Booking choice: The Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching cruise, from $177 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
Kids of all ages can join the tours here, and most have a lower child rate. The main challenges are staying warm and staying patient between sightings.
The quick answer
Most Juneau whale cruises welcome children of all ages, charge a lower child rate and let infants ride on a lap. Most boats have heated cabins and restrooms, and the water time is about two hours. Bring warm layers, snacks and something to do on the bus; for very young kids, a refundable tour with a big cabin is the safest choice.
Is whale watching in Juneau good for kids?
Yes: it needs no fitness, the boats are warm, and the whales hold children's attention.
Guests on these tours mention bringing a six-month-old on board, and one reviewer on the glacier combo says the only thing missing was a baby changing table.
Planning a family day? Check the departures that fit nap times and the ship.
Check dates for the Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching cruiseHow much do children pay?
Less than adults on most tours, but the age bands differ by operator.
| Tour | Adult from | Child age band | Infants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska Tales | $177 | 0 to 11 | On a lap |
| Harv & Marv's | $159 | 3 to 12 | 0 to 2 |
| Whales + glacier | $199 | 3 to 12 | 0 to 2, on a lap |
| Auke Bay binocular cruise | $154 | 3 to 12 | 0 to 2, on a lap |
| Whales + salmon bake | $239 | 0 to 12 | On a lap |
Can babies and toddlers come?
Yes: infants ride on a parent's lap, and strollers are accepted on many of these tours.
There are restrooms on board, but guests note there may be no changing table, so plan changes before boarding. Most boats are not wheelchair accessible, and a big stroller can be awkward on the dock; a carrier is easier.
How do you keep kids warm and happy?
Dress them in layers with a waterproof jacket, hat and gloves, and let them warm up in the cabin between sightings.
Snacks and water are included on most tours, but bring favorites. The bus ride is about 30 minutes each way, so pack a small distraction. See what to wear whale watching.
What about seasickness?
The water around Auke Bay is often calm, but rough days happen and some children do get seasick.
If your child is prone to motion sickness, ask a pharmacist about suitable medication before the trip, and keep them on deck looking at the horizon.
Prefer a calmer, smaller boat? The catamaran takes 20 guests, so there is more room at the rail.
Explore the small-group catamaranWhich tour is best for families?
Alaska Tales for most families: free cancellation, a naturalist, snacks and a child rate up to age 11.
Choose the small-group catamaran if your kids hate crowds, or the salmon bake combo if you want lunch sorted afterwards. Families who also want the glacier can take the combo, which pays the entrance fee.
Family choice made? Check dates with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Check dates for the Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching cruiseWhat should kids expect to see?
Humpback blows, backs and tails, plus sea lions and bald eagles; breaches and orcas are a lucky bonus.
Setting expectations helps: whales spend most of their time under water, and boats keep 100 yards from humpbacks. Turn it into a game of who spots the next blow.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for whale watching in Juneau?
There is no minimum on the tours here; infants ride on a lap. Children must be with an adult.
Are there restrooms on the boats?
Several listings confirm restrooms on board, including Harv & Marv's, the glacier combo and the small-group catamaran. Ask the operator about the others.
Is the whale and glacier combo too long for kids?
At about five hours with buses in between, it suits school-age children better than toddlers.
Ready to book
Choose your cruise
Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season. Check each listing's cancellation rules before you book.
Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching
- Round-trip shuttle from the Mount Roberts Tramway to Auke Bay
- About two hours on the water with a naturalist guide
- Boat with heated cabins and outdoor viewing decks (up to 49 guests)
Small-Group Whale Watching & Coast Expedition
A 20-guest catamaran, so fewer people share the rail
Whale Watching & Alaska Salmon Bake
Whales, then an all-you-can-eat salmon buffet
