Ultimate Juneau Whale Watch Plus Mendenhall Glacier Photo Stop

This experience made our article of Juneau’s 15 Best Tours & Things To Do: Which To Choose?.

Introduction

If you’re heading to Juneau and want an authentic taste of Alaska’s incredible marine wildlife and glaciers, the Ultimate Juneau Whale Watch Plus Mendenhall Glacier Photo Stop is worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, its consistently high ratings—a perfect 5.0 from over 700 reviews—speak volumes about its popularity and quality.

Two standout features make this tour appealing: First, the expert guides and naturalists bring depth and knowledge that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. Second, the up-close wildlife encounters—from humpbacks to eagles—promise memorable moments. That said, a potential downside is the weather dependency, especially for the glacier stop, which isn’t guaranteed in all conditions.

This tour is ideal for travelers who are eager to combine active wildlife viewing with scenic stops, especially if you enjoy being on the water and snapping photos. It’s well-suited for those who want value for money, a flexible schedule, and a focus on real, natural experiences in Alaska.

Key Points

• High customer satisfaction: 5.0 rating from over 700 reviews reflects consistent quality.
• Wildlife encounters: Expect humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, eagles, and more.
• Incredible photo opportunities: Both whales and the Mendenhall Glacier provide stunning visuals.
• Expert guides: Naturalists and crew are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• All-in-one experience: Combines whale watching with a glacier photo stop (weather permitting).
• Great value: Competitive pricing includes transportation, snacks, and a naturalist.

What to Expect From the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at the Mount Roberts Tramway parking lot in downtown Juneau. The coach bus ride, roughly 25 minutes, takes you through Southeast Alaska’s lush landscapes—think dense forests and rugged mountains—before arriving at Auke Bay Harbor. The transport is smooth, and the ride offers a nice preview of the area’s natural beauty, with guides providing interesting tidbits along the way.

The Whale Watching Experience

Once aboard the custom-designed vessel, you’ll immediately notice the heated cabin with large viewing windows—crucial for staying comfortable in Alaska’s chill—and spacious decks perfect for spotting whales. With a maximum group size of 49, the experience remains intimate enough for good viewing without feeling crowded.

The main event is the search for humpback whales, which are known for their acrobatics and curious nature. The crew, including a naturalist, is praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, often communicating with other boats to locate whales efficiently. Reviewers note that they were able to see several humpbacks and orcas, with some even capturing incredible photos of whales with their mouths open or flukes arched high above the water.

The crew’s professionalism shines through in their timing—slowing the boat once a whale is spotted to give everyone a good look. Many travelers mention feeling the thrill of being so close to these giant creatures, often remarking that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The open-air decks ensure good visibility, and the onboard commentary helps identify the animals’ behaviors and species.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

Beyond whales, the tour often includes sightings of bald eagles, seals, sea lions, and even black bears, which adds layers of wildlife excitement. As one traveler put it, the guides are “knowledgeable about whales and where to go to see them” and also alert you to other wildlife.

The Mendenhall Glacier Photo Stop

Towards the end of the cruise, weather permitting, you’ll make a brief water stop at the Mendenhall Glacier. Travelers have enjoyed this quick photo opportunity, capturing the icy beauty of one of Alaska’s most famous glaciers. However, some reviews mention that this stop is weather-dependent and may not always be possible, which is something to keep in mind if the glacier is a major highlight for you.

Snacks and Comfort

Included in the tour are bottled water and trail mix snacks, which are appreciated after hours on the water. The heated cabin makes it easy to warm up after being outdoors, but it’s recommended to dress in layers—think waterproof jackets, warm clothes, and slip-proof shoes—since weather conditions can change rapidly.

The Itinerary and Its Double-Edged Nature

The day starts with a comfortable bus ride from downtown Juneau to the harbor—an easy way to relax and enjoy the scenery. Once on the boat, the focus shifts to whale watching, which is often highlighted as the main attraction by many reviews. Travelers frequently describe the experience as “amazing”, with sightings of multiple whales and the fascinating behaviors of orcas and humpbacks.

