cruise ship terminal juneau

CRUISE PORT GUIDES

Juneau cruise port guide

Cruise Port Guide Juneau – Alaska – USA: docked

In Juneau there are about 5 docks available for cruise ships: S. Franklin Street dock, Intermediate Vessel Float, Cruise Ship Terminal, Alaska Steam Ship Dock and A.J. Dock. All of them are basically in front of the town centre and it is only a few minutes walk to the Main street, Franklin street and Boardwalk.

The only exception is the A.J. Dock. This dock is about 20 minutes walk from town, but there is a local shuttle bus provided for a small fee.

In town you will find lots of facilities for tourist. At the docks is the tourist information for any kind of information. You will find booths that are selling shore excursions and shuttle busses to the Mendenhall glacier. Other than that you will get lots in between saloons and souvenir shops.

Shuttle bus to Mendenhall glacier

All over town and especially around the docks you will find there is a local shuttle bus offered to the Mendenhall Visitors Centre where you will have a good view over the glacier. The shuttle costs 20 dollars round trip per person. Buy the tickets directly at the local tour operators you will find on the dock.

Taxis in Juneau

The taxis in Juneau are usually available at the dock, but keep in mind they are quite pricey. Therefore it might be better to prearrange it. To give you an idea on the cost:

A taxi from the dock to the Mendenhall Glacier:

$72 round trip for 1 passenger

$78 round trip for 5 passenger

$85 round trip for 10 passengers

Compared to the cost of the Mendenhall shuttle bus it will be cheaper to take a taxi if your group is 4 persons or more.

Public Transportation

The public transport system in and around Juneau has been created to serve the local community. It is not ideal for tourist to take because they don’t directly stop at the tourist sights and attractions. However, if you are on a budget and willing to walk for a bit, it might be interesting for you. Find the local bus station right in town. Bus 3 and 4 serve the area around Juneau. Nearest stop to Mendenhall Glacier is 1 mile walk. Nearest stop to Glacier Gardens is less than a mile walk. Nearest stop to Salmon Hatchery is only a few minutes walk. Buy your tickets at the bus office or on the bus itself. Tickets cost 2 dollars and you need to have exact fare. Busses depart around 2 times per hour. More information can be found on www.juneau.org/capitaltransit

Shore Excursions

Although Juneau is a charming town we strongly feel you should get outside of the city border to get a true feel for Alaska. The town is spread on about 9 blocks and you’ll be threw it before you know it. There are many tours that are offerred in Juneau. Think about kayaking, biking, hiking, flight-seeing, gold panning you name it. Tours can be bought on board of your ship and shore side.

There is more miles of trails than miles of road in Juneau. In fact, there is a total of 250 miles of trails, most starting within the city limits. Always visit the Visitors Centre first to check on the latest condition of the tracks and to pick up a map. The most popular hiking routes starting in the city of Juneau are the Perseverance trail and Mt. Robert trail. Find the information on these trails at the tourist information center in town. 

FAQ about cruise destination Juneau

– What will the weather be like? No idea! That’s the best answer we can give you. We notice that even the weather forecast is wrong all the time and weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for sunshine and rain and you should be good.

– Do I need a fishing license? Yes, only if you are 16 or older. You can purchase licenses and permits online. Visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website www. adding.alaska.gov for information about license.

Also visit our cruise port guides for:

Sitka – Ketchikan – Skagway – Victoria – Haines

Find your port of call:

• Mediterranean
• Norway – Cruise port guides
• Baltic & Scandinavia
• British isles
• Western Europe
• French Polynesia
• North America
• Central America
• Southeast Asia
• North Africa
• Middle East

The Mt Roberts tramway takes you straight from the dock to Mt. Roberts. Have a scenic walk here to several photo stops, see the Mt. Robert movie, visit the raptor centre or do some shopping. You might even want to leave the upper station and go hiking over the mountain tops where you will have beautiful views over the surrounding islands and mountain range. Alway be informed about the weather or anything unusual by the tourist information. Find the Mount Robert Tram right in town. See map above for its exact location.

Mt Robert tram

490 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

The port of Juneau offers 5 different docking locations for cruise ships. Most of them are located in front of the city center. You simply walk of the pier and everything is there. Read the full Juneau cruise port guide to read about the exceptions and things to see and do.

Juneau cruise dock

A city that can only be reached by sea, air or birth canal will rely on transportation other than cars. Float planes are the way to go in Juneau and they are also great for sightseeing. Consider taking a flight seeing tour over the Taku glacier, Mendenhall glacier or Glacier Bay. This truly is one of the best experiences you could ever treat yourself to.

Juneau’s float planes

In Alaska you can find all five species of Alaska’s Pacific Salmon. They are King, Sockeye, Coho, Pink and Chum. Every year from August to October you will find the salmon find the very stream they were born to spawn and die. It is a phenomenal event that you cannot miss if your cruise is arriving in August or September.

The famous preseverance trail is a 3 mile long (one-way) trail with an elevation of 700 feet. The trail starts in down town Juneau. See map above for the start of the trail. Perseverance is the name of a mine that used to be located here. Along the way you will see the remains of the mine, the Last Chance Mining Museum, the Exner Falls and Gold Creek. Visit the visitors information centre to check the latest update on the track and to pick up the hiking map.

Perseverance trail

Perseverance trail, Juneau

This is where you can witness the spawning process of the Alaska Salmon, eat some Alaska Salmon, try the touching tanks and see the hatchery. Find the Hatchery about 4 mile / 6 km north of town. Take a taxi or bus 3 or 4 to it.

Macauley Salmon Hatchery

2697 Channel Dr, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

To reach the town of Juneau your ship will need to sail through the Gastineau Channel. Make sure to be on the outside deck to enjoy the scenery about an hour before arrival and an hour after departure.

Cruising through the Gastineau Channel

Gastineau Channel, Juneau

Named in Reader’s Digest as America’s Most Interesting Landmark. Visit the breathtaking upside-down flower rainforest created by Steve Bowhay. Walk around in the lower levels of the gardens. Get the change to see an eagles nest up high in the trees or go for a 60 minute guide tour through the rain forest to reach the brilliant view over the Gastineau channel. The Glacier Gardens are about 7 miles from Juneau. Reach the Glacier Gardens through shore excursion, taxi or public transport (nearest bus stop of bus 3 and 4 is about 5 minutes walk from the gardens)

Glacier Gardens

7600 Glacier Hwy, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

Find all kinds of mining tools, machines and other artifacts here on display. Learn more about the mining industry in Juneau. How they were able to find gold, the efforts and techniques that were involved. You can even look for gold yourself. The gold creek is right at the doorstep of the museum. Buy everything you need at the museum and go gold panning yourself. You’ll most often find something, even though its only tiny gold flakes. Find the museum at about 30 minutes uphill walk from town. Follow the Perseverance trail.

Last Chance Mining Museum

1001 Basin Rd, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

13 miles out of town you will find the Mendenhall glacier. It is one of the most accessible glaciers on earth. At the visitors centre you will find exhibitions and educational programs about ecosystem, protections of fish and wildlife. There are also several walks to get you closer to the glacier or to some really nice waterfalls. Chose to visit the visitors centre for an hour or plan a whole day of hiking around the area. Visit the Mendenhall glacier by taxi or public transport. Mendenhall Visitors Centre This is the visitors centre you will find at the Mendenhall glacier. It has excellent exhibitions inside explaining what a glacier is and the life span of the Mendenhall glacier. Visit the visitors centre by excurion, glacier express bus or public bus. See description above. Helicopter landing on the Mendenhall glacier The mendenhall glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world and it is not very often that you have to opportunity to actually land on a glacier and explore this massive pack of ice by foot. If you want to experience something unique we highly recommend an excursion by helicopter to the Mendenhall glacier.

Mendenhall glacier

Mendenhall glacier, Juneau

This memorial is dedicated to the 53 Japanese Americans of Juneau who were unjustly taken from their homes at the start of World War II. In 1941 people of Japanese ancestry living on the west coast of the USA were removed and incarcerates in isolated government internment camps. The seniors at Juneau High School left an empty chair during their graduation ceremony for their absent, fellow student who should have been there. It is an important historical event of which the citizens of Juneau feel like it needs to be remembered.

Empty Chair

This blue monument is the oldest continuously used Orthodox church in South East Alaska. With the Juneau’s gold rush kicking off various missionaries tried to covert the Native people. Many Tlingits chose to embrace the Orthodox church. This building is a beautiful example of the Russian American architecture and this church is known to be the last Orthodox church of this shape. Visit the church to learn much more about its history. Find it in the centre of town

St. Nicolas Russian Orthodox Church

326 5th St, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

For those looking for a work out Mt. Roberts trail is one not to be missed. It is a 4,5 mile (one way) track with an elevation 3600 ft that will bring you to spectacular scenery. Find the trailhead on the map above. You can also find a short cut to the top. Simply take the Mt. Robbert tram in downtown which can take you straight to the top. Before starting this hike you should always visit the tourist information first for any news you should know about and for the hiking map.

Mt. Roberts trail

Mt. Roberts trail, Juneau

This is the oldest man-made attraction of Juneau. It is especially popular amongst the Americans that are looking for a fun and relaxed afternoon at the bar. Find the Red Dog Saloon right in town.

Red Dog Saloon

278 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

Patsy Ann is the “Official Greeter of Juneau, Alaska”. 50 years after she met her last ship this Bronze statue was created on the docks at Juneau so she could once again regain her status and Official Greeter of Juneau.

Juneau, Alaska

When shopping in Haines make sure to buy the products with this logo. This indicated the products has actually been made in Alaska.

Made in Alaska

What started off as a small little shack on the pier selling king crab and chowder is now one of the most popular restaurants in town. It’s quite pricy, but well worth the experience. Find the new Tracy’s Crab shack on the pier at the cruise terminal. See map above for the exact location.

Tracy’s Crab Shack

432 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

Juneau is also gateway to the famous Tracy Arms. This is a fjord known for its dramatic sheer cliffs, waterfalls and some of Alaska’s largest ice bergs that just fell of the face of the North and South Sawyer glaciers. Book your tour to Tracy Arms through the ship or prearrange it online.

Tracy Arms, Alaska

Add a location?

Do you have a special shop, museum, attraction or tour you would like to share? Add it!

17 Best Things to Do in Juneau Alaska Cruise Port – Complete Guide

Sharing is caring!

If you’re going to Juneau on a cruise, you’re in luck! Besides being the capital city of Alaska, Juneau is a bustling fishing town with magnificent mountain vistas and a stunning variety of wildlife.

Juneau, Alaska also has the unique distinction of being completely landlocked. You can only get to Juneau one of two ways…boat or airplane. There are no roads connecting it to any other city in North America.

If you are lucky enough to port in Juneau during your Alaska Cruise , there are a variety of excursions and activities that will give you a taste of Alaska’s capital city and its captivating history. 

In this post, I’ll share the best things to do in Juneau, including shore excursions and inexpensive or free activities. I’ve also included the information you’ll need to know about visiting the Juneau cruise port for the day and answered some common questions.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Juneau Cruise Port

The cruise port in Juneau places you directly downtown on Egan Drive, making this an extremely walkable port city. Most large cruise ships dock at the South Franklin Street Dock, and it’s not uncommon to have 3 to 4 cruise ships in port on a given day.

Cruise passengers can disembark and explore the city on foot, enjoying the shops, restaurants, and popular attractions that are clustered in the downtown area.

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Juneau Cruise Port

Although it is less than 100 miles from the Canadian border, Juneau is located in Alaska (USA). The official currency is the USD (United States Dollar).

Businesses in Juneau accept cash, credit, and debit cards.

The primary language in Juneau is English. However, Sourdoughs (longtime Alaskans) might use some unusual local slang, including “termination dust” (the first snowfall of the year in the mountains) and the “ALCAN” (Alaska/Canada Highway).

Juneau, along with 90% of Alaska, keeps time within the Alaska Standard Time Zone (AKST). Alaska Standard Time Zone is one hour behind Pacific Time and four hours behind the Eastern Time Zone. 

In Juneau, temperatures range from the upper 50s to the low 60s during cruising season. The weather here is comparatively mild compared to other ports in Alaska because of the influence of the Pacific Ocean. However, Juneau is located in a temperate rainforest, so expect rain about half of the days of each month.

Getting Around Juneau

Juneau is the largest U.S. Capital city by land area, but don’t let that scare you. This Alaskan city is 3,255 square miles total, including 704 square miles of water and 928 square miles of ice cap in North America’s fifth largest ice field.

On foot, you can visit many tourist destinations, including the State Capitol and Governor’s Mansion, the Mount Roberts Goldbelt Tramway, the Cultural Arts Park, and the historic Red Dog Saloon.

Public Transit

Capital Transit has a four-stop “ride-free zone” that can get you to the capital building and the downtown transit center, where you can transfer to ride to other locations.

One-way general fare for ages 19+ is $2 (exact change), 18 and under is $1 and children 5 and under can ride Capital Transit for free.

Whether you need a lift ($15 for two) or want a guided tour ($200 for two), Alaska Pedicab Juneau is a relaxing way to get around town.

Video: Alaska Cruise Review with Cruise Ports

• What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (clothing, gear & essentials)
• What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise (outfit ideas with photos)
• 5 Practical Alaska Whale Watching Tips You Need to Know
• 13 Alaska Cruise Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Cruise
• Juneau Alaska Cruise Port Guide

12 Best Juneau Shore Excursions

Juneau, Alaska, is an excellent place for various activities, including wildlife viewing, learning the history of Alaska Natives, hiking, glacier viewing, and whale watching.

Here are some of the best ways to enjoy the capital of Alaska.

1. Tongass National Forest

A visit to Juneau means you’ll get the chance to see the nation’s largest national forest. The Tongass covers most of Southeast Alaska and offers an opportunity to view glaciers, wildlife, and stunning scenery.

To get to Tongass, you must either book a tour that includes the national park or take a shuttle service. Public transit does not travel to Tongass National Forest.

2. Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center 

13 miles from downtown Juneau, tucked into Tongass National Forest, you’ll find the gorgeous Mendenhall Glacier and an excellent visitor center.

The cost to enter the visitor center is well worth it, with passes priced at $5 per person ages 15 and over. Ages 15 and under are free.

The visitor center has a free educational movie, thoughtful and interesting displays, and panorama windows that showcase the Mendenhall Glacier.

Related: What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (clothing, gear & essentials)

3. Mendenhall Lake

You can experience the excitement of kayaking on a glacial lake at the Mendenhall Glacier’s terminus. Several tour companies provide round-trip transfers from the cruise ports.

They also provide everything you need for an adventure kayaking in gorgeous Mendenhall Lake. With the backdrop of Mendenhall Glacier, you’ll row past icebergs and check off a major bucket list item.

4. Mount Roberts Tramway

This excursion takes you from sea level to glorious views 1800 feet above Mount Roberts. The tram is pricey ($55 for an all-day pass for adults and $40 for kids ages 3-12). However, the panoramic views of Juneau and the Gastineau Channel are stunning.

After a quick ride up in a tram car, you have several activities to choose from. You can watch an 18-minute award-winning film on the Tlingit people, eat at the Timberline Bar and Grill, visit a nature center, or hike through subalpine forests.

5. Helicopter Tour

Don’t miss the unique opportunity to fly over a million-year-old glacial icefields! Juneau boasts 928 square miles of ice cap in the form of Juneau Icefield, the fifth largest icefield in North America.

This cruise shore excursion will give you a stunning birds-eye view of Juneau’s mountains and icefields. The pilot will then land atop a glacier, where you’ll get a guided walk and the chance to drink the freshest, tastiest ice water you’ll ever have.

Many local companies offer round-trip transportation from the cruise docks. Whether you book your helicopter excursion through the cruise line or with an independent tour company, be sure to book early. This popular activity tends to sell out.

Related: 10 Shore Excursion Mistakes Cruisers Almost Always Regret

6. Whale Watching

The Alaska waters of the Inside Passage have excellent opportunities for whale watching. Several local companies offer transportation from downtown Juneau to the Auke Bay harbor, where you’ll board a boat for a 2.5-hour whale-watching cruise.

You can find several whale watching excursions offered by your cruise line as well.

Chances are good that you’ll see bald eagles, seals, and sea lions. Humpback whales are the real star of the show, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to watch playful Orca whales as they jump and breach.

You can also choose a combo whale-watching cruise/Mendenhall glacier visit. After your whale-watching expedition, you’ll be bussed to Mendenhall, where you can spend 1.5 hours exploring.

7. Sealaska Heritage

A visit to Alaska isn’t complete without learning about the Indigenous tribes that have called Southeast Alaska home for more than ten thousand years.

For $7 per adult and $5 per child over age 7, you can walk through an adzed cedar clan house, view exhibits about Native Alaskans, and see and purchase your artwork or souvenirs in the gift shop.

Sealaska Heritage is in downtown Juneau, just a short walk from the cruise ship dock.

8. Dog Sledding Tour

There are a couple of different locations where you can check dog sledding off of your bucket list in Juneau: glacier or forest.

Forest excursions include a scenic drive to the Tongass National Forest dog camps. You’ll see a professional dog sled camp, interact with husky puppies, and even ride a “summer sled” (with wheels).

Some helicopter excursions include a dog sledding experience on top of Herbert Glacier. A team of 12-14 huskies will be waiting to pull you on a dogsled across the ice.

Dogsledding is a huge part of Juneau’s history, and although the excursions are pricey, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

9. Ladd Macauley Visitor Center/Macaulay Salmon Hatchery 

If you are interested in learning more about salmon and other sea creatures, the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery located in the Ladd Macauley Visitor Center offers a very inexpensive aquarium-like experience.

For a $7 admission price for adults and $5 for children, you’ll get a unique view of how an outdoor fish hatchery operates. The Hatchery also has saltwater aquariums with 150 different species of marine life and a tide pool touch tank filled with sea animals local to Juneau.

The visitor center is 3 miles from downtown Juneau. You can also catch a taxi or schedule a tour that includes the Hatchery

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

10. Last Chance Mining Museum

Cruisers interested in Juneau’s mining history will enjoy this museum. Located about a 2-mile walk from the cruise ship docks, the museum has a collection of interesting photos, artifacts, and equipment.

For a $5 (cash only) entry fee, visitors will see the world’s largest air compressor and exhibits detailing Juneau’s history. The walk to the museum is also picturesque and relatively easy.

11. Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure 

Starting at the botanical garden and nursery, Glacier Gardens, a rainforest tour begins by boarding a covered “adventure vehicle” for a one-hour tour in an old-growth rainforest on Thunder Mountain.

After the tour, you can walk through their visitor center and grab a bite to eat at the Rainforest Cafe.

Glacier Gardens is a 7-mile trip from cruise ship docks. You can take a taxi, Lyft, or Uber or take a bus ride that will drop you off 500 feet from the entrance. Reservations are required for groups smaller than 10; the tour costs $30.40 for adults and $19.90 for children ages 6-12. Kids 5 and under can tour for free.

12. Tracy’s Crab Shack

You can’t miss the appealing red exterior of this Juneau Port staple. Bring your appetite to this popular restaurant that promises “The best [crab] legs in town.”

Grab a Large King Bucket, which feeds 2+ with Red King Crab, coleslaw, rolls, and “butta.” There are two locations within walking distance of the cruise port, so you’ll have ample opportunities to get a full belly and buttery hands.

Not only is Tracy’s Crab Shack popular with cruise travellers, but locals love it as well!

Related: 13 Alaska Cruise Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Cruise

5 Free Things to Do in the Juneau Cruise Port

1. Nugget Falls Trail

You’ll need to get to Mendenhall Visitors Center to take this hike, but you don’t have to pay to park or hike the Nuggets Falls trail.

The .8-mile trail takes you past rivers (sometimes filled with spawning salmon) and breathtaking views of Mendenhall Glacier and ends at a lovely waterfall. During the 15 minutes in each direction hike, you may spot wildlife, including moose, bald eagles, and possibly bears.

2. Take a Tour of the Alaska State Capitol Building

Located within a short walk of the cruise ship dock, the Alaska State Capitol Building offers free 30-minute guided tours Tuesday-Friday.

The building has a replica of the Liberty Bell, historic photos, and art and murals honoring the 49th state’s history.

3. Window Shop in downtown Juneau

You can easily spend a few hours wandering through the quaint shops downtown. The shops sell everything from jewelry to furs, Native Alaskan art, t-shirts, and other fun keepsakes.

While downtown, keep an eye out for the historic Red Dog Saloon. A staple of downtown Juneau since mining times, the saloon has been in several locations, including a tent on the ocean’s shore. Today’s Red Dog will give you a peek into the past and what a saloon experience was like for gold rush miners.

4. Visit the Governor’s Mansion

Although they don’t offer tours, if you’re walking around downtown Juneau, a short, mostly uphill walk will give you a view of this beautiful and historic building.

Built in 1913 for $40,000 (the equivalent of $1.2 million today), it is the home of current Alaska governor Mike Dunleavy. A totem pole outside gives the mansion an Alaskan touch, and you’ll catch some gorgeous bay views from the top of the hill

5. Admire the Shrine of St. Therese

30 minutes from downtown Juneau lies a shrine to the Patron Saint of Alaska, St. Therese of the child Jesus and the Holy Face.

You can contemplate quietly while viewing the lovely chapel, which was built in the 1940s. To get to the Shrine, you must rent a car, take a taxi, or book a tour with a company.

Juneau Cruise Port Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit juneau .

Warm winds from the Pacific Ocean make Juneau’s summer temperatures mild and enjoyable. The average temperature during Alaska cruise season is in the upper 50s to the low 60s. The best time of year to visit is in June or early July, as precipitation continues to increase throughout the summer months.

Is Juneau a walkable city?

The Juneau cruise port town is incredibly walkable, with cruise ships docking downtown. There are many museums, shops, and attractions that you can walk to within minutes of disembarking your cruise ship.

Related & Popular Posts:

• 50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon
• What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (packing list)
• 20 Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Cruise Port
• 17 Cruise Cabin Essentials Every Cruiser Needs
• 17 Rookie Mistakes First Time Cruisers Should Avoid
• 17 Genius Ways to Pack Light for a Longer Cruise

Final Thoughts On Things to do in Juneau Cruise Port

Nestled between Gastineau Passage and Mount Juneau, the picturesque capital city of Juneau will be a memorable stop on your Alaskan Cruise.

