Dolphin Jet Boat Tours

Experience the thrill of seeing humpback whales and other wildlife surrounded by dramatic scenery on a personalized, small-group tour with Dolphin Jet Boat Tours out of Juneau. You can even add a visit to an iconic glacier

The Experience

The first whale-watching company in Juneau, this family-owned business brings decades of expertise, exceptional guides, and environmental responsibility to this unforgettable excursion.

Most every one of their tours spots humpback whales, making this the perfect opportunity to see their dramatic “bubble-net feeding” on the surface and the flips of their tail as they dive into the depths. You can also add a stop at famed Mendenhall Glacier to see this ancient river of ice up close.

Eagles are another common sight: Keep an eye out and you’re practically guaranteed to see some. Harbor seals and sea lions make for an occasional sighting, while sightings of orcas are rare but possible. And you may spot the occasional bear at the glacier, especially during salmon season.

Along the way, enjoy complimentary snacks, water, coffee, and hot chocolate. The company’s entire fleet of boats uses jet propulsion instead of propellers, which makes the water safer for marine life. Plus, the boat’s unique design increases stability and helps reduce motion sickness.

And you’ll be supporting a company that believes in giving back to the community and fostering a love for Alaska through meaningful, respectful interactions with the environment.

The Tours

Whale-Watching Tour

Depart the cruise ship docks for a three-hour trip tour with two hours on the water. Or, for visitors with a car, reach out directly about skipping the bus ride, and meeting at the harbor. Bonus: For those not constrained by a cruise ship schedule, ask when there are fewer ships in town, and maybe you can get a little more elbow room!

Whale Watching + Mendenhall Glacier Combo (4-hour tour)

Starting in downtown Juneau, take a 30-minute bus ride to the glacier. Spend 45 minutes on a self-guided tour of the visitor center and the surrounding recreation area, where you’ll find educational exhibits and some amazing spots to check out the glacier. Then get ready for two unforgettable hours of whale watching.

Whale Watching + Nugget Falls Adventure (5-hour tour)

This tour is the same as the above, but you’ll get an extra hour to explore the area overlooking the glacier. This is recommended for those who want to walk Nugget Falls Trail, an easy two-mile trail in the Alaskan rainforest, ending at the spectacular waterfall itself.

Private Tours

Work with the company to customize a tour, which could include custom glacier duration, different starting and ending points (like a hatchery or brewery), coordination with helicopter operators, and even options for wedding parties, memorial services, and large groups.

Independent Travelers

If you aren’t coming on a ship, skip the bus rides and meet directly at the harbor, or ask about a custom departure time. The published schedule is based around the cruise ship schedule, but if there is enough interest, they have no problem opening additional.