Board a small, mammal-friendly jet boat from downtown Juneau for a guided search through nutrient-rich channels. Expect two hours on the water with a naturalist guide, binoculars, and onboard refreshments—excellent chances to see humpbacks, orcas, and sea lions.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat slips away from the rocky Juneau shoreline and the city shrinks into spruce and granite—salty air sharp against your face, gulls arguing overhead. Guides scan the glassy channel with binoculars, while the captain points toward a distant spout: the water parts and the body of a humpback rolls, tail flicking like a punctuation mark.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours (includes transfers and 2 hours on water)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most travelers who can board a small boat and stand for short periods; not recommended for those with serious spinal issues.
Wildlife
History
Juneau’s waterways have long supported Tlingit communities and later served as transport routes during the gold rush era; modern tours follow those historic corridors.
Conservation
Operators use mammal-friendly boat practices and naturalist briefings to reduce disturbance; maintain distance, avoid loud noises, and follow guide instructions to protect marine life.
Reserve your spot on the Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Temperatures on the water are several degrees cooler than downtown—pack insulated mid-layers and a waterproof shell.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Small jet boats can pitch in open channels; take preventative medication or bring acupressure bands if you’re prone to seasickness.
Use binoculars and a zoom lens
Binoculars are provided, but a camera with 200–400mm equivalent helps capture whales without getting too close.
Arrive at the meeting point early
Meet outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building; quick transfers mean the group leaves on schedule—don’t miss the blue sign with yellow letters.
Waterproof shell
Keeps wind and sea spray off—critical for comfort on a jet boat.
spring
Warm mid-layer
Fleece or wool provides insulation that still breathes during windy conditions.
summer
Binoculars or camera with zoom
Helps you spot and photograph whales and eagles at distance—binoculars are provided but many guests bring their own.
Motion-sickness medication or bands
Prevents nausea on choppy stretches; better to have it and not need it than the reverse.