Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour

Traveling to Juneau offers a bounty of natural wonders, from icy glaciers to majestic whales. This Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour by Dolphin Jet Boat Tours combines some of the area’s most iconic sights into a well-organized five-hour adventure. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply craving breathtaking scenery, this tour promises a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife spotting, and pleasant outdoor activity.

One feature we particularly appreciate? The extra time allocated at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area—about an hour and forty-five minutes to two hours—giving you ample opportunity to explore, hike, or just relax and soak in the views. That flexibility can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience.

A possible consideration? The tour involves walking on relatively easy terrain, but some travelers with mobility issues or very slow pace might want to plan accordingly. Still, the overall physical demand is moderate, making it accessible for most.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an authentic, small-group experience that combines scenic beauty with wildlife adventures. If you’re keen on learning about the area’s natural features from knowledgeable guides, and prefer a more intimate setting than larger cruise excursions, this one’s a strong choice.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and better chances of seeing wildlife.
• Flexible exploration time at Mendenhall Glacier allows for hiking, visiting the Visitor’s Center, or simply relaxing.
• Expert local guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary and quick, efficient transfers.
• Wildlife sightings include humpback whales, killer whales, and seals, adding excitement to the trip.
• Comfortable transportation via mammal-friendly jet boats offers a smooth, eco-conscious ride.
• All-in-one experience—scenic drive, glacier visit, waterfall hike, and whale watching—delivered in about five hours.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The tour kicks off in Juneau with a guided bus ride through the city. The 1-hour 20-minute drive offers travelers a chance to get a taste of the town’s charm and hear about local history or points of interest from your guide. Most reviews mention the friendly, enthusiastic demeanor of the driver, which helps set a relaxed tone early on.

From there, the adventure takes you to Nugget Falls. The easy 45-minute round-trip hike is designed to be accessible, even for slower walkers or those who prefer to take their time with photos. Reviewers like Susanna_J have praised this part, noting that it’s an enjoyable stroll with stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding rainforest—ideal for snapping pictures or just soaking in the lush environment. The proximity to the waterfall makes it an ideal spot for nature photography or a peaceful break before heading to the glacier.

Next, you visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center. Here, you get a full hour to explore exhibits, learn about the glacier’s formation, and get close enough to see its icy surface. Many appreciate the included admission, which adds value to the experience. As one reviewer pointed out, the visit is a great opportunity to deepen your understanding of this immense natural feature and its environmental significance.

The highlight for many, of course, is the whale watching on a mammal-friendly jet boat from Auke Bay Harbor. Leaving in the early afternoon, the boat ride lasts around two hours. The small group setting allows the guides to focus on the best whale hotspots, improving the chances of spotting humpbacks, orcas, and seals. Our reviewer Susanna_J shared that they saw several humpback whales, stellar seal lions, and killer whales, making the trip incredibly rewarding. The experienced captains’ local knowledge and quick transfers between vehicles ensure you spend more time spotting creatures rather than waiting around.

Transportation and Group Size

The jet boats are designed with wildlife and environmental friendliness in mind, providing a comfortable and intimate experience. With a maximum of 30 travelers, the group feels cozy and relaxed. The quick transfers between stops help keep the schedule tight without feeling hurried.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Snacks, hot chocolate, and coffee are provided, which is a thoughtful touch, especially on cooler days. Binoculars are also available, giving you a better shot at distant whales or birds. The guide, speaking excellent English, is knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share insights into Juneau’s natural environment.

However, the tour does not include written or audio guides, so you’ll rely on your guide’s commentary. This can be a plus for those who prefer personal interaction over pre-recorded information.

Booking and Pricing

At $199 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering the inclusion of multiple activities, snacks, and professional guiding. Booking well in advance—average is about 159 days ahead—reflects its popularity, especially during peak season. The flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of diverse activities—city tour, waterfall hike, glacier visit, and whale watching—makes this a comprehensive taste of Juneau’s natural offerings. The small group size guarantees a more personalized experience and increased wildlife viewing opportunities, which larger tours can sometimes miss.

The extra time at the glacier area means you won’t feel rushed, a common complaint with many structured tours. Instead, you get the chance to really explore or relax amid stunning scenery. Reviewers also mention the guides’ local knowledge and approachable manner, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is perfect for travelers who value personalized attention and prefer a balanced schedule. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved, but the easy hike and accessible stops make it feasible for most. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers will find this tour rewarding.

If your goal is to see whales in their natural habitat while also experiencing the grandeur of Mendenhall Glacier, this tour hits all those marks without feeling overly commercial or rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, eco-conscious, and authentic way to explore Juneau’s most iconic natural sights. The emphasis on small-group intimacy, local guides, and flexible exploration time really add to its appeal. While it’s priced on the higher side, the inclusions—such as snacks, guided insights, and the chance to see multiple wildlife species—justify the cost for many travelers.

If you’re after a memorable, customizable Alaska adventure that balances scenery, wildlife, and culture, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed pace, insider knowledge, and the opportunity to truly connect with Juneau’s wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, including all stops and activities.

What is the main focus of this tour?
It combines sightseeing at Mendenhall Glacier, a waterfall hike at Nugget Falls, and whale watching on a jet boat.

Are the stops at the glacier and waterfall accessible?
Yes, the hike to Nugget Falls is easy and designed to be accessible for most, with an average duration of 45 minutes round-trip.

Is food provided?
Snacks, hot chocolate, and coffee are included in the tour.

What wildlife might I see?
Most likely, humpback whales, killer whales, and seals, as confirmed by reviews where guests reported sightings of multiple whale species and sea lions.

Can I expect a large crowd?
No, this tour is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, especially because the walking is fairly easy, but moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking well in advance is advised, with most travelers booking around 159 days ahead, due to its popularity.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour balances adventure, learning, and relaxation. It’s ideally suited for those who want an authentic insight into Juneau’s natural beauty without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. With friendly guides, flexible exploration time, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, it promises a genuine Alaskan experience worth every penny.