Excursion Mendenhall glacier & whale quest tour at Juneau

Explore Alaska's pristine glaciers and marine life via land and sea during this visit to the Mendenhall Glacier, with a three-hour whale quest at Auke Bay.

Mendenhall Glacier

Depart the pier for the fully narrated approximately 30-minute drive north to view and photograph the famous Mendenhall Glacier. Upon arrival at the Visitor Centre, learn about the awesome force of glacial ice from Forest Service interpreters and through interactive exhibits. During your visit, some free time is made available for strolling the glacier viewpoint trail and taking photos of your splendid surroundings.

Whale Quest via Alaskan-Built Tour Vessel

Leaving the Mendenhall Visitor Centre, proceed on a scenic drive on the Mendenhall Valley en route to Auke Bay. Upon arrival, board a water jet-powered expedition vessel specially designed for wildlife viewing. The spacious vessel is equipped with a restroom; there are some complimentary snacks and beverages provided. Additional food, snacks & beverages are available for purchase.

Relax in the warm, comfortable main cabin surrounded by large windows as your experienced captain negotiates through the island-studded waters of Stephen's Passage.

As you take in a majestic backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, the onboard naturalist explains the behavior and habitat of the wildlife you may encounter, including humpback and killer whales, stellar sea lions, Dall's porpoise, harbor seals, bald eagles, and black-tailed deer. Our local Tour Operator guarantees 99.9% wildlife viewing success rate! They have been operating for over 50 years throughout the region.

Following your catamaran excursion, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier and Visitor's Centre, Auke Bay, Whale-Watching Cruise, Stephen's Passage, Snow-Capped Peaks and Glaciers, Birds

Note

Please note: This tour involves a walk of about 250 yards (228 meters), with an inclined pathway leading to the Mendenhall Visitor Centre. Guests must be able to embark/disembark the coach via steps. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and recommended for those who utilize a wheelchair. Guests that require a lift vehicle must notify the Shore Concierge Desk upon embarking the vessel. Guests are advised to dress warmly in layers, and bring a rainproof jacket and a camera. Due to the migratory patterns of whales in the region, whale sightings are guaranteed June – August. Whale sightings maintain a 99% success rate on surrounding shoulder dates however, we acknowledge that migratory patterns can vary from season to season. Although the other wildlife mentioned is commonly seen in this area, sightings cannot be guaranteed. There is a small souvenir shop on board the vessel, USD and credit cards are accepted. This tour may operates in reverse order.