Juneau Glacier View Sea Kayaking

4.7
39 reviews

Excursion Overview

The perfect way to get out on the water in Juneau

The Native Alaskans that built their lives on the shores of Juneau depended on the coastal waterways and wetlands of the Mendenhall Valley. This Juneau kayak tour allows you to learn the history of the area and surround yourself with spectacular views as old as time.

Your journey begins as you drive through downtown Juneau, over the bridge, and out to Douglas Island. From the North end of the island, you will see incredible views of the Mendenhall Glacier, mountain ranges, and maybe catch a glimpse of the massive 1,500 square mile ice field if it's a clear day. Make sure to have your camera ready, because everywhere you turn is a scene you will want to capture!

After you've had a chance to look around and take in your surroundings, an experienced guide will outfit you with gear for the day. No experience is required for this excursion as you will learn the essential techniques of kayaking before you hit the water. Your guide will make sure you are safe and having fun throughout the entire trip. Each kayak seats two people so you can go with a friend or be paired with someone else on the tour for your epic ocean adventure!

As you paddle along, you will hear about the history of local Native and Russian fur trading, where you will get a feel for the life they once lived on these shores. You will quietly glide along, stealthily able to approach any wildlife in the area. In the ocean, you may spot harbor seals, sea lions, porpoise, and perhaps even a whale! From this distance, 6 miles from the Mendenhall Glacier, you will be able to see the true size of this river of ice as it carves its way through the mountain peaks.

As your kayak excursion comes to an end, you will return back to shore. The best way to end a day like this is to enjoy a nice Alaskan snack, chat about the memories you've made, and reminisce about the sights you saw. This Juneau kayak tour gives you the chance to experience the Alaskan ocean with a bit of physical fitness. Relax a bit and take in the view once more before heading back to town via bus.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:

  • Roundtrip transportation
  • Rain jackets, rain pants, boots, and life jackets
  • A snack consisting of reindeer sausage, cheese, crackers, salmon spread, and water
  • Complimentary souvenir button
  • T-shirts and hats are available for purchase at the conclusion of the tour

Requirements:

  • The minimum weight is 40lbs to fit into the required lifejacket. The maximum weight is approximately 275lbs but is dependent on waist size to be comfortable in the kayak cockpit.
  • Guests over 6’3” will not be able to use the rudder pedals to steer the kayak, they will have to use their oar instead.
  • Moderate physical activity is required. This tour is not recommended for guests with back problems or limited upper body strength. In addition to paddling, guests need to be able to walk to the departure point and climb in and out of the kayaks.

Duration: 3.5 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)

  • 50 minutes - roundtrip narrated transfer to North Douglas Island
  • 20 minutes - outfitting, risk acknowledgment, split into groups of ability levels, instruction and equipment orientation
  • 1.75 hours - guided paddle excursion with an interpretation of flora, fauna and natural history
  • 15 minutes - turn in rain gear, life jackets & boots, snack and receive a souvenir

Meeting Instructions:

  • This tour meets in front of the Goldbelt Mt. Robert's Tramway building. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

  • This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible.

Refund Policy:

  • You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
  • Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Minimum weight is 40lbs and maximum weight is 275lbs; Guests over 6’3” will not be able to use the rudder pedals to steer the kayak, they will have to use their oar instead.

No experience is necessary to participate on this tour.

This is a sea kayaking adventure with a glacier view. You will be approximately 6 miles away from the Mendenhall Glacier.

Bald eagles and their nests, herons, shorebirds and waterfowl are all common sights. Porpoises and even humpback whales occasionally surface for air, however this is not a designated wildlife tour and nothing can be guaranteed.

Yes, a snack consisting of reindeer sausage, cheese, crackers, salmon spread and water is provided.

Weather depending, you are encouraged to wear gloves, light layers and an extra pair of socks in case yours get wet in the boots.

Yes, all bags and other belongings you don’t want in the kayak will be locked up in a vehicle onshore.

Food and drink are not allowed during this tour.

The kayaks are all double kayaks, no single kayaks are available.

 

Guest Reviews

4.7

39 total

77%
18%
3%
0%
3%

Taylor T

On Nov 2024

Giovanni was an engaging and entertaining guide! As novices to kayaking we felt totally safe and confident with navigating some choppy waters. Lots of fun an educational tour!

Minah S

On Sep 2024

We saw sea lions super close! Michael was a great guide to really immerse ourselves in the Alaskan nature :)

Rebecca M

On Aug 2024

We had a great time, and our guide was very knowledgeable and personable. We would definitely return and do this again!

Andrea H

On Jul 2024

Unfortunately, the fog was thick which prevented us from seeing the glacier. Otherwise, it was a fun excursion.

Lativa P

On Jul 2024

This excursion did not disappoint! Our guide Michael was very knowledgeable about the area and very humorous! We saw many sea birds and eagles. We also saw a seal in the distance. Would highly recommend! (Would recommend bug spray)

$154.00

Best Price Guarantee!

$154.00

Duration: 3.5 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 3.5 hours



Adult (13+): $154.00

Must be 40lbs or more

Child (12 and Under): $112.00