Dry-Suit Paddle board in Juneau with Mendenhall Glacier Views

Travelers heading to Juneau looking for a fresh, active way to experience Alaska’s incredible landscapes will find this paddleboarding tour a compelling choice. It offers a chance to stand-up paddleboard in front of the Mendenhall Glacier, surrounded by wildlife, all while staying warm and dry thanks to high-quality dry suits.

The fact that it’s limited to just eight guests ensures a personalized experience away from the cruise ship crowds — an important detail for those seeking a more authentic adventure.

We’re particularly drawn to two aspects of this tour: the stunning, unobstructed glacier views that you won’t find from the typical visitor center vantage point, and the guides’ friendliness and knowledge about local wildlife and geography. However, potential participants should consider that some balance is necessary, and weather can be unpredictable, which might affect the experience.

Still, if you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and want an active, scenic, and intimate encounter with Alaska’s wilderness, this paddleboarding tour is worth considering.

This experience made our article of Which Juneau Canoe & Kayak Experiences To Choose? We Rank The 13 Best.

Key Points

• Unique perspective of the Mendenhall Glacier from the water, offering a different view than typical land-based tours
• Limited group size (max 8) ensures personalized attention and a peaceful experience
• Dry suits make the activity comfortable in any weather, even rain or cold temperatures
• Wildlife sightings like eagles, seals, sea lions, and whales add an exciting element
• All equipment, instruction, snacks, and transportation are included, adding convenience and value
• Suitable for ages 12+, with some balance required for paddleboarding

Introduction: The Experience in a Nutshell

This paddleboard tour in Juneau is designed for those who want more than just sightseeing — it’s about actively engaging with Alaska’s wilderness. You’re not just looking at glaciers from afar; you’re paddling near them, feeling the breeze, and sharing space with local wildlife. One of the best features? The dry suits that keep you warm and dry, no matter the weather.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines adventure and scenery. You get close enough to see seals lounging on icebergs or eagles soaring overhead, all while gliding quietly across calm waters. The guided aspect also means you’ll get meaningful insights into the local environment, making it educational as well as exhilarating.

The only consideration is that some balancing skills are helpful, especially if you want to stand up. While no experience is necessary, a moderate level of physical fitness will make the activity more enjoyable. It’s ideal for active travelers who appreciate fresh air and scenic views without the crowds.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start at the Juneau Cruise Ship Terminal, a convenient point for cruise passengers. After pickup, your group is driven about 20 minutes to the wetlands area where the paddleboard adventure begins. This transfer allows you to relax and get briefed on safety and equipment.

Mendenhall Glacier is the star of the show. The tour takes place in the estuarial region right in front of the glacier, offering some of the most comprehensive views available in Juneau. Unlike boat or land tours that stick closer to the visitor center, this excursion positions you further out, giving a more expansive and less crowded perspective.

While the glacier often appears majestic and serene, be aware that fog and weather conditions can obscure the view. Several reviews noted that while the glacier is breathtaking, visibility can vary, so it’s worth being flexible.

Paddleboarding itself lasts around two hours. Guides will teach you how to paddle, and you can choose to stand, kneel, or sit — whatever feels most comfortable. The boards are described as stable and beginner-friendly, making it accessible even if you’ve never tried before.

Wildlife encounters happen naturally. Many guests have reported seeing seals, eagles, and even whales. The guides share insights into the flora and fauna, making this more than just a physical activity.

Snacks are provided midway — vegan and gluten-free options are available — allowing for a quick energy boost. The tour wraps up with a return trip to the cruise dock, lasting about 3.5 hours total.

What You Can Expect: In-Depth

1. Equipment and Instruction: The guides are praised for their professionalism and patience, making paddling accessible to all skill levels. The paddleboards are described as stable, and the dry suits are a real highlight, ensuring comfort even in rain or chilly weather. Many reviewers emphasize how the dry suits work great — “we stayed dry and warm the whole trip,” one said.