Whether you use your time to see wildlife or stunning glaciers, delve into mining history, or admire Indigenous artwork, you’ll treasure the time you spent in Juneau.

Have you been to Juneau, Alaska on a cruise? Please let me know what you enjoyed in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio:

Stephanie Yrungaray grew up in gorgeous Eagle River, Alaska and now calls Utah her beUtahful home. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her husband and five kids any way she can, from cruising to RV camping and everything in-between! When she’s not out exploring, you’ll find her writing about travel, finances and parenting as well as gift ideas on her website,  www.TheGiftyGirl.com . 

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Juneau cruise port

• Coordinates 58.299, -134.417
• LOCODE USJNU
• Local Time 2024-08-20 07:28

Juneau cruise ship schedule

• Temperature

Juneau Cruise Port: 40+ Things to Do & Logistics

Welcome to Juneau, Alaska’s serene capital, where towering glaciers, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife create the backdrop for an unforgettable cruise destination.

This guide promises to be your comprehensive companion, unveiling over 40 thrilling activities and insider tips to ensure your journey is as breathtaking as the scenery.

Getting to Know Juneau Cruise Port

Juneau, Alaska’s remote yet remarkably accessible capital, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

The Juneau cruise port serves as the gateway to this extraordinary experience. Here’s everything you need to know to navigate the port and start your Alaskan cruise adventure on the right foot.

Overview of Juneau Cruise Port Facilities

• Location : Nestled along the Gastineau Channel, the port is in close proximity to downtown Juneau.
• Docking Areas : The port boasts several docks – AJ Dock , Franklin Dock , Marine Park , and South Franklin Dock – each within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from the heart of Juneau.

Docking Locations and Cruise Terminals

• AJ Dock : The furthest from downtown but offers shuttle services.
• Franklin Dock : Located directly in downtown, ideal for those eager to explore on foot.
• Marine Park : A central hub for visitors, adjacent to key attractions and amenities.
• South Franklin Dock : Offers quick access to shopping and dining options.

Facilities Available :

• Visitor Information
• Nearby restaurants and shops
• Shuttle services (at AJ Dock)

Tips for First-Time Cruisers to Juneau

• Plan Ahead : Research your dock location and nearby attractions to maximize your time in Juneau.
• Dress in Layers : Weather can be unpredictable. Waterproof outerwear is a must.
• Explore Locally : Juneau is rich in history and culture. Don’t miss the local museums and eateries.
• Wildlife Respect : Keep a safe distance from wildlife and follow local guidelines.

Understanding the Juneau Cruise Port is the first step in ensuring a smooth and memorable visit.

With its prime location and variety of facilities, the port welcomes travelers to explore the stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture that Juneau has to offer.

Things to Do in Juneau

Juneau, with its stunning landscapes and rich culture, offers an array of activities that cater to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking to immerse themselves in local history and art.

1. Explore Mendenhall Glacier

• Description : The Mendenhall Glacier, a majestic river of ice stretching 13.6 miles, is one of Juneau’s most breathtaking sights. Visitors can explore the glacier through various means: hiking, canoeing, or even a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view.
• Nugget Falls Trail : A gentle hike leading to a stunning waterfall with the glacier in the backdrop.
• Photo Point Trail : Offers the perfect vantage point for capturing the glacier’s beauty.
• Visitor Center : Provides educational exhibits on the glacier’s history and ecology.
• Dress warmly and in layers, as temperatures near the glacier can be cool.
• Be sure to carry water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.

2. Whale Watching Tours

• Description : Witness the majesty of humpback whales in their natural habitat. Juneau’s waters are teeming with marine life, offering one of the best whale-watching experiences in the world.
• Boat Tours : Several operators offer guided tours, providing insights into the behaviors and conservation of these magnificent creatures.
• Kayak Adventures : For a more intimate experience, kayak tours allow you to quietly approach the whales at a safe distance.
• Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens to capture distant splashes and breaches.
• Dress in waterproof layers; the weather can change quickly on the water.

3. Kayaking and Canoeing

• Description : Paddle through Juneau’s tranquil waters, exploring remote inlets and coves. Kayaking and canoeing offer a peaceful way to connect with the area’s stunning natural beauty.
• Mendenhall Lake : Paddle near the face of the Mendenhall Glacier, enjoying close-up views of icebergs.
• Tongass National Forest : Explore the lush, rainforest-lined banks of the Tongass National Forest by kayak.
• Beginners should opt for guided tours to ensure safety and gain local insights.
• Wear waterproof gear and sunscreen, even on cloudy days.

4. Fishing Trips and Charters

• Description : Anglers can delight in the rich waters of Juneau, which offer some of the best salmon and halibut fishing in the world. Guided charters provide everything you need for a successful day of fishing.
• Salmon Fishing : Target king, silver, and pink salmon during their respective runs.
• Halibut Fishing : Venture into deeper waters for the chance to catch a hefty halibut.
• A valid Alaska fishing license is required; most charter companies can assist in obtaining one.
• Dress warmly and in layers; it can be chilly on the water, especially in the morning.

5. Visit the Alaska State Museum

• Description : The Alaska State Museum offers a deep dive into Alaska’s rich history, cultures, and art. From native heritage to Russian influences and the gold rush era, the museum provides a comprehensive overview.
• Exhibits : Explore permanent and rotating exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and art.
• Educational Programs : Participate in lectures, workshops, and events designed to enrich your understanding of Alaskan history.
• Check the museum’s calendar for special events and exhibitions that may coincide with your visit.
• Allow at least 2 hours to fully appreciate the museum’s offerings.

6. Tour of the Governor’s Mansion

• Description : The Governor’s Mansion, built in 1912, is a beautiful example of colonial revival architecture. While tours are limited, they offer a unique glimpse into the life of Alaska’s governor and the history of the state.
• Guided Tours : Available by reservation, these tours provide insights into the mansion’s history and its role in Alaska’s government.
• Tours must be booked well in advance through the Governor’s Office.
• Photography may be restricted inside the mansion; check with your guide.

7. The Juneau-Douglas City Museum

• Description : Focused on the local history of Juneau and Douglas, this museum offers insights into the area’s mining history, indigenous cultures, and the development of the city.
• Permanent Exhibits : Featuring historical photographs, mining artifacts, and indigenous art.
• Walking Tours : Seasonal guided tours that explore Juneau’s rich history.
• The museum is small but rich in information, making it a perfect activity for a rainy day.
• Don’t miss the video presentations for a deeper understanding of Juneau’s past.

8. Tlingit Cultural Experiences

• Description : The Tlingit people have a rich cultural heritage in Southeast Alaska. Juneau offers several ways to engage with and learn about Tlingit culture, art, and history.
• Cultural Demonstrations : Watch traditional Tlingit carving, weaving, and dance performances.
• Heritage Centers : Visit local heritage centers to see Tlingit artifacts and art.
• Be respectful and considerate when attending cultural demonstrations or visiting sacred sites.
• Engage with local guides and artisans to gain a deeper appreciation of Tlingit culture.

9. Eaglecrest Ski Area

• Description : For winter visitors, the Eaglecrest Ski Area offers outstanding skiing and snowboarding experiences. With trails for all skill levels, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy Juneau’s winter wonderland.
• Skiing and Snowboarding : From beginner to advanced trails, there’s something for everyone.
• Snowshoeing : Explore the serene beauty of the surrounding national forest on snowshoes.
• Check the weather and avalanche forecasts before heading out.
• Equipment rentals are available on-site for those traveling without gear.

10. The Juneau Raptor Center

• Description : The Juneau Raptor Center is a rehabilitation facility for injured birds of prey. Visitors can learn about the center’s conservation efforts and see eagles, hawks, and owls up close.
• Guided Tours : Learn about the rehabilitation process and the importance of raptor conservation.
• Educational Programs : Participate in presentations about the birds and their role in the ecosystem.
• The center operates mainly on donations, so consider contributing to their cause.
• Be quiet and calm around the birds to avoid stressing them.

11. Rainforest Garden Tours

• Description : Explore the lush, verdant landscapes of Juneau’s rainforests. The Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure offers guided tours through beautifully landscaped botanical gardens set in the heart of the Tongass National Forest.
• Guided Tours : Traverse the rainforest aboard a covered vehicle, learning about local flora and fauna.
• Visitor Pavilion : Home to exotic plants and a chance to view the stunning aerial views of Juneau.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes; the paths can be uneven.
• Don’t forget insect repellent and a rain jacket.

12. Bear Watching Expeditions

• Description : Juneau’s surroundings are home to a significant population of brown and black bears. Guided bear watching tours offer a safe and respectful way to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
• Admiralty Island Tours : Known as “Fortress of the Bears,” this island offers some of the best opportunities for bear sightings.
• Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary : A protected area where visitors can watch bears from viewing platforms.
• Follow your guide’s instructions closely to ensure a safe experience.
• Early morning or late evening tours offer the best chances for sightings.

13. Mount Roberts Tramway

• Description : The Mount Roberts Tramway whisks visitors from the cruise ship dock in downtown Juneau up to the Mountain House, offering stunning panoramic views of Juneau and the Gastineau Channel.
• Hiking Trails : Several trails lead from the Mountain House, offering varying levels of difficulty and scenic views.
• Alaska Native Heritage Center : Learn about the area’s indigenous culture and see local art.
• The tramway can be busy; plan to visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
• The temperature can be cooler at the top; bring an extra layer.

14. Gold Panning Experiences

• Description : Relive the excitement of the Alaska Gold Rush. Several sites around Juneau offer gold panning experiences where you can learn the techniques and maybe find a few flakes of your own.
• Gold Creek and Last Chance Basin : Join a guided tour that takes you through historic mining areas and teaches you to pan for gold.
• Wear waterproof boots; you’ll likely get wet.
• Gold panning is for everyone; no prior experience is needed.

15. The Alaska State Capitol Tour

• Description : The Alaska State Capitol doesn’t resemble the capitol buildings you might see in other states, but it’s full of history and political intrigue.
• Guided Tours : Learn about Alaska’s unique political history and the structure of its state government.
• Tours are free, but it’s wise to check the schedule and book in advance during the busy season.
• The building is more about substance than style, so listen closely to the stories your guide shares.

16. Family-Friendly Hikes and Walks

• Description : Juneau’s landscape offers numerous trails that are suitable for families and provide stunning views without requiring expert hiking skills.
• Perseverance Trail : Offers easy to moderate trails with views of waterfalls and historical mining sites.
• Treadwell Mine Historic Trail : Explore the ruins of the old Treadwell Mine along a flat and easy path, perfect for all ages.
• Bring bear spray and know how to use it.
• Pack snacks and water for the family to enjoy along the trail.

17. Sampling Local Seafood

• Description : Juneau’s culinary scene is rich with fresh, local seafood. From casual dockside eateries to upscale dining experiences, there’s something for every palate.
• Crab Feasts : Enjoy Alaskan king crab at one of the local seafood restaurants.
• Salmon Bakes : Participate in a traditional Alaskan salmon bake, where fresh salmon is grilled over an alder wood fire.
• Reservations are recommended for popular seafood restaurants, especially during peak cruise season.
• Don’t miss out on other local specialties like halibut and wild berries.

18. Craft Beer Tasting Tours

• Description : Dive into Juneau’s burgeoning craft beer scene with a visit to local breweries. Many offer tours and tastings, showcasing a variety of unique Alaskan brews.
• Alaskan Brewing Co. : Offers a tasting room and brewery tours, sharing the history of brewing in Alaska.
• Devil’s Club Brewing Company : A downtown favorite with a cozy taproom and innovative beers.
• Some breweries may require reservations for tours, so check ahead.
• Don’t drink and drive; consider walking or using local transportation if sampling generously.

19. Unique Alaskan Souvenirs: Where to Find Them

• Description : Bring home a piece of Alaska with unique souvenirs from Juneau’s local shops. From native crafts to gold nugget jewelry, there’s a treasure for every traveler.
• Alaska Native Arts and Crafts : Purchase authentic Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian artwork to support local artists.
• Ulu Knives : These traditional Alaskan curved knives are a practical and unique gift.
• Look for the “Made in Alaska” logo to ensure you’re buying genuine Alaskan-made products.
• Consider the legality and ethics of wildlife products. Opt for items that respect local wildlife and ecosystems.

20. Downtown Juneau’s Historic Walking Tour

• Description : Discover the rich history of Juneau by exploring its historic downtown. Self-guided walking tours allow you to visit historic buildings, statues, and landmarks at your own pace.
• Alaska State Capitol : Though modest, the capitol has a storied history.
• Red Dog Saloon : Experience the lively atmosphere of this historic saloon, complete with sawdust floors and Alaskan memorabilia.
• Pick up a walking tour map at the local visitor center.
• Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for Juneau’s unpredictable weather.

21. Glacier Flightseeing Tours

• Description : For a bird’s-eye view of Juneau’s majestic landscapes, nothing beats a flightseeing tour. Hop on a small plane or helicopter to soar over glaciers, mountains, and the vast Alaskan wilderness.
• Helicopter Tours : Land on a glacier for a once-in-a-lifetime walk on the ice.
• Seaplane Adventures : Fly over the Juneau Icefield, and witness the raw beauty of untouched nature.
• These tours can be weather-dependent; book early in your visit to accommodate potential rescheduling.
• Dress warmly and in layers, as temperatures can be significantly cooler at higher elevations.

22. Zipline Adventures

• Description : Thrill-seekers will love the opportunity to zip through the lush Tongass National Forest canopy, enjoying unparalleled views and an adrenaline rush.
• Rainforest Canopy Ziplines : Glide between platforms built high in the trees, including sky bridges and rappel descents.
• Suitable for most ages and abilities, but check with providers for any restrictions.
• Wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather, as you’ll be outdoors for several hours.

23. Historic Walking Tours

• Description : Juneau’s rich history is best explored on foot. Guided walking tours take you through the city’s historic districts, sharing stories of its gold rush past, native heritage, and evolution into the capital of Alaska.
• Downtown Historic Sites : Visit landmarks such as the Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church and the Juneau-Douglas City Museum.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be covering a lot of ground.
• Bring a camera to capture the historic buildings and beautiful scenery.

24. Alaskan Brewing Company

• Description : A visit to the Alaskan Brewing Company is a must for beer enthusiasts. Learn about the brewing process and taste award-winning beers that capture the flavor of the region.
• Brewery Tours : Get an inside look at the brewing process, followed by a tasting session of their signature and seasonal beers.
• Check for tour times in advance and arrive early, as spots can fill up quickly.
• Don’t forget to visit the gift shop for unique Alaskan Brewing merchandise.

25. Visit the Shrine of St. Therese

• Description : This peaceful retreat offers a spiritual oasis amid the natural beauty of Juneau. The Shrine of St. Therese is located on a small island accessible by a causeway, providing a serene environment for reflection and meditation.
• Walk the Labyrinth : Follow the labyrinth path as a meditative practice amidst the tranquil surroundings.
• Explore the Chapel : The chapel and grounds offer a quiet space for prayer and contemplation.
• Dress warmly, as the coastal location can be breezy and cool.
• Respect the quiet and reflective nature of the shrine during your visit.

26. Alaska Folk Festival

• Description : If your visit aligns with the Alaska Folk Festival, don’t miss this vibrant celebration of folk music, dance, and storytelling. This week-long event in April features performances, workshops, and jam sessions.
• Live Performances : Enjoy a wide range of folk music from local and visiting artists.
• Participate in Workshops : Learn folk music techniques, dances, and more from skilled practitioners.
• The festival is free, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
• Check the schedule in advance to plan which events you’d like to attend.

27. Dog Sledding on a Glacier

• Description : For a truly unique Alaskan experience, take a helicopter ride to a glacier where you can meet a team of sled dogs and mush across the ice.
• Dog Sledding Tour : Learn about mushing and take the reins to guide your team across the glacier.
• This is a popular activity, so book in advance to secure your spot.
• Dress in layers; glacier conditions can be cold, even in summer.

28. Visit the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery

• Description : Learn about Alaska’s salmon industry and the life cycle of salmon at this working hatchery. The Macaulay Salmon Hatchery offers educational tours and the chance to see salmon up close.
• Hatchery Tours : Discover the process of salmon hatching and rearing, and view adult salmon returning to spawn.
• Aquariums and Touch Tanks : Get a hands-on experience with marine life native to Alaskan waters.
• Check for feeding times or special demonstrations to enhance your visit.
• The hatchery is a great educational experience for families with children.

29. Savor Juneau’s Food Scene

• Description : Beyond seafood, Juneau boasts a diverse and delicious food scene. From food trucks serving fresh catches to fine dining restaurants with local ingredients, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
• Food Tours : Join a guided food tour to sample a variety of local dishes and learn about Juneau’s culinary culture.
• Ask locals for their favorite spots to eat; you might discover some hidden gems.
• Be adventurous and try dishes you can’t find anywhere else, like reindeer sausage or seaweed.

30. Juneau Icefield Research Program

• Description : For those interested in science and the environment, the Juneau Icefield Research Program offers presentations and sometimes tours that provide insight into glacial research and climate change studies being conducted in the area.
• Educational Presentations : Learn about the research being done on the Juneau Icefield and its implications for understanding climate change.
• Check the program’s schedule for public presentations or contact them in advance to inquire about visitor opportunities.
• This is a chance to deepen your understanding of the natural world and the challenges it faces.

31. Juneau Arts & Humanities Council

• Description : The heart of Juneau’s vibrant arts scene, the Juneau Arts & Humanities Council, hosts a variety of events, exhibitions, and performances year-round, showcasing local and visiting artists.
• Art Exhibits : Explore diverse art exhibitions featuring everything from traditional Native artworks to contemporary pieces by local artists.
• Community Events : Participate in community arts events, workshops, and cultural presentations that enrich the understanding of Alaska’s heritage.
• Check the council’s calendar for special events during your visit.
• Many events are free or have a minimal charge, making this a great budget-friendly option.

32. Dog Sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier

• Description : Experience the thrill of dog sledding atop the Mendenhall Glacier. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure combines a helicopter flight over stunning landscapes with the unique experience of dog sledding on snow-covered ice, even in summer.
• Helicopter Ride : Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Juneau and the Mendenhall Glacier en route to the dog sled camp.
• Dog Sledding : Learn about mushing and take the reins as you glide across the glacier with a team of Alaskan huskies.
• Book early, as this popular activity fills up quickly.
• Dress warmly in layers; the glacier can be cold, even in summer.

33. The Last Chance Mining Museum

• Description : Located in the historic compressor building of the Alaska Juneau Gold Mining Company, the Last Chance Mining Museum offers a glimpse into Juneau’s gold mining heritage, featuring one of the world’s largest air compressors and other mining artifacts.
• Museum Tour : Explore exhibits on the history of gold mining in Juneau, including tools, photographs, and personal stories from the gold rush era.
• The museum is situated on the steep terrain of Gold Creek Canyon; wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• Admission fees go towards the preservation of this historic site.

34. Savoring Alaskan Specialty Foods

• Description : Beyond seafood, Juneau offers a plethora of unique Alaskan foods. From wild berries to reindeer sausage, there’s a rich culinary heritage to explore.
• Food Tours : Join a guided food tour to sample a variety of Alaskan specialties across several local eateries.
• Local Markets : Visit Juneau’s markets to try fresh, local produce and artisanal goods.
• Don’t miss trying Alaskan birch syrup, a unique local delicacy.
• Many eateries feature seasonal specials, offering the freshest tastes of Alaska.

35. Taku Glacier Lodge & Seaplane Experience

• Description : Combine adventure and dining with a seaplane flight to the remote Taku Glacier Lodge. Overlooking the Taku Glacier, this experience includes a scenic flight, wildlife viewing, and a salmon feast in a historic lodge setting.
• Seaplane Flight : Take off from the water in Juneau and fly over breathtaking glaciers and untouched wilderness before landing at the lodge.
• Salmon Bake : Enjoy wild Alaskan salmon grilled over an alder wood fire, a true taste of the Alaskan wilderness.
• Book in advance, as this popular excursion has limited availability.
• Bring your camera for incredible photo opportunities both from the air and on the ground.

36. Juneau Public Market

• Description : Held annually over Thanksgiving weekend, the Juneau Public Market is a premier event for holiday shopping, featuring a wide range of vendors selling handmade crafts, art, and Alaskan-made goods.
• Shopping : Browse booths offering everything from handmade jewelry to artisan foods and unique Alaskan souvenirs.
• Local Culture : Experience the community spirit of Juneau and meet local artisans and producers.
• Even if your visit doesn’t coincide with the market, many local artists and craftsmen sell their wares in shops and galleries year-round.

37. Baranof Castle State Historic Site

• Description : Known locally as Castle Hill, this site is a significant historical landmark where the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States took place. It offers not only a lesson in history but also panoramic views of downtown Juneau and Gastineau Channel.
• Self-Guided Tour : Explore the interpretive signs that tell the story of Alaska’s transfer and the area’s earlier Tlingit heritage.
• The climb to the top is steep but short and well worth it for the views and the historical significance.

38. Tracy Arm Fjord

• Description : A day trip to Tracy Arm Fjord offers stunning views of glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife. This narrow fjord is surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls, with the twin Sawyer Glaciers at its end.
• Boat Tours : Take a boat tour from Juneau for a full-day excursion that includes close-up views of the glaciers and possible wildlife sightings, including seals, eagles, and bears.
• Dress warmly and in layers, as it can be very cold on the water, especially near the glaciers.
• Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing and a camera with a good zoom for capturing the scenery.

39. Juneau-Douglas Bridge Viewing Area

• Description : For one of the best views of Juneau, head to the Juneau-Douglas Bridge viewing area. It offers spectacular views of the city, Gastineau Channel, and the surrounding mountains.
• Photography : An ideal spot for capturing panoramic shots of Juneau’s stunning landscape.
• Visit during sunset for especially dramatic views.
• Be mindful of traffic when approaching the viewing area.

40. Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway

• Description : Revisit the Mount Roberts Tramway for its cultural significance and the variety of experiences it offers at the top. Beyond the stunning views and hiking trails, delve into the native culture at the Mount Roberts Nature Center and the Raven Eagle Gifts & Gallery.
• Nature Center : Learn about the local flora, fauna, and Tlingit culture.
• Raven Eagle Gifts & Gallery : Shop for authentic Tlingit art and crafts, perfect for unique souvenirs.
• Check for special events or cultural demonstrations taking place at the top, which can enhance your visit.

