Private Cruise Shore Excursions in Juneau
Alaska’s Capital City, Juneau is nestled in a spectacular wilderness of mountains rising from the sea. An extraordinary population of whales and other marine mammals frolic and feed in the sea nearby, and offshore wilderness islands are everywhere, complete with their resident wildlife. High above it all is the Juneau Icefield a sea of ice covering nearly 3500 square miles! Almost anywhere you look you can catch a glimpse of one of the dozens of massive glaciers that pour from the icefield into the valleys below. It is truly the perfect base for an adventure in the Alaska wilderness!
Private Zipline Adventure
This unique Zipline Tour is set in the panoramic mountains of a sub-alpine rainforest. You will arrive at the Lodge where your Certified Green Zipline Tour begins. Fly through the trees as your guides lead you through a series of themed tree houses.
Along your journey, you will traverse an aerial suspension bridge above headwaters of a salmon spawning stream. All of your senses will be stimulated on this one of a kind tour.
Once the Zipline Tour is complete, embrace your “Inner Lumberjack” and try your hand at Axe Throwing or you can purchase a locally brewed beer or other beverage to sip while you watch others from your group. Relax by the fire on the deck, and then watch a video presentation from the tour. Enjoy a cool sip of tea from a glass made of ice and a custom designed aluminum water bottle, both compliments of the Zipline Guides.
Participants must be 10 years or older, between 70 to 250 pounds, and comfortable with heights. The tour is not recommended for pregnant women or those with neck, back, shoulder or heart problems.
Closed toe shoes, long pants and layered clothing recommended. During the tour, participants will experience 7 ziplines and cross an approximately 150 – foot suspension bridge that is approximately 40 feet above the ground. The highest platform is 90 feet above the ground. Please note: All canopy guides are trained in CPR and First Aid.
All participants will receive a safety briefing and all necessary gear. Equipment includes harness, pulleys, lanyards, auto locking carabineers, helmet and waterproof rain jackets.
Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
Rate: $320 per person based on 6 Guests
Rate: $190 per person based on 12 Guests
Includes: All private transportation to and from the cruise ship terminal, highly qualified guides, souvenir aluminum water bottle, hot tea and light snack.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Citizens Science Adventure
Get more from your cruise and tour experience. You will play a significant role in providing ongoing documentation and data collection as a part of a monitored citizen science program. Hands on experiences include collecting water samples, trawling for plankton, identifying whales, and recording marine mammal observations. Your completed observational data-logging will improve scientists` understanding of the local food chain and other environmental variables that effect local marine wildlife populations.
Your trip begins with a citizen science project debriefing from your trip leader en route to the Mendenhall Glacier. Here you will document the recession of the world’s most visited glacier. The day is yours to capture as you participate in a time-lapse photo project that will detail the gradual movement of the glacier as it eventually recedes out of Mendenhall Lake. The glacier has calved in this lake for over 100 years, dating back to a time when Juneau became the territorial capital.
Next, a short drive brings you to a quaint harbor where you will board a safari vessel on your quest for gathering scientific research & wildlife observations. A custom built watercraft provides a comfortable cabin, a low to the water vantage and an open bow perfect for wildlife observations. As a citizen science observer, you will work to track and record the behaviors and environs pertaining to various marine mammals including humpback whales. The time spent on the water will not only provide an opportunity for scientific discovery, but natural interpretation will also be provided by your trip leader.
In addition to an amazing tour experience, you will also have the satisfaction of knowing your efforts made a contribution towards safeguarding and deepening the understanding of the delicate marine environment of Southeast Alaska.
Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
Rate: $460 per person based on 4 Guests
Rate: $370 per person based on 6 Guests
Rate: $280 per person based on 12 Guests
Includes: All transportation to and from the cruise terminal and a hearty snack with beverages.
