Board a covered vessel at Statter Harbor for a 4+ hour tour combining three hours of whale watching with a stop to climb Sentinel Island Lighthouse and a final viewpoint at Brotherhood Bridge for Mendenhall Glacier. Expect heated cabins, snacks, and close encounters with humpbacks and orcas when conditions allow.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off from Statter Harbor with the harbor receding and Lynn Canal opening like a cold blue promise. The boat slips through glassy water, gulls ride the bow wake, and the captain scans for spouts—this is Alaska’s live marine theatre, where humpbacks and orcas decide the schedule.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short, controlled climbs for lighthouse tower and balance on an active boat
Wildlife
History
Sentinel Island Lighthouse was one of the early aids to navigation in Southeast Alaska, serving mariners through the region’s logging, fishing, and coastal commerce eras.
Conservation
Operators adhere to NOAA and local guidelines to minimize disturbance to marine mammals; visitors are encouraged to limit noise, pack out waste, and avoid single-use plastics where possible.
Reserve your spot on the Juneau Lighthouse Tours - Whale watching & Lighthouse Combo today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in waterproof layers
Wind and spray are constant; breathable waterproof outerwear and insulating mid-layers keep you comfortable on deck.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
The canal can be choppy—over-the-counter medication, acupressure bands, or ginger can make a big difference.
Use binoculars and a zoom lens
Binoculars help spot distant blows and breaches; a 200mm+ lens is ideal for decent whale photos from the boat.
Arrive early to meet at Statter Harbor
Meet at the covered gray building by the whale tail 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding and transport process.
Waterproof, windproof jacket
Shields you from spray and sudden weather shifts on open water.
Sturdy waterproof shoes
Non-slip footwear is useful for wet decks and the short island boardwalk.
Binoculars
Improves your chances of spotting distant blows, breaches, and pod behavior.
Motion-sickness remedies (pills or bands)
Helps if you’re prone to seasickness during the three hours on the water.
summer