Whether you’re soaring above glaciers, sampling local delicacies, or stepping back in time at historic sites, Juneau promises a treasure trove of experiences to fulfill the curiosity and adventure of every visitor.

Before You Go

Embarking on a cruise to Juneau, Alaska, is an adventure of a lifetime.

Before you set sail towards this enchanting destination, there are a few important things to consider ensuring your trip is as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible.

This section will guide you through essential pre-trip planning, packing tips, and other considerations.

Best Time of Year to Visit

• Summer ( May to September ) : The prime cruising season, offering mild temperatures, long daylight hours, and the best chance for wildlife sightings. This is also when most tours and attractions are fully operational.
• Late Spring and Early Fall : Fewer tourists and potentially lower prices, but with cooler temperatures and a slight increase in rainfall. Some attractions might have limited availability outside the peak season.

Essential Items to Pack

• Weather-Appropriate Clothing : The weather in Juneau can be unpredictable. Pack layers , including waterproof outerwear, to adapt to changing conditions. Don’t forget gloves and a warm hat, even in summer.
• Sturdy Footwear : Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots are a must for exploring trails and navigating wet terrain.
• Daypack : A lightweight backpack is essential for day trips, allowing you to carry water, snacks, extra clothing, and other essentials.
• Binoculars and Camera : For wildlife watching and capturing the stunning landscapes.
• Sun Protection : Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are important, even on overcast days.
• Insect Repellent : Especially useful if you plan to spend time hiking or near water.

Preparing for the Weather

• Research and Prepare : Check the typical weather conditions for the time of your visit and pack accordingly. Remember, even in summer, temperatures can be cool, especially in the evening or on the water.
• Waterproof Gear : Ensure your outer layer is waterproof and breathable to stay comfortable during rainy days or misty conditions near glaciers.

Managing Expectations: Wildlife and Natural Phenomena

• Wildlife Sightings : While Alaska is known for its abundant wildlife, sightings are never guaranteed. Be patient and keep your eyes peeled for opportunities, but enjoy the landscapes and other aspects of your journey as well.
• Natural Phenomena : The northern lights (aurora borealis) are a rare sight in Juneau during the cruising season due to the long daylight hours. Plan accordingly if this is a must-see for you, considering a trip in late fall or early spring instead.

Final Checklist

• Travel Documents : Ensure your passport is up to date, and check if you need any additional visas or travel documents.
• Health and Safety : Pack a small first aid kit, any personal medications, and consider motion sickness remedies if you’re prone to seasickness.
• Stay Informed : Keep an eye on travel advisories and health guidelines related to your trip.

By taking these considerations into account and preparing accordingly, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying everything Juneau has to offer.

Remember, part of the adventure is embracing the unexpected, so while it’s important to plan, remain flexible and open to the experiences that come your way.

Upon Your Arrival in Juneau

Arriving in Juneau is the start of an unforgettable adventure.

To ensure you make the most of your visit from the moment you step off the cruise ship, here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating your arrival in this vibrant city.

First Steps After Disembarking in Juneau

• Orient Yourself : Take a moment to orient yourself with the surroundings. Juneau’s cruise ship docks are conveniently located near the downtown area, making it easy to begin your exploration.
• Visitor Information : Look for the Visitor Information kiosk or booth near the dock. Here, you can pick up maps, brochures, and get recommendations from local experts on activities, dining, and transportation.
• Currency Exchange : If you haven’t already done so, consider exchanging some money into US dollars for small expenses. Many places in Juneau accept credit cards, but having cash on hand can be useful for smaller vendors or tips.

Transportation Options from the Cruise Port

• Walking : Downtown Juneau is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance from the cruise ship docks.
• Shuttle Services : Some cruise lines offer shuttle services from the docks to various points of interest around Juneau. Check with your cruise line for availability and schedules.
• Public Transportation : Juneau’s public transportation system, Capital Transit, provides service throughout the city, including popular tourist destinations.
• Taxis and Rideshares : Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available for more direct transportation to your desired destinations.
• Car Rentals : For those looking to explore beyond the city or at their own pace, several car rental agencies operate near the cruise docks.

How to Navigate Juneau: Maps, Rental Options, and Walking

• Maps : Grab a city map from the Visitor Information kiosk. Maps are invaluable for planning your day and ensuring you don’t miss any must-see spots.
• Rental Options : Besides cars, you can rent bicycles for an enjoyable and eco-friendly way to explore Juneau. Some shops near the waterfront offer hourly or daily bike rentals.
• Walking Tours : Consider signing up for a walking tour. It’s a great way to get acquainted with the city’s history, culture, and landmarks. These tours range from historical walks to food tours, providing insights you might miss exploring on your own.

Tips for a Smooth Arrival

• Plan Your Day : Juneau is rich in activities and sights. Having a rough plan can help you maximize your time. Decide in advance if you want to focus on outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a mix of both.
• Check Weather Conditions : Juneau’s weather can change rapidly. Before you disembark, check the day’s forecast to ensure you’re dressed appropriately and have gear for rain or cooler temperatures if necessary.
• Stay Connected : Ensure your mobile phone has service in Juneau if you plan to use it for navigation or emergencies. Alternatively, consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device or purchasing a local SIM card for internet access.

Arriving in Juneau is just the beginning of your Alaskan adventure. With a little preparation and these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to dive into all that this charming and wild destination has to offer.

Juneau Cruise Port Alaska: Overview and Best Guide

I will provide all the information you need about the Juneau Cruise Port , from finding reliable taxis to must-see attractions that highlight the area’s natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for a day or longer, dressing appropriately is important for enjoying everything Juneau has to offer while staying comfortable.

When I got off the cruise ship in Juneau, Alaska, I was struck by the stunning scenery. Tall glaciers sparkled in the distance, and charming shops and lively local culture were just a short walk away. Exploring this beautiful place can be challenging if you’re unsure about transportation, what to wear for the changing weather, or how to make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

About the Juneau Alaska Cruise Port

What to do in juneau alaska cruise port? Surrounded by majestic peaks and glistening rivers , Juneau is not merely a stop for cruise ships, it beckons adventurers to delve into the essence of Alaska’s wild beauty . As I wandered through this charming coastal town, I was captivated by the harmonious blend of nature and culture. 

The atmosphere buzzes with tales from Tlingit traditions, and vibrant local boutiques invite guests to explore art that captures the breathtaking scenery all around. Every turn uncovers a new aspect of life in this extraordinary mountain community, where it feels like each resident shares a profound bond with the land they call home.

Juneau Cruise Port Address

Stepping off the cruise ship at 470 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801 , I felt an electric pulse of adventure in the air. This vibrant address sits at the heart of Alaska’s capital city, surrounded by towering mountains and shimmering waters.

Wandering through the dock area, I discovered charming shops promoting Alaskan artisans’ crafts each piece telling its own story. The nearby waterfront park offered breathtaking views where bald eagles soared above and sea lions played in the tidepools.

Juneau Cruise Port Map

As I strolled through the Juneau Port, I was struck by how vibrant and alive the area felt. With its map guiding me to both hidden gems and well-known spots. It was fascinating to see how compact this bustling hub is everything from the charming shops offering local artisan crafts to scenic viewpoints showcasing breathtaking glacier views are just a leisurely walk away.

Free Things to Do in Juneau Alaska

Just a short walk from the cruise port, the town is easy to explore, with lovely shops and beautiful views everywhere. A downtown map for cruisers helped me find cozy cafes and unique art galleries. Each turn let me enjoy the rich culture and lively spirit of this capital city. 

Nugget Falls became one of my favorite places. A quick 20-minute taxi ride took me to its powerful waterfalls, where the mist refreshed me. The National Shrine of St. Therese , just 32 minutes away by taxi, offered a peaceful escape on an island that is both uplifting and beautiful. For beach lovers, Eagle Beach is only 38 minutes from downtown, and it’s worth every moment spent enjoying Alaska’s natural beauty. 

Visiting the glacier is affordable, with just a $5 entrance fee during peak season. In winter, it’s free, making it easy for visitors like me to enjoy nature without spending much. 

A tip for other cruisers: be careful of taxi drivers at the cruise port who try to sell tickets at high prices, sometimes over $ 17 per person ! It’s smarter and cheaper to buy tickets at the Mendenhall Glacier From Cruise Port Visitor Center when you arrive. 

Juneau Taxis Port

The convenience of this busy Juneau Taxi stand is undeniable drivers are ready to whisk you away to some of the city’s most breathtaking attractions. While Uber is a new player in town, I found that hopping into a cab offered an immediate and straightforward way to explore without waiting for the app’s surge pricing or uncertain timing, especially with limited time in Juneau.

As I settled into my taxi, I appreciated how the city sets reasonable fares: starting with a $3.40 meter drop and then just $2.20 per mile traveled. This transparency made budgeting for trips easy, but what really thrilled me were the shared ride options many drivers provided.

Best Excursions in Juneau Alaska

I’ve noticed that excursions on Alaska cruises tend to be pricier compared to other routes. Although Juneau is an amazing place to discover on foot, I want to share some of the top activities you can enjoy just outside the city:

• Goldbelt Tram (located right by port)
• Sled Dog Discovery in Juneau
• I did this excursion, and it was amazing! We didn’t “sled” on snow but rather on muddy ground, which I didn’t expect—but it was still an amazing experience!
• Whale Watching and Mendenhall Glacier
• I personally toured Mendenhall Glacier From Cruise Port , and it’s a must-stop destination if you’re porting in Alaska. It’s truly spectacular.
• Juneau Helicopter Tour
• Juneau’s Premier Whale Watching

Weather in Juneau

The embrace of towering mountains and lush forests, Juneau’s climate is predominantly Subarctic-Maritime , making it milder than many other parts of Alaska. Rainfall kisses our days approximately 230 times a year, which might sound daunting, but I’ve learned to see it as an opportunity for vibrant greenery and breathtaking waterfalls plummeting down rocky cliffs each drop adds to our raw beauty.

During the summer months from May through September our fair city transforms into a bustling hub for Alaskan cruises. The excitement in the air is palpable, as daylight stretches longer, temperatures can range from the low 60s to a surprisingly warm 75 degrees Fahrenheit on sunny days.

Juneau Cruise Port Schedule

I found the Juneau cruise ship schedule on the website of Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska (CLAA).

Cruise Port Juneau Alaska vs Curaçao Cruise Port

The towering mountains surrounding this charming port city seemed to whisper stories of their glacial past, inviting exploration beyond the typical tourist fare. I wandered through bustling shops featuring local artisans who crafted intricate totem poles and vibrant jewelry from locally-sourced materials.

In Curaçao Cruise Port , the blending of Dutch colonial architecture and Caribbean flair greets me with colorful buildings and lively street art, setting the tone for an unforgettable exploration. I find myself wandering through Punda, where local artisans showcase their crafts alongside bustling markets filled with spices and handmade souvenirs. The air is rich with the scent of fresh seafood wafting from nearby eateries, enticing me to indulge in some local delicacies.

My exploration of the Juneau Cruise Port revealed a vibrant blend of natural beauty and urban charm that every traveler should experience. The ease of navigating the port with accessible taxis and shuttles made it simple to reach breathtaking glaciers and local attractions.

I learned that dressing in layers is key to enjoying outdoor excursions comfortably, as the weather can change on a dime. Each moment spent in Juneau was filled with adventure and discovery, making it a must-visit destination for anyone cruising through Alaska.

Where do Cruise Ships Dock in Juneau Alaska?

I was pleasantly surprised by how convenient the cruise ship docking locations are. Most ships, including popular ones like the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Jewel , dock right near downtown. This means that as soon as you step off the ship, you’re just a short walk away from shops, restaurants, and some stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterfront.

Can You Walk Around Juneau From Cruise Port?

Absolutely, you can walk around Juneau from the cruise port! The downtown area is quite compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Once you disembark from your cruise ship, you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions within a short walking distance.

How Many Cruise Ports are There in Juneau?

There are actually three main cruise ports that cater to the influx of visitors during the cruise season. The primary one is the Alaska Juneau Cruise Terminal , which is located downtown and offers easy access to various attractions, shops, and restaurants. This port can accommodate larger vessels and is often bustling with activity as passengers disembark to explore the beautiful surroundings.

What is the Five Ship Limit in Juneau?

The five ship limit in Juneau is part of an effort to manage the impact of cruise tourism on the city and its residents. As someone who has lived here for a while, I’ve seen firsthand how the influx of thousands of visitors can transform our usually quiet streets into bustling thoroughfares. This limit was introduced to strike a balance between supporting our local economy and preserving the quality of life for those of us who call Juneau home.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• ICY STRAIT POINT
• BEFORE YOU BOOK
• START HERE: HOME

10 best things to do in Juneau Alaska from a cruise ship (free + on your own + excursions!) 🏔 Juneau cruise port tips

Many cruise ships have all day in Juneau. This is quite nice, because you can do something in the morning, go back to the ship for lunch, and then go out and do something again in the afternoon and/or evening!

You can find some epic excursions to do in Juneau that can end up being the highlight of your cruise!

Juneau is also a great cruise port for hiking if you want a more budget-friendly option on your own that can also be a highlight of your cruise.

I have been to Juneau 6 times by cruise ship, and here are the things to do in Juneau cruise port that you need to know about!

Viator is a partner website. I may earn a commission.

1. Mendenhall Glacier (cheap if you want + on your own)

Juneau is most notable for being the cruise port that you can see a glacier from land on your own, and that’s the Mendenhall Glacier .

So, one of the most popular things to do in Juneau during a cruise is to go to the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center.

This is in the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area of Tongass National Forest. (Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States!)

Once at the visitor center, you can see the Mendenhall Glacier from across the lake. And yes, you are seeing it from across the lake. The important thing to know is that you cannot physically touch the glacier by going to the visitor center. It’s a bit of a distant view.

From the visitor center, the most popular things to do are to take a short walk to Photo Point for another glacier viewpoint and to walk a leisurely trail to Nugget Falls .

How to go to Mendenhall Glacier visitor center

The cheapest way to get to the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center is to go by public bus. But many people don’t want to do this, because the bus stop closest to the visitor center is not so close. It will be about a mile walk from the bus stop to the visitor center. You can consider this a nice leisurely walk in Juneau!

See more about going to the Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port .

• Travel-friendly rain gear in case it rains (much of your cruise is in Southeast Alaska where it rains a lot)
• for women: hiking pants | for men: hiking pants
• Packing cubes travel set (better organize your suitcase and with clothing cubes, a shoe bag, and toiletry bag! This also makes it easier to unpack and organize your cruise cabin quicker.)
• Lightweight waterproof binoculars (so you can see wildlife better on those scenic cruising days!)
• Merrell is one of the best outdoor shoe brands
• Women's Merrell Moab 3 shoes
• Men's Merrell Moab 3 shoes

Best hike to see the Mendenhall Glacier

The best hike to see the Mendenhall Glacier is not actually a hike from the visitor center.

It is in a different area of the recreation area. You want to go to the West Glacier trailhead and hike the West Glacier Trail!

This is a true rainforest hiking experience too. You will actually feel like you’re hiking in a rainforest to feel like you’re really hiking in Tongass National Forest!

So if you choose to do the West Glacier Trail as your one and only Juneau experience, I don’t think you will be disappointed!

Similar to the bus to the visitor center, the bus stop “near” the West Glacier trailhead is about a mile away. Consider it a part of your hike!

See more about the West Glacier Trail .

• Easy-going day with a must-see: Mendenhall Glacier trolley tour
• The epic dog sledding is a visit to a sled dog camp on a glacier , and the cheaper version can be a fun remote yukon sled dog camp
• You'll spend most of your time during your cruise in Southeast Alaska, and this is the location of the "largest intact temperate rainforest in the world," according to the US Forest Service. And so... you need to consider a e-bike and rainforest hike ecotour that includes a visit to Tongass National Forest!
• More fun e-biking in Alaska: e-biking and gold panning tour
• Classic must-do in Alaska: Premier whale watching
• A better way to see the most popular glacier to see during an Alaska cruise: glacier ice adventure (the glacier is getting further and further back - see it while you still can!)
• Post cruise: Downtown Vancouver luggage storage (near the cruise port)

Mendenhall Glacier tours

There are different types of Mendenhall Glacier tours .

There are combination tours that include a stop at the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center for you to explore on your own, and then it will also include another way to experience Juneau. (Like the glacier + whale watching combo tour !)

When looking at tours that include a view of the glacier, you should understand what type of view you will be getting so you won’t be disappointed. Some tours will say you will be able to see the glacier from the tour, and it’s only a distant view from the Brotherhood Bridge . If you will be happy with a distant view, that’s great. Just know that not all “glacier views” get all that close to the glacier.

One of the most epic ways to see the Mendenhall Glacier is through a canoe tour.

You still won’t physically touch the glacier during a canoe tour, but you will get much closer to see the glacier than most people do.

There is the canoe-only tour , where you paddle to get close to the glacier, and then there’s a canoe tour with a wilderness shore landing where you walk to a glacier viewpoint, again getting a much closer view of the glacier.

2. Juneau whale watching tour (excursion)

Another one of the most popular things to do in Juneau from a cruise ship is a whale watching tour .

Juneau is one of the best cruise ports for whale watching in Alaska.

If you want to go all in, then you can book a private luxury whale watching tour on a yacht .

How to book a Juneau whale watching tour

You can look for a whale watching excursion through your cruise line.

There are dedicated whale watching only tours, and there are also combination tours that include whale watching and another Juneau experience.

Consider that the more time you have out on the water, the more chances you have to have more memorable whale sightings! (aka WHY you might want to book a dedicated whale watching tour, and not a combo tour!)

You can read the reviews .

If you want to book direct, Harv and Marv’s gets recommended a lot in Alaska cruise facebook groups.

Is Juneau the only cruise port to do a whale watching tour?

No, Juneau is not the only cruise port to do a whale watching tour. Icy Strait Point is another very good cruise port for whale sightings.

So if you have other things you want to do in Juneau, you can do your whale watching tour in Icy Strait Point !

3. Juneau icefield seaplane tour (epic excursion)

One of the most epic flightseeing excursions you can do in Juneau is a seaplane tour over the massive Juneau icefield .

You will get simply amazing views as you fly over the Juneau icefield. You’ll fly over several glaciers and you might even see blue ice.

How to book a Juneau seaplane tour

You can look for the Five-Glacier Seaplane Exploration excursion through your cruise line, or you can book directly through Wings Airways .

See my pictures from the Juneau seaplane tour .

See more of the best flightseeing tours in Alaska .

4. Juneau whale statue fountain – Takhu Whale Project (free + on your own walking from downtown)

The joke among whale watching tour guides on the drive back from a whale watching tour… Oh look, there’s a whale!

Or maybe that was just my tour guide. 🤪

Well it’s not really a joke because you actually can see a whale… a whale statue that is. 🤪 This is Takhu the whale. On google maps it’s called the Whale Project.

This is an iconic statue in Juneau though, and it can be considered to be within walking distance from the cruise port. So if you have 2 hours or so before your back-on-board time, it’s worth having a walk over.

So you are guaranteed to see at least one breaching whale by going to see Takhu. 🤪

Depending on where your cruise ship is docked, it will be a 20 to 30 minute walk one way from the cruise port to the iconic Juneau whale statue fountain. So if you’re quick about it, you don’t actually need 2 hours. But it will give you time to slowly wander around! ( map )

Takhu the whale is located in Overstreet Park, which is basically a small waterfront open area that you can walk around. (It is small, so don’t be expecting a big green park!)

When coming from downtown, the trail immediately leading to the whale statue is lined with totem poles. Once you’re at the whale fountain, you can walk around Takhu and take some creative pictures so it can actually look like a real whale jumping out of the water at first glance! (I wasn’t thinking about this at the time, so I didn’t really get pictures like this.)

More of walking through downtown from the cruise port

You can start off your walk to the whale statue by walking along the Juneau Seawalk.

This is the boardwalk you will naturally end up on as soon as you get off the cruise ship! And just by walking on the boardwalk, you will see totem poles.

So it’s really easy to see totem poles in Juneau! You actually don’t even need to try. The totem poles line the boardwalk! You can stop to read the informational signs to learn more about the meaning behind each of the totem poles.

Although you can see the downtown Juneau totem poles without even trying, if you want to be intentional about it, you can follow the downtown Juneau totem trail. ( pdf )

You can also follow the trail to the Sealaska Heritage Native Alaskan exhibit . ( map ) There is an admission fee for the Sealaska Heritage Institute. See the current fees .

If you’re looking for a nice walk in downtown Juneau and you have 2 hours or so, you can making your walking route from the cruise ship to the Juneau whale statue, and then on your way back, take your time with totem poles!

DIY day/half day ideas: I went to the Juneau whale statue on my way back to the cruise port after I went to Douglas Island. First I did an easy beach walk in Juneau on Douglas Island which I got to by bus. And then on the way back, I stopped off near the Douglas Island bridge, walked across the bridge, and then to Takhu the whale and the totem poles! And then from there, I headed to downtown and back to the cruise ship!

Is Juneau the only cruise port to see totem poles?

No, Juneau is not the only cruise port where you can see totem poles. One of the best cruise ports to see totem poles is actually Ketchikan cruise port! There are lots of totem poles all around Ketchikan . Sitka is also a very good port to see them, you can do easy walking in Sitka to see totem poles.

5. Mount Roberts tram (on your own)

The Mount Roberts tram is also called the Goldbelt Tram .

The Mount Roberts tramway is another one of the most popular things to do in Juneau, and it will take you to a high point in Juneau.

The tram station is in a very convenient location. Depending on where exactly your cruise ship is docked, you might be just a few minutes (literally less than 5 minutes walk) from the tram station.

You’ll take the tram up to the top. Once at the top, you can go for a short hike on one of the trails from the tram station. There’s also a trail that’s lined with totem poles, so this is a perfect spot to see totem poles in Juneau. You can also hike to the Father Brown Cross which will give you amazing views of Juneau’s mountains and waterway.

You can also just eat and drink with a view at the restaurant once you’re at the top. You’ll find Alaskan food and Alaskan beer.

To learn a bit about Native Alaskan culture, be sure to look for the Chilkoot Theater where you can watch a short film.

If you’re going to Juneau during peak Alaska cruise season, there’s a chance the line for the tram will be really long going both ways.

See more things to do near the Juneau tram .