Please note: Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven and wet surfaces. Layers of warm clothing and rain gear are recommended. A restroom is available on the research vessel. Vessels are all equipped with a hydrophone, so when conditions permit, you can listen to the underwater sounds of area whales. Binoculars, maps and a microscope are provided on the vessel for your enjoyment.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Whales & Wilderness Exploration
Southeast Alaska is a spectacular place of islands, glaciers, and rugged mountain peaks. These stunning features cradle diverse natural habitats that are home to fascinating animals. This private exploratory journey through coastal fiords introduces you to this wilderness in an intimate setting with a certified naturalist and experienced captain.
Search out wildlife viewing opportunities, including humpback whales, killer whales, stellar sea lions, and Dahl’s Porpoise. Chances are you will see bald eagles and ravens soaring gracefully above the treetops, and sea ducks and harbor seals near the shoreline of famed Admiralty Island National Monument, also known as “the fortress of bears”.
As you watch you can also listen to the underwater sounds of these whales through our hydrophone as you drift peacefully alongside. Bring your camera and be ready for some great shots of these gentle giants.
Join us on this exclusive tour, and learn more about the natural wonders in this rare and dynamic environment. You will not want to miss this opportunity to share a truly Alaskan perspective of discovery and excitement in your own private safari vessel.
Duration: Approximately 4 hours. (3 hours on the water).
Rate: $490 per person based on 4 Guests
Rate: $400 per person based on 6 Guests
Rate: $310 per person based on 12 Guests
Includes: All transportation to and from the cruise terminal and a deli-style picnic lunch with assorted juices and sodas. Stable boats are covered and have large windows that open up for unrestricted viewing. Boats are restroom equipped and have a hydrophone on board to listen to the underwater sounds of area whales. Comfortable shoes, layers of warm clothing, and rain gear are recommended.
Please note: Approximately 15 minutes on land to view and photograph the Mendenhall Glacier.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Helicopter Dog Sledding
This is a very popular tour for the entire family. You will be picked up at your cruise ship dock and transported to the heliport where you will start this very special adventure. The helicopter flight is only one part of this legendary experience that includes flying over the Juneau Ice Field to the dog camp, a kennel tour and the dogsled ride. When you take off, glaciers are seemingly within arm’s reach. Glacier-carved mountains will unfold in front of your eyes as you embark on your flight to the camp.
Feel the excitement as the team is hooked up, then….you’re off! Imagine yourself standing on the runners of a dog sled with a team of huskies loping across the ancient snowfields nestled among the peaks of the vast Juneau Icefield. The lure of the trail and the thrill of driving a dog team create this “ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE!”
Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Rate: $770 per person based on 4 Guests
Rate: $610 per person based on 6 Guests
Includes: All transportation to and from the cruise terminal.
Note: Due to late summer snow conditions, this tour only operates until early August.
*Weight Restrictions: Passenger names and weights are required by the FAA for weight and balance calculations and flight manifesting prior to confirmation. 6th person allowed in helicopter only if average weight of passengers is 180 lbs or less.
IMPORTANT – Please bring sunglasses to protect against the glare of glacier ice.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Airboat on the Taku River
A unique and compelling opportunity to see the exquisite beauty of Southeast Alaska from the Taku River!
Surrounded by the Juneau Icefield, cascading mountains and pristine glaciers, the Taku River basin, at 4.5 million acres, is the one of the largest undeveloped water sheds in North America. Within the last 30-40 years, silt deposits have made commercial access to the river basin challenging. Alaska Airboat Adventures provides a unique and compelling opportunity to see the beauties of Southeast Alaska. Not only is the Taku River one of the largest natural salmon-producing rivers in Alaska, it also supports a large variety of wildlife, such as brown bear, moose, wolves, goat and the ever-present bald eagle.
You will view the ice-capped mountains, hanging glaciers and deep crevasses on a guided helicopter tour on their way to the home base of Alaskan Airboat Adventures. Once touched down, visitors will enjoy panoramic views of the largest glacier on the Juneau Icefield. After boarding the airboat, the adventure continues with an energetic guided river excursion that allows passengers to get an up close and personal look at some of the most gorgeous country in the world. Your river boat captain has 20 years of local knowledge specifically involving the Taku River. During the tour you will receive insightful historical information that will enhance your adventure and your understanding of the region.
