenhall Visitor Center
Juneau Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour
Spectacular whales and the Mendenhall Glacier; All in a half-day Juneau excursion on a boat holding a maximum of only 40 guests. Whale viewing is guaranteed.
Your Juneau excursion adventure begins with a short drive to a scenic harbor. Here, you will board a mammal-friendly jet boat equipped with water jet drives to ensure a quiet underwater operation without dangerous propellers that may frighten or harm the animals. The boats have an enclosed and heated cabin, complete with indoor plumbing. In addition, the boat only holds a maximum of 40 guests. There are large viewing windows and an outdoor viewing deck, providing an up-close and personal experience while you observe and photograph the animals in their natural surroundings.
On this Juneau excursion, you will be on the boat for approximately two hours in an area that the whales frequent every summer.
Returning to land, you will travel further into the valley to see the only "drive up" glacier in Southeast Alaska. Once you arrive at the Visitor's Center (entrance included), you will have approximately 45 minutes to explore on your own. Enjoy an elevated view of the glacier across the Mendenhall Lake, see the exhibits, or watch a short film about the Juneau Ice Fields. For those guests feeling more adventurous during this Juneau excursion, there are several hiking paths around the lake area, including Photo Point Trail, which winds along Mendenhall Lake to an unobstructed view of the glacier face. At the appointed time, meet your guide for the trip back to town.