How to buy Mount Robert tram tickets

You can buy Mount Robert tram tickets through your cruise line, or you can buy a ticket on-site (expect a line), or you can buy a ticket through the official Goldbelt Tram website .

NCL cruise tip: Free at Sea to get one free Mount Roberts tram ticket!

If you won’t be booking any excursions in Juneau through NCL and you have “free at sea,” then you can basically get a tram ticket for free! So don’t miss out on that!

How to HIKE to the Mount Roberts tram station

The easy way to get to the Mount Roberts tram station at the top is by taking the tram that’s a few minutes walk from your cruise ship. But why get there the easy way when you can get there the harder way?! 🤣

Well actually there are 3 good reasons to hike the Mount Roberts Trail to the tram station !

The first good reason is because you want to do a rainforest hike! You can hike through a rainforest to get to the tram station!

The second good reason is because then you won’t have to deal with crowds or a line to take the tram near the cruise port! (Although you might have to deal with it later going down.)

The third good reason is because you’ll still take the tram, it will just be one way, and it will be cheaper! (It’s only cheaper to go one way if you take it down. Buying a ticket going up is the same price whether you go one way or round trip.)

So if all that sounds good to you, you want to hike the Mount Roberts Trail starting on Basin Road. ( map ) This trail will take you straight to the tram station at the top! This is a solid hike. It’s pretty much all uphill. It’s recommended to give yourself 1.5 hours on the trail itself. And you’ll need to allocate extra time to get to the trailhead (you can walk 30 minutes – consider it part of your hike!), and you want to give yourself extra time to spend around the tram station as well.

See more about hiking the Mount Roberts Trail to the tram station .

6. Gastineau Peak (hiking + on your own)

The Gastineau Peak hike is a solid hike.

You start you hike from Gastineau Peak from the tram station, and you will start hiking in the same direction as the Father Brown Cross, and then you will keep going.

Or if you’re really ambitious, you can start it from the Mount Roberts trailhead on Basin Road ( map )… or if you’re even more ambitious you can start it from the Gold Creek Flume trailhead on Evergreen Avenue ( map ). Also since we’re talking about ambition, if you are ambitious, you can even hike further than Gastineau Peak to Roberts Peak.

The hike to Gastineau Peak is another one of the best hikes in Juneau.

If you want to choose just one epic hike, it’s a tough call between the West Glacier Trail and the Gastineau Peak hike!

On the one hand, you’re doing an Alaska cruise to see glaciers, so it feels like you MUST do the West Glacier Trail! On the other hand, the Gastineau Peak hike comes with incredible views of mountains and water!

The Gastineau Peak hike is the harder hike.

If it’s raining, I also wouldn’t do it. It’s reported to get really muddy, and there were parts of the trail that made me nervous even in sunny and dry conditions, although I do get scared easily. 🤪 (I did the West Glacier Trail in the rain, and it’s not anything that should stop you from doing it… unless you’re not prepared with rain gear and hiking shoes! I was not prepared with waterproof hiking shoes, and that meant spending time in my cabin blow drying my shoes with the hair dryer. 🤣)

7. Taku Lodge salmon bake excursion (epic excursion)

The Taku Lodge excursion is 2 excursions in one! You get the epic Juneau icefield flightseeing tour and a salmon bake tour!

The seaplane tour you do is the same Juneau icefield seaplane tour mentioned earlier, but the Taku Lodge excursion comes with a water landing at Taku Lodge!

The Taku Lodge is now only operational for day trips, and it’s basically a lodge in the middle of the Alaskan wilderness. There’s classic Southeast Alaskan forest on one side, and on the other side is the waterway with a view of a glacier.

Once your seaplane lands, you’ll have some time to walk around the grounds before the food is ready, so be sure to do this! There’s a trail you can take that goes along the water and winds into the forest. You’ll see moss-covered trees and more unusual looking trees. There’s waterfalls in the back too, although there might be a group walk after eating to go to that.

And then you’ll have a classic Alaskan-inspired meal. If you’re seated right, you can even eat with a view of a glacier!

How to book the Taku Lodge excursion

You can look for the Taku Lodge Feast & Five-Glacier Seaplane excursion through your cruise line, or you can book directly through Wings Airways .

See my pictures from the Taku Lodge salmon bake excursion .

8. Dog sledding tour (epic excursion)

One of the most epic excursions you can do in Alaska is dog sledding on a glacier. And that glacier part is important, and you can do this in Juneau!

You can do a dog sledding tour on snow even in the summer. But you need to fly to get to the snow-covered glacier in the summer.

This means that as a part of your glacier dog sledding tour, it’s also a flightseeing tour! You will fly across mountains to get to the glacier, and that part is epic all on its own.

So you’ll fly by helicopter to the sled dog camp on a glacier, and you’ll get to meet sled dogs and training and their trainer (aka musher). Then, you’ll be pulled by the dogs for a ride around the glacier!

The dog sledding season in Juneau is from mid-May to early August.

How to book a dog sledding tour in Juneau

You can look for a dog sledding excursion through your cruise line.

You can read the reviews for dog sledding tours . You can book directly through Coastal Helicopters .

Is Juneau the only cruise port to do dog sledding?

No, Juneau is not the only cruise port to do dog sledding on a glacier. You can also do a dog sledding tour in Skagway cruise port . If your cruise goes to or from Whittier or Seward and you’re spending a few days on land, you can also look for dog sledding tours in Anchorage . (And the dog sledding season lasts a few weeks longer there too, through the beginning of September.)

Dog sledding tours NOT on snow

Glacier dog sledding tours are epic but expensive. If you want a cheaper way to have fun with sled dogs in training, then you will want to look at doing a dog sled camp in Juneau .

These types of dog sledding musher camps do not include a helicopter ride, they are not on a glacier, and they are not on snow… therefore they are cheaper!

You can go to this type of sled dog camp in Skagway too.

9. Tracy’s King Crab Shack (food + on your own)

Tracy’s King Crab Shack is one of the most popular restaurants in Juneau. Yes, the thing to eat at Tracy’s is king crab!

To do Tracy’s King Crab Shack the right way, it’s like the cost of an excursion. (The right way = getting the crab legs!) King crab is expensive! See the menu .

Depending on where your cruise ship is docked, you might just be a few minutes walk from Tracy’s King Crab Shack. (Again, you might literally less than 5 minutes walk!)

This means that it’s easy for everyone to go to, and that can mean crowds and a long line.

There is also an alternate location for Tracy’s King Crab Shack that typically gets less foot traffic, so you might want to go there instead! It’s a 15 minute walk from the cruise ship, again depending on where you’re docked. ( map )

You will pass by the secondary location of the crab shack on your way to Taku the whale. So you can make a half day of it by going to the iconic whale fountain in Juneau, and then go eat the famous crab legs of Juneau! ( map )

You can also do a crab food excursion in Ketchikan .

10. Norris Glacier hike and packraft tour (epic excursion)

For the most epic excursion of all in Juneau, and you have a high level of fitness, you must consider the Norris Glacier packraft excursion. This includes 3 epic Alaska experiences all in one excursion! There’s a flightseeing tour, a glacier hiking tour, and a packrafting tour, all combined!

Glaciers are always changing. The day’s glacier exploration will depend on safety conditions. There is no guarantee where exactly you will go on the glacier. BUT, in June 2023, there is a photo review from someone standing in an ice cave. (To repeat: Ice caves are NOT guaranteed! But what is guaranteed is epic hiking on a glacier!)

How to book the Norris Glacier hike and packraft tour

You can also read the reviews and book the fly-in Norris Glacier hike and packraft tour . You can book directly through ABAK .

For a better visual of where many of these things are located in relation to the cruise port, see the Juneau cruise port map . (This also includes where your cruise ship will dock.)

Top 10 in more Alaska cruise ports: Ketchikan  | Skagway

Things to do in other cruise ports: Icy Strait Point | Sitka | Victoria | Vancouver

HAPPY DOING THINGS IN JUNEAU CRUISE PORT!

Doing a late season Alaska cruise? Be sure to see my post about Juneau in October !

• West Glacier Trail guided hike (difficult)
• Juneau whale watching tour
• Kayaking with whales
• Helicopter glacier flightseeing over the massive Juneau icefield and dog sledding on a glacier
• Mendenhall Glacier canoe with shore landing and short hike to glacier lookout (the glacier keeps getting further and further back, aka it's receding, and you'll be walking across where the glacier used to be!)
• Juneau flightseeing, glacier hiking, and packrafting all-in-one
• National forest flightseeing on a floatplane, kayaking, and wildlife sanctuary bear viewing tour (said to be the highest concentration of brown bears in the world)
• Review from cruise ship passenger: "Absolutely loved having these for our Alaska excursions from the cruise ship! Nice, lightweight, easily packable... easy to put on over our backpacks... Also, highly breathable vs the disposable plastic ones. Ours held up to the windy conditions too!..."
• Read the full review .
• Or... cheap ponchos just in case
• merrell waterproof shoes for women (one of the best shoe brands for the outdoors)
• merrell shoes for men
• for higher quality ones, as recommended in cruise facebook groups by people in-the-know, look at vortex diamondback binoculars
• For women: puffer jacket | for men: puffer jacket

Juneau Cruise Port Guide and Information

Orlando Martinez

• January 9, 2020

Juneau, Alaska, is the most unusual state capital! You can’t drive there — This charming little port is accessible only by air or sea.

Juneau is located at the northern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage, with its back to a steep set of mountains and vast tracts of roadless wilderness.

A gold strike in the aptly named Gold Creek led to the town’s formation back in 1880. The creek is still there, running straight along the fringe of downtown.

During August you can still see salmon swimming up the creek to spawn, with great blue herons and bald eagles. You might even come across the occasional black bear coming down to partake of the mobile feast. But that’s still only a fraction of what Juneau has to offer to savvy cruise visitors.

That’s only scratching the surface of the third-largest city in Alaska, and one of the oldest settlements in the region. In this Juneau Cruise Port guide and information, I put together everything you need to know before planning your visit. Enjoy your trip!

Pier location

Juneau’s cruise docks are located at the south end of the downtown area. With multiple berths that can accommodate large ships, all connected by a broad boardwalk, you’re perfectly poised for access to most of the visitor-oriented shops and activities in town.

The heart of the cruise area consists of a visitor information center, a pretty seaside park with a few food trucks in it, and the aerial cable cars of the Mount Roberts Tramway.

The most important street in town for cruisers is Franklin Street — the main street that links the cruise ship docks to downtown Juneau proper. As you might expect, Franklin Street is designed to catch, and hold, your attention. But if you’re willing to walk just another couple of blocks along Franklin Street and into downtown, you’ll find a world of locally owned shops and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Local flavor (food and beverage)

Perhaps it’s Juneau’s status as state capital or the cosmopolitan nature of its visitors; but for whatever reason, it’s one of the foodie-friendliest places in Alaska. All of the following eateries are located within just a few blocks of the cruise docks:

Case in point, V’s Cellar Door offers a creative Mexican fusion menu, with most of the”fusion” ingredients coming from Korean cuisine. Their Taco Tuesday makes for good cheap eats, and the vinegar-infused shrubs are divine.

READ MORE: The Best Local Restaurants In Juneau

Just down the street, the Rookery Cafe focuses on creative, made-from-scratch cooking. They’re part coffee shop, part restaurant, and the restaurant part is so good it’s won the local paper’s “#1 restaurant” title for several years.

The atmosphere doesn’t get much more Alaskan than the old-timey Red Dog Saloon in the heart of the cruise district, where you can enjoy robust pub food with a serving of live music and Alaska-brewed beer.

Until recently, Alaska was home to The Deadliest Catch. Visitors couldn’t come without sampling the crustacean that sends fishermen out to brave the wild seas. We’re talking about crab, of course, and Tracy’s King Crab Shack was the place to get it. This season’s crab population fell by 90% which is way below the safe limits. Thus, the fishing season for king crab and snow crab was officially canceled.

The cuisine at Salt is so world-class, you might feel inspired to dress up. That’s saying a lot in always-relaxed Alaska! They offer modern, casual cuisine accompanied by an extensive selection of wine and cocktails.

Deckhand Dave’s is a modest little food stand that serves only fresh, locally caught seafood. There’s a reason the locals love it so much.

Speaking of local love, if you enjoy ice cream don’t miss a chance to visit the much-loved Coppa Cafe. It’s in Glacier Ave, which is a bit of a walk from downtown. They used to have an amazing ice cream cart off Franklin Street, but since ownership changed hands, they no longer offer that delicacy.

Most of the tour bus operators will tell you the Salmon Spot , a little food shack just across the street from the cruise docks, offers great burgers. Well, guess what — they’re right.

Every which way you look in Juneau, you’ll find beautiful mountains or sea. But the best restaurant view in town goes to Hangar on the Wharf , an easygoing, seafood-oriented pub where you can watch seaplanes come and go from Gastineau Channel, the waters just offshore from Juneau.

You’ll find strong flavors of Russian culture throughout Southeast Alaska. One of the most delicious ways they manifest is in Pel’menis , located in the same building as Hangar on the Wharf. This low-key, hole-in-the-wall eatery is named for the Russian dumplings it offers. A serving costs $7 or $8, cash only.

Heritage Coffee is a low-key, locally-owned chain of coffee shops. Their downtown location is enormous and offers some of the best WiFi you’ll find near the cruise docks, although they usually limit access by providing a short-term passcode with each purchase.

Juneau has its share of big box stores including Fred Meyer (the local version of Kroger), Safeway, and Walmart, but you’d need a taxi to reach them. The city bus does get you within easy reach of these locations, but service is infrequent.

But if you have a craving for snacks while downtown, all is not lost. A small grocery store, the Foodland IGA , is a short walk from downtown Juneau. And you can get almost any non-grocery essentials you need at Juneau Drug Co., just a couple of blocks from the cruise ship docks.

When it comes to souvenirs, you’ll find the best authentic Alaska Native goods in the gift shop of the Sealaska Heritage Institute in the Walter Soboleff Building, a major downtown landmark. Also of note, Trickster Company is a hip, young-minded boutique owned by a Native formline artist. (The formline is the basis of the intricate, evocative shapes that are so characteristic of Southeast Alaska Native art.)

If you’re interested in all local art, one of the best downtown galleries is the very eclectic Annie Kaill’s . For souvenirs of the Russian history that weaves through much of Southeast Alaska, make a trip to the House of Russia on Franklin Street.

Cultural attractions (museums, arts institutions, etc.)

If you don’t pay a visit to the Sealaska Heritage Institute’s Walter Soboleff Building, located just a few short blocks from the cruise docks, you’re really missing out. From the awe-inspiring carved panels on the outside of the building to the full-size clan house and interactive displays both located inside, this is the best opportunity in the world to learn about the Native peoples and lifeways of this region.

Another great repository of history in the state is Juneau’s SLAM , or State Library, Archive, and Museum, all housed in one building. They don’t shy away from telling tough stories here, making this stately museum a one-stop-shop to learn the ins and outs of Alaska’s sometimes conflicted history.

If you don’t mind an uphill walk (or calling a cab), the Wickersham State Historic Site is a house that’s been converted into a museum dedicated to its former owner, Judge James Wickersham. Wickersham was also an adventurous mountaineer, and his personal history offers a great glimpse into the intrepid spirit that characterized early settlers here.

One of the most conspicuous signs of Russian history in Juneau is the St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church . The exterior looks quite humble, but the interior is rife with the gilt icons and ornate paneling typical of this type of church.

If you stroll beside Juneau’s downtown coastal highway, Egan Drive, you’ll find the lovely Juneau Seawalk, an elevated boardwalk that showcases a rehabilitated stretch of coastline and ends at a life-size statue of a breaching humpback whale. Eventually, the plan is for the seawalk to connect all the way to the cruise boardwalks.

Top Cruise Excursions

If you only have time for one shore excursion in Juneau, it’s hard to beat the Mendenhall Glacier. Shuttle buses depart for the glacier from right beside the cruise docks, and the trip there and back again doubles as a short city tour.

READ MORE: Visit Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska

Depending on your activity level you can view the massive glacier and its lake from an indoor visitor center, or head out on a hike. Your trail options range from the relatively easy one-mile trek to the base of Nugget Falls (also visible from the visitor center) or challenging loop trails into the nearby mountains.

There’s also a small elevated boardwalk over a creek that runs near the visitor center. If the salmon are running, you might get to see black bears catching fish here.

Mount Roberts is a marvel of a different sort, rearing almost 4,000 feet straight into the sky behind the cruise ship docks. An aerial tram goes about halfway up the mountain — you can see its cables from the docks. At the upper tram terminal, you’ll find stunning views, a small cafe, a modest nature center that’s especially great if you have kids along, and a theater that shows either a short film or live cultural performances, depending on your timing.

Yet another massive Alaskan marvel lives in the sea: Humpback whales, and taking a whale watching tour out of Juneau is a rare opportunity to see them engaging in bubble-net feeding, a cooperative, learned behavior in which they surround fish with a “net” of bubbles then, at the leader’s signal, lunge up through the middle of the fish and gulp them down. Several tour operators specialize in getting you out to the whales, then, return back in good time to catch your ship again.

A short cruise stopover isn’t enough time for a full-on bear-viewing expedition. If you’re starting or ending your cruise in Juneau, leave yourself time for a day tour to nearby Admiralty Island. That’s where the massive brown bears have the human population outnumbered!

And finally, for a thrill of a different sort, you can head out on a zip line tour or catch a fishing charter for your chance at some of the world’s best seafood.

An insider’s perspective

The cruise docks naturally funnel you onto Franklin Street. Although you’ll find some great restaurants and a few locally-owned shops here, it’s well worth your time to walk just a couple more blocks into the heart of downtown Juneau, where everything is locally owned and you’ll have access to a much wider variety of souvenirs.

Downtown Juneau is built into the side of a mountain, so bring sturdy walking shoes and a “hillwalking” sense of adventure — you’re going to need them.

WiFi is at a premium in Alaska, and that goes double in popular cruise ports like Juneau. Sometimes you can get access in coffee shops or bars with a purchase. But for the most reliable and free WiFi, head to the public library when it’s open.

In Juneau, the library is on the top floor of a parking garage located right next to the cruise docks.

Q1: Where do cruise ships dock in Juneau, Alaska?

The docks of Juneau are testaments of smart planning. Cruise ships dock at the southern end of downtown Juneau. There are multiple berths to accommodate large and small cruise vessels, like the Cruise Ship Terminal, South Franklin Street Dock, Marine Park, and AJ Dock.

All these docks are connected by a boardwalk, that’s more like a promenade. You can find a large assortment of shops, restaurants, and cafes along the port. From there, you can take the Mt. Roberts Tramway, which provides access to the mountain.

Q2: How far is downtown Juneau from the cruise port?

The cruise docks are pretty close to downtown Juneau. Most places are a 5-15 minute walk from the docks, with many destinations located right at the port.

Q3: What is the weather like in Juneau?

Juneau has lovely temperate maritime weather. Summers are typically mild, with occasional highs reaching 65°F. Winters are moist and long, but much less arctic than the rest of Alaska. Rains are common all year round, so always carry an umbrella! Other than that, it’s best to dress in layers.

Q4: What is there to do with kids in Juneau?

Juneau is a bit more geared towards grown-ups, but you can still find plenty of kid-friendly activities. Whale-watching tours are the best attractions. And if you’re in town, you can enjoy the Mount Roberts Tramway, Alaska State Museum, and the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery tour.

Q5: What are the best souvenirs to buy in Juneau?

Juneau has a wide variety of unique authentic souvenirs. I would start with Alaska native art and complement that with Russian lacquer boxes. Locally made jewelry is always a great gift to friends and family, and if you like books, check out the natural history ones. Finally, make sure to load up on smoked salmon. It is such a treat that no one visiting Juneau should ever miss!

Recent Posts

• Meyer Werft Shipyard Faces Uncertain Future Despite Multiple Cruise Ship Orders
• Cruise Ships in Amsterdam Face Continued Blockades by Angry Protestors
• Carnival Vista’s Next Port Canaveral Sailing Delayed for Pierside Repairs
• Princess Increases Premier Package to $90, More Unlimited Options

Share this post

Related posts.

Bringing you 15 years of cruise industry experience. Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips.   

Quick links

Cruise Radio, LLC © Copyright 2009-2024 | Website Designed By   Insider Perks, Inc

WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL

Interactive world cruise map, home | cruise ships | port expenses | hints and tips, juneau ak usa cruise port guide.

Marine Park, Ferry Terminal or S. Franklin Dock are the three cruise terminals of Juneau. Ships may anchor and tender passengers to town when more than three ships are docked. All within easy walking distance to town. There is also a shuttle bus that provides a ramp available for fully confined guests or cruise passengers with mobility difficulties.

The AJ dock is further away. For $3 per person, you can get a day pass for the AJ dock shuttle which runs every 15 minutes. The shuttle takes you to the Mount Robert Tram station. There are lots of booths there that sell tours along the street.

A $54 million project to add a pair of floating cruise ship berths to Juneau’s downtown waterfront has just been completed.

The Airport is located 10 miles from downtown. From the airport, travelers can make their way into town by taxi, with cars stationed at the airport, or via a local shuttle service that offers hotel transfers. Some hotels also provide free airport pick-up service. Capital Transit, the city's public transportation system, provides bus service from the airport.

Hotels near the Cruise Terminal

Printable map to take along.

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Juneau AK USA

Sightseeing:

At the base of grand mountain peaks and at the pristine waterfront of the Gastineau Channel is Juneau , USA's Peak Experience. USA's capital city, Juneau is located in Southeast USA. The Tongass Rain forest climate provides Juneau with lush terrain and vibrant wildflowers. Early settlers included miners during USA's gold rush and Russian fur traders. The Tlingit and Haida Indians were the first settlers to our area. Native USA influence is prominent today in Juneau. Juneau offers unparalleled glacier viewing from Tracy Arm Fjord , Mendenhall Glacier , the Juneau Ice field and Glacier Bay National Park . Outdoor enthusiasts will love Juneau's extraordinary kayaking, dog sledding, rafting, biking, hiking and glacier hiking. Winter enthusiasts will enjoy snowboarding and downhill, cross-country and heli-skiing. Abundant salmon and halibut fishing is also available minutes from downtown. Wilderness cabins and fishing lodges cater to anglers seeking the remote USA fishing experience. Juneau flight seeing excursions feature spectacular scenery. Incredible wildlife inhabits areas in and around Juneau.