Duration: Approximately 2.5 – 3 Hours
Rate: $770 per person based on 4 Guests
Rate: $620 per person based on 6 Guests
Includes: All transportation to and from the cruise terminal.
WHAT TO WEAR: Dress warmly and in layers. Wear rubber soled shoes such as a light hiking boot or athletic shoes. If needed, we can provide boots and raincoats. REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR CAMERA, FILM and BINOCULARS!
*Weight Restrictions: Passenger names and weights are required by the FAA for weight and balance calculations and flight manifesting prior to confirmation. 6th person allowed in helicopter only if average weight of passengers is 180 lbs or less.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Alaskan Fly-Out Fly Fishing
Untouched Alaskan wilderness awaits you on this premier fly fishing quest. Combine the highlights of Southeast Alaska with classic floatplanes, world renowned fishing in remote waters, experienced local guides and abundant wildlife in an untouched wilderness setting. This tour caters to the first timer with hands on instruction. However the experienced fly caster will enjoy the challenge of Alaskan fishing and the guide interaction. All the fishing is done on an eco-conscious catch and release basis. Fishing species include cutthroat trout, steelhead, Dolly Varden and various salmon species. All first class gear and equipment, an Alaskan smoked salmon snack and beverages are included.
The only way to experience Alaskan fishing at its finest is to fly out to the heart of the Alaskan wilderness, something road access simply doesn’t allow. Wildlife is seen on almost every trip!
Whether you are a seasoned fly fisherman, a photographer, or the discriminating traveler looking for the true wilderness experience, this is a once in a lifetime adventure!
Duration: Approximately 6.5 hours.
Rate: $810 per person based on 2 Guests
Rate: $540 per person based on 4 — 6 Guests
Includes: All transportation to and from the cruise ship terminal, round trip floatplane flight to and from remote fishing location, fully outfitted, with 4 hours on site fishing.
Guide ratio: 1 Guide per 6 guests.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Glacier Heli Adventure
This private helicopter glacier experience takes you deep into the 1500 sq. mile Juneau Icefield. Within moments of your departure, you will be flying over the breathtaking azure blue ice spires and deep crevasses that abound in the Juneau Icefield. This tour is narrated by your pilot/guide.
The helicopter will make one landing on a glacier where you will be able to step out onto the awesome and spectacular surroundings. Be sure to bring your camera, as you can be sure that every picture will be a memory in the making. Your pilot will act as your guide while describing your surroundings.
Truly your “Pathway to Adventure” and a trip not to be missed. Unforgettable!!!
Duration: Approximately 3 Hours.
Rate: $660 per person based on 4 Guests
Rate: $530 per person based on 6 Guests
Includes: All transportation to and from the cruise terminal.
6th person allowed in helicopter only if average weight of passengers is 180 lbs or less.
IMPORTANT – Please bring sunglasses to protect against the glare of glacier ice.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Mendenhall Glacier Trek & Climb
Trace the path of glacial succession as you introduce yourself to ice climbing on the Mendenhall Glacier! Professional guides lead the trip and provide expert instruction and interpretation while blending safety with fun. The trip begins with a 3 mile trail hike through the rainforest and along Mendenhall Lake. The first mile of the trail is well maintained, while the second half of the trail is off the beaten path and requires hiking on bedrock with steep sections. For an average fit party, it takes approximately 2 hours to hike to the glacier with an elevation gain of 500 feet.
Once you reach the glacier, you will be outfitted in trekking gear. You can choose to spend your time trekking on the glacier looking at the stunning glacial formations, ice climbing, or rappelling on more vertical terrain.
Guides instruct you step by step on how to trek in crampons and use an ice axe on glacial terrain. With the use of ice axes on a beginner slope, guides teach you the basic techniques of climbing up and down on an ice wall. This trip features close-up views of ice caves, streams, crevasses and other unique glacial formations. This is a once-in-a lifetime adventure!
Duration: Approximately 7 hours.
Rate: $420 per person based on 2 Guests
Rate: $360 per person based on 4 Guests
Rate: $330 per person based on 6 Guests
Includes: Certified guides, mountaineering gear, backpack, rain jacket and pants, hearty snacks / bottled water, roundtrip transportation.
