Juneau Alaska
Juneau Whale Watching Tours with a Local Captain
See humpback whales, orcas, and sea lions in their natural habitat—guided by a lifelong Alaskan with over 30 years on these waters.
Unlike crowded tour boats, our Juneau whale watching tours are small-group and customizable, giving you a closer, more personal wildlife experience.
✔ Small group & private options
✔ Flexible timing for cruise passengers
✔ Local knowledge you won’t get on large tours
Not All Juneau Whale Watching Tours Are the Same
Most tours in Juneau operate large vessels with dozens of passengers. That works—but it’s a very different experience.
With Coastal Custom Adventures, you get:
- Fewer people, more space
- Direct interaction with your captain
- Flexibility to follow wildlife activity
- Access to less crowded viewing areas
This isn’t a scripted tour—it’s a real-time wildlife experience.
Wildlife You Can Expect in Juneau
Juneau is one of the best places in Alaska to see marine wildlife.
Depending on the day, you may encounter:
- Humpback whales (bubble-net feeding, breaching)
- Orcas (killer whales)
- Sea lions and harbor seals
- Bald eagles
- Porpoises and other marine life
Every trip is different—that’s part of what makes it unforgettable.
Juneau Whale Watching Tours
Juneau is famous for amazing whale watching. Our custom, family-friendly trips often also include other activities such as fishing, wildlife viewing and beach landings. It's up to you!
Tour Overview
- Duration: ~3–4 hours
- Group Size: Small group / private options available
- Departure: Juneau area (cruise-friendly timing)
- Best Season: May – September
What’s Included
- Experienced local captain
- Wildlife-focused routing
- Comfortable viewing experience
Juneau Whale Watching Charters
Getting out on the water to see Juneau's amazing whales is the experience of a lifetime. Our small group sizes and experienced crew makes this a day out on the water that you will never forget!
Visiting Juneau on a Cruise?
We work with cruise schedules every day.
- Flexible departure times
- Easy coordination with your port window
- Smaller groups = faster boarding and return
If you’re deciding between a cruise excursion and an independent tour, this is where we stand out—more personal, less rushed, and often closer wildlife encounters.
Meet Your Captain
This isn’t just another tour company.
Your guide is a retired Alaska State Trooper with decades of experience on local waters. That means:
- Deep knowledge of whale behavior
- Understanding of weather and conditions
- Ability to adapt the tour for the best sightings
You’re not just along for the ride—you’re learning from someone who knows this environment inside and out.
Juneau Whale Watching Gallery
Common Questions
Find the answers to your queries about our wildlife tours.
Still have some questions?
We understand that you might have more questions about our tours. We’re here to provide clarity on everything from booking to what to expect during your adventure. Feel free to check the questions below or reach out if you need more help.
May through September offers the highest likelihood of sightings, with peak activity in summer.
Sightings are very common, but wildlife is never guaranteed. We do everything possible to maximize your chances.
If you prefer a quieter, more personal experience with flexibility, small-group tours are a better fit.
Juneau fills up quickly during cruise season—booking early is recommended.
We recommend bringing comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear, and any personal items you may need for a day outdoors. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes!
You can book a tour directly through our website by selecting your preferred date and tour type. For further assistance, feel free to contact us anytime.
If weather conditions are unfavorable, we will try to reschedule your tour or provide alternative options to ensure your experience is enjoyable.
Yes, our tours are family-friendly! We welcome participants of all ages to join us and explore the great outdoors together.
Your safety is our priority. We have protocols in place to ensure a safe adventure, and our guides are trained in first aid and emergency procedures.