This is the perfect excursion for those wanting to experience an outdoor salmon grill and one of Juneau's most popular sightseeing opportunities - whale watching. Your knowledgeable guide will drive you through the charming waterfront of the town, and entertain you with stories of history, culture, and lifestyle as you see the sights.
Upon arrival the the whale watching harbor, Auke Bay, you will see that this is the perfect place to take off on your wildlife adventure! Pristine marine habitats and incredible glacier views are just some of the sights to behold from your jet boat as you begin your search for humpback and orca whales. Keep your cameras ready, because your captain and naturalist will both point out the famous Mendenhall Glacier and other spectacular landscapes along the way.
The waters surrounding Juneau are extremely nutrient rich, which attracts a giant whale population to the area. Your tour guides are so confident that you will see whales that you are actually
guaranteed to see them or you will get a full refund! Our captains are experts at finding whales and will point them out to you so you won't miss a thing. The jet boat is also equipped with a hydrophone system for listening to whales as they communicate with each other in the water!
Make sure to grab a pair of the binoculars that are onboard for your use, because there is abundant wildlife aside from whales all throughout the waters of Southeast Alaska. Keep an eye out for Stellar sea lions, Dall's porpoise, bald eagles, and maybe even bear or black tail deer! Your naturalist will also point out flora and fauna as you cruise along Steven's Passage. With oversized windows, you can choose to stay inside the heated cabin or venture to the outside deck and take in the fresh Alaskan air.
Once you've concluded your whale-watching cruise, a motor coach will take you to the famous Alaska Salmon Bake. Featured on Bravo Television's Top Chef the Gold Creek Salmon Bake is more than a meal, it's an event. They've been grilling perfect salmon for over 38 years at this all you can eat adventure, and there is something for everyone with a variety of entrees, sides, and blueberry cake.
The bake is nestled in the lush rainforest environment of Southeast Alaska, and plenty of activities await your. Strolling along a salmon spawning creek, checking out the entrance of Wagner Mine, basking in the beauty of Salmon Creek Falls, and panning for gold are just a few of the options! Live Alaskan folk music will be playing, and for chilly days, gather under heated canopies to enjoy the tunes. Roasting marshmallows over a campfire is a great way to end the day, and feel free to return to your ship whenever you would like on any of the convenient shuttles that run every 15 minutes.
Duration: 5 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)
Inclusions:
- Roundtrip transportation from cruise ship terminal
- 100% guaranteed whale sightings or partial refund for whale watching portion
- Binoculars while onboard the jet boat
- All-you-can-eat buffet
Duration: 5 hours. Tour time below are approximate:
- 1 hour of roundtrip transportation
- 1.75 hours whale watching onboard a jet boat
- 2+ hours are Gold Creek salmon bake - you can leave at your leisure on one of our shuttles running every 15-20 minutes
Meeting Instructions:
- This tour meets in front of the Mt. Robert's Tramway building. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.
ADA Accessibility of Tour:
- This tour is limited mobility and wheelchair accessible. Guests must be able to step up into the whale watching boat. The large dining area during the salmon bake portion of the tour has plenty of room for wheelchairs to maneuver. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible or motorized equipment will be required on tour. If operator is unaware beforehand of necessary accommodations, they may not be able to accommodate guests day-of.
How many passengers does the boat hold?
There is a maximum capacity of 48 guests.
What is the seating arrangement in the boat?
Every boat has open seating as well as outside viewing areas when permitted.
Is there an inside seating area on the boat, is it heated?
The interior of the boat is heated when needed due to weather conditions to keep a comfortable environment.
How close will we get to the whales?
Humpback whales and other sea animals are protected species and a safe distance of at least 100 yards must be maintained at all times according to NOAA regulations.
Are whale sightings guaranteed?
Sightings are guaranteed or you'll receive a partial refund for the whale watching portion of your tour ($ 100 for adults and $ 50 for children).
What is the temperature on the water?
Air temperature can drop as much as 20°F with the wind chill factor when viewing whales outside.
Are there any age restrictions for children?
There are no age restrictions for this tour.
Can I bring a backpack?
Backpacks, small bags, and purses are allowed on this tour.
Can I bring my own food or drink?
Non-alcoholic beverages in a closeable containters and snacks are allowed on tour.
Are food and drink included?
Beverages and a light snack are included.
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