In short
- Combo tours last 4.5 to 5 hours and handle all transport.
- Prices for guided combinations start around $150 to $250.
- Independent travel requires booking separate buses and boats.
In this article
Deciding between a guided combo tour and independent travel depends on your schedule. Whale-watching boats depart from Auke Bay, while Mendenhall Glacier sits in a different direction from downtown Juneau. A combo tour connects these two spots seamlessly.
How much time does a combo tour save?
Booking a combo tour saves you at least an hour of transit time.
If you travel independently, you must return downtown between your glacier visit and your whale-watching departure. Combo tours drive directly between the Mendenhall Glacier and Auke Bay Harbor. The total time for a combo trip is 4.5 to 5 hours.
Are combo tours cheaper than separate tickets?
Combo tours generally cost the same or slightly less than booking separate tickets.
A standard whale-watching tour costs from $150 to $250. A round-trip express shuttle to the glacier costs $70 to $85. Combo tours cost between $150 and $250, wrapping transport into one price. Prices fluctuate by platform.
Do combo tours pick up at the cruise port?
Yes, guided combo tours pick up directly at the cruise ship terminal or downtown Juneau.
This is the most convenient option for cruise ship passengers with limited port time. The tour operator coordinates your schedule and gets you back to the ship on time.
Is a combo tour good for families with kids?
Combo tours keep families moving without the stress of managing multiple transport schedules.
Kids enjoy the constant activity. You will spend 2.5 to 3 hours on the water and 45 minutes to 1 hour at the glacier. Family Visit Guide This leaves enough time to walk the flat 2-mile Nugget Falls Trail.
Can I do both without a combo tour?
You can visit both independently using taxis, shuttles, or public buses.
If you prefer maximum flexibility, book a $70 to $85 express bus to the glacier. Afterward, return downtown to catch a separate operator's shuttle to Auke Bay. You can also use taxis for $35 to $45 each way.
Who should book a combo tour?
Cruise passengers and those on a tight schedule should book a combo tour.
If you only have one day in Juneau, a combo tour ensures you see both humpback whales and the glacier. Independent travelers with rental cars or multiple days can manage their own pace.
Questions travellers ask
Can you do Mendenhall Glacier and whale watching in one day?
Yes. A guided combo tour takes 4.5 to 5 hours total and handles all transportation between downtown, Auke Bay, and the glacier.
How much does it cost to visit Mendenhall Glacier and book a whale tour?
Whale-watching tours typically cost $150 to $250. Accessing the glacier independently costs $70 to $85 via shuttle, or $2 on the public bus. Guided combo tours start around $150 to $250.
How long do you spend at the glacier on a combo tour?
Most combo tours allocate 45 minutes to 1 hour at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. This is enough time to walk the Photo Point Trail or hike to Nugget Falls.
