From Juneau: Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks

Imagine cruising through Alaska’s stunning waters, spotting humpbacks breaching, orcas slicing through the waves, and eagles soaring overhead—all while enjoying the comfort of a small, climate-controlled boat with snacks. That’s pretty much the promise of the whale watching tour from Juneau, and judging by the glowing reviews and a solid 4.8-star rating, it’s a pretty reliable choice.

We love the way this trip combines scenic transportation, wildlife encounters, and a relaxed onboard vibe. The guided bus ride through Juneau offers a taste of the landscape before heading out. The boat experience itself is praised for being intimate and comfortable, which makes a difference when you’re trying to catch glimpses of elusive marine mammals. One thing to keep in mind: it’s a three-hour commitment, including transport, so it suits those with a flexible schedule and a love for nature.

A potential consideration? The boat is small, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer larger vessels with more space, this might feel snug. Also, the activity isn’t suitable for everyone—those with mobility issues or back problems should note the potential need to navigate stairs or steep ramps.

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone looking for a more personal, engaging experience with Alaska’s marine life. With excellent guides, stunning scenery, and value-packed amenities, it’s a memorable way to spend part of your day in Juneau.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing Close-Up: Expect to see humpbacks, orcas, sea lions, bald eagles, and even black bears.
• Expert Guides: Naturalists and captains are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Comfort and Convenience: Small, enclosed, climate-controlled boats with binoculars for better viewing.
• Inclusions Offer Good Value: Snacks, water, hot chocolate, and coffee are included.
• Scenic Route: The bus ride to Auke Bay offers views of fjords, mountains, glaciers, and local wildlife along the way.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or anyone needing hotel pickup.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Your journey begins downtown at 490 S Franklin St, where a Dolphin Jet Boat Tours representative with a bright blue sign welcomes you. The quick 25-minute bus ride through Juneau’s scenic streets sets the tone—think towering mountains, lush forests, and glimpses of wildlife as your naturalist guide shares tidbits about the area.

This part of the trip isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s about soaking in the Alaska landscape. Reviewers mentioned how informative and engaging the bus driver, often named Russell, was, with many praising the local knowledge that added depth to the journey.

Board the Small Boat

Once at Auke Bay, you’ll step onto a comfortable, small jet boat. These vessels are praised for their climate-controlled environment, meaning you’re protected from the cooler air while still enjoying panoramic views from large windows. The size of the boat creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing everyone to get a good view—though, as some reviewers pointed out, the stern deck can get crowded, so arriving early to claim a spot is smart.

The 2-Hour Whale Watching Cruise

Led by a captain and naturalist such as Captain Jim or Captain Max, the cruise departs Favorite Channel, Stephens Passage, or the Lynn Canal, giving you a chance to see humpbacks, orcas, Dalls porpoises, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and bald eagles. Reviewers consistently highlight how skilled guides like Keryl, Rico, and Jimmy are at locating whales, often getting close enough to enjoy significant sightings.

One enthusiast shared that Captain Jim knew exactly where to find the whales, and they spent a good amount of time watching a famous humpback called Flame, who kept diving and showing her tail—an unforgettable moment for whale watchers.

Wildlife Encounters and Viewing

Binoculars are provided to enhance sightings, and the naturalists are adept at explaining whale behavior, feeding habits, and the sounds whales make. The reviews reveal that many guests were surprised at how many different animals they saw—black bears, mountain goats, and even a bear walking on the shore during a glacier visit—adding layers to the experience beyond just whales.

Snacks and Comfort

Onboard refreshments include bottled water, hot chocolate, coffee, and a light snack bag, which reviewers appreciated. Some noted that the snacks were modest (a granola bar or small treat), but still a thoughtful touch that keeps you comfortable during the ride.

Return and Reflection

After about two hours of wildlife spotting, you’ll head back, with many guests describing this part as a relaxing, fun conclusion to the day. Cookies baked on the way back, glacier ice served as a special treat, and friendly crew members make the return trip enjoyable.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Naturalist Guides and Knowledge

The guides on this tour are repeatedly praised for their engagement and expertise. Whether it’s Rico explaining whale anatomy or Jimmy sharing stories about local wildlife, you feel like you’re in capable hands. Several reviews mentioned how much they appreciated the naturalists’ ability to answer questions and entertain.

Small, Comfortable Boats

Unlike larger vessels that can feel crowded or less intimate, these small boats offer a closer, more personal experience. Reviewers cited the comfort and better viewing angles as highlights. The climate-controlled environment is a bonus, especially on cooler days when the Alaskan breeze can be brisk.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters

Many guests left with stories of multiple whale sightings—including breaching, tail slaps, and spy-hopping—and even spotting other animals like mountain goats and bears. The guides’ skill in locating and approaching the whales adds a layer of authenticity and excitement.

Value for Money

At $154 per person, this tour offers a good balance of cost and experience. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and binoculars enhances the value, especially considering the high-quality wildlife sightings and knowledgeable guides. Reviewers felt it was a worthwhile expense for the memorable moments they experienced.

Scenic Beauty

The route itself is scenic, with breathtaking views of fjords, glaciers, and towering mountains. The bus ride before and after the cruise provides ample opportunity for photos and enjoying Juneau’s stunning landscapes.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Dress for the weather: Layers are recommended, as it can be cooler on the water even on sunny days.
• Arrive early: For the best viewing spots on the boat, arriving early helps secure a good position.
• Accessibility: The activity involves navigating a ramp that can be steep, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.
• Seasickness: If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, as the boat is relatively small.
• No hotel pickup: Transfers are from the downtown meeting point; plan your transportation accordingly.
• Duration: The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, including transportation and the cruise.

Conclusions

This whale watching tour from Juneau strikes a nice balance between comfort, natural beauty, and authentic wildlife encounters. The naturalist guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, adding educational value to the adventure. The small boat approach fosters a more intimate experience, enhancing your chances of seeing whales and other wildlife up close.

It’s especially appealing for those who value a relaxed pace, scenic views, and a touch of Alaska wildlife magic—plus, the onboard snacks and binoculars make it feel like a well-rounded, value-packed outing. If you’re looking for a reliable, well-reviewed way to see Alaska’s marine life without the hassle of large crowds, this tour hits the mark.

While it may not be suitable for everyone—those with mobility impairments or seeking larger vessels—it offers a genuine, engaging experience for wildlife lovers and curious travelers alike. The blend of scenic transport, expert guides, and incredible wildlife sightings makes this a trip worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the whale watching tour?
The boat cruise itself is approximately 2 hours, but including transportation from downtown Juneau, the total experience is about 3 hours.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers roundtrip transportation from the downtown meeting point, the boat trip, binoculars, bottled water, hot chocolate, coffee, and a small snack bag.

Are snacks and drinks provided on board?
Yes, guests receive bottled water, hot chocolate, coffee, and a small snack. Reviewers appreciated these touches, especially during colder days.

Is the boat enclosed or open?
The boat is small, enclosed, and climate-controlled, providing a comfortable environment to watch whales and wildlife.

Can I see wildlife other than whales?
Absolutely. Guests have seen sea lions, bald eagles, mountain goats, and even black bears—plus, scenic views of mountains and glaciers.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, but given the boat size and potential for cold weather, it’s best for children comfortable with boat rides. Not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Do I need to bring anything specific?
Dress in layers, bring a hat and rain gear, and perhaps a camera with zoom or binoculars. Arrive early to secure the best spot on the boat.

In short, this whale watching cruise delivers on its promise of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and a relaxed experience. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable boats, and good value, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to connect with Alaska’s incredible marine life.