Level of Activity: This tour caters to all ages and abilities; however guests must be in good physical condition to hike for up to 6 hours, covering approximately 7 – 8 miles roundtrip.
IMPORTANT: Please bring sunglasses to protect against the glare of glacier ice and sturdy hiking boots that provide good ankle support.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Helicopter Glacier Trek
Here is your opportunity to look and feel like those courageous mountaineers who set out to conquer the world’s most challenging peaks!
From the vantage point of the helicopter, you will gain a perspective on the grandeur of the Juneau Icefield and glaciers. On this 2 hour hike, a professional mountaineering guide will teach you the basics of trekking on the icy terrain and give you an understanding of the glacier’s features. You will learn the use of mountaineering gear (ice axe, hard-shell boots, crampons, harness) as your guide leads you through the icescape of the glacier.
You will experience physical activity interspersed with detailed explanations of the glacier environment and surrounding area. The terrain is uneven and sometimes steep and the amount of walking is extensive. This tour consists of 30 minutes of flight time and a 2 hour hike plus transfer time, briefing and gearing up time. No prior experience required but you will need to be comfortable walking 2 miles over uneven terrain. Unforgettable!
Duration: Approximately 4 to 4.5 hours.
Rate: $625 per person based on 4 Guests
Rate: $500 per person based on 6 Guests
Includes: All transportation to and from the cruise terminal, Helicopter Flight, glacier guides and instruction, rain and wind proof outerwear, mountaineering boots, Crampons, Trekking Pole and Hip Pack.
Minimum age – 12 years (12-16 year-olds must be accompanied by an adult).
6th person allowed in helicopter only if average weight of passengers is 180 lbs or less.
IMPORTANT – Please bring sunglasses to protect against the glare of glacier ice.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Helicopter Glacier Walkabout
Discover the diversity of the Southeast Alaska landscape via helicopter as you fly over the temperate rainforests and granite peaks that surround the Alaska’s Capital City. To begin your walk, your pilot will choose a landing site on one of the 36 glaciers that flow from the 1500 square mile Juneau Icefield.
During this non- strenuous, 1-hour interpretive walk, your guide will provide detailed explanations of glacier’s features and allow ample time for photo opportunities. Trekking poles and crampons will provide superb balance and traction enabling you to travel easily on the gently rolling glacial terrain. The amount of walking is moderate, over relatively flat to rolling terrain. Walkabout and put the grandeur of the glacier at your feet!
Duration: Approximately 3.25 hours
Rate: $560 per person based on 4 Guests
Rate: $450 per person based on 6 Guests
Includes: All transportation to and from the cruise terminal, Helicopter Flight, glacier guides and instructions, rain and wind proof outerwear, mountaineering boots, Crampons, Trekking Pole and Hip Pack.
Minimum Age – 8 years of age (8 – 16 year-olds must be accompanied by an adult).
6th person allowed in helicopter only if average weight of passengers is 180 lbs or less.
IMPORTANT – Please bring sunglasses to protect against the glare of glacier ice.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Premium Kayak & Wildlife Eco-Adventure
One of the best kayak adventures in Alaska! This trip combines remote kayaking, whale watching and wildlife viewing for the ultimate eco-adventure!
Your trip begins by boarding a 6 passenger whale watching vessel and heading out of the harbor into the waters of the Inside Passage. You will spend approximately two hours cruising by boat to seek out whales and wildlife.
After your whale watch, your captain and guides will then choose a safe kayak launch location based on tides, wind and weather for the day. Every route your guides access is great for seeing whales, sea lions, eagles, porpoise and occasional black or brown bear.
From glacial views and waterfalls, to the coastlines of Admiralty Island (“Fortress of the Bears”) and majestic mountains of the Chilkat Range, the scenic paddling adventures are endless!
Your guide will keep things entertaining and outfits you with state-of-the-art equipment before launching kayaks from the boat or a beach. No paddling experience is necessary.
Duration: Approximately 6 hours.