Nearby Admiralty Island National Monument, features one of the largest concentrations of brown bear in the world. Icy Strait offers unprecedented whale watching. Mendenhall Glacier - When in Juneau take a regular $2 bus ($4 round trip) from the center of town, where the boats dock, to the Mendenhall Glacier park. You can pay the driver in cash or buy two tickets at one of the many kiosks on the dock. Although you can't get right up to the glacier, you get a great view of it and the visitors' center is very informative. Or take the tour buses they are a very good value, give an interesting commentary, several stops. Yes, you load in the parking area near the tram. Booths line the sidewalks. It is an hour round trip, dock to Mendenhall. 20 minute ride in each direction

Tours Excursions Transportation:

Juneau is an easy walking town.

Taxis in Juneau are very expensive

It rains a lot here, as Juneau is located in a rain forest. Wait with booking excursions till you are there.

It's fairly easy to get to key attractions beyond downtown, such as Mendenhall Glacier (20 USD by local shuttle), without renting a car. Numerous shuttle services offer inexpensive round trip rides. Inquire at the tourist kiosks lined up along the cruise docks. Juneau taxi rates are set by the City.

The Mount Roberts Tramway climbs from 27 to 2000 feet bringing you into a pristine alpine environment in just six minutes. At the top you will find trails, an observatory, nature center, restaurant, bar, theater and two gift shops. It is right on the pier. when you get off the ship you will see it. $50 for an all-day pass.

Of the cruise ship tour options, an air tour leaves the biggest impression-especially if the weather is clear. Behind Juneau lies the Juneau Ice field. Helicopter and floatplane tours are available. The most popular floatplane tour is with Wings Airways to the Taku Lodge. Most of the helicopter tours include a stop landing on the glacier. Alternatively, get a group together and charter an small airplane tour. These will generally be less expensive (you pay by the hour) and allows you to customize your experience.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here

Nearby Places:

Glacier Bay National Park & Gustavus Located just 37 miles west of Juneau, the homestead community of Gustavus is the entry point for Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. With no road access, Gustavus is easily accessible by year round scheduled commuter air service and during the summer by a scenic three-hour ferry ride or a 14-minute flight on a USA Airline 737 jet. The area is famous for its incredible country inns and lodges, most of which offer high levels of personal service and outstanding gourmet meals. Visitors to Gustavaus, population 386, can stay in the community or within the Park. During the day there are opportunities to take a day cruise into Glacier Bay National Park, fish for salmon or halibut, watch whales at Point Adolphus, or even play golf on the most scenic course in USA. Mountain bike and sea kayak adventures are also available.

Skagway Located northeast of Juneau is Skagway, home of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and the beginning of the world-renowned Chilkoot Trail. Visitors to Skagway can retrace the steps of the Klondike Gold Rush miners by climbing the Chilkoot Trail or taking the famous White Pass and Yukon Railroad, which follows the Dead Horse trail. The railroad is one of the few narrow gauge railroads left in the world. Much of downtown Skagway has been restored to its turn of the century splendor. One of only three communities in Southeast USA accessible by road, daily ferry service during the summer is provided by the USA Marine Highway System (6 hours) or commercial fast ferry service (2 hours). Convenient scheduled commuter air connections are also available.

Haines Northwest of Juneau, just ten miles west of Skagway is Haines, USA. Former home of Ft. Seward, USA's first army post, was built 1903 to protect northern Lynn Canal's deep-water ports. Also located in Haines is the 48,000-acre Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The preserve is home to 250 pairs of resident eagles; however, from November to March bald eagle numbers increase dramatically to 4,000. Also located on the road system, Haines is accessible by the USA Marine Highway System (4 _ hours), commercial fast ferry (summer season 2 hours) and scheduled commuter air service.

Shopping and Food

Visitors will find incredible specialty shops featuring limited edition designer jewelry and beautiful Native USA design jewelry. Native carved silver bracelets with totemic designs are also popular items from our region. These bracelets will usually bear the animal representation of the wearer's moiety and clan house. Sculpture and carved totem poles are popular art pieces for discriminating collectors of usan artwork. Totems were created to tell the stories of USA's Native people. Totemic designs also adorn bent wood boxes, ceremonial paddles and Tlingit halibut hooks.

The official U.S. currency is the United States dollar (symbol: $). ATM's everywhere.

Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely used and accepted, even for transactions worth only a few dollars. In fact, in some cases, it may be the only way to make a transaction. Note to overseas visitors: Prices of goods and services always seem lower than they really are, as taxes and gratuities are seldom included.

Most states have a sales tax, ranging from 2.9% to nearly 10% of the retail price; 4-6% is typical. Sales tax is almost never included in posted prices (except for gasoline, and in most states, alcoholic beverages consumed on-premises), but instead will be calculated and added to the total when you pay.

Tipping in America is widely used and expected. While Americans themselves often debate correct levels and exactly who deserves to be tipped, generally accepted standard rates are:

• Full-service restaurants: 15-20% (Often this is the only income of the wait(ress). Tips are either left in cash or you can add it to the credit card slip) Note: Few restaurants add an automatic service charge, in which case it is up to you how much you tip extra. Check your bill!
• Taxi drivers, hairdressers, other personal services: 10-15%
• Bartenders: $1 per drink if inexpensive or 15% of total
• Bellhops: $1-2 per bag ($3-5 minimum regardless)
• Hotel doorman: $1 per bag (if they assist), $1 for calling a cab
• Tour guides: Depending on tour length, size, and overall quality of guided tours; for half day tours or less $5-10 per person, for longer tours $10-20 per person.
• Private car & limousine drivers: 15-20%
• Housekeeping in hotels: $1-2 per day for long stays or $5 minimum for very short stays (optional)
• Food delivery (pizza, etc.): $2-5, possibly more for very large orders

Currency Converter

Communication:

The U.S. has no official language at the federal level, but English is by far the standard for everyday use. Several states have declared their official state language as English. Spanish is also official in the state of New Mexico, where it is widely spoken; French is official in Louisiana and the Hawaiian language is official in Hawaii, but neither approaches the use of English and are official for primarily historical reasons.

Keep in mind that the wi-fi in the port is limited. Cafes with WIFI are in town.

The Juneau Public Library , located at 292 Marine Way adjacent to the Cruise Ship Docks, offers free internet access. The library is open from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Thursday, and from noon to 5:00 pm on Friday through Sunday.

Emergency 911

Opening Hours and Holidays:

In major metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles, many drugstores and supermarkets are routinely open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, while department stores, shopping centers and most other large retailers are typically open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and often with shorter hours on Sundays - generally 11 a.m. or noon to 5 or 6 p.m. On holidays, the tendency is to remain open (with the exception of the most important holidays like Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day where stores are generally closed)

Holidays in the USA

Help us to keep this page up to date: Mail us your suggestions

Thank you for printing this article! Please don’t forget to come back to whatsinport.com for new and updated port guides.

Home | Privacy Policy

10 Spectacular Things to Do in Juneau Cruise Port + Port Guide

Nestled on the shores of the Gastineau Channel and the Alaskan Panhandle in southeastern Alaska, Juneau is the capital of Alaska and the second-largest city in the United States of America.

Because of its spectacular sceneries, breathtaking landscapes, and a wide variety of things to do, Juneau is one of the major Alaskan ports of call in the Alaskan cruise itineraries. In this Juneau cruise travel guide, read about:

• Juneau cruise port (Juneau cruise terminal, getting around the port)
• 10 best things to do in Juneau port & popular Juneau shore excursions

Visit also our cruise port guides to Skagway , Halifax , Galveston , Boston , Vancouver

Juneau Cruise Port

The port of Juneau consists of three cruise terminals: Marine Park (2 berths/the largest terminal and closest to the city center), Ferry Terminal , and South Franklin Dock (also called S Franklin Dock/Boardwalk, this dock is located in the heart of the city along S Franklin street, the most popular street in Juneau).

In addition to these three terminals that feature in total four docks, there is AJ Dock located a little bit further. If your ship docks at AJ dock, shuttle buses are available to take you into town for an extra fee.

All the docks are located within a short walking distance from Juneau city center. You can reach the downtown either on foot (15 to 20 minutes walk) or by shuttle bus.

The frequency of the shuttle buses may depend on the number of ships in port that day, so they normally run every 10 minutes or longer. There is also a shuttle bus that provides a ramp available for fully confined guests or cruise passengers with mobility difficulties.

Once you leave your ship, you will find a tourist information booth by the end of the pier where you can check the schedule of the shuttle buses and whether there is an extra fee (cash only) applied.

Keep in mind that the wi-fi in the port is limited, and you can find the internet only downtown for an extra fee if you decide to purchase a drink at specific locations.

Some jewelry shops offer wi-fi, such as Diamonds International. ATMs are also available downtown.

Taxis in Juneau are very expensive and you can find them in the downtown of Juneau or by ordering in advance. The prices vary based on the number of people in the vehicle.

In downtown Juneau, you can also find public transportation , just make sure you check the schedule as the buses may run every 30 minutes or 1 hour each. You can check the timetables and fares on the Juneau public transportation website .

• Explore Juneau tours and activities
• Book a transfer to/from the port of Juneau
• Find hotels in Juneau

Exploring Juneau Downtown (Walking Distance)

There are so many fun things to do in Juneau , but if you decide to go to the city at your leisure, bring your camera as you may encounter eagles and beautiful landscapes.

Travel as lightly as possible, walking shoes are recommended, and also keep in mind that the weather in Alaska is changeable and short showers may appear.

The downtown offers more than 40 shops including a variety of duty-free shops, native arts and crafts, jewelry (Diamonds International), sport winter outfits/waterproof jackets.

Juneau is an amazing port for dining or lunch ashore. You will find a variety of restaurants offering the best Crab Alaskan Grill, salmon, and not to be missed the local ice cream or craft beer.

Downtown Juneau has also a couple of highlights, but I would recommend exploring outside the port where you can experience the most incredible glaciers and the real Alaska. Once you return from your tour, you can explore Juneau downtown if you have a bit of extra time.

The main highlights of Juneau downtown are Mount Roberts Tramway, Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, and Alaska State Museum for those of you interested in historic sites and the history of Alaska. Read more about these attractions further in the article.

10 Spectacular Things to Do in Juneau Cruise Port

1. mount roberts tramway.

If you decide to stay in the port of Juneau, one of the most popular highlights is Mount Roberts Tramway, which is similar to a cable car (covered and a bit bigger) and can accommodate between 8 to 12 passengers simultaneously depending on their weight.

The Tramway is located downtown and it’s going up to 1745 ft (532 m) above sea level.

The Tramway is also recommended for fully confined passengers or guests with walking difficulties, as it is wheelchair accessible. Right at the top, you can enjoy spectacular landscapes and great shopping, facilities, and free wi-fi.

This attraction can be combined with any other tour of that day because the Tramway experience runs all day long with set departure times.

2. Norris Glacier and Dogs Sledding

My number one recommendation for Juneau is Dogs Sledding and Norris Glacier or Dogs Sledding and Mendenhall Glacier; the glaciers are very similar and no matter what tour you book, a spectacular and unique experience is guaranteed!

This adventure normally starts with a breathtaking 20-minute scenic flight over impressive Juneau Icefield, Alaskan fjords, snow-capped mountains, and awe-inspiring glacier formations.

After your helicopter ride, you arrive at a remote dogsled glacier camp where you meet your new friends – adorable Alaska huskies, performance-bred dogs that will take you on an exhilarating ride of a lifetime!

Apart from the ride which is an absolute highlight of a journey, you will also meet professional mushers who will tell you how indigenous people and early explorers used to get around Alaska, share stories about the legendary Iditarod race, and educate you on sled dog breeds.

To top off your day, you get a bit of free time at the end of the experience to enjoy the surrounding views, cuddle the puppies, and catch the best shots. The dogs are fully trained and the guides are very knowledgeable and approachable.

Keep in mind that the flights are organized in groups of 3 to 4 passengers at a time depending on the weight, including one person in the front and a maximum of 3 in the back. In the back, only 2 will have a window seat view.

To join the helicopter, you will be transferred to the flight base located approximately a 25-minute bus ride from the cruise port. You will receive a full safety briefing, and you will be allowed to use facilities as there are no facilities on the site.

It is recommended to travel light (make sure you bring a raincoat/waterproof jacket, waterproof shoes/boots). Are you ready for the ride of a lifetime?

Check out Juneau helicopter and dog sledding tours

3. 5 Glaciers Flightseeing Experience

On this spectacular journey, you will experience real, wild Alaska! The trip normally includes a helicopter ride over Norris Glacier, Hole in the Wall, East and West Twin Glaciers, and Taku Lodge Glacier, a massive tidewater glacier that moves about 3 inches every year!

This incredible adventure allows you to take an insight into the fascinating history of the glaciers and their formation, as well as the origin of their names. All that comes with majestic views of Alaskan natural wonders and a ride over the lush Tongass National Forest, the largest National Forest in the USA that covers around 17 million acres!

The greatest part of this flightseeing experience is that the seaplane can accommodate about 12 passengers at a time and each one will have a window seat view (weight restrictions applied). The seaplanes get extremely close to the glaciers and sites, so you get the chance to see the most incredible formations of 5 different glaciers.

The flight duration is normally between 35 to 45 minutes, and the transfer from the port to the base of the flight takes approximately 25 minutes by bus. Short briefing and preparations could take about 15-20 minutes depending on the group.

At the Taku Lodge, you may also see black or brown bears. It is also highly recommended to carry your binoculars if you decide to book this tour.

You should travel as lightly as possible, as no bags or other belongings are permitted on a seaplane. Lockers are available at a base (an extra fee may apply).

4. Mendenhall Glacier Trekking

This experience is designed exclusively for adventure seekers! The 13-mile-long Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular natural wonders of Alaska, and trekking is one of the activities you can opt for if you seek an action-packed holiday.

Nestled high up in the mountains, Mendenhall Glacier is 3.000 years old and features breathtaking geological formations and history that you can reveal on a guided walk across the glacial surfaces covered by snow and ice.

The trip normally starts with a 25-minute min bus ride from the port to the base for your flight. You will receive a full safety briefing and all instructions needed, including your equipment: boots, a jacket, pants, and a backpack.

Make sure you travel light without valuables; lockers will be provided at the base, and it is recommended to use the facilities at a camp as there will be no facilities once you start your trek.

After you are all set, you will embark on a spectacular 20-30 minute flight over incredible sceneries and Tongass National Forest before you reach the Mendenhall Glacier where your guided trek starts.

The hike is considered strenuous, involves physical activity (the hike itself can last up to 1 hour 30 minutes/2 hours), and is the only activity that allows you to climb the actual glacier.

Groups are normally made of a maximum of 15-20 participants at the time, depending on how many ships are in the port on that day.

A maximum of 4 passengers can be accommodated in a helicopter at a time. Weight restrictions are applied and there is also a very strict medical form that all participants need to complete before joining the activity.

Explore Mendenhall Glacier trekking tours 

5. Alaska Zip Line

Alaskan wildlife and its stunning nature are the main highlights to be experienced, and the zipline in Juneau is one of the best choices for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

Numerous ziplines, aerial suspension bridges, lush Alaskan rainforest, and its wildlife await you on this exciting adventure designed for those who want to experience the best of Alaska’s nature!

Your journey usually starts with a bus ride for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, and once you reach the forest you will swap the bus with a truck. The bumpy ride on a truck through the forest lasts around 20 minutes, during which you will enjoy the fresh air and majestic views along the way.

This is a very popular activity for Alaska and it involves a variety of steps and 5 to 7  long zip lines. The groups for zip line count between 12 to a maximum of 24 participants, whereas at the location there will be groups of 4 people at a time.

All instructions and safety equipment will be provided right at the site and are mandatory to wear.

Explore the Zipline tours and activities

6. Mendenhall Canoe Adventure

Looking for an adrenaline-pumped activity that will make your cruise to Alaska unforgettable? Board your stable and modernly equipped canoe and start paddling across Mendenhall Lake into the face of the Mendenhall Glacier.

Enjoy an up-close look at the impressive, 377 ft high Nugget Falls and the gigantic glacier as you paddle around luminous blue icebergs and past towering glacial cliffs.

Your exploration usually includes a guided trek across the glacier where you get to soak up some local history and take in the phenomenal views of the endless, translucent geological formations.

Useful tips : Keep in mind that this experience is usually very limited in availability, as there is a maximum of 12 participants and only one departure per day. The trip normally starts with a short 25-minute bus ride to the base of canoes where the safety briefing will be provided. There are no facilities at the site and make sure you wear hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing. Binoculars and a camera are a must!

Explore Mendenhall Glacier canoeing tours

7. Mendenhall Glacier Kayaking

If you enjoy wilderness, sea views, nature, and adventure, paddling your kayak to the glacier is the perfect choice for you.

This activity normally doesn’t take you on a glacier itself, but you will get to the closest and safest place to be able to take photos. The kayak activity is considered strenuous, and participants are required to sign a medical waiver before joining the trip.

It takes 30 minutes drive from the Juneau cruise port to the base of the kayaks where you will receive your equipment and briefing. Kayaks are available in singles or doubles.

The weather may change during your activity so it is recommended to wear a raincoat/waterproof jacket and closed-toe shoes. Also, bring a bottle of water and binoculars to observe closer the enchanting beauty of Alaskan glaciers.

Explore Mendenhall Kayak tours and activities

8. Whale Watching

When in Alaska, you can’t skip wildlife activities among which whale watching is the most impressive one! Here, wildlife spotting is 100% guaranteed!

Enjoy the fantastic views of the Humpback Whales, Killer Whales, Bald Eagles, Sea Lions, and other native wildlife. The whales are huge and come extremely close to the boat, and if you are lucky, you can enjoy an up-close lunch-feeding Humpback Whale experience!

The journey normally starts with a 20-minute bus ride from Juneau cruise port to the dock where you will board the boat. The boats are usually big and comfortable, and the ride itself is narrated which allows you to learn about Alaskan wildlife and rich natural treasures.

During the sail, you will be able to see a colony of seals and wild eagles, but the absolute highlight is the huge Humpback whales.

It is a one-of-a-kind sight that you will want to capture with your best camera ! The experience is highly recommended for families with kids, couples, and tourists with walking difficulties.

Explore Whale Watching and wildlife spotting tours

9. Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

Tucked in a breathtaking mountainous setting, Mendenhall Glacier is one of the main highlights of Juneau downtown.

For those of you who want to avoid strenuous activities but still enjoy the beauty of the glaciers, you can visit the Visitor Center of Mendenhall Glacier, located close to the downtown (15-20 minutes bus ride, depending on the traffic).

The Visitor Center offers unique views of Mendenhall Glacier, Nugget Falls, and beautiful Mendenhall Lake. Here, you can visit the exhibition area and learn about the rich history of the Alaskan glaciers, their formation, and the native wildlife.

Keep in mind that the Visitor Center offers only a viewpoint of the Glacier; you are not stepping on the glacier itself. This visit involves a minimum amount of walking, however, you could experience extended periods of standing at the site because it may get crowded.

The Visitor Center is partially flat, which makes it suitable for tourists using devices or full-time wheelchair users.

Explore Mendenhall Visitor Center tours

10. Macaulay Salmon Hatchery

Located approximately 15 minutes drive from Juneau port, Macaulay Salmon Hatchery is the largest Salmon Hatchery in Southeast Alaska raising over 130 million chum, king, and coho salmon annually.

At the Visitor Center, you can see the outside operations of an active hatchery, learn about the fascinating life cycle of salmon and learn about its importance in Alaska.

You can observe adult and baby salmons but also see over 150 local marine species in the various aquariums and touch tanks.

You can visit the hatchery from May to September. For guided tours, there is an extra fee to pay and they are available only at specific times of the year. This attraction is fun, educational and suitable for both kids and adults.

To top off your day, make sure you head out to Juneau downtown to try out some of the Alaskan local specialties: mouth-watering grilled salmon, king crab bisque, hot smoke wings, blueberry cake, and sea-salted caramels – the deadliest of Alaskan sweets!

Explore Macaulay Salmon Hatchery tours

Wrapping Up

There are no words to describe Alaska and its spectacular beauty, especially for those of you who appreciate nature and its wilderness.

If you taking a cruise to Alaska, make sure you plan each day carefully as you don’t want to miss its unique treasures and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that it has to offer.

You May Also Like:

Australia & New Zealand Cruise Port Guides

Cruises to USA and Canada

Caribbean Cruise Port Guides

Mediterranean Cruise Port Guides

Western Europe Cruise Port Guides

Baltic & Scandinavia Cruise Port Guides

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer here.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Centennial Hall Convention Center
• Convention Services
• Contact Us-Meetings
• Bring it Home
• Suggested Itineraries
• Services for Travel Professionals
• Juneau Weddings & Reunions
• Media Library
• Media Newsletter
• About Travel Juneau
• Associate Partners
• Job Opportunities
• Tourism Best Management Practices (TBMP)
• Board of Directors
• Staff Contact Information
• Volunteer Program
• Annual Report
• Partner With Us

Ship Calendar

Juneau, alaska.

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for traveling to the coolest places on earth

Juneau Alaska Cruise Port : Your Complete Guide

Sharing is caring!

Juneau, Alaska is one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring cruise ports in the world. If you’re lucky enough to have your cruise ship dock here, be sure to make the most of your time by exploring all that Juneau has to offer. From glacier viewing to whale watching, there’s something for everyone in the Juneau Alaska cruise port. Don’t miss out on this incredible destination!

Do cruises dock in Juneau?

Yes, Juneau is one of the most popular ports for an Alaskan cruise.

What is the best time to visit Juneau Alaska?

Late spring to early fall will give you the best weather and hours of daylight. With all of the events and festivals here during the year you will find something enjoyable whenever you travel, but if you are going to go on a cruise you can expect their calendars to run from spring to fall. So basically between May and August. These are the months that you’re most likely to see whales.

If you don’t mind traveling during the shoulder season which is September through April, you could save a ton of money on airfare and lodging. Just remember it’s going to be cold!

How many days should I spend in Juneau?

Depending on the length of your cruise is how much time you should set aside for Juneau. There is so much to see and do. You can ride the Juneau Tram, explore the Mendenhall Glacier at Mendenhall Lake, take a wildlife tour to see the brown bears, shop at the Artist’s Gallery, watch for humpback whales or take a nature hike. However many days you spend here you will find many popular excursion options to fill your time at the Port of Juneau. It is the state capital of Alaska and it is the second largest city in Alaska after Sitka. From the rugged mountains and Mendenhall valley to the local artists and Glacier Bay national park there is something to amaze everyone in Juneau.

