Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour

Our review of the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour offers a close-up look at one of Alaska’s most iconic landscapes and marine spectacles. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a more intimate, genuine connection with Juneau’s wild side, especially if you value knowledgeable guides, personalized service, and local charm.

What we love most? First, the small, family-owned operation that prioritizes local hires and feels more like a friendly expedition than a cookie-cutter cruise excursion. Second, the combination of glacier views and whale encounters creates a well-rounded day, blending icy grandeur with majestic marine life.

A potential consideration? The timing and weather can influence your experience — especially if skies are cloudy or rain is forecasted. So, flexibility and packing layers are smart moves.

This tour suits those who crave authentic, less commercialized adventures, and who want to see both the stunning glaciers and the whales in their natural habitat. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate expert guidance, value for money, and a genuine Alaska experience.

Key Points

• A balanced mix of glacier exploration and whale watching for a full-day experience.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and less crowding.
• Guides are highly knowledgeable and engaging, making the trip both educational and fun.
• The tour is family-owned, emphasizing local employment and community support.
• Price point at $189 offers good value for a half-day glacier visit combined with a whale cruise.
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

A Closer Look at What You Can Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
This is the first highlight — and a great way to get your bearings. You’ll be dropped off at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, where a self-guided stop allows you to enjoy stunning views from Photo Point Outlook. Imagine standing on a platform overlooking one of Alaska’s most famous glaciers, with ice calving into the lake below, providing constant reminders of the glacier’s immense scale.

Plus, the Visitor Center offers educational displays—perfect for those who love to learn about glaciers, local ecology, and the salmon streams that flow nearby. If you’re lucky, you might see spawning salmon or even a bear along the boardwalk — a reminder that nature here is both beautiful and wild.

Duration: About 40 minutes, with an included admission ticket. This free time allows for photos, a quick stroll, or a visit to the gift shop.

What travelers say: Many reviewers mention how the glacier views are breathtaking, and some appreciate the chance to walk over salmon streams—adding a touch of authentic wilderness to the visit.

The Whale-Watching Adventure

The highlight of the day — two hours on the water exploring for humpback whales. The tour departs from Auke Bay Harbor on a mammal-friendly jet boat. Unlike some larger vessels, this smaller, faster boat feels more like an adventure, zipping through Juneau’s waters with agility and style.

What makes this part special? The expert captain actively searches for whales, taking you to where they’re hanging out that day. Many reviews mention how close and personal the whales get, with some lucky travelers even seeing whales approach the boat.

Expect to see humpbacks, possibly other marine creatures, and to learn about whale behavior from your guides. The naturalists aboard are friendly and knowledgeable, adding context and fun facts that turn the trip into an educational experience.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours. The small-group atmosphere means more interaction and a chance to ask questions.

What travelers say: The whale watching part is often described as “amazing,” with mentions of whales coming close and guides knew exactly where to find them.

Transportation & Logistics

The tour begins at the Goldbelt Tram location — a convenient spot at 490 S Franklin St, right in front of the tram. The bus transfer from your cruise ship is included, making the process smooth and stress-free. The 1 hour 20-minute bus ride is a chance to get oriented and learn more about Juneau from your guide.

Small group size—up to 60 travelers—allows for personalized service, and the quick transfers between activities minimize wait times. This efficiency means you spend more time enjoying the sights and less time waiting around.

The tour includes: Coffee and tea, plus a snack bag with prepackaged snacks. It’s a thoughtful touch that keeps you fueled for the day’s adventures.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

One of the best parts of this tour is its family-owned nature. Operating since 1994, Dolphin Jet Boat Tours has built a reputation on local employment and community support. Their guides are passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to share their love for Juneau and its environment.

Reviewers frequently mention how guides made the experience more enjoyable with their friendly attitude and insights. Many praise the company for clear communication via email, helping travelers feel prepared and informed before the trip.

Price and Value

At $189 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the combined experiences of glacier viewing and whale watching. The inclusion of transportation, guide services, and entry to the glacier adds up to a comprehensive package.

Compared to booking separately or through cruise lines, many travelers find it more affordable and with more personalized service. The fact that it’s booked an average of 94 days in advance shows how popular it is—and that makes sense, given the quality and reputation.

What Travelers Love – and What to Consider

High praise for guides: Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are, making the trip both informative and fun.
Stunning scenery: The glacier views are frequently described as breathtaking, with some reviewers emphasizing the opportunity to see wildlife like salmon and bears.
Good value: The combination of glacier and whale activities, plus transportation, makes this a cost-effective choice compared to other options.

Possible drawbacks? Weather can influence the experience — cloudy or rainy days might obscure views of the glacier or limit whale sightings. The tour’s success also depends on whale activity, which isn’t guaranteed. Flexible travelers who come prepared for Alaska’s unpredictable weather will be most satisfied.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a genuine, less commercialized introduction to Juneau’s natural beauty. If you appreciate small-group settings, knowledgeable guides, and authentic encounters with glaciers and whales, you’ll find this tour very satisfying.

It’s especially suited for those who prefer a balanced mix of land and sea, with enough time to explore and absorb the environment without rushing. Families, couples, or solo travelers who want a memorable day with a local touch will enjoy this itinerary.

The Sum Up

This Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic day out in Juneau. You’ll enjoy stunning glacier vistas, the thrill of whale encounters, and insights from guides who truly love their home. The small group format and local ownership give it a personal touch that many large tours can’t match.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines scenic beauty with wildlife, at a price that’s more accessible than big cruise line options, this tour is a smart choice. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just surface-level sightseeing — they want a genuine connection to Alaska’s wild heart.

While weather and whale activity can vary, the overall quality, guide expertise, and thoughtful logistics make this a memorable adventure worth booking in advance.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is family-friendly.
Do I need to bring my own food or drinks? The tour provides coffee, tea, and a snack bag, but you may want to bring additional snacks or water.
How long is the bus transfer from the cruise ship? The transfer takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Are there any hidden costs? No, the tour price includes the glacier visit, boat trip, and transportation.
What should I wear? Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear, especially if the weather looks uncertain.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, a different date or full refund will be offered.
How many people usually take this tour? The maximum group size is 60 travelers, keeping it intimate and manageable.
Is there a guide on the boat? Yes, guides are aboard to share knowledge about whales and marine life.
What makes this tour stand out? Its combination of glacier and whale experiences, small-group setting, and local family ownership.
Can I book this tour through my cruise line? Yes, but many find booking directly through this company is cheaper and more flexible.

Choosing the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour means opting for a genuine, well-organized day in Juneau’s wilderness. It’s a chance to see Alaska’s icy giants and gentle giants of the sea, with guides who care about making your experience memorable.