Juneau in Alaska is one of the all-time most spectacular cruise ship destinations and there are some great excursions to take once there.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Alaska, by far the biggest state in the USA, also happens to have one of the smallest capital city’s in the country: Juneau. Home to just over 30,000 people, Juneau is a city like few others too. Surrounded by mountains and glaciers, this port has a wild, frontier feel to it, with the Tongas National Rain Forest and ice fields not far away. But despite its secluded location, Juneau is also a buzzing cultural hub, ranking eighth on a list of the most arts-vibrant communities in the US, as well as having great local restaurants and bars. For anyone arriving in Juneau by cruise ship, you’re in luck, shore tours and cruise excursions are incredibly easy. Unlike other cruise ports in other countries, the ships don’t get parked up miles from town, instead the five docks available are almost in front of the town centre and a few minutes from Main Street. AJ Dock is the only one that’s a bit further out but there is a free shuttle bus into town. To discover Juneau and its surrounding area check out one of these shore excursions.
Juneau or Mendenhall Valley: Mendenhall Glacier Day Trip
Head into the wilderness to see Mendenhall Glacier which measures 13.6 miles long and is located in Mendenhall Valley, about 12 miles from downtown Juneau. It’s worth noting that this excursion requires a reasonable level of fitness and is not suitable for everyone – check the link below – but is certainly six hours of adventure. During the tour you’ll hike through the Tongass National Forest to the bottom of Mendenhall Glacier and see crevasses filled with a deep blue color and an icefall at the toe of the glacier. After taking in one of Southeast Alaska’s most incredible natural wonders there is a hike back on the West Glacier Trail and transfer back to the meeting point in Juneau. From €202.50.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Juneau: Mindfulness in the Wilderness
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
If it’s relaxation you are after then this excursion is just the ticket. This tour has a pickup from and return to downtown Juneau and the journey, with breathtaking views of Alaska glaciers and mountains towering over you, is almost as spectacular as the destination. At the trailhead, there is a roughly 1/2 mile hike through the forest to a quiet spot where participants are given equipment to sit or lay down. Then you will be guided through mindfulness exercises to bring in the healing powers of nature, hopefully melting your stresses and worries away. After the mindfulness session, there is a meal to recharge and some clear, fresh Alaska water infused with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs, to sip on. This is certainly a unique trip for anyone who thinks they have tried them all. From €182.71.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk
This tour offers adventure the moment you step off your cruise ship. The company picks you up close to the dock and then it’s straight to the chopper to soar over Juneau Icefield, before landing on Herbert Glacier to explore the remote landscape by foot. It’s a fabulous trip with plenty of insight into the surrounding Alaskan wilderness and opportunities for shots of a lifetime during your icefield walk. Cruise ship passengers please note that the shuttle will pick up one hour before listed flight time. The helicopter flight is narrated to explain what you are seeing as you fly. From €379.94.
Book at Viator.com
Juneau: Rainforest and Waterfalls Trek
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
This excursion is a little lighter but is still not suitable for some people. During the tour an expert naturalist guide explains the unique qualities of a temperate rainforest and there will be a chance to view the epic Mendenhall Glacier and learn how glaciers affect the landscapes. The trek through the rainforest is two to four miles, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls as well as the chance to breath some crystal clear Alaskan air. Possible wildlife sightings include black bears, American bald eagles, wild Alaskan salmon, porcupines, and other creatures. From €1,365.70 per group up to eight.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Juneau: All Inclusive Luxury Whale Watch
Whale watching is one of the most popular activities around Juneau. With a bit of luck you can see humpback whales in the picturesque Auke Bay surrounded by mountains and glaciers – few places on earth feel as spectacular. This excursion aims to do it a bit differently for the busy whale watching tours that head out each day, with a relaxed luxury yacht serving up locally sourced beverages and snacks instead of being immersed in crowds. There is a personal meeting at your cruise ship before a 25-minute ride to Auke Bay. Once on the water there is a chance to spot humpback whales and other world-class wildlife like orcas, bald eagles, harbor seals, steller sea lions, and even the occasional brown or black bear. The master captain and expert naturalist take you to the best locations and share their local knowledge on the area and its wildlife. After three hours on the water, you’ll be dropped safely back at your ship. From €2,860.59 per group up to eight.
Book at Getyourguide.com