Juneau's position along the Inside Passage and its nutrient-rich waters create an ideal habitat for whales and other marine wildlife. The convergence of warm and cold currents supports abundant plankton and krill, attracting various whale species to feed and play in the region. As a result, visitors can enjoy unique and intimate encounters with these gentle giants.
If you’re visiting Juneau in the summer, booking a whale tour is the perfect opportunity to see these amazing creatures and capture that iconic Alaskan photo of a humpback breaching the waves with a snow-capped mountain landscape.
In this guide, we'll delve into what season is the best for whales, what types of whales you can spot, and cover the variety of tours available. At the end, you’ll be ready to book your whale watching adventure and make a major splash of fun on your Alaskan vacation.
Whale Species and Seasons
In Juneau, humpback whales and orcas (also known as killer whales) are the stars of the show. Dall’s porpoise, harbor seals, sea otters, and steller sea lions are also common in these waters.
Humpback whales migrate to the Juneau area between April and November, with peak sightings from June to August. The Inside Passage offers pods a safe and sheltered environment, and numerous family groups will stop here along their migratory path. Orcas are seen year-round, but are most frequently observed during the summer months.
Both species are protected under the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). The MMPA has established guidelines for responsible whale watching practices to minimize disturbances to marine mammals and ensure their safety and well-being. Boats must maintain a minimum distance of 100 yards from whales, reduce underwater noise, not chase whales, and obtain special permits to operate tours. So rest assured that your tour is allowing you to view these spectacular creatures in an ethical and responsible way.
Tour Types and Operators
Juneau offers a range of whale watching tours, from intimate small-group outings to larger vessels. Most tours are around 3-5 hours in length, though longer excursions are possible.
Check out these leading whale tours in the area:
Harv & Marv's Outback Alaska: This respected operator provides personalized, small-group tours on boats accommodating just six passengers, allowing for a closer connection with the whales.
Dolphin Jet Boat Tours: Known for their high-speed, custom-built jet boats, Dolphin Jet Boat Tours offers a thrilling and educational whale watching experience led by knowledgeable naturalists.
Alaska Galore Tours: This locally-owned operator offers a variety of tours, including whale watching and wildlife tours, with experienced captains and naturalists on board to share their knowledge with wildlife enthusiasts.
Whale Watching Tours with Combined Experiences
For those seeking a more comprehensive Alaskan experience, several Juneau tour operators offer whale watching excursions combined with other adventures.
Some options include:
Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour: Offered by Juneau Whale Watch, this popular combo tour combines whale watching with a visit to the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, allowing you to enjoy the best of Juneau's natural wonders in a single day.
Whale Watching, Wildlife Quest & Salmon Bake: Embark on a whale watching adventure with Alaska Travel Adventures. This tour searches for additional wildlife such as seals, sea lions, and bald eagles, before ending the day with an authentic Alaskan salmon bake for a true taste of local cuisine.
Whale Watching & Rainforest Garden: Gastineau Guiding Company offers a combination tour of whale watching and hiking in an Alaskan rainforest garden. Visitors can enjoy a day photographing whales and end the day on a serene path surrounded by native plants and flowers.
Average Price of Tours and Where to Go
Whale watching tour prices in Juneau depend on the operator and tour type, typically ranging from $100 to $250 per person for a 3.5 hour whale watching tour. Exclusive, small-group tours and combo experiences may be more expensive, with some private charters as much as $1500 per person.
There are numerous locations around the city where tours will leave from. The main locations are Auke Bay and Douglas Island. If you are staying downtown or arriving on a cruise ship, many tour operators will offer transportation to and from the docks.
Preparing for your Juneau Whale Tour
To make the most of your whale watching experience in Juneau, it's essential to come prepared. Here are some items to pack and what you can expect during your tour:
Clothing: Juneau's weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to dress in layers. Bring a waterproof and windproof jacket, warm sweaters or fleeces, and comfortable pants. Don't forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf, as well as sturdy, non-slip shoes or boots.
Camera and Binoculars: You'll want to capture the unforgettable moments, so pack a camera or smartphone with a good zoom lens. Additionally, bring a pair of binoculars for a closer look at the whales and other wildlife.
Sun Protection: Even on overcast days, sun protection is crucial. Pack sunglasses, a hat with a wide brim, and sunscreen with a high SPF.
Snacks and Water: While some tours provide light refreshments, it's always a good idea to bring your own snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay energized and hydrated.
Seasickness Remedies: If you're prone to seasickness, consider packing remedies such as over-the-counter medications, ginger candies, or acupressure wristbands.
During your whale watching tour, you can expect a knowledgeable guide or naturalist to provide fascinating insights into the whales' behavior, biology, and habitat. Most tours also offer a chance to learn about other marine wildlife and the local ecosystem.
Experiencing the majestic beauty of whales in Juneau, Alaska, is an opportunity not to be missed. By joining a whale watching tour, whether it's a standalone experience or combined with other activities, you'll create lasting memories as you observe these remarkable creatures up close. Remember that sightings can never be guaranteed, but the experienced tour operators in Juneau will do their best to ensure a memorable encounter with these magnificent creatures.
