Juneau Whale Tour: 3.5 Hours & Glacier Views, Small Groups
Two hours on the water hunting whales from a catamaran built for Alaska's coast
You board a heated catamaran with 19 other people max, spend 2.25 hours watching for whales and sea lions from a full walk-around deck, and return via complimentary bus. The small group size and custom-built vessel mean you're not competing for space or views, and the naturalist guide has time to explain what you're actually seeing instead of just pointing.
Step-by-step itinerary
Whale watching tour in Juneau waters
- Board complimentary bus to catamaran
- Settle into individual seating aboard vessel
- Enjoy 2.25-hour marine wildlife tour
- View whales from spacious walk-around deck
- Return by bus to starting point
The experience
The boat leaves from downtown Juneau after a 30-minute complimentary bus ride picks you up from your hotel. You're on a custom 40-foot catamaran with only 20 seats total: the kind of constraint that actually matters when you're trying to spot whales without elbowing strangers. The cabin is heated and lined with oversized windows, but most people end up on the full walk-around deck anyway, where the air is sharp and the view unobstructed. An experienced naturalist and captain run the show, and they know where the marine life congregates in Southeast Alaska's waters.
The 2.25-hour cruise takes you past Nugget Falls and along shorelines where sea lions haul out on rocks and eagles perch in the trees. The elevated seats inside are angled so you're not craning your neck, and if the weather turns (which it does, regularly). You retreat to the cabin without missing anything. Bring layers and a waterproof outer shell. The boat operates in all conditions, and that's the point. You're not waiting for perfect weather. You're going anyway. The restroom is on board, and the crew offers complimentary water if you didn't bring your own.
Arrive at the Goldbelt Tram downtown no later than your start time. That's where the bus meets you. The whole experience, door to door, takes about four hours with the drive time built in. Small groups mean the naturalist can actually answer questions instead of shouting over a crowd, and the deck doesn't feel like a floating parking lot. If the tour drops below five passengers, they'll reschedule you or refund you in full. It's their policy to keep the experience genuine.
What’s included
- Your experience includes complimentary hotel pickup and return via bus, 2.25 hours on the water aboard the catamaran, a heated cabin with oversized windows, full walk-around deck access, an experienced naturalist and captain, and complimentary water on request.
- A restroom is available on board.
- You'll need to arrive at the Goldbelt Tram downtown no later than your tour's start time.
Before you book
Prices and times updated today
Operated by Juneau Whale Tours
Is this one for you?Book this if you want to see Juneau's whales and glaciers without arranging your own transport or competing for deck space: the small group size and included bus pickup handle both, which is what makes a short port stop feel unhurried.
Traveler reviews
Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Youth (7 to 17 years); Child (2 to 6 years); Infant (under 2): free.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
How long is the actual time on the water?
2.25 hours. The additional hour covers the 30-minute bus ride each way to and from downtown Juneau.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. The heated cabin with large windows lets you watch from inside if needed, but bring waterproof layers and non-slip shoes.
Is the bus ride included?
Yes, complimentary pickup and return via bus from your hotel to the Goldbelt Tram downtown.
What's the maximum group size?
20 passengers. If the tour has 5 or fewer bookings, it will be rescheduled or refunded in full.
Are there restrooms on the boat?
Yes, there is a restroom on board.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, bring your own water and snacks. Complimentary water is also available upon request.
What should I wear?
Warm layers with a waterproof outer layer, and comfortable non-slip shoes. The cabin is heated, but you'll likely spend time on the open deck.
Can infants go on the tour?
Yes, infants are welcome but must sit on an adult's lap. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Juneau Whale Tour: 3.5 Hours & Glacier Views, Small Groups
3h 30m · EN · at your hotel
from US$ 209 per person
4.921,583 reviewsVerified traveler reviews via our booking provider