Excursion Discover alaska's whales tour at Juneau

Experience some of nature's most awe-inspiring treasures during this picturesque, half-day excursion in search of the great humpback whale.

Connect with your professional science guide before departing the pier for the scenic, and fully narrated approximately 30-minute drive north to your awaiting vessel in Auke Bay. Upon arrival, meet your experienced captain, and embark on a custom-designed  vessel. Your vessel features a heated cabin, large panel windows, and an open bow and stern for optimum visibility. Following your introduction cruise through the island-studded waters of Stephens Passage, gaze at the awe-inspiring seascape of snow-capped peaks and ice-blue glaciers.

Along the way, take in spectacular panoramic vistas of your surroundings, and look for humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, harbour seals, and porpoises. Upon spotting a whale, the captain slows down the vessel for exceptional viewing and photo opportunities. These graceful giants are captivating as they arc their massive tails into the air. Humpbacks generally travel and feed individually or in groups of two or three; however, they can be found in groups of four or five and up to 15. If you are lucky, you may see a pod of whales. When conditions allow, the vessels hydrophone can be used to listen to the underwater sounds, whilst an on-board naturalist explains the habits and habitats of the creatures you may encounter (this device is used only when conditions allows).

Tour participants on this excursion are eligible to enter to win cash prizes in the tour operator's Capture Juneau Photo Contest. Each guests will receive access to a complementary digital booklet, "Discover Alaska's Whales" as a memento of your day.

During your cruise, explore the foundation of the food chain by participating in various experiments and science activities. Activities may include pulling up a crab pot to monitor for invasive species, and even use a GPS-equipped camera to aid in identification of humpback whales and recording their varied behaviors. At the conclusion of your epic journey, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier. 

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Juneau, Auke Bay, Stephens Passage, Snow-Capped Mountains, Glaciers, Humpback Whales, Orcas, Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Porpoises

Note

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 200 yards (about 183 meters), at times on a sloped ramp leading down to the boat harbor docks, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests are advised to dress comfortably in layers with flat, closed-toe walking and bring sun protection and/or raingear from the ship. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Approximate time on the water is 2.5 hours. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.