Rate: $380 per person based on 4 — 6 Guests
Includes: All transportation to and from the cruise terminal, all necessary equipment, fully certified guides, rain gear, double sea kayaks, and tasty gourmet Alaskan snacks and beverages served on board your vessel.
Fully certified guide to accompany each 6 Guests.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Brown Bear Wildlife Viewing
Join us for an astonishing Alaskan Brown Bear and wildlife viewing adventure in the wilderness of Southeast Alaska.
Enjoy a spectacular floatplane ride through some of Southeast Alaska’s most impressive scenery en route to a remote stream. Rain or shine we will provide all the necessary all-weather gear so photographers and nature lovers will thrill in this guided wilderness experience. Guides will easily share their knowledge of Alaskan brown bears, local nature and the history of the area all while viewing Southeast Alaskan wildlife. Prepare for a once in a lifetime experience that provides an amazing look into the world of one of the most majestic animals of the great Alaskan wild.
Because of the uniqueness of wilderness experiences, bear sightings are not guaranteed. However, it is the ultimate goal of the guides to provide bear viewing opportunities based on season, weather and past experience.
Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
Rate: $600 per person based on 4 — 6 Guests
Includes: All transportation, private floatplane and guide, boots / waders, rain coats, binoculars and beverages.
Moderate physical fitness may be required as guests may be asked to walk 1 – 1- ½ miles.
Note: 40 minutes to 1 hour of flight time, 3 hours of actual time on site viewing Brown Bear and local wildlife.
For most reliable bear viewing, this tour is offered only from early July to late August.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Private Juneau Jeep Adventure
Experience Juneau’s most scenic and historic locales on this adventure! Begin your tour on downtown Juneau’s narrow streets and travel past the State Capitol, the Russian Orthodox Church, and the Governor’s Mansion. Leaving downtown Juneau, you will continue on to view and photograph Juneau’s most popular attraction, the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier. Enjoy panoramic views; walk one of the short, nature trails; or explore the Visitors’ Center, with interactive displays and U.S Forest Service interpreters who offer insight into this breathtaking natural phenomenon.
You will continue north through the once thriving Auke Indian village site to the Shrine of St. Therese where you will explore the sacred and serene waterfront grounds. Continue further “out the road” to a secluded cove and Territorial Governor’s rustic, beach-front cabin for a picnic lunch, Alaskan history, and breathtaking views of the Chilkat Mountain Range across the Inside Passage.
On your return to town, stop in at either: the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery to view and learn about the incredible Alaskan salmon or the award-winning Alaskan Brewing Company for a tour and authentic taste of Alaska.
Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
Rate: $430 per person based on 2 Guests
Rate: $290 per person based on 3 Guests
Rate: $220 per person based on 4 Guests
Includes: Private tour, rain poncho, binoculars, lap blanket and boxed picnic lunch.
Please note: Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are suggested. This tour is limited to a 4 person party.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Juneau Highlights
This custom tour offers a variety of options for the discerning traveler wishing to see the very best of Juneau. Your guides specialize in expert interpretation; all are locally trained and seasoned naturalists.
Explore the heart of downtown Juneau or enjoy a secluded nature walk. The level of activity is yours to choose! Visit some of Juneau’s most noteworthy attractions like the Mendenhall Glacier, the Alaskan Brewing Company, Macaulay Salmon Hatchery or the Mt. Roberts Tram. Enjoy the personal touch and experience of an exclusive custom trip.
Your tour may include the following:
• Juneau through the Ages: Town Tour
• Historical Downtown Tour
• State Capital Building, Governor’s Mansion, Russian Orthodox Church
• Douglas Island Overlook (optional picture stop)
• Entrance to the Alaska State Museum (45 minutes recommended)
• Mendenhall Glacier Exploration
• Gentle interpretive walk at the Mendenhall Glacier (1/2 mile)
• Interpretive stop at Brotherhood Bridge (optional)
• Admission to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor’s Center or Mt. Roberts Tram
Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Rate: $180 per person based on 6 Guests
Rate: $170 per person based on 12 Guests
Includes: Private interpretive guided tour and admissions.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Private Taku Glacier Lodge Flight and Feast
You are in for the journey of a lifetime. The Taku Lodge experience is much more than a spectacular flight or scrumptious meal. It’s about friends, family and feelings. It is just what memories are made of. We have combined the best experiences of Alaska for this unique 3-hour excursion. Glacier flightseeing, a remote log cabin, wilderness trails, wildlife and to top it off a scrumptious Wild Alaskan King Salmon feast.
