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Tourists standing by the shore looking out towards the massive Mendenhall Glacier.

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Whale-Watching & Auke Bay

Hundreds of humpback whales migrate to the nutrient-rich waters of the Inside Passage every summer.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Whale-watching tours operate out of Auke Bay Harbor from May through September. Standard boat excursions last 3 to 4 hours and maintain high success rates for humpback whale sightings.

Vessels follow strict regulations to keep a safe distance from marine life. Many visitors book combo excursions that handle round-trip transport from the downtown Juneau cruise terminal.

People gathering at the base of Nugget Falls near Mendenhall Glacier lake.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Auke Bay Harbor

15 mins30 mins from downtown

This is the primary departure point for the local whale-watching fleet. The harbor is located about 30 minutes from downtown Juneau. Watch for bald eagles and harbor seals right around the docks before you board your vessel.

A curved metal walkway over water leading through trees at Mendenhall Glacier.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Inside Passage Waters

2.5-3 hoursBubble-net feeding

These nutrient-rich waterways provide the feeding grounds for migrating humpback whales. You will spend most of your tour on the water scanning for wildlife. Keep your camera ready to capture bubble-net feeding, where humpbacks work together to trap fish.

A spotting scope pointing out the window towards Mendenhall Glacier and lake.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Sentinel Island Lighthouse

1 hourLand exploration

This historic 1902 lighthouse offers onshore exploration and scenic views of the surrounding waters. A few specialized tours include a land stop here. Check with your tour operator to see if this stop is included if you want to stretch your legs.

Book a Whale-Watching Combo

Wide view of Mendenhall Glacier flowing into the lake surrounded by mountains.
Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier4 h 30 min 4.9 (7,687)from $249
whale watch & glacierfrom $249 on Viator
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