What is the rainiest month in Juneau Alaska?

September and October are see the highest rainfall in Juneau with 7-8 inches on average. August, November and December see about 6 inches of rain.

What is the coldest month in Juneau Alaska?

January and February are the coldest months in Juneau with the lows at about 20 degrees Fahrenheit and a high around 30. And keep in mind that in the winter months there may only be about 6 hours of daylight in Juneau.

Is Juneau walkable from the cruise ship?

Yes! The ships dock just at the south end of the downtown area. It is right across the street from the Mt. Robert’s Tramway. Many of your tours or excursion can pick you up near the Tramway.

Is Juneau walkable?

There are many popular attractions within walking distance to the Juneau cruise port. Many shops and restaurants are close by for cruise passengers to access quickly. You can get a map of downtown at one of the four welcome centers in town. Right at downtown you will find coffee shops and bistros, Indian, Italian and Mexican cuisine along with pizza and amazing seafood.

Do you need a car in Juneau Alaska?

Many attractions you will want to visit are in the downtown area or have access from the Tramway, ferry terminal or shuttle bus. There are a few things that are easier to get to with a car, like the west hiking trail at the Mendenhall Glacier recreation area . If you take the bus, it drops you off about a mile from the trail head.

What is Juneau Alaska known for?

Juneau is known for being a great location to view wildlife in their natural habitat. We think it has to be the best Alaska cruise port. With downtown Juneau being just a short walk from the cruise terminal there is so much to see and do right away. If you are able to book a cruise tour to visit a nature center, the Gastineau channel, or one of the helicopter tours we highly recommend spending some time enjoying all that Juneau has to offer. Just remember when booking a helicopter tour , they can be canceled due to weather conditions.

We know you have many options with the cruise lines so make sure you research all of the shore excursions available when you travel . You cannot see it all in one trip so you must prioritize items and budget for them accordingly.

How much does the Juneau Tram cost?

Daily tram tickets are $ 45 for Adults, $30 for children and toddlers are free. Call to verify prices for your travel dates as they are subject to change.

Can you see whales in Juneau?

Yes! We had the best time on our tour to the Mendenhall Glacier for whale watching in the Juneau Alaska cruise port. After a bus ride to Auke Bay there is a guided walk through nature before you get to the smaller vessel that takes you out to see humpback whales, and orcas. We got some of the most amazing photographs of our lifetime here. We booked the Alaska Whales & Mendenhall Glacier Small Group Tour through Holland America and it was fantastic! It was hard to catch them on still camera but we got plenty of video that we are posting on our Instagram and TikTok . The best time to see whales is May-August because of the whale migration.

From these tour boats you can also see sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals, deer and bald eagles. Your trip begins ride in a heated safari vessel with large windows that completely open to see wildlife on the water. Your captain will guide you through Stephens Passage, and let me tell you they know the best spots to see whales. After that you will take a short,   guided hike through the Tongass National Forest to the viewing of Mendenhall Glacier. Look for the beautiful purple flowers on the walk as pictured above.

The operators of this tour  guarantee that a whale will be sighted  on this excursion. If not, you will receive a $100 cash refund from the tour operator at the conclusion of the tour.

Are there bears in Juneau Alaska?

Yes! Juneau is home to black bears and brown bears. They thrive with the waterways and salmon population. It is common to actually see bears wandering through neighborhoods. Wildlife viewing is very popular in the Juneau Alaska cruise port. We didn’t see any on this trip but we also knew the salmon wasn’t running just yet. We hope to see them on our next Alaska cruise we booked which will be in the month of July when the salmon will possibly be running.

Can I see the northern lights in Juneau?

Absolutely. Juneau is a great place to go to if you want to watch the Aurora Borealis. Fairbanks is the top spot, but Juneau is still prime viewing for this phenomenon. For the best viewing venture out in a kayak. You can kayak from the coast to the Tongass National Forest or to the Mendenhall glacier. If you can ice skate you may want to try making your way out on the Auke Lake. When it is frozen, it’s a great place to watch the lights in the Alaska State Capitol.

Cruise season

Alaska’s cruise season is short but sweet, running from May to September. If you’re lucky enough to cruise to Alaska during that time, there’s a good chance you’ll be docking in Juneau. Juneau is one of the most popular cruise ports in Alaska, and it’s not hard to see why. Cruise ships can dock right in the heart of downtown. This means you’ll be just a few steps away from all the best shops and restaurants. And if you’re looking for some fun excursions, Juneau has plenty to offer. You can spot bald eagles and brown bears in the wild, explore glaciers and waterfalls, or even take a helicopter ride to get a bird’s eye view of this stunning state. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Juneau, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Juneau, Alaska is a beautiful place to visit and we hope you consider traveling there. The cruise industry has done an excellent job of marketing the area as a tourist destination and it’s definitely worth your time to check out what they have to offer. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or simply want to relax in some stunning natural surroundings, the Juneau Alaska cruise port has something for everyone. Thanks for following our blog and we look forward to bringing you more great content in the future!

Awesome Oceanside Vacations

Check out some of these awesome oceanside vacation ideas.

• Cruise Carry on Packing List
• Cruising The Koningsdam with Holland America
• 5 Most Exclusive Villas in Turks and Caicos
• Awesome Beaches in Kissimmee Florida
• Holland America: Cruising The Rotterdam
• Ports of Call: Grand Turk Travel Guide
• Touring the Rhine Getaway with Viking Cruise
• Travel the Western Caribbean with Carnival Cruise Line
• Cruising on the Carnival Sunshine
• Disney Cruise Packing List & Money Saving Tips

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Facebook Group
• Explore Oklahoma Facebook Group
• Hot Deals Group
• Recipe Group
• Homesteading Facebook Group
• Don’t forget to invite your friend’s to our Facebook groups! We would also love to see your vacation pictures!

Similar Posts

Vegas for Couples: More than a Weekend Getaway

Top 5 things to Do in Crystal River, Florida

5 Reasons to Visit Irving Texas

Nostalgic Travel: Reliving Your Past Through Experiences

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Fun Things to Do in Hot Springs Arkansas

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

CRUISE ADDICTED

Ship to Shore cruise news – people, offers, ships, ports

Juneau, Alaska – Cruise Port Guide

What to do in Eight Hours ashore… Juneau, Alaska – a Cruise Port Guide…

When we visited Alaska – on a one week roundtrip from Seattle on Oosterdam with Holland America Lines – we combined it with a long shore-based trip in Canada. We planned a lot of whale watching / bear watching/ float plane exploration in Canada so we thought that the cruise would be a good opportunity to see what there was to do on an Alaska trip without taking an organised excursion. We heard a lot of discussion about how expensive they can be, especially in Alaska and we were interested to look for alternatives.  

The first thing to say is that when we were planning our trip we were shocked at how short some of the port stops were in Alaska – in comparison to other destinations. Obviously this is a combination of the ship having to enter and leave port at certain points of the tide and also of the distances to be covered between ports but it is certainly a factor to be considered when deciding to DIY it in Alaska as it really isn’t the place to be a pier runner – the logistics of transferring to the next port independently would be truly mind blowing!! 

Juneau, the capital of Alaska since 1906, was our first port of call. It is the only American State Capital not accessible by road – everything and everyone arrives by boat or air!  Named after one of the two men -Joe Juneau and Richard Harris – who discovered gold in the area back in 1880, the town quickly grew up as mines flourished in the hills above and by 1906 Juneau was centre of the worlds gold mining trade. Unfortunately it was a short lived title and by the 1940s labour shortages due to WW2 meant that the mines closed. Today the cruise industry is the main source of income and employment history of Juneau for the town and the Mendenhall Glacier is its most promoted attraction.

There were five pages of excursions for Juneau in the HAL brochure, ranging from $55 to $659 a head! The trip were mainly whale watching, fishing and trips by coach, helicopter or float plane out to various nearby glaciers for a variety of activities such as hiking, dog sledding, salmon bakes and glacier walking. We were quite impressed that HAL were selling tickets for the Mount Roberts Tramway at $35 – the same price as at the ticket office, HAL would even refund them if you returned them unused by ‘all aboard’ time! If you are planning on using the tramway it would definitely save time to buy tickets on board. 

 It is possible to book pretty much all the excursions independently, rather than through the cruise line, either online beforehand or in person when you arrive. If booking ahead be sure you can get a refund if you have to cancel due to bad weather etc. Many people also visit the main sights by taxi – $25 each way for a cab to the Mendenhall glacier seemed to be about standard. Cabs drop you at the visitor centre and then it is about a miles walk further on to see the waterfall and glacier.  There is also a ‘blue bus’ shuttle to the visitor centre which costs about $35 each which didn’t seem brilliant value! We wanted to see what we could do without spending anything much so we decided not to take cabs but to get out and walk!

What is within walking distance of Juneau Cruise dock?

We docked alongside the pier with three other ships and, as you can see in the pictures, were immediately right in the centre of town. The dock area is flat with level access to the Mount Roberts lift, shops, the famous Tracy’s Crab Shack and the Red Dog Saloon as well as to the main shopping streets and museums. There were many booths on the boardwalk selling exactly the same excursions that had been available onboard, the prices advertised seemed to similar to those on board although there appeared to be discounts available. 

We docked at 13.00 and were leaving at 21.00. Although that sound quite late it was still light at that time and most of the shops in town seemed happy to stay open as long as there were ships in port. It was our first experience of an Alaskan town and it looked much as we expected although we were quite surprised at the number of jewellery shops in town – HAL helpfully provide a map with them all marked! We initially thought this was because of Juneau’s history as a Gold Centre but it turned out to be a feature at every port and shopping for jewellery was obviously a popular cruise activity! Many of the other shops in town sported signs to say they were owned and operated by Alaskan families and amongst those we found some very interesting First Nations art, some lovely glass work and jewellery and a specialist woodcarving cooperative that featured some very unusual wooden guitars.

There is plenty to see and do in town so you could happily spend an afternoon without going very far at all. The weather was pretty awful while we were there, with constant rain and low cloud and many people seemed to choose not to go very far at all but there is plenty to see and do in town and you can happily spend a few hours without any organised trips at all. The main part of town is pretty flat, sloping steeply at the edge of town up into the hills. The Mount Roberts Tramway (the large building to the right of the port) is the easiest way to get up above the port. The Visitor Information Centre is next door to the Tramway base station. 

If you just want to stay in town and mainly on the flat you can have a really interesting day…

A short walk around Juneau town

Leave the ship on South Franklin Street, where you will find shops, the Red Dog Saloon , The Alaskan Hotel and the Alaskan Brewing Company .

Then either head up the steep slope of North Franklin Street to the Russian Orthodox Church of St Nicholas or head left onto 4th street to the Alaskan State Capitol Building and the City Museum.

From here head on out along Caloun to the old Governors Mansion . Walk back to the port down Seward Street or head down the steps to Willoughby to reach the new Alaska State Museum (SLAM) . This is well worth a visit to get a real understanding of the culture and history of Alaska. If this is your first port you will be able to discover more about First Nations and their influence on all the places you are heading for.

Heading back to the port along Seward Street you will find the Sealaska Heritage Centre and back down Marine Way to the Boardwalk, where you will find Traceys famous Crab Shack and the ship. walk past the ship to the foot of the Mount Roberts Tramway . The walk itself will take about an hour (more if you head up to the Governors Mansion) plus however long you spend looking at the various places but you’ll never be more than half a mile from the ship so you have absolutely no chance of missing it!! 

• South Franklin Street

for shopping – the majority of shops aimed at visitors are strung along this to the left of the port. 

• The Red Dog Saloon

dating back to the Gold Rush heyday, the Red Dog Saloon is a raucous spot popular with tourists and history buffs. The walls of the saloon are covered with an extraordinary collection of trophy heads and other memorabilia, including a pistol apparently lost in a bet by Wyatt Earp!

• The Alaskan Hotel

the oldest hotel in Alaska which opened in 1913 – still has its original wooden swing doors and a Tiffany glass facade and bar.

• Alaskan Brewing Company find the store for a free shuttle out to the Brewery for tasting and tours.
• Russian Orthodox Church of St Nicholas the church is a heady mix of candles, vestments and icons dating back to 1893 and is worth a quick look It also has a small gift shop.

• Alaskan State Capitol Building not as impressive as you might imagine but it has four impressive columns made with Ketchikan marble. Inside see two murals of local life, the senate rooms and the governors office on a self-guided tour, 0700 to 19.00
• Alaska State Museum (SLAM) this glitzy new museum is well worth a visit to get a real understanding of the culture and history of Alaska. If this is your first port its a good place to discover more about the First Nations and their influences in the places you are heading for.
• The City Museum in the Veterans Memorial Building focuses on local history especially on the Gold Rush and gold mining. You will find arts and crafts made by Veterans in a small shop to the side.
• Sealaska Heritage Centre in Seward Street focuses on First Nations History and the situation today with a full size replica Potlatch House and displays of First Nation Tlingit artefacts, dance costumes and masks.
• Tracy’s Crab Shack is the iconic place to eat Alaska crab in Juneau but will find lots of other places too!
• Mount Roberts Tramway is off to the right as you go ashore, away from the town – it takes you up to the viewpoint above the town.

What can I do on a hike or bus from Juneau Cruise dock?

• Mount Roberts Tramway and Trail. A trip on the Tramway (personally I’d call it a cablecar!) sounds expensive at $35 for a six minute trip but is probably worth it as it avoids a long, muddy, steep trek up the trails! We were quite impressed that HAL were selling tickets for the Mount Roberts Tramway at $35 – the same price as at the ticket office, HAL would even refund them if you returned them unused by ‘all aboard’ time! If you are planning on using the tramway it would definitely save time to buy tickets on board. If you don’t fancy a trek then there are still good views from the top station There is also a film on Tlinglit history, a bird centre, restaurant and gift shop. Apparently you can walk back down to the town on the Mount Roberts trail but read on..!

• Alpine Meadow from the top station you can take a circular hike out into the meadows, which are sometimes full of flowers. The lookout is about half a mile away with great views down to Juneau and across to Douglas Island. Either turn back here or continue on up to
• Mount Gastineau Ridge and follow a circular route back round to the top of the Tramway. Don’t attempt this without proper waterproof shoes as you may well encounter snow!

• Treadwell Mine Historical Trail take a local bus across to Douglas Island where you will find the site of one of the main gold mines ion the area – the 1910 explosion was the worst mining disaster in Alaska – well signposted trail around some interesting artefacts with great views back across to the port.
• Last Chance Mine Museum this is what we chose to visit – full report below!

What should I do by private tour or cruise excursion from Juneau Cruise dock??

• Whale Watching can be booked through the ship, privately online in advance or in one of the many tourist booths on the boardwalk. It really is an amazing experience but you need to know that there is whale activity nearby to make the most of it. Booking it locally means that you get a chance to be sure to talk to the captain about what you are likely to see. If booking on the day you need to get off the ship bright and early!

• Scenic Flights can be booked through the ship, privately online in advance or in one of the many tourist booths on the boardwalk. It really is an amazing – if expensive – experience but you need good weather to make the most of it. Booking it locally means that you get a chance to be sure the weather is ok and also to talk to the pilot about the route. You will normally see the tongrass forest, the bay and the Mendenhall Glacier but he may offer to take a slightly different route. There are LOADS of flights available – the planes buzz around all the time!

• Mendenhall Glacier – this is the big Juneau landmark. Impressive from a distance, it is absolutely fascinating close up. You can get to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Centre by taxi or local bus – its about 12 miles. A taxi is about $25 each way to the Mendenhall glacier. There is also a ‘blue bus’ shuttle to the visitor centre – it costs about $35 each which didn’t seem brilliant value! Cabs drop you at the visitor centre and then it is about a miles walk further on to see the waterfall and glacier at Nugget Falls – on the way you might spot black bears fishing in the river. There are other routes of varying length, all well signposted – check at the visitors centre.
• Glacier Gardens Rainforest This botanical garden in the Tongrass Forest has a diverse range of native plants and amazing ecosystems. Tours from the base which is close to the airport take you high into the forest for a panoramic view of Juneau. Taxi or local bus from town

What we did with our day in Juneau

We wanted to have a good walk so we set off, on a typical damp Juneau morning, to join the Mount Roberts trail at the edge of town. We had been told that we could climb out of town on a stepped path from the top of 6th Street and meet the trail half way along. Unfortunately it turned out that the advice was out of date and the link was closed because of mudslides. We were a bit dispirited at having climbed so far up only to come back down again but decided to head on out of town to what had been our second option, the Flume Walk which runs alongside the river. We walked up Basin Road, crossed the lovely wooden bridge suspended over the river gorge and reached the trail start – only to find that it too was closed because of landslides and damage! So we were on to our Option 3!! 

We headed for the Perseverance Trail – walking out of town along Basin Road, which runs along the side of Gold Creek river, and heading for the trail and the Last Chance Mine Museum. We were really glad that we did!

It is not a big museum by any means, more a collection of photos, memorabilia and old mining machines but it is run by real enthusiasts who are happy to talk to you about any of the exhibits. Looking at the site today it is hard to believe it once housed thousands of men and even had its own full sized baseball pitch! I particularly liked the old photos of the town on display – we could easily identify some of the landmarks and houses we had just walked past, Juneau really hasn’t changed much in the last hundred years!!

The museum has basic toilet facilities, there isn’t a cafe as such but they do have a fridge of the most reasonably priced sodas we saw all trip! There was also a small selection of geological souvenirs and books to buy. 

As we walked back down from the mine and across the river we fell upon a huge group from the ship who were ‘panning for gold’ there. They had come up from the ship by coach and were then going straight back – the trip didn’t visit the museum which seemed a shame and I have to say we felt a little smug at having seen so much more and saved all that money.

We really had a very pleasant walk along through woods with the river running beside us, the road is very quiet and it’s a pretty level walk from the bridge onwards. On our way we spotted the start point of the Mount Roberts Trail which actually looked exceptionally muddy and rough. You would definitely need waterproof hiking boots to climb it but to be honest I would only do it if I was certain that I wasn’t going to get halfway and find it closed!!! 

We had read that there was a trail from the Last Chance mine to the Mount Roberts mine but Museum staff said that the only way out was back down the road. They also suggested that once we got back to town we should head across to Douglas Island to visit the Treadwell Mine Historical Trail. But by the time we had walked down we were soaked through (the slight drizzle had turned to full on rain!) so we decided to leave that excursion for another time. However it looks as if Treadwell is accessible by local bus from the downtown transit hub on Egan Drive and Main street. The is mainly on the flat so it would make a nice visit with kids. If you are travelling with the family you might also like to know about the Twin Lakes park. It is just out of town and has a brilliant kids playground too – you can access it from town by bus or taxi.

That evening at dinner our family group swopped tales of their day. We shared a wide range of experiences between us – two took a sightseeing flight over the glaciers, two had been to the dog sledding camp, two went up the Tramway for a hike and two spent the afternoon in town, visiting the Red Dog Saloon and the Crab Shack – all pronounced their day awesome… which just goes to show you can spend a lot or a little and still have a great time in Juneau!!

I hope you enjoyed reading about how to spend your Eight Hours in Juneau and that it will be useful on your Alaskan cruise.

Don’t forget to share this to anyone who may be interested and pin us on Pinterest for future reference. You can subscribe to our newsletter below for future updates!

You will also find some small affiliate links in the blog that help towards the cost running of the website – if you click through and buy anything from them it gives us a few pence but doesn’t cost you any extra! It’s a great help and huge thanks to all those who do!

Here are links to all the other places you can find us online! Don’t forget to sign up below for our newsletter and exclusive Cruise Addicted offers and information below…

By clicking submit, you agree to share your e-mail address with the site owner and MailChimp to receive marketing, updates, and other e-mails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those e-mails to opt out at any time.

Guinness World Record: Princess Cruises and Chef Tony Gemignani’s History-Making Pizza Party

A Rhine River Cruise aboard MS George Eliot

NickoVision River Cruise on the Danube

Olden, Norway – Cruise Port Guide

Riviera Offers on 2024 European River Cruises

Share this:.

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Published by Cruise Addicted

Passionate about ships, the sea and everything cruise related! View more posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from cruise addicted.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 21 Aug 2024 - 06:30
• ms Noordam 2.366 passengers 21 Aug 2024 - 10:00
• Majestic Princess 4.272 passengers 21 Aug 2024 - 12:30
• Brilliance Of The Seas 2.580 passengers 21 Aug 2024 - 13:30
• ms Nieuw Amsterdam 2.527 passengers 22 Aug 2024 - 08:00
• Norwegian Jewel 2.866 passengers 22 Aug 2024 - 11:00
• Ruby Princess 3.672 passengers 22 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• Celebrity Solstice 3.420 passengers 22 Aug 2024 - 13:30
• Queen Elizabeth 2.503 passengers 23 Aug 2024 - 00:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 23 Aug 2024 - 06:45
• ms Zaandam 1.718 passengers 23 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• Quantum Of The Seas 4.819 passengers 23 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• Carnival Spirit 2.549 passengers 24 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• Silver Nova 728 passengers 24 Aug 2024 - 09:30
• Seven Seas Explorer 829 passengers 24 Aug 2024 - 11:00
• Carnival Luminosa 2.712 passengers 24 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• Grand Princess 3.122 passengers 25 Aug 2024 - 06:30
• Norwegian Spirit 2.414 passengers 25 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• Celebrity Summit 2.590 passengers 25 Aug 2024 - 10:30
• Radiance Of The Seas 2.546 passengers 25 Aug 2024 - 14:00
• Viking Orion 930 passengers 26 Aug 2024 - 00:00
• Discovery Princess 4.402 passengers 26 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• ms Eurodam 2.525 passengers 26 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• ms Koningsdam 3.194 passengers 26 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• Celebrity Edge 3.373 passengers 26 Aug 2024 - 13:30
• Norwegian Sun 2.323 passengers 27 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• Norwegian Bliss 4.903 passengers 27 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 27 Aug 2024 - 08:00
• ms Westerdam 2.362 passengers 27 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• Ovation Of The Seas 4.819 passengers 27 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• Norwegian Encore 4.903 passengers 27 Aug 2024 - 14:30
• Sapphire Princess 3.214 passengers 28 Aug 2024 - 06:30
• Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 28 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• Silver Muse 691 passengers 28 Aug 2024 - 08:00
• ms Nieuw Amsterdam 2.527 passengers 28 Aug 2024 - 10:00
• Majestic Princess 4.272 passengers 28 Aug 2024 - 12:30
• Brilliance Of The Seas 2.580 passengers 28 Aug 2024 - 13:30
• Celebrity Solstice 3.420 passengers 29 Aug 2024 - 07:30
• ms Noordam 2.366 passengers 29 Aug 2024 - 08:00
• Ruby Princess 3.672 passengers 29 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 29 Aug 2024 - 14:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 30 Aug 2024 - 06:00
• Norwegian Jewel 2.866 passengers 30 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• Seabourn Odyssey 540 passengers 30 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• ms Zaandam 1.718 passengers 30 Aug 2024 - 13:00
• Quantum Of The Seas 4.819 passengers 30 Aug 2024 - 13:30
• Norwegian Spirit 2.414 passengers 31 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• Carnival Spirit 2.549 passengers 31 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• Grand Princess 3.122 passengers 31 Aug 2024 - 08:00
• Oceania Regatta 803 passengers 31 Aug 2024 - 12:00

Juneau Cruise Ship Schedule For 2024

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

How To Go To Mendenhall Glacier From Cruise Port

Published: December 9, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Alfi Satterfield

• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to the majestic Mendenhall Glacier! If you’re planning a cruise vacation and find yourself stopping at a port near Juneau, Alaska, then you’re in for a treat. Mendenhall Glacier, located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau, is one of the state’s most spectacular natural wonders.

