5 Day Jetski Expedition: Southeast Alaskan Adventure from Juneau

Travelers looking for an adventure that combines adrenaline, untouched nature, and authentic Alaskan charm might find this 5-day Jetski Expedition from Juneau a compelling choice. While it’s a significant investment at over $10,000 per person, what you get in return is a chance to see Alaska’s wilderness from a perspective few ever experience — on powerful jetskis, navigating through remote fjords, and stopping at native villages that seem frozen in time. This isn’t a typical sightseeing tour; it’s a carefully curated journey into some of Alaska’s most untouched waters, led by highly trained guides.

Two aspects we particularly like are the personalized attention provided by skilled guides and the opportunity to witness stunning marine wildlife up close — whales, seals, and orcas. Plus, the included gear and meals (notably in the native village of Kake) ensure you’re well-prepared and well-fed throughout. However, a caveat worth considering is the cost, which may be steep for some travelers, and the fact that the tour relies heavily on good weather — a fact that can lead to cancellations if the conditions aren’t right.

This adventure is best suited for adventurous travelers with a moderate physical fitness level, a love for the outdoors, and a sense of curiosity about Alaska’s more remote corners. It’s especially ideal for those who want a high-impact, intimate experience of the Alaskan wilderness, rather than just a quick snapshot.

Key Points

• Authentic Alaska: Experience the rugged beauty of Southeast Alaska on jetskis, away from crowds.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see whales, seals, and possibly orcas in their natural habitat.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, highly trained guides ensure safety and enrich the journey.
• Remote Villages: Visit native communities like Kake, with authentic local food and traditions.
• Complete Gear Included: Drysuits, dry bags, and safety equipment mean you can focus on the fun.
• Weather-Dependent: Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, so flexibility helps.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

The adventure begins in Juneau, where you meet at the Ramada Hotel with your guides, who will distribute all necessary gear. This initial day sets the tone — you’ll be outfitted with drysuits, boots, gloves, and a dry bag, preparing you for days on the water. The first leg heads south down Gastineau Channel into the marine-rich waters of Southeast Alaska. Expect spectacular scenery, with towering mountains and lush forests framing your route.

On Day 2, the team wakes in Petersburg, a small but lively port town. From here, the journey takes you towards Le Conte Glacier — a striking, icy marvel. This part of the trip is about blending adventure with nature appreciation. You’ll get to see the fjord-like landscapes, where towering cliffs meet dark waters teeming with marine life. Travelers often mention the sense of peace and awe when surrounded by vast wilderness with very few other visitors.

The third day brings you to Kake, a tiny native village that embodies true Alaskan authenticity. After a morning briefing on safety, weather permitting, you’ll navigate through narrow waterways, experiencing the thrill of controlling a jetski through winding channels. Here, you’ll get a taste of local life, with no tourist trappings — just hearty home-cooked meals and warm hospitality.

The highlight of Day 4 is traveling through Rocky Pass en route to Kake. This stretch is described as spectacular, offering stunning views and a real sense of adventure. The waters here are quieter, allowing for close-up wildlife spotting. You’ll enjoy a full day exploring this native village, where the food — often described as some of the best home-cooked meals — adds a genuine personal touch to the experience.

On the final day, you’ll return north via Frederick Sound, famous for feeding humpback whales and orca preying on stellar sea lions. This is the wildlife highlight, and if you’re lucky, you’ll witness these majestic creatures in their natural environment, which can be an emotional moment for many travelers.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The strength of this expedition lies in its combination of adventure and authenticity. The use of jetskis as a primary means of exploring means you get to cover significant distances in a short time, reaching areas that are difficult to access by boat or plane. The tour’s focus on native villages, such as Kake, offers genuine insight into local culture without the tourist-oriented trappings.

Another key feature is the small group size, capped at 10 travelers. This allows for a more personalized experience and plenty of interaction with guides who are described as among the most skilled and highly trained professionals. Their expertise not only ensures safety but also enriches your understanding of the environment, wildlife, and local customs.

The gear included is thoughtfully chosen. Dry suits, dry bags, and safety gear mean you don’t need to worry about the technicalities — just focus on the spectacular scenery and wildlife. The inclusion of meals, especially the two dinners and two breakfasts, is a bonus, giving you a taste of local flavors and a chance to relax and share stories after a day on the water.

The Cost and Value

At over $10,000 per person, this trip isn’t cheap. However, when you consider the inclusions — professional guides, all gear, food, and unique access to remote areas — the value becomes clearer. For travelers who prioritize authentic experiences, wildlife encounters, and personalized service, it’s a worthy investment.

That said, the price reflects the luxury of exclusivity and the specialized equipment involved. For those on a tighter budget, it’s worth considering whether the high cost aligns with your expectations of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Keep in mind that cancellations due to weather are possible, which could impact the value if you’re unable to reschedule easily.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits aged 16 and above with a moderate physical fitness level. It’s ideal for those who want to explore Alaska’s remote coastline in an active way and are comfortable on jetskis. Travelers with a curiosity for native culture, a love of marine wildlife, and a desire for a hands-on, engaging experience will find this expedition particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Southeast Alaskan Jetski Expedition from Juneau offers an authentic window into a part of Alaska that few visitors see. It combines adventure, wildlife, and cultural discovery in a way that feels personal and meaningful. The guides’ expertise, along with the chance to see whales and orcas and visit native villages, makes it more than just a scenic ride — it’s an immersive experience in the natural and cultural richness of Alaska.

While the price may seem steep, the value of access to pristine waters and remote communities, plus the comfort of included gear and thoughtful logistics, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. For travelers craving high-energy exploration with authentic encounters, this expedition hits the mark.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers expedition gear (jetski, fuel, drysuits, boots, gloves, dry bags, USCG PFD), lunch, dinner (2), breakfast (2), and a tour guide.

Are meals provided every day?
Meals are included only in the Native Village of Kake. The other days’ meals are on your own, except for the provided lunches and dinners in Kake.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be 16 years or older with a valid license.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. Should it be canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is each day’s activity?
Days vary from 6 to 8 hours, with plenty of time on the water to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

What should I bring?
The tour provides all necessary gear, but you might want to bring personal items like sunglasses, sunblock, and a camera.

Is physical fitness required?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to handle jetski operation and outdoor activities comfortably.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Ramada by Wyndham Juneau and ends back there after five days of adventure.

This adventure isn’t for everyone, but for those eager to see Alaska from a different angle — on jetskis, exploring remote villages, and witnessing incredible wildlife — it promises a truly memorable journey.