Booking choice: The Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching cruise, from $177 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
Most boats here have a heated or enclosed cabin, but the best views are from the open deck when the boat slows near the whales. That is where the wind and spray are.
The quick answer
Wear warm layers under a waterproof jacket, plus a hat, gloves and non-slip shoes, even in July. Bring sunglasses, binoculars, a camera with some zoom, and seasickness tablets if you need them. Leave anything you do not want wet in the bus or at home.
What should you wear whale watching in Juneau?
A base layer, a fleece or sweater and a waterproof jacket on top, so you can add and remove layers.
Summer days in town can feel mild, but on deck with the boat moving it feels much colder. Operators here say to dress for rain and cool temperatures.
Kit sorted? Check the departures that fit your port day.
Check dates for the Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching cruiseDo you need a rain jacket?
Yes: Juneau is a rainy place, and tours run in rain.
A hooded waterproof shell matters more than a heavy coat. Rain trousers are a nice extra if the forecast is bad.
Do you need a hat and gloves in summer?
Bring them: the wind on the water makes hands and ears cold quickly, especially at the bow.
Thin gloves that still let you use a phone or camera are ideal.
Which shoes are best?
Closed, non-slip shoes: decks get wet, and you will be moving between the cabin and the rail.
Trainers with grip or waterproof walking shoes work. Skip sandals and heels.
What should you bring?
Pack light: you will carry it on and off the bus and boat.
- Sunglasses: the glare off the water is strong on bright days
- Binoculars, if you have them (the Auke Bay binocular cruise provides them)
- A camera or phone with some zoom, fully charged
- Seasickness tablets, if you need them
- Small bills for the crew's tip
- Your booking voucher and your ship's name
No binoculars? The Auke Bay cruise hands them out, with snacks and drinks included.
Explore the Auke Bay binocular cruiseWill you get seasick?
Rarely: the tours stay in sheltered inside waters, which are usually calm.
If you are prone to it, take medication before boarding, stay on deck in the fresh air and look at the horizon. Sitting low and near the middle of the boat helps.
How do you photograph whales?
Use burst mode and a fast shutter, and keep the camera ready when the naturalist calls a dive.
A humpback often arches its back before lifting its tail for a deep dive: that is your moment. Federal rules keep boats 100 yards from humpbacks, so a zoom helps, but the best shots often come when a whale surfaces close by on its own.
Ready for the deck? A naturalist will tell you when to raise the camera.
Check dates for the small-group catamaranFrequently asked questions
Can I wear jeans whale watching?
You can, but they stay cold and heavy when wet. Quick-dry trousers are more comfortable.
Is it cold whale watching in Juneau in July?
Often yes on the water, especially in wind or rain. Bring a warm layer and a waterproof jacket.
Do the boats have heated cabins?
Most do: the listings mention heated or enclosed cabins and open viewing decks. Check the listing for your tour.
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)
Auke Bay Whale Watching with Binoculars
The cheapest whale cruise here, binoculars and snacks included
Small-Group Whale Watching & Coast Expedition
A 20-guest catamaran, so fewer people share the rail
