Juneau Glacier View Sea Kayaking

4.6
31 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

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

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, 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.

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

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.

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

 

Guest Reviews

4.6

31 total

74%
19%
3%
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3%

Bonnie T

On Sep 2023

Very well organized. Really felt that I got my money s worth since we spent a good amount of time out on the water. Would definitely recommend.

Lara P

On Aug 2023

Great excursion! We had a great time kayaking toward the glacier...a lot of fun!

Amy F

On Aug 2023

What a lovely kayak and we loved our guide Lexy. Laid back and beautiful view of the glacier. We were happy to spot some harbor seals popping up from time to time.

Alexis H

On Jul 2023

I had a great time on this excursion. It was the first time kayaking for me and my cousins and the guides, Aubrey and Allegra were very patient and helpful. Aubrey told us lots of great facts, stories, and details which made the excursion even more engaging. Denny and April were also very helpful and a pleasure to spend time with. Highly recommend.

Laura W

On Jul 2023

The equipment and guides were great. We were farther from the glacier than I expected but still had a nice experience. We even had seals hang out with us.

$154.00

Best Price Guarantee!

$154.00

Duration: 3.5 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 3.5 hours



Adult: $154.00

Must be 40lbs or more

Child (12 and Under): $112.00