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Experience Juneau’s best with this combo tour—whale watching and crab feast—delivering stunning wildlife views and mouthwatering seafood for a great value.
Thinking about visiting Juneau and wondering what truly captures the spirit of Alaska’s coast? This combo tour, offering a first-rate whale watching experience paired with a legendary crab meal at Tracy’s Crab Shack, has become a favorite among travelers. Rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 by over 600 reviews, it’s clear that many find this combination hard to beat — and for good reason.
What we love about this tour is how it offers two iconic Juneau experiences in one seamless package: the chance to observe whales in their natural habitat and then indulge in some of the best crab Alaska has to offer. Both parts are thoughtfully organized to maximize your time and enjoyment. A potential drawback? Some travelers mention a slight miscommunication regarding the food redemption process, but overall, most find the experience well worth the effort. If you’re after a lively, authentic, and well-rounded day in Juneau, this tour might just be your ideal choice.
This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a mix of wildlife and culinary delights, all wrapped up in a manageable four-and-a-half-hour adventure. If you’re not thrilled about overly long boat trips or complicated logistics, this trip’s straightforward setup makes it a practical pick. Also, it’s great for those who want a reliable, high-rated experience that offers both excitement and delicious downtime.
The tour kicks off at the Goldbelt Tram area, a central spot in downtown Juneau. From there, your first stop is Tracy’s King Crab Shack, where you’re treated to a crab combo meal included in the price. This part of the tour lasts about an hour, giving you time to savor generous crab legs in a lively setting. Many reviews highlight how “these crab legs were huge and delicious” and how the service was “fantastic,” making this a satisfying start to your day. One traveler even commented, “Worth the wait in line”—a testament to the popularity and quality of the food.
After the crab feast, the tour continues with a three-hour whale watching cruise operated by Juneau Tours. Expect to be on a comfortable vessel with a small group, which allows for a more personalized experience. The crew, including the captain and guides Tess and Brock, gets high marks for their helpfulness and enthusiasm. Many reviews mention how they shared their excitement as whales breached and tail-slapped, far exceeding expectations. One reviewer noted, “Far beyond my expectations,” thanks to the crew’s attentiveness and their ability to find whales in the busy Juneau waters.
During the cruise, you’ll likely see humpbacks, orcas, and other marine wildlife. The captain and crew’s knowledge makes the experience not just exciting but educational. The boat’s design and the crew’s professionalism ensure that even novice whale watchers feel well-informed and comfortable.
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Tracy’s King Crab Shack isn’t just about the food — it’s about the experience. You’ll find yourself amidst a bustling, friendly environment, with the chance to sample Alaska’s famous king crab, renowned for its sweet, tender meat. The reviews speak to the high quality: “Best crab legs I’ve eaten in 40 years.” The quick service means you’re not stuck waiting long, allowing you to return to the boat or explore more of downtown Juneau afterward.
The three-hour cruise is a highlight for most travelers. The boat’s size and the crew’s attentiveness provide a relaxed, engaging environment. You can expect to be out on the water in good weather, with plenty of opportunities to spot whales breaching, tail-slapping, or spy-hopping. The reviews are full of praise for how many whales were seen and how close the boat got. One reviewer exclaimed, “Numerous whale sightings, an absolutely amazing experience!”
The total duration, around four and a half hours, makes this a manageable day trip. The price of $274 per person might seem high at first glance, but considering the inclusion of transportation, a generous crab meal, and a whale watch, many find it good value. It’s also a popular booking; travelers tend to reserve about 118 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise.
Transportation is taken care of, with round-trip service from the port, removing the stress of navigating or finding your way. The group size maxes out at 49 travelers, which strikes a balance between social interaction and comfort.
While the tour runs rain or shine, travelers should be prepared for the weather — bringing layers, waterproof clothing, and sun protection as needed. Beverages aren’t included, so bringing water or any preferred drinks is a smart idea. Gratuities are optional but customary if you feel the crew went above and beyond.
Travelers who appreciate well-organized outings that combine wildlife with local cuisine will find this tour appealing. It’s especially suitable for those who want a reliable, straightforward experience — no hidden surprises or overly long boat rides. The inclusion of transportation, a top-quality meal, and a reputable guide team makes this a solid choice for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to experience the best of Juneau’s marine wildlife and seafood.
If you’re on a tight schedule but want a memorable snapshot of Juneau’s natural and culinary treasures, this tour hits the mark. Conversely, if you’re looking for a more leisurely or in-depth wildlife expedition, you might want to explore longer, more specialized tours.
This combo tour offers a well-balanced glimpse of Juneau’s maritime charm. The whale watching component delivers chances to see whales in their natural environment, guided by passionate and knowledgeable crew members. The visit to Tracy’s Crab Shack provides a satisfying and authentic Alaska seafood experience in a lively setting.
Value-wise, it’s a compelling package: two iconic activities in one affordable price, with all the logistics managed for you. The small-group environment, combined with high praise for the guides and the seafood, makes this a tour that many travelers remember fondly.
While minor issues like communication hiccups about the food redemption exist, they don’t detract from the overall quality of the experience. It’s clear that most who take this trip walk away with a sense of having truly experienced some of the best Juneau has to offer.
In summary, if you’re after a fun, engaging, and delicious half-day adventure with a touch of wildlife magic, this combo tour is hard to beat. It’s best suited for those who want a balanced taste of Alaska’s natural beauty and culinary delights, all delivered with a friendly, professional touch.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is generally family-friendly. However, always consider individual mobility and comfort with boat trips.
How long is the whale watching cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately three hours, giving plenty of time to see whales and enjoy the scenery.
What is included in the price?
The tour price includes round-trip transportation from the port, the whale watching cruise, and a Tracy’s King Crab Shack combo meal.
Are beverages and tips included?
No, beverages are not included, so bring your own if desired. Gratuities are optional but appreciated for good service.
Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, this popular tour is often booked about 118 days ahead, so planning early ensures you get a spot.
What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This combination of wildlife watching and fresh seafood is a classic Juneau encounter, blending natural wonder with culinary delight. For those seeking a fun, reliable, and delicious experience, this tour hits all the right notes.