2. The Glacier Views: Sitting further from the visitor center, you get a more panoramic and less crowded view of Mendenhall Glacier. Some reviews mention that the glacier appears more expansive and awe-inspiring from the water, especially with the chance to see icebergs, seals, and birds nearby.

3. Wildlife Watching: The water around the glacier is a natural habitat for many creatures. Guests have spotted seals close to their paddleboards and bald eagles perched high above. Some even report seeing whales, which adds a wow factor to the experience.

4. The Guides: Consistently rated as knowledgeable and friendly, guides contribute significantly to the enjoyment. They share interesting facts about the glacier, local ecosystems, and wildlife behaviors, adding depth to the experience.

5. Flexibility & Comfort: The activity is suitable for ages 12 and up. While some balance is needed, the stability of the paddleboards and the option to kneel or sit makes it accessible. Guests mention that the dry suits make paddling in rain or cooler weather enjoyable rather than uncomfortable.

6. Snacks & Transportation: All equipment, instruction, and snacks are included, which means no hidden costs or last-minute scrambling for supplies. The roundtrip transportation from the cruise port is smooth and convenient, saving you the hassle of arranging logistics.

Pricing & Value: Is It Worth It?

At $175 per person, this tour is priced competitively for a private, guided activity of this nature. Considering that all gear, instruction, snacks, and transportation are included, it offers good value for those wanting an active, scenic experience in a stunning setting. Compared to land-based glacier tours or wildlife cruises, this paddleboard outing provides a more intimate and hands-on approach.

Many reviewers felt this was a worthwhile investment, especially since they got to see wildlife up close and enjoy the glacier from a new angle. Plus, fewer crowds and the chance to stay dry despite the weather are big pluses, making it a practical choice even in less-than-perfect conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and some balance. It’s perfect for those who want a unique, immersive adventure that blends wildlife watching, glacier views, and outdoor fun. It’s also ideal for curious visitors eager to learn about Alaska’s environment from knowledgeable guides.

While suitable for ages 12 and up, younger children might find balancing challenging. Travelers who dislike getting wet or who prefer land-based sightseeing might also want to weigh their options. But if you’re looking for a memorable hands-on experience that combines physical activity with stunning scenery, this paddleboarding tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

For travelers seeking a different perspective on Juneau’s natural beauty, this paddleboard adventure offers a chance to get up close with glaciers and wildlife, all while enjoying the comfort of dry suits. It’s a relaxing yet active way to explore the waterways near Mendenhall Glacier without the crowds or the typical land-based vistas.

The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the expert guides make sure you’re safe and informed throughout. The inclusion of all equipment and snacks adds to the overall value, making it easier to focus on the scenery and wildlife.

If you relish outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and scenic views, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Juneau trip. It’s especially suited for those who want a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience that captures the spirit of adventure Alaska is famous for.

FAQ

Is there any experience required to join this paddleboard tour?
No prior paddleboarding experience is necessary. The guides will teach you how to paddle, and boards are described as stable and beginner-friendly.

What should I wear under the dry suit?
The tour recommends bringing warm layers to wear beneath the waterproof dry suit, especially if the weather turns cold. However, the dry suit will keep you warm and dry during the activity.

Can I see wildlife during the tour?
Yes, many guests have reported sightings of eagles, seals, sea lions, and whales. Wildlife sightings depend on conditions and luck, but guides are knowledgeable about where to look.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, equipment setup, paddling, snacks, and the return trip.

What is included in the price?
All necessary equipment, dry suits, instruction, snacks, bottled water, and roundtrip transportation from the cruise port are included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s recommended for ages 12 and up. Some balance is required to paddle, but the equipment and guides help make it accessible.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather to run. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this paddleboarding adventure offers a rare chance to experience Juneau’s wilderness actively and intimately. With breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and expert guidance, it’s a memorable way to connect with Alaska’s natural beauty beyond the usual sightseeing.