The glacier stop, which many seek as part of the experience, is sometimes reported as non-existent due to weather or logistical reasons. A reviewer noted, “whilst the whale watching was 5 star, the glacier stop was non existent.” This is a common theme for all glacier-related stops in Alaska—they depend heavily on weather conditions, so keep your expectations flexible.

The duration of about 3 hours strikes a good balance—enough time to see a good number of whales and wildlife, without it feeling overly long or rushed. Many reviewers emphasize the value for money, citing the inclusion of transportation, snacks, and insightful guides.

The Experience of the Guides and Crew

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and crew, who are often described as friendly and eager to share their expertise. One reviewer even mentioned “Captain Mack, Calvin and Gracie” as being “informative, great personalities,” making the entire trip enjoyable and educational.

The crew’s ability to spot whales early and position the boat for optimal viewing is frequently highlighted. Travelers feel they are in good hands, which is reassuring when dealing with wildlife and unpredictable conditions.

Value for Money and Booking Tips

At $156 per person, this tour is quite competitive considering it includes transportation, snacks, a naturalist, and a scenic glacier stop. Many reviewers mention that booking directly through the provider or a trusted platform offers better value than booking via cruise lines, which often charge higher prices.

Given the high demand and reviews, it’s advisable to book well in advance—on average, travelers reserve about 71 days ahead—to secure your spot and preferred time.

Practical Tips

• Dress warmly and in layers—weather can be unpredictable.
• Bring your camera and binoculars to capture wildlife and scenery.
• Be prepared for a choppy sea, especially if you’re prone to seasickness.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip; the glacier stop may be weather-dependent.
• Bring a sense of adventure—this is wildlife viewing, so sightings are never guaranteed but usually plentiful.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the naturalist’s commentary and the chance to see multiple species in their environment. Photographers will love the opportunity to capture whales, eagles, and glaciers in a single outing.

Families will find the tour manageable at approximately three hours, with easy transportation and onboard amenities. If you’re a budget-conscious traveler wanting a comprehensive experience, this tour offers great value compared to more expensive cruise line excursions.

However, if your primary goal is the glacier view, be aware that weather can affect the glacier stop, which might be disappointing. For those with limited mobility, the boat’s spacious decks and heated cabin make the experience accessible.

The Sum Up

This Juneau whale watching tour offers a compelling mix of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and expert guidance. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be immersed in Alaska’s natural beauty, with frequent sightings of whales, eagles, and seals. The well-designed itinerary, combined with friendly, knowledgeable staff, creates a comfortable yet exhilarating adventure.

The inclusion of a photo stop at Mendenhall Glacier—weather permitting—adds that extra touch of icy majesty, ideal for capturing memories. The value for money is clear, especially with the all-inclusive approach of transportation, snacks, and expert commentary.

This tour suits nature lovers, wildlife photographers, families, and anyone eager for a true Alaskan adventure. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced, authentic experience, rather than a scripted tourist trap. With flexible tour times and high ratings, it’s an easy pick for any Juneau itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3 hours, including transportation, the boat trip, and the glacier stop if weather permits.

What is included in the price?
Price includes round-trip transportation from downtown Juneau, a 2-hour whale watching tour on a spacious vessel, naturalist commentary, bottled water, a trail mix snack, and a photo stop at Mendenhall Glacier (weather dependent).

Is there an age limit for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families.

What should I wear?
Dress in layered, waterproof clothing and comfortable slip-proof shoes. The boat has a heated cabin, but the decks are open for better wildlife viewing.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If weather prevents the glacier stop, it may be canceled or altered. You might find the whale watching still enjoyable, as sightings depend on wildlife activity, not just weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the tour. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel in time, making it a low-risk choice.

Embark on this tour if you’re looking for an authentic, well-reviewed way to experience Juneau’s incredible marine life and glaciers, with knowledgeable guides to enhance every moment.