Top Juneau Whale Watching
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Perhaps the most popular summer activity in Juneau, whale-watching is an absolute must for any visitor to the city. Though the fabulous creatures are here from April to November, the most splashing, breeching, and jumping happens from June to August—which just so happens to be when the sun is shining and Alaskan days are warm and long. From quick shore excursions to lengthy, private endeavors, all sorts of tours abound, which is lucky: Whale-watching in Juneau is some of the country’s best.
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When choosing a whale-watching tour in Juneau, you'll want to book one that receives top marks and reviews from guests. These are currently the highest rated Juneau whale-watching tours:
Yes, whale watching in Juneau is a unique experience due to Juneau’s location on the Inside Passage, where nutrient-rich waters draw whales and other wildlife. Guests often rave about whale-watching cruises being a top experience when visiting this part of southeast Alaska.
Tickets for a standard Juneau whale-watching tour cost upwards of US$169. Cruises that include a meal like a salmon bake cost closer to US$240. Group rates are available for private cruises and they offer a curated experience that’s unmatched by larger cruises.
Massive humpback whales are what most guests are hoping to see on their Juneau whale-watching tour, especially during the summer season. You might also glimpse orcas, or gray and minke whales. It’s not guaranteed that you’ll see a whale on one of these cruises but the captains know where to look to maximize your chance.
Starting in May, whales will begin returning to feeding grounds in Juneau’s Inside Passage. The peak months for whale watching are June through August. You can often spot whales in the area through September and after that, whales begin to migrate south to warmer waters for their breeding season.
Juneau has more opportunities for whale-watching tours due to its prime location in the Inside Passage. You’ll find numerous whale-watching cruises during the summer, which is peak whale-watching season. Skagway offers some opportunities for whale watching but it’s not such a huge draw in the area.
There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Juneau aside from whale watching. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:
Juneau whale-watching tour prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now:
Before booking your Juneau whale-watching tour, be aware that smaller boats—for around 6–20 passengers—offer more personalized experiences, but may feel choppier on the water. Larger vessels come with crowds but typically provide more stability and amenities. Regardless of your choice and when you go, always wear layers as it can get cold on the water.
To get the most enjoyment from your Juneau whale-watching tour, dress in layers regardless of the season, bring a waterproof jacket to handle any spray, and wear sturdy shoes for potentially wet decks. Pack a camera with high-quality zoom capabilities, as there are restrictions on how close boats can get to wildlife.
Whales in the Juneau area feed throughout the day during the peak season from June to October, so there’s no bad time to book. Morning tours can offer calmer waters with less wind, making it easier to spot whale spouts and movement, while afternoon trips can provide beautiful lighting for photos.
















