Adventure Brief
Experience close-up encounters with humpbacks and orcas off Juneau’s coast. Our local guides deliver thrilling, eco-conscious whale-watching trips lasting 2.5 or 4 hours.
2.5–4 hours
moderate
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Experience close-up encounters with humpbacks and orcas off Juneau’s coast. Our local guides deliver thrilling, eco-conscious whale-watching trips lasting 2.5 or 4 hours.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2.5–4 hours
Fitness Level
Good general fitness helps with balance and endurance during boat trips, but no special training is required.
Wildlife
History
Juneau’s waters have sustained Indigenous Tlingit people for thousands of years, who have long revered the whales appearing in local oral traditions.
Conservation
Operators adhere to strict whale-watching guidelines to minimize disturbance and promote habitat preservation in this ecologically sensitive region.
Juneau Charters
Experience close-up encounters with humpbacks and orcas off Juneau’s coast. Our local guides deliver thrilling, eco-conscious whale-watching trips lasting 2.5 or 4 hours.
Juneau Charters is a locally owned charter and boat rental company based in Juneau, Alaska. The company provides guided fishing charters, whale-watching excursions, and self-guided boat rentals aboard well-maintained vessels including a 26' North River Seahawk (Scavenger), a 22' Hewescraft Nomad, and a 23' Sea Pro (REEL FISH). Guided options include salmon fishing, halibut fishing, salmon/halibut combo trips, private charters, and dedicated whale-watching tours tailored for cruise ship passengers and time-sensitive schedules. Trips are offered in multiple durations—4-hour, 6-hour, and 8-hour fishing itineraries and 2.5- or 4-hour whale-watching trips—designed to maximize time on productive waters while returning passengers to port on schedule.
Local, licensed guides lead the guided trips and prioritize safety, fishery regulations, and sustainable practices. Boats receive regular maintenance and safety checks; life jackets and required safety gear are provided for all passengers. Rental boats come equipped with comfortable seating, enclosed cabins, and features suited to multi-day camping or overnight travel on the Scavenger and Nomad. Booking options include private charters and hourly rentals, with clear pricing and scheduling for cruise visitors.
Juneau Charters emphasizes punctual shore transfers, experienced local knowledge of fishing grounds and whale routes, and transparent communication during booking. The company's reputation is built on reliable vessels, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on delivering memorable, time-efficient adventures in Alaska's Inside Passage. Guides also share local marine ecology and practical fishing techniques to improve success and enjoyment. Private charters keep groups focused and on-time for cruise itineraries, while self-guided rentals allow independent exploration of Juneau's waters.
Vessels
3 Vessels
Scavenger, Nomad, and REEL FISH
Trips Offered
Guided & Rentals
Fishing, whale watching, private charters
Cruise Friendly
Timed Trips
Designed to return passengers on schedule
Seating
Seats up to 6
Scavenger offers seating for six passengers
Book a guided salmon or halibut charter, whale-watch, or rent a boat — trips scheduled to meet cruise timelines.
Bring binoculars for distant sightings
Binoculars help you spot whales and seabirds far from the boat, enriching your experience.
Dress in layered waterproof clothing
Alaskan waters can be chilly and damp; layers help you stay comfortable during excursions.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the environment by choosing sunscreen that won’t harm marine life.
Keep voices low to avoid disturbing wildlife
Quiet observation reduces stress on marine animals and improves your chances of close encounters.
Water-resistant jacket
Protects against spray and chilly coastal winds on the boat.
summer
Binoculars
Enhances distant wildlife viewing and photography.
Camera with zoom lens
Captures detailed shots of whales and coastal scenery.
Warm hat and gloves
Keeps you warm during cooler Alaskan mornings or if temperatures drop unexpectedly.
spring