As one of the few accessible glaciers in Alaska, Mendenhall Glacier offers a unique opportunity to experience the icy beauty of this frozen giant up close. The glacier stretches over 12 miles and stands over 300 feet tall, making it an awe-inspiring sight for visitors of all ages.

Getting to Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port is a relatively straightforward process, with several transportation options available. Whether you prefer a guided tour or venture out on your own, there’s a method to suit your preferences and time constraints.

In this article, we’ll explore the different options for reaching Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port, highlight the activities and attractions you can experience once you arrive, and provide some essential tips for a safe and enjoyable visit.

So, grab your camera, put on your hiking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure to Mendenhall Glacier.

Overview of Mendenhall Glacier

Mendenhall Glacier, located in the Tongass National Forest, is a breathtaking river of ice that has been slowly advancing for thousands of years. It is one of the most popular attractions in Juneau, Alaska, and draws thousands of visitors each year.

The glacier is part of the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, which spans over 5,000 acres and offers a wide range of recreational activities and stunning landscapes. With its crystal blue ice, towering ice walls, and cascading waterfalls, Mendenhall Glacier is a sight to behold.

The glacier is easily accessible, making it a perfect destination for cruise ship passengers who want to explore the beauty of Alaska’s glaciers. Visitors can take advantage of the various trails and viewpoints to get an up-close and personal look at the glacier.

One of the most notable features of Mendenhall Glacier is the massive ice caves that form within the glacier. These enchanting caves offer a surreal experience, with sunlight filtering through the translucent ice, creating a magical atmosphere.

Aside from the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier, Mendenhall Glacier also serves an important role in scientific research. The glacier provides valuable data for scientists studying climate change and its impact on glacial retreat.

Visiting Mendenhall Glacier is not just an opportunity to witness the power and beauty of nature; it is also a chance to learn about the delicate balance of our planet and the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations.

Now that we have an overview of Mendenhall Glacier, let’s delve into the different options for getting there from the cruise port.

Getting to Mendenhall Glacier from the Cruise Port

When your cruise ship docks at a port near Juneau, you’ll have several options for reaching Mendenhall Glacier. Let’s explore the most common transportation options:

Option 1: Shuttle Service

Many cruise lines and local tour operators provide shuttle services from the cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier. These shuttles offer convenience and often include informative commentary along the way. They typically run on a regular schedule, allowing you to plan your visit accordingly and ensuring you don’t miss your ship’s departure time.

Shuttle services often provide a round-trip option, picking you up from the cruise port and returning you back in time for your ship’s departure. This is a hassle-free way to get to the glacier and allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive without worrying about transportation logistics.

Option 2: Taxi or Rideshare Service

If you prefer more flexibility or want to explore additional attractions beyond Mendenhall Glacier, hiring a taxi or using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft can be a convenient option. Taxis and rideshare vehicles are readily available near the cruise port, and you can negotiate a more personalized itinerary with the driver.

Keep in mind that taxi and rideshare fares can add up, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time at the glacier. It’s essential to discuss prices and duration with the driver before starting your journey to ensure you have a clear understanding of the cost.

Option 3: Public Transportation

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can take advantage of Juneau’s public transportation system to get to Mendenhall Glacier. The Capital Transit bus system offers regular service from the cruise port to the Mendenhall Loop Road, the main access road to the glacier.

Boarding the Glacier Shuttle, which is part of the Capital Transit bus system, will take you directly to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The bus ride provides a more local perspective and is a great way to immerse yourself in the local community while enjoying the scenic drive.

Option 4: Guided Tour

If you want a comprehensive and informative experience, joining a guided tour is highly recommended. Numerous tour operators in Juneau offer guided tours to Mendenhall Glacier, providing you with a knowledgeable guide who will share fascinating facts and stories about the glacier and its surroundings.

Guided tours often include transportation from the cruise port, allowing you to sit back and relax while the guide takes care of all the arrangements. They may also incorporate additional activities such as wildlife viewing, glacier hikes, or visits to other scenic spots in the area.

Now that you know the different transportation options, it’s time to plan your visit and explore the wonders of Mendenhall Glacier. Next, we’ll highlight some of the exciting things you can do once you reach your destination.

One of the most convenient and hassle-free ways to get to Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port is by taking a shuttle service. Many cruise lines and local tour operators offer shuttle services specifically designed to transport visitors to and from the glacier.

Shuttle services provide a reliable and efficient mode of transportation, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey and the stunning views along the way. Here’s what you can expect when choosing the shuttle service option:

Convenience and Schedule

Shuttle services typically operate on a regular schedule, ensuring that you have ample time to explore Mendenhall Glacier before returning to the cruise port. The departure and return times are designed to align with the docking times of the cruise ships, giving you peace of mind that you won’t miss your ship’s departure.

Because the shuttles have designated pick-up and drop-off points at the cruise port, you won’t have to worry about navigating your way through unfamiliar streets to find transportation. This convenience allows you to make the most of your time at the glacier.

Informative Commentary

Many shuttle services provide informative commentary during the journey, giving you valuable insights into the history, geology, and wildlife of the area. The knowledgeable guides will share interesting facts and stories about Mendenhall Glacier, enhancing your overall experience and deepening your understanding of this natural wonder.

Flexibility and Options

Shuttle services often offer flexibility in terms of ticket options. Depending on your preferences, you may choose a one-way or round-trip ticket. If you prefer to explore on your own, you can opt for a shuttle that drops you off at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and allows you to explore at your own pace. If you prefer a guided experience, you may find shuttle services that include a guided tour along with transportation.

Overall, taking a shuttle service to Mendenhall Glacier provides a convenient, stress-free, and informative experience. It allows you to focus on the beauty of the glacier and the surrounding nature without worrying about transportation logistics. With the knowledgeable guides and well-organized schedules, you can make the most of your visit to this extraordinary natural wonder.

Next, we’ll explore another transportation option: taxi or rideshare service.

If you prefer more flexibility or want to explore additional attractions beyond Mendenhall Glacier, hiring a taxi or using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft can be a convenient option. Taxis and rideshare vehicles are readily available near the cruise port, offering a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination.

Flexibility and Personalization

By opting for a taxi or rideshare service, you have the freedom to customize your itinerary according to your preferences. You can negotiate with the driver and discuss your desired duration at the glacier, allowing you to spend more time exploring or to visit other nearby attractions before returning to the cruise port.

The driver can also provide valuable local insights and recommendations based on your interests. Whether you want to visit a specific viewpoint, go on a wildlife spotting adventure, or explore nearby hiking trails, a taxi or rideshare service offers the flexibility to cater to your individual needs.

Comfort and Convenience

Taxis and rideshare vehicles provide comfort and convenience, especially for those who value privacy and flexibility. You can enjoy a relaxed and comfortable ride to Mendenhall Glacier, soaking in the scenery and preparing for the outdoor adventure that awaits.

If you are traveling with a group or have special accessibility needs, taxis or larger rideshare options can accommodate your specific requirements, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

Cost Considerations

While using a taxi or rideshare service offers convenience and flexibility, it’s essential to consider the cost implications. The fares for taxis and rideshares can vary depending on the distance traveled, waiting time, and additional stops or attractions you wish to visit.

Discussing the fare and duration with the driver before starting the journey is crucial to avoid any unexpected costs. Make sure to communicate clearly about your destination and desired duration to ensure a mutual understanding of the price.

To sum up, opting for a taxi or rideshare service provides flexibility, personalization, and comfort during your journey to Mendenhall Glacier. You have the freedom to craft your own itinerary and explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, it’s important to keep cost considerations in mind and communicate clearly with the driver to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Next, we’ll explore another transportation option: public transportation.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option to reach Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port, public transportation is a convenient and accessible choice. Juneau’s Capital Transit bus system offers regular service from the cruise port to the Mendenhall Loop Road, the main access road to the glacier.

The Glacier Shuttle

The Capital Transit bus system operates the Glacier Shuttle, a dedicated bus route that takes visitors directly to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The shuttle provides an affordable and scenic way to reach the glacier, allowing you to enjoy the journey while immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.

Convenience and Frequency

The Glacier Shuttle operates during the summer months when cruise ships are in port, ensuring you can easily access the glacier throughout the day. Buses run on a regular schedule, providing multiple departure and pick-up times from the cruise port area.

The convenience of the Glacier Shuttle allows you to plan your visit according to your preferences. Whether you want to spend a few hours or the entire day at Mendenhall Glacier, the frequent shuttle service ensures you have ample time to explore and enjoy the spectacular surroundings.

Affordability and Local Experience

Using public transportation to reach Mendenhall Glacier offers an affordable option compared to other transportation methods. The fare for the Glacier Shuttle is typically nominal, allowing you to save money while experiencing the beauty of the glacier.

Furthermore, taking the Glacier Shuttle provides a unique opportunity to engage with the local community and immerse yourself in the Juneau atmosphere. You’ll have the chance to interact with locals and fellow visitors, enhancing your overall experience and deepening your connection to the destination.

Considerations and Planning

While public transportation offers convenience and affordability, it’s important to consider a few factors when planning your visit to Mendenhall Glacier. The Glacier Shuttle operates on a fixed schedule, so it’s essential to check the departure and return times to ensure they align with your desired visit duration.

Additionally, keep in mind that the Glacier Shuttle may become crowded during peak times, especially when multiple cruise ships are in port. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid larger crowds and have a more serene experience at the glacier.

Overall, public transportation, specifically the Glacier Shuttle, provides a cost-effective and convenient option to reach Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port. Embrace the local experience, enjoy the scenic route, and appreciate the affordability it offers. Next, we’ll explore another transportation option: guided tours.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive and enriching experience while visiting Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port, joining a guided tour is an excellent option. Guided tours provide a wealth of knowledge, convenience, and the opportunity to explore the glacier and its surroundings with a knowledgeable and experienced guide.

In-depth Commentary and Information

A guided tour to Mendenhall Glacier offers the benefit of expert commentary and information. Guides are well-versed in the history, geology, and wildlife of the area, providing fascinating insights and enriching your understanding of the glacier.

During the tour, you’ll learn about the formation and environmental significance of Mendenhall Glacier, as well as the various flora and fauna that call the area home. The guides are passionate about conservation and will share valuable insights into the impact of climate change on glaciers.

Transportation and Logistics

Guided tours typically include transportation from the cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier, taking the stress out of arranging transportation on your own. The tour operators ensure that you have a comfortable and convenient journey, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying the scenery.

By joining a guided tour, you’ll have the peace of mind that all logistics, such as transportation and timing, are taken care of, ensuring that you won’t miss your ship’s departure time. This convenience allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without worrying about practicalities.

Additional Activities and Experiences

Guided tours often offer added value in the form of additional activities and experiences. Depending on the tour, you may have the opportunity to partake in activities such as wildlife spotting, scenic hikes, or visiting other notable attractions in the area.

These added experiences provide a well-rounded adventure, allowing you to make the most of your time at Mendenhall Glacier and the beautiful surrounding landscapes. The guides are well-versed in the area and can take you to hidden gems and viewpoints that you may not discover on your own.

When considering a guided tour, it’s advised to research and compare different tour operators to find a tour that suits your interests, budget, and preferred level of activity. Whether you prefer a leisurely tour with minimal physical exertion or an adventurous exploration of the glacier, there are options to suit every preference.

By joining a guided tour, you’ll gain insights, convenience, and additional activities that will enhance your visit to Mendenhall Glacier. With the guidance of experienced professionals, you can create lasting memories and fully appreciate the beauty and significance of this natural wonder.

Next, we’ll explore the exciting things you can do once you arrive at Mendenhall Glacier.

Things to Do at Mendenhall Glacier

Mendenhall Glacier offers a variety of activities and attractions that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of this natural wonder. Here are some of the top things to do when you arrive at Mendenhall Glacier:

1. Explore the Visitor Center

Start your visit by exploring the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Here, you’ll find informative displays, exhibits, and interactive presentations that provide insights into the glacier’s formation, the surrounding ecosystem, and the impacts of climate change. Don’t miss the theater, which screens fascinating documentaries about the glacier and its history.

2. Take a Scenic Walk

Embark on a scenic walk along the trails near Mendenhall Glacier. The Nugget Falls Trail is a popular choice, leading you through lush forests and arriving at the foot of the breathtaking Nugget Falls, where you can witness the glacier and the cascading waterfall firsthand. The Photo Point Trail also offers stunning viewpoints for capturing memorable photographs.

3. Visit the Ice Caves

If conditions allow, consider joining a guided tour to explore the magical ice caves within the glacier. These remarkable formations offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as you walk through translucent blue ice tunnels and witness the captivating light play. It’s important to note that access to the ice caves is subject to safety and environmental conditions, so be sure to check with local authorities or tour operators for availability.

4. Watch for Wildlife

Mendenhall Glacier is not just a sight to behold, but also a habitat for wildlife. Keep an eye out for the chance to spot black bears, eagles, beavers, and other local fauna in their natural environment. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with various trails and viewpoints providing a chance to observe these magnificent creatures from a safe distance.

5. Take a Kayak or Canoe Tour

For a unique perspective of the glacier, consider joining a kayak or canoe tour on Mendenhall Lake. Paddling through the calm waters allows you to get up close to the glacier and experience the magnificent ice walls from a different vantage point. It’s a peaceful and immersive way to connect with the glacier and the surrounding wilderness.

6. Enjoy a Picnic or Relaxation Time

With its stunning backdrop of the glacier and the surrounding mountains, Mendenhall Glacier provides the perfect setting for a picnic. Bring your own food or grab a bite to eat from the visitor center’s cafe and enjoy a tranquil meal surrounded by nature’s beauty. Alternatively, find a quiet spot to sit and take in the serenity of the glacier, allowing yourself to fully relax and rejuvenate.

Remember to follow any guidelines or regulations set by park authorities to help preserve the fragile ecosystem and ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife. With these activities and attractions, Mendenhall Glacier offers a truly unforgettable experience for all those who visit.

Next, we’ll provide essential information about the hiking trails available at Mendenhall Glacier.

Hiking Trails at Mendenhall Glacier

Mendenhall Glacier is surrounded by a network of scenic hiking trails that offer a chance to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the area. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, there’s a hiking trail at Mendenhall Glacier to suit every interest and fitness level. Here are some of the notable trails to explore:

Nugget Falls Trail

The Nugget Falls Trail is one of the most popular and accessible trails at Mendenhall Glacier. This relatively easy and well-maintained trail takes you through the enchanting Tongass National Forest, offering stunning views of the glacier and the roaring Nugget Falls. The trail is approximately 2 miles round trip, with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for all skill levels.

Photo Point Trail

If you’re looking for a shorter and more leisurely walk, the Photo Point Trail is a great option. This easy trail takes you to a scenic vantage point overlooking Mendenhall Lake and the glacier. With interpretive signs along the way, you’ll learn about the geology and natural history of the area. The trail is wheelchair accessible, making it a suitable choice for all visitors.

East Glacier Loop Trail

For those seeking a longer and more moderate hike, the East Glacier Loop Trail is a rewarding option. This 3.5-mile loop trail takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Mendenhall Glacier and have the chance to spot wildlife. The trail does involve some elevation gain, so be prepared for moderate exertion.

West Glacier Trail

If you’re an experienced hiker looking for a more challenging adventure, the West Glacier Trail is a popular choice. This 7.4-mile trail takes you through rugged terrain and offers stunning views of the glacier, icebergs, and surrounding mountains. As you navigate steep inclines and rocky sections, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas that make the effort worthwhile. It’s important to note that the West Glacier Trail requires proper hiking gear and preparation due to its difficulty level.

Trail Safety and Considerations

Before embarking on any hiking trail at Mendenhall Glacier, it’s essential to be prepared and take necessary safety precautions. Here are a few key considerations:

• Check trail conditions and closures before heading out, as weather and wildlife activity can impact trail accessibility.
• Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, including layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
• Carry essential supplies such as water, snacks, a map, and a first aid kit.
• Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Bears and other wildlife may be present in the area.
• Stay on designated trails to minimize impact on the fragile ecosystem and preserve the natural environment.

By following these guidelines, you can have a safe and rewarding hiking experience at Mendenhall Glacier. Whether you choose a short stroll or a longer trek, exploring the hiking trails allows you to connect with nature and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier up close.

Next, we’ll delve into the incredible wildlife viewing opportunities at Mendenhall Glacier.

Wildivfe Viewing Opportunities

Mendenhall Glacier provides an incredible habitat for a variety of wildlife, offering visitors the opportunity to observe and appreciate these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. Here are some of the wildlife viewing opportunities you may encounter while visiting Mendenhall Glacier:

Black Bears

Black bears are a common sight around Mendenhall Glacier, particularly during the summer months when they come to feed on salmon in nearby streams. The best chance of spotting these majestic creatures is along the hiking trails near the glacier, such as the Nugget Falls Trail and the East Glacier Loop Trail. Remember to maintain a safe distance, respect their space, and never approach or feed them.

Bald Eagles

Mendenhall Glacier is also an excellent spot for eagle-watching. Bald eagles are frequently seen soaring through the sky, perching on treetops, or fishing in the surrounding waters. Look up to the skies and keep your eyes peeled for these iconic birds of prey, as they add a touch of majesty to the already stunning landscape.

Marine Wildlife

While exploring the Mendenhall Glacier area, keep an eye out for marine wildlife in Mendenhall Lake. You may spot harbor seals sunning themselves on icebergs or swimming in the frigid waters. Additionally, be on the lookout for otters, porpoises, and even occasional sightings of whales, as they migrate through the nearby channels.

Beavers and River Otters

The streams and ponds near Mendenhall Glacier are home to beavers and river otters. These playful and industrious animals can often be seen swimming or building their dams and lodges. Look for signs of beaver activity, such as chewed trees and dams along the trails or near bodies of water.

Other Wildlife

Mendenhall Glacier’s surrounding wilderness is also inhabited by a variety of other wildlife. Keep an eye out for Sitka black-tailed deer, marmots, and snowshoe hares. You may even spot smaller mammals like squirrels and shrews scurrying along the trails. Birdwatching enthusiasts may enjoy glimpses of songbirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl that inhabit the area.

Remember to maintain a respectful distance and observe wildlife from a safe standpoint. It’s important to follow guidelines and regulations to protect both the animals and yourself. Binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens can enhance your wildlife viewing experience without intruding on their natural habitat.

Experiencing the wildlife at Mendenhall Glacier offers a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the diversity of life in this pristine environment. Make sure to take your time, be patient, and fully immerse yourself in the wonder of observing these incredible creatures.

Next, we’ll explore important safety considerations and tips for visiting Mendenhall Glacier.

Safety and Important Considerations

Visiting Mendenhall Glacier is a thrilling and awe-inspiring experience, but it’s essential to prioritize safety and be mindful of important considerations to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Glacier Safety

When exploring the glacier, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of potential hazards. The glacier’s surface can be uneven, slippery, and unstable, so always watch your step and take care when walking on the ice. Avoid getting too close to crevasses or areas with signs of meltwater as these can be dangerous.

Weather Conditions

Alaskan weather can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to be prepared for changing conditions. Dress in layers and bring appropriate rain gear as rain showers are common in the region. Check the weather forecast before your visit and be prepared for the possibility of cold temperatures, wind, or fog, especially when hiking near the glacier.

Wildlife Safety

Respecting wildlife and their natural habitats is essential. Do not approach or feed any animals you encounter, including black bears and eagles. Maintain a safe distance and observe them from afar. If you spot a bear, make noise to alert them to your presence and slowly back away. Always carry bear spray and be knowledgeable about its proper use.

Trail Etiquette

When hiking the trails around Mendenhall Glacier, be mindful of trail etiquette. Yield to other hikers going uphill, stay on designated trails to protect the fragile vegetation, and pack out any trash or waste you bring in. Be considerate of fellow hikers and maintain a respectful distance from others on the trail.

Glacier Caves Safety

If you have the opportunity to explore the ice caves within Mendenhall Glacier, exercise extreme caution. Caves can be unstable, and accessing them may require specialized knowledge and equipment. Always go with a knowledgeable guide, and follow their instructions regarding safety precautions, such as wearing helmets and using proper lighting equipment.

Time Management

It’s important to manage your time effectively when visiting Mendenhall Glacier. Be aware of the time you have available and plan your activities accordingly to ensure you can return to the cruise port or your transportation on time. Consider factors like transportation schedules, trail distances, and the time needed to explore various attractions.

By keeping these safety considerations in mind and being prepared, you can have a safe and enjoyable visit to Mendenhall Glacier. Respect the environment, wildlife, and fellow visitors to ensure a positive experience for everyone. Now, let’s conclude our exploration of Mendenhall Glacier.

