Mendenhall Glacier & Whale Quest

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Board your motorcoach and take a short scenic drive to view and photograph Mendenhall Glacier. Along the way your guide will entertain you with legends and lore of Juneau's colorful past.

Ahead, Mendenhall Glacier looms dramatically. Formed during the Little Ice Age, which began about 3,000 years ago, the glacier is fed from an icefield high above Juneau. From across an iceberg-dotted lake you will see the magnificent glacier, a dynamic flowing force, carving its way seaward. Sustained by the geography and unique climate of the area, Mendenhall Glacier has been able to survive much longer than other glaciers in North America. Its existence continues to provide us with new insights into past, present, and future climatic conditions.

Built into a cliff above the valley you will find the glacier's visitor's center. Interactive displays and U.S. Forest Service interpreters offer history and insight to this breathtaking, natural phenomenon. Through the center's large picture windows, uninterrupted views of the glacier abound and the surrounding area features a number of picturesque walking trails.

Your adventure continues when you re-board your motorcoach for a picturesque drive to Auke Bay en route to the thrilling Whale Watching & Wildlife Quest cruise. A unique opportunity to experience southeast Alaska's natural history and marine animals, this exceptional tour is available rain or shine.

Board a water jet-powered expedition vessel specially designed for wildlife viewing. The warm, spacious main cabin welcomes you and the panoramic windows offer breathtaking views. Admire the majestic backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers as your experienced captain guides you through the island-studded waters of Stephens Passage.

As you cruise, an onboard naturalist will explain the habits and habitats of the wildlife you may encounter. You'll want to have your camera ready when you spot Steller sea lions, harbor seals, Dall's porpoises, bald eagles, Sitka blacktail deer and, occasionally, bears.

Of course, no whale-watching tour would be complete without seeing whales, and we are so confident in our Alaskan crew's spotting ability that if you don't see one of these magnificent creatures you will receive a $100.00 cash refund when you disembark the tour vessel. But don't anticipate money back, as whales have been spotted on every tour for the past 15 years!

The Inside Passage waters near Juneau support a very healthy humpback whale population. These magnificent mammals spend the summer months in the nutrient-rich waters before heading to Hawaii to mate and give birth. The whales have a breathing cycle that typically lasts four to six minutes; surfacing several times in quick succession to recharge their oxygen supply, then showing their massive tail flukes before disappearing into the depths to feed on krill and small schooling fish. Once whales are sighted, your captain will maneuver the boat to allow for exceptional viewing and photo opportunities.

During your cruise, complimentary food samples and beverages will be offered and motorcoach transport will be waiting to return you to your ship.

Special Notes:

Dress warmly and bring a rainproof jacket. Tour order may vary. Tour operator is authorized under special use permit to access the Tongass National Forest. Does not include walking on the glacier. Visit at the glacier is self-guided as your driver is not permitted to conduct tours.

Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.