Fly in a nostalgic floatplane where everyone enjoys an unrestricted window view and fully narrated portrayal. View five breathtaking glaciers on your way to the wilderness lodge. A true Alaskan experience, your adventure begins the moment you “take off” from the Juneau waterfront near your ship’s berth.
The highlight of your flight will be viewing magnificent glaciers (both advancing and receding) and deep blue crevasses of the Juneau Icefield. Snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls and lush forests await.
The Taku River will be your “runway” when landing at the Taku Lodge. This historic lodge was built in 1923 directly across from the picturesque Hole-In-The-Wall Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in Alaska, and sits amid the untouched Tongass National Forest.
Shortly after your arrival, the aroma of fresh Wild Alaska King Salmon tells you the feast is about to begin. Your salmon entrée will be complimented with all homemade side dishes including actual glacier ice to cool your drinks. This truly Alaskan meal is presented with an elegant rustic charm.
Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Rate: $350 per person based on 15 — 50 Guests
Includes: All local transportation, 35 minutes of Glacier Flightseeing en route to the Lodge, 2 full hours at the Lodge, Wild Alaskan King Salmon dinner, use of the Taku Glacier Lodge facilities and a 15 minute return flight over the glaciers to Juneau. This tour requires a minimum of 15 Guests.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.
Private Admiralty Wildlife Kayak and Brown Bear Viewing
For a truly incredible Alaskan experience, head to Admiralty Island and visit the ‘Fortress of the Bears’ named by the indigenous Tlingit people. This protected habitat has the largest brown bear population in the world (with four times as many brown bears as Yellowstone National Park!).
This is a full-day adventure and just as exciting as the bears themselves, is the route you will take to get there. The trip begins with a 25-minute scenic floatplane flight to Windfall Island.
From there, board your sea kayak and paddle to the edge of either Pack Creek or Windfall Harbor located on Admiralty Island. This world-class wildlife sanctuary provides protected habitat for brown bears while affording visitors an opportunity to view and photograph wildlife close-up. Your guide will choose the best spot to view the bears; romping in the meadows or kayak to secret alcoves to observe the bears catching salmon or swimming in the creeks, rivers and streams.
You will then kayak back to Windfall Island where your float plane will pick you up and transport you back to Juneau. This is truly one of the gemstones of Southeast Alaska!
The best chance to view brown bear is July and August during salmon spawning season. The number of bears a group sees varies greatly through the summer, but most visitors see at least one bear if not more. However, bear sightings are not guaranteed. This is wild Alaska!
Duration: Approximately 7 hours. (Includes 50 minutes roundtrip floatplane flight, 1 – 2 hours of kayak orientation and paddling, 3 hours of Brown Bear viewing and transportation to and from the floatplane dock).
Rate: $780 per person based on 5 — 10 Guests
Includes: USFS wilderness permits, roundtrip floatplane and van transportation, fully certified guide, all necessary paddle equipment and gear, rain jackets, pants and rubber boots, hearty snack and bottled water.
All participants must be fit enough to kayak/hike through wilderness and dress appropriately for the weather.
Minimum age is 12 years old. Children must be in good enough physical condition to paddle a tandem kayak with an adult.
This is an easy to moderate tour with no experience necessary. It is a family-friendly tour.
Please note: Space is limited as only a very few number of permits are available per day. ($50 per person non refundable permit fee once the tour has been booked including cancelation due to weather.) Permit fees allow the Pack Creek/ Windfall Harbor Program to preserve this unique wilderness setting, and ensure a base level of funding through the short summer season.
To learn more about this experience please contact one of our travel planners.