Article Overview: Juneau Alaska Whale Watching
Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of Alaska’s Inside Passage, Juneau stands as a gateway to some of the most spectacular whale watching experiences on the planet. With its pristine waters and abundant marine life, it’s no wonder that Juneau is a mecca for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. If you’re planning a trip to this majestic corner of the world, don’t miss the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable whale watching excursion. In this article we’ll cover everything you need to know about whale watching in Juneau, Alaska.
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My Experience Whale Watching in Juneau, Alaska
My first experience whale watching in Juneau, Alaska was seeing the majestic animals from a distance on a family cruise. I could never have imagined I’d get even closer to them as an adult. Over the course of my career working in Alaska I’ve been lucky enough to have some really close encounters with whales all over Alaska, but especially in Southeast Alaska.
Some of my favorite whale watching memories took place not far from Juneau, Alaska; in the small village of Port Protection. Living and working in the small fishing community it wasn’t uncommon to see humpback whales. Sometimes they would even follow the herring right into the towns little cove. But my favorite thing was listening to them blow and sing at night when I was soaking in a hillbilly hot tub under the stars. There was something about hearing them so close and not being able to see them that was powerful to me. So I suppose my favorite whale watching experience in Alaska was actually a whale listening experience!?
Juneau Alaska Whale Watching
Table of Contents: Juneau Alaska Whale Watching
Table of contents
- Why Trust Us?
- My Experience Whale Watching in Juneau, Alaska
- Juneau Alaska Whale Watching
When to go Whale Watching in Juneau, Alaska
Juneau, Alaska, offers prime whale watching opportunities from May to September, with peak activity typically occurring between June and August. During these months, the waters are teeming with marine life, making it an excellent time to embark on a whale watching excursion. However, weather conditions can vary, so it’s essential to check local forecasts before planning your trip.
Outside of the peak whale watching season in Juneau, the chances of seeing whales diminish, but sightings are still possible. During the colder months, such as October through April, many whale species migrate to warmer waters for breeding and feeding, which reduces the likelihood of encountering them in Alaska’s coastal waters.
Humpback whales, for example, undertake long migrations to warmer climates during the winter months. They travel to breeding grounds in tropical waters where they give birth and nurse their calves. Similarly, other whale species, such as gray whales, may migrate southward to the waters off the coast of Mexico during the winter months.
Additionally, the decreased daylight hours and harsher weather conditions during the winter season can make it more challenging to conduct whale watching excursions. Rough seas, limited visibility, and inclement weather can all impact the ability to spot whales and safely navigate the waters.
What to Bring Whale Watching in Juneau, Alaska
While many whale watching tour operators in Juneau, Alaska, provide some essential items to enhance your experience, it’s always best to check with the specific tour to make sure. To be safe, its best to bring the right gear and essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. You don’t wanna pay all that money and be miserable during your whale watching tour. Here’s a checklist of items to bring:
- Layered Clothing: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers to stay warm and dry. Bring a waterproof jacket or windbreaker, fleece or sweater, and a moisture-wicking base layer. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and can make you cold if it gets wet.
- Hat and Gloves: Even in the summer months, temperatures on the water can be cooler, especially with wind chill.
- Sun Protection: Alaska experiences long daylight hours in the summer, so be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
- Sturdy Footwear: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction, as the decks of boats can be slippery. Waterproof footwear is ideal, as there may be spray from the water or rain.
- Camera or Binoculars: You’re gonna want to instagram your epic Juneau, Alaska whale watching tour. Bring a camera with a zoom lens or binoculars to get a closer look at the action.
- Motion Sickness Remedies: If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking preventative measures such as over-the-counter medication or wearing acupressure wristbands. Nothing sucks more than paying to get sea sick.
What Kind of Whales Will You See
Juneau’s waters are home to a diverse array of whale species, including humpback whales, orcas (killer whales), minke whales, and gray whales. Humpback whales are the most commonly sighted species during a whale watching tour in Juneau, Alaska. Orcas, with their distinctive black and white markings, are also a fairly common sight. There’s also a high probability you’ll encounter a slew of other marine wildlife during your whale watching tour. Sea lions, otters, and seals are all very common.
- Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae):
- Habits: Humpback whales are known for their acrobatic displays, including breaching (leaping out of the water) and slapping their tails on the surface. They are also famous for their haunting songs, which are believed to be part of their mating rituals.
- Feeding: Humpback whales are filter feeders that primarily consume krill and small fish. They often engage in a feeding technique known as bubble netting, where they blow bubbles in a circular pattern to corral schools of fish before lunging through the center with their mouths open to capture prey.
- Orcas (Orcinus orca):
- Habits: Orcas, also known as killer whales, are highly intelligent and social animals that live in close-knit family groups called pods. They are apex predators and are known for their cooperative hunting strategies.
- Feeding: Orcas have a diverse diet that includes fish, seals, and other marine mammals. They employ various hunting techniques, such as herding prey into tight groups or using coordinated attacks to capture larger prey.
Juneau, Alaska Whale Watching Tours
When it comes to selecting a whale watching tour in Juneau, there are several reputable companies to choose from. Here are a few tour recommendations:
- Harv & Marv’s: Great, small boat whale watching tour operator in Juneau, Alaska. Tours are 6 people or less and run just over 4hours from pickup to dropoff. A complimentary stop at the Brotherhood Bridge for a view of the Mendenhall Glacier is included. Phone: (907)209-7288 Email: tours@harvandmarvs.com. Website
- Alaska Tales: This Juneau, Alaska whale watching tour begins with a scenic bus ride through town, which offers a glimpse of the Mendenhall Glacier. Then, a two-hour adventure on the water, where you’ll witness humpback whales, sea lions, bald eagles, and possibly orca whales. Chat with the onboard naturalist for insights into the wildlife. Phone: (888)942-5308 Email: alaskatalesjuneau@gmail.com Website
- Gastineau Guiding: Custom heated and covered safari vessels are used on this Juneau, Alaska whale watching tour. The specially designed boats feature large opening panel windows for unobstructed views, providing a low-to-the-water vantage point for up-close wildlife observations. With an open stern and bow, you’ll have ample space to move around and capture the perfect photo opportunity. Their hydrophone sound system allows you to listen to underwater sounds made by nearby whales, enhancing your immersive experience. No more than 20 people per whale watching tour. Phone: (907)586-8231 Website
- Above & Beyond Alaska (ABAK) Wilderness Adventures: This Juneau, Alaska whale watching tour specializes in high-quality, active small group adventure tours. Such as their Paddle with Whales trip. Start with a journey to the Channel Islands State Marine Park aboard their small motorboat. Then the whale watching tour gets really interesting when you jump into a kayak. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of spotting whales, wildlife, and snow-capped peaks from the seat of a kayak. Phone: (907)313-7836 Email: info@beyondak.com Website
Juneau, Alaska Whale Watching Tours Prices
Prices for whale watching tours in Juneau can vary depending on the duration, type of excursion, and the amenities provided. Generally, expect to pay between $150 and $250 per person for a standard half-day tour lasting around 3 to 4 hours. Full-day excursions and private charters may be available at higher rates. Specialty tours in like ABAK’s paddling with whales tour, can run closer to $500. Be sure to inquire about any discounts for children or groups.
Tahku the Whale
You don’t have to get on a boat to go whale watching in Juneau, Alaska. Simply take a stroll downtown to the Marine Park Plaza and say hi to Tahku the Whale. Tahku is a magnificent bronze sculpture that graces downtown Juneau, Alaska.
Created by local artist R.T. “Skip” Wallen, this stunning depiction of a humpback whale breaching out of the water is a beloved landmark and focal point of the city. The sculpture captures the essence of Juneau’s rich maritime heritage and its deep connection to the ocean. So if you strike out on your Juneau, Alaska whale watching tour; make this your backup plan.
Map of Whale Watching Tours in Juneau, Alaska
Whale Watching Juneau, Alaska Conclusion
Whale watching in Juneau, Alaska, offers a rare opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in one of the world’s most pristine and unspoiled environments. Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of spotting a breaching humpback or the graceful beauty of a pod of orcas gliding through the water, a whale watching excursion in Juneau is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
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