Best Juneau Excursions & Tours (2024)

FAQs

What is the best excursion in Juneau, Alaska? ›

Shore excursions booked directly through the cruise lines can be more expensive than comparable (or even identical) alternatives.

The best time to visit Juneau is between May and August. You'll have to compete with hordes of cruise passengers at the area's top attractions, but the days will be long and sunny. Plus, these months correspond with whale migration season, meaning you're guaranteed to see some activity in the water.

Juneau is a very walkable city. Most cruise ships dock right in downtown, and visitors can leave the ship and walk all throughout downtown, shopping and exploring.

Shore excursions are a great way to make the most of your time in port, but you might get the most value out of a mix of guided tours and independent exploration. Choose the best option based on your budget and interests, and remember to look at both ship-sponsored and independent tour and activity options.

Do I have to book a shore excursion through Carnival or can I go off on my own? You are not obligated to book shore excursions through Carnival in order to leave the ship. Public transportation is available at each port.

The simplest answer? As soon as you know you're going on a cruise! Every year we see guests wanting to book their shore excursions with us earlier and earlier. Oftentimes we're getting inquiries for the following year before the current season is even over!

Most tours are priced somewhere between $50 and $175 per person, depending on the length and activities involved, and it is worth noting that prices for many excursions can be higher in some areas of the world.

How do you get freebies on a cruise ship? ›

Join the Cruise Line's Loyalty Program

Most cruise lines have loyalty programs that reward frequent cruisers with perks and benefits, including free stuff. These programs are typically free to join and offer perks such as free drinks, free Wi-Fi, and free onboard credits.

On shore excursions, it's expected that passengers tip tour guides and bus drivers. How much you tip on cruise excursions is entirely up to you, but a suggested starting price is $5 per person for a half-day tour and $10 per person for a full-day tour for the guide and $2 for the bus driver.

Popular Juneau Alaska Attractions

Our must-see attractions include the breathtaking Juneau Glacier walks, historic downtown, majestic Mount Juneau, stunning Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching tour, and thrilling Taku Glacier.

Downtown Juneau is very walkable, and you can get to many landmarks within 15 minutes from the docks. You can also explore at your own pace by renting a car. Don't want to worry about logistics so you can just sit back and enjoy the view? Bus tours, shuttles, and taxis are all options.

NOTE: Various private tour companies offer “Glacier Shuttle” bus service or other tours from the downtown Cruise Ship terminals directly to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. These private buses normally only take about 30 minutes of total travel time from downtown to the glacier.

You can't visit Juneau and not see the famous, over 3000 years old, Mendenhall Glacier. This is the most popular site in Juneau and one of Alaska's most famous and most accessible glaciers. Visitors can enjoy easy walking trails and more challenging routes leading toward the glacier.

Mendenhall Glacier is an iconic glacier in Juneau, Alaska. It's a must-see when visiting the area – either by cruise or other means. It's certainly worth a visit, regardless of whether you choose a guided tour or a self-led tour. Located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau, which translates to a 20-30-minute drive.

The unparalleled views and the ease of access make it a remarkable experience. We highly recommend taking the Juneau tram ride for anyone who finds themselves short on time in the city.

Whether spending a few days in Juneau or arriving by cruise ship, visitors have several options for exploring the glacier. These include guided tours, but it's also possible to explore the park on your own. Exploring Mendenhall Glacier on your own is rewarding and allows you to stay as long as you want.