Mendenhall Glacier is a breathtaking natural wonder that offers a glimpse into the awe-inspiring beauty and power of the Alaskan wilderness. While visiting Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port, you have a range of transportation options, including shuttle services, taxis or rideshare services, public transportation, and guided tours.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• Subscriber Center
• Newsletters
• State & Legislature
• Nation-World
• Environment
• Submit a Story Idea
• Submit a Photo
• Submit a Press Release
• Submit Sports Results
• Submit a Thank You Letter
• Submit a Wedding Announcement
• Submit an Engagement Announcement
• Submit a Birth Announcement
• Capital City Weekly
• Capital City Weekly columns
• Alaska Outdoors
• Letters to the Editor
• Submit a MyTurn or Letter
• Death Notices
• Submit an Obituary or Death Notice
• Classifieds
• Place a Classified Ad
• Legal Notices
• Place a Legal Notice
• Community Calendar
• Terms of Use
• Marketplace

Search Tip: Use quotes to find results containing your phrase, exactly, e.g., "Juneau Empire".

Jasmine Chavez, a crew member aboard the Quantum of the Seas cruise ship, waves to her family during a cell phone conversation after disembarking from the ship at Marine Park on May 10. (Mark Sabbatini / Juneau Empire file photo)

Ships in port for the week of Aug. 17

Here’s what to expect this week.

• Sunday, August 18, 2024 3:42pm
• News cruise ships

Owner of Foodland, Super Bear in discussions to buy the Breeze In stores

Early voting continues during final weekend before alaska’s primary election on tuesday, more in news.

Police calls for Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024

This report contains public information from law enforcement and public safety agencies.

Glory Hall’s new executive director hopes for a day when the homeless shelter is ‘underutilized’

Kaia Quinto says she shares predecessor Mariya Lovishchuk’s goal of more permanent supportive housing.

Police calls for Friday, Aug. 16, 2024

Police calls for Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024

U.S. House, state legislative races on ballot; top four finishers in each race advance to Nov. 5 election.

Alaska elections officials plan to debut new ballot-tracking system with Aug. 20 primary

The Alaska Division of Elections is using a new tool this year… Continue reading

From flowery fundraising to emergency CBJ funding, longer-term flood recovery efforts underway

Foundation raises at least $150K for direct relief, Assembly to consider $1M emergency measure Monday.

JPD: Washington state woman arrested at Juneau airport with about $100K of illegal drugs

38-year-old suspect confronted by police Thursday moring after her arrival from Seattle

Survival of world’s oldest humpback whale, spotted in Southeast Alaska last month, is a mystery

Male known as “Old Timer” is now at least 53 years old, according to marine mammal researcher.

It’s official: Private icebreaker acquired by Coast Guard will be homeported in Juneau

Vessel with up to 190 personnel expected to “reach initial operational capability in two years.”

Peltola, visiting homes where flood recovery efforts are underway, says FEMA aid request may be difficult

New estimate of nearly 300 homes damaged qualifies as a disaster, but agency’s funding limited, she says.

More than 1,100 students show up on first day at newly consolidated JDHS

Students say they’re expecting more friends, more competition and less parking.

Company is also ending lease of Kenny’s Liquor Market, adjacent to Foodland since 1995.

Songs of sadness, anger and hope at memorial show for Steven Kissack that raises more than $4,600

More than 100 people attend fundraiser seeking to benefit homeless, other disadvantaged residents.

Back to one high school: Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé combines TMHS and JDHS students

The first day of school for students in grades 1-12 is Thursday; some excited, some stressed.

Featured Local Savings

• India Independence Day
• Paris Olympics 2024
• Lok Sabha Elections 2024
• UK Elections
• Firstpost Defence Summit
• Entertainment
• Web Stories
• First Sports
• Fast and Factual
• Between The Lines
• Firstpost America

Climate activists block Amsterdam port to stop cruise ship arrival

Extinction Rebellion activists blocked the Port of Amsterdam on Sunday by chaining themselves to a lock, preventing the arrival of the “Serenade of the Seas” cruise ship. The protest aimed to highlight the environmental impact of cruise ships, which contribute significantly to CO2 emissions read more

Environmental activists tied themselves to a lock on Sunday at the Port of Amsterdam to prevent the arrival of a cruise ship, according to the port and the climate group.

The action was carried out by Extinction Rebellion, who have called for an end to the highly polluting vessels in the Dutch capital.

“Oil kills, stop cruise ships”, the activists spray-painted on the doors of the lock they had tied themselves to, according to footage broadcast live online on their video stream, XRTV.

Carlijn van Essen, a spokeswoman for the Port of Amsterdam, told AFP that the activists were at two locks in the huge IJmuiden complex, northwest of the capital.

The action is blocking the passage of the “Serenade of the Seas” cruise ship with a thousand cabins, which was en route to Amsterdam, she said. An oil tanker was also blocked.

A week ago, 2,000 passengers from a cruise ship had to be evacuated by bus after similar action, Dutch public media NOS reported.

Extinction Rebellion became notorious for direct action protests such as shutting down bridges over the Thames river in London, but has largely shifted focus from mass civil disobedience to building an inclusive grassroots movement.

According to a study by the NGO Transport and Environment, cruise ships sailing in European waters in 2022 emitted more than eight million tonnes of CO2 – the equivalent of 50,000 Paris to New York flights.

Related Stories

Why extreme weather in Pakistan has given rise to 'monsoon brides'

After Greece, Turkey tackles wildfires, but why are Australia and New Zealand worried?

Wayanad landslide: A call to action on climate change

How a melting glacier is worsening floods in Alaska's capital Juneau

The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Is a Royal Caribbean cruise on your bucket list? You'll find no shortage of options when it comes time to pick an itinerary.

The world's biggest cruise line by passenger capacity offers voyages in almost every corner of the world, from its home base in North America to the far-off waters of Australia and New Zealand.

Royal Caribbean operates more cruise ships than any other major line — 28 in all . This allows it to deploy vessels on all the classic cruise itineraries in places like the Caribbean, Europe and Alaska while still having ships left over for more off-the-beaten-path routes.

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

That said, Royal Caribbean has a distinct focus on the Caribbean and Europe — the most popular destinations for its regular customers. In a typical summer, the line will deploy about half its ships on sailings to the Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda while sending another seven or eight vessels to Europe. The line typically sends four ships to Alaska every summer.

During the winter, the line will move even more of its ships to the Caribbean, and send a few to Asia and Australia.

In all, Royal Caribbean's ships visit more than 300 different ports around the world. Here are five of the top destinations you can reach on a Royal Caribbean ship.

The Caribbean and the Bahamas

There's a reason the word "Caribbean" is in Royal Caribbean's name. The line got its start operating cruises to the Caribbean way back in 1968, and the region still accounts for a big part of its business.

In fact, the line typically deploys well more than half its fleet to the Caribbean and the Bahamas for at least part of the year. During the winter, the line will have most of its ships in the region. For the coming winter of 2024-2025, for instance, 23 of its 28 vessels are sailing in the Caribbean and Bahamas, including all of the line's biggest ships. These include the line's much-ballyhooed new vessel Icon of the Seas — the biggest cruise ship in the world — and its just unveiled Utopia of the Seas .

Utopia of the Seas, notably, has debuted on short sailings to the Bahamas — an unusual deployment for a brand-new ship .

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

Royal Caribbean offers a broad range of Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries from over half a dozen home ports. If you're looking for something short, the line has you covered in the form of lots of quick, three- and four-night trips from Florida ports to the Bahamas (including those Utopia of the Seas sailings). It also offers an abundance of seven-night sailings to Caribbean and Bahamas ports and a handful of longer trips in the region that range from nine to 14 nights.

At the core of the line's Caribbean and Bahamas program are its seven-night sailings, which break down into three broad categories:

• Eastern Caribbean voyages
• Western Caribbean voyages
• Southern Caribbean voyages

A typical seven-night Royal Caribbean sailing in the Eastern Caribbean will include stops at St. Martin, St. Thomas and Perfect Day at CocoCay , the line's private island in the Bahamas. But the line sometimes swaps in stops at other islands such as Puerto Rico or St. Kitts. There are typically three and sometimes four calls on an Eastern Caribbean cruise.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's seven-night Western Caribbean voyages typically include three or four stops at some mix of the following destinations: Mexico (Cozumel or Costa Maya), Honduras, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Belize. Some include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private beach destination in Haiti.

The line's seven-night Southern Caribbean itineraries are more destination-heavy, with five or even six separate calls. They sometimes include a couple of stops at relatively northward islands such as St. Thomas and St. Martin but focus heavily on southerly islands such as Tobago, Trinidad, Grenada, St. Vincent, Dominica, St. Lucia, Bonaire, Aruba and Curacao.

Related: The 7 classes of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

When sailing to the Caribbean, Royal Caribbean ships generally sail out of PortMiami , Port Canaveral , Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Tampa in Florida; San Juan, Puerto Rico; New Orleans; Galveston, Texas; Bayonne, New Jersey (one of the ports for New York City); and Baltimore.

The line also recently offered its first-ever Caribbean sailings out of Barbados , though no other voyages from the island are currently on the line's schedule.

Australia and New Zealand

Royal Caribbean has been sending at least one ship — and sometimes several — to Australia every winter for many years. It offers a wide range of itineraries out of Sydney and Brisbane that make calls not just around Australia but also in New Zealand.

While the itineraries the line offers in the region vary in length — from just two nights to 15 nights — the shorter voyages are primarily aimed at a local Australian crowd looking for a quick getaway. Among North Americans, the most popular itineraries are the longer ones, which are often heavily skewed to stops in New Zealand.

Related: Everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean's loyalty program

Among several New Zealand itineraries are 12-night voyages from Sydney that feature an all-New Zealand lineup of calls: Bay of Islands, Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington, Christchurch and Picton.

A 15-night New Zealand itinerary out of Sydney features cruising in New Zealand's famed Milford Sound as well as Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound. The ship also stops in Dunedin, Wellington, Christchurch, Tauranga, Auckland and the Bay of Islands.

Royal Caribbean isn't the biggest player in Alaska cruises . The giants of cruising to Alaska are Princess Cruises and Holland America , which are sister lines to each other that control a large percentage of the market. Still, Royal Caribbean has a significant presence in Alaska, and its big, activity-filled ships are popular with families looking to visit the destination.

The Alaska cruise season is a short one, lasting roughly from May to September. This year, Royal Caribbean has four ships in the region — all operating seven-night sailings.

• Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas: These 4,180-passenger sister vessels are Royal Caribbean's newest and largest ships scheduled to visit Alaska. They're sailing to Alaska round-trip from Seattle with calls at Alaskan ports such as Sitka, Juneau and Skagway; and Victoria, British Columbia. On many departures, they're also visiting Endicott Arm for glacier viewing.
• Brilliance of the Seas: The 2,142-passenger ship sails to Alaska round-trip from Vancouver with a visit to Tracy Arm Fjord and calls at three or four of the following Alaska destinations: Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Haines, Icy Strait Point and Sitka.
• Radiance of the Seas: The 2,143-passenger Radiance of the Seas mostly sails one-way Alaska voyages between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska. Calls include Hubbard Glacier and four of the following Alaska destinations: Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka.

For the 2025 season, Royal Caribbean will replace Ovation of the Seas with Anthem of the Seas (the two ships are similar) and substitute Serenade of the Seas for Radiance of the Seas (also similar ships).

The appeal of the one-way sailings on Radiance of the Seas in 2024 and Serenade of the Seas in 2025 is that you can combine them with Royal Caribbean-organized land tours of Alaska. Land tours can last from two to five days in addition to the seven nights on the ship. So, all in all, you will have created a nine- to 12-night "cruise tour" as such trips are called in the cruise world.

The land tour portion of such trips brings visits to such well-known interior Alaska locations as Denali National Park and the town of Fairbanks.

Related: Everything you want to know about Royal Caribbean cabins and suites

Royal Caribbean is a major player in Europe, with a wide range of itineraries in the Mediterranean and across Northern Europe.

Some of the line's signature Mediterranean routings offer the chance to see iconic destinations such as Barcelona, Spain, and the Italian cities of Florence, Rome and Naples in a single cruise. Or, you can sign up for a Mediterranean cruise focusing on the Greek Islands.

In Northern Europe, Royal Caribbean will take you to such famed Baltic cities as Stockholm; Tallinn, Estonia; Helsinki; and St. Petersburg, Russia, in a single sailing (although, for now, St. Petersburg has been removed from Royal Caribbean itineraries due to the war between Russia and Ukraine). Itineraries that zero in on the Norwegian fjords also are available.

Until recently, the line has deployed as many as 10 vessels to the region each year on a seasonal basis, with the ships staying from spring until fall. But Royal Caribbean has been cutting back on Europe sailings a bit in the wake of the wars in Ukraine and Israel, and it only plans to send six ships to Europe for the 2025 season.

Royal Caribbean's Europe voyages range in length from three to 16 nights.

Among the longest sailings that Royal Caribbean offers in Europe is a 16-night voyage from Barcelona to Southampton, England, that brings stops in Valencia, Cartagena and Malaga, Spain; Casablanca and Agadir, Morocco; Lisbon and Porto, Portugal; Cork, Ireland; and Cherbourg and Le Havre, France.

In Northern Europe, Royal Caribbean ships mostly sail out of Southampton, England; Amsterdam; and Copenhagen, Denmark.

In the Mediterranean, the line's hubs are Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens); Istanbul, Turkey; Barcelona; and Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) and Ravenna in Italy. The latter port recently replaced Venice as a home port.

In recent years, Royal Caribbean has built up a big business selling cruises out of China ports such as Shanghai and Tianjin (the port for Beijing) that are aimed squarely at the Chinese market. They offer Chinese-language programming, and Chinese-centric food and activities. However, Royal Caribbean also markets some Asia voyages to North Americans.

Among the itineraries meant for a Western crowd are nine-night Thailand and Vietnam cruises out of Singapore that include stops at Bintan Island, Indonesia; Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and Bangkok.

There are also 10-night Japan Explorer sailings that take in Aomori, Hakodate, Akita, Kanazawa, Sakaiminato and Kagoshima, Japan; and Busan, South Korea.

For 2025, Royal Caribean will have three of its 28 ships visiting Asia for at least part of the year: Anthem of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas.

The line's main home ports in Asia for cruises aimed at North American travelers are Singapore; Yokohama, Japan (the port for Tokyo); and Hong Kong.

Bottom line

Royal Caribbean has one of the biggest fleets of oceangoing cruise ships worldwide, allowing it to offer a wide range of itineraries. If you're thinking of a Royal Caribbean cruise, you'll be spoiled for choice. The line is perhaps best known for its Caribbean sailings — at certain times of the year, it deploys almost all its ships to the region. You'll also find wonderful Royal Caribbean itineraries everywhere, from Alaska and Australia to Europe and Asia.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• What to pack for your first cruise

Brands Logos

• Carnival Cruises
• P&O Australia
• P&O Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Holland America

Investor Relations

• Annual Reporting
• Quarterly & Semiannual Reporting
• Supplemental Schedules
• SEC Filings
• Webcasts / Presentations
• Archived Financial Information
• Stock Quote / Chart
• Investment Calculator
• Historical Lookup
• News Releases
• Events Calendar
• Email Alerts
• Analyst Coverage
• Earnings Estimates
• Shareholder Benefit
• Dividend/Split History
• Investor FAQs
• Online Investor Kit
• Information Request

News Release

Carnival cruise line debuts first solar eclipse cruise, opens first wave of itineraries for summer 2026.

New Cruises Now Open Will Take Guests to Prime Destinations Throughout Europe and Alaska

MIAMI, Aug. 20, 2024 – Carnival Cruise Line is beginning to reveal its 2026/2027 deployment plans and today announced the first wave of sailings for summer 2026, including cruises to some of summertime’s most sought after destinations in Europe and Alaska , as well as the first time Carnival guests can take part in a special solar eclipse cruise.  Reservations for these new summer 2026 Europe and Alaska sailings open today.

See Europe and Sail Under Eclipse Aboard Carnival Legend For the first time, Carnival is introducing a special 11-day Carnival Journeys Eclipse cruise featuring stops in Spain, Portugal and France on Carnival Legend departing from Dover, England on August 9, 2026.  The total solar eclipse will take place on Aug. 12, 2026, when the ship is at sea, providing guests with a prime viewing vantage point for this rare celestial occurrence.  Ports of call on this bucket list voyage include:  Le Havre (Paris), France; St. Peter Port, Guernsey; Vigo, Spain; Lisbon and Leixões (Porto), Portugal; Le Verdon (Bordeaux), France; and Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium. “The chance to see a total solar eclipse while having fun exploring the cultural richness of Spain, Portugal and France aboard Carnival Legend, is a truly special opportunity – among a lineup of many phenomenal cruises,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “And as the popularity of Carnival Legend’s 2024 Europe sailings prove, it’s never too soon for our loyal guests to start planning their next summer vacation.” Carnival Legend’s summer 2026 season in Europe begins with a 14-day transatlantic voyage that departs Miami on May 24, 2026, and visits Liverpool, England; Holyhead, Wales; and Dun Laoghaire (Dublin), Ireland before arriving in Dover (London), England. While homeporting in Europe, Carnival Legend will sail nine cruises from Dover , with varied itineraries that span 9-12 days, and six cruises of either nine- or 12-day itineraries from Civitavecchia (Rome). From Dover, Northern Europe sailings showcase destinations such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam. The ship will also cruise the British Isles , with several stops in ports across Ireland, England and Scotland, in addition to one cruise with four stops in Iceland.  Scandinavia and Baltic cruises offer visits to Germany, Estonia, Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Belgium while Western Europe ports include those in Portugal, Spain and France. From Civitavecchia, nine-day and 12-day sailings will bring guests to popular destinations across Italy, the Greek Isles, Turkey and Croatia. Ports of call from Civitavecchia include Istanbul and Kusadasi (Ephesus) in Turkey; Piraeus (Athens) and Mykonos in Greece; and Naples (Amalfi/Pompeii), Italy; Split and Dubrovnik, Croatia. The ship’s final cruise from Europe in 2026 will be a 14-day Carnival Journeys voyage departing Nov. 1, 2026, from Civitavecchia to Tampa, Fla., with visits to Cartagena and Malaga, Spain; Gibraltar; and Bermuda.

Alaska Cruises from Seattle Aboard Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle Carnival Miracle will join Carnival Spirit sailing from Seattle to Alaska in summer 2026. The itineraries available today are Seattle embarkations only. Carnival will once again offer Alaska itineraries from San Francisco in 2026, and those itineraries will be available this Fall. Seven-day Alaska sailings departing every Thursday on Carnival Miracle begin on May 7, 2026.  Carnival Miracle will cruise Tracy Arm Fjord and visit Skagway , Juneau and Ketchikan , Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia . Also available are two special Carnival Journeys sailings aboard Carnival Miracle. A nine-day cruise adds more time aboard the ship as guests explore the natural wonder of the region’s Inside Passage and an added visit to Sitka , Alaska. A similar 10-day Carnival Journeys cruise to the Inside Passage also visits Icy Strait Point , Alaska. Alaska sailings on Carnival Spirit also offer cruising of Tracy Arm Fjord and stops in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. The sailings begin April 28, 2026, and continue through Sept. 15, 2026.  When Carnival Spirit returns to Seattle on Sept. 23, 2026, the ship will embark guests on a 15-day round-trip Carnival Journeys cruise to Hawaii , with stops in Honolulu, Oahu; Nawiliwili, Kauai; Kahului, Maui and Hilo, Hawaii; as well as a visit to Victoria, British Columbia in Canada. Also new are four Carnival Journeys cruises that transit the Panama Canal to reposition Carnival Miracle and Carnival Spirit before and after the summer in Alaska. The cruises feature visits to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico ; Puntarenas, Costa Rica ; and Cartagena, Colombia . Carnival Spirit’s 16-day Carnival Journeys cruises take the ship to Seattle from its Mobile, Ala. homeport on April 12, 2026 then back to Mobile with an Oct. 8, 2026 departure. These are the first Carnival cruises connecting the two cities of Seattle and Mobile . Carnival Miracle will reposition with guests on board from Tampa, Fla . on April 11, 2026 and depart Seattle Sept. 26, 2026 on 16-day Carnival Journeys Panama Canal repositioning cruise ending in Galveston, Tex. For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation on Carnival, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit http://www.carnival.com , or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

ABOUT CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE Carnival Cruise Line, part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is the first cruise line to sail over 100 million guests and is proud to be known as America's Cruise Line, for carrying more Americans and serving more U.S. homeports than any other. Since its founding in 1972, Carnival has continually revolutionized the cruise industry and popularized the cruise vacation as an affordable and fun travel option. Carnival operates from 14 U.S. and two Australian homeports, as well as seasonally from Europe and employs more than 48,000 team members representing 120 nationalities.

Carnival’s fleet of 27 ships reflects an exciting period of growth that continues with the addition of seven ships through 2033: two ships joining in February 2025 when P&O Cruises Australia integrates into Carnival; a fourth and fifth Excel class ship scheduled for 2027 and 2028 respectively; followed by three additional new ships from an innovative new class currently under development. Carnival’s next new guest offering will be the all-new exclusive destination, Celebration Key, set to debut on Grand Bahama next summer.

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE MEDIA CONTACT: [email protected]

AIDA Cruises is the market leader in the German-speaking cruise market. Home of the smile, AIDA Cruises is the epitome of a premium-quality, relaxing cruise and operates one of the world’s most state-of-the-art fleets. Visit: www.aida.de

Carnival Cruise Line, also known as America’s Cruise Line, is a leader in contemporary cruising and operates a fleet of ships designed to provide fun and memorable vacation experiences at a great value. Visit: www.carnival.com

Costa Cruises delivers Italy’s finest at sea, bringing modern Italian lifestyle to its ships to provide guests with a true European experience that embodies a unique passion for life through warm hospitality, entertainment and gastronomy. Visit: www.costacruise.com

Cunard is the epitome of British refinement for travelers who relish the line’s impeccable White Star Service, gourmet dining, world-class entertainment, and the legacy of historic voyages and transatlantic travel. Visit: www.cunard.com

Holland America Line's premium fleet of spacious, elegant mid-sized ships feature sophisticated five-star dining, extensive entertainment and activities, innovative culinary enrichment programs and compelling worldwide itineraries. Visit: www.hollandamerica.com

P&O Cruises (UK) is Britain’s favorite cruise line with a fleet of ships combining genuine service and a sense of occasion and attention to detail, ensuring passengers have the holiday of a lifetime, every time. Visit: www.pocruises.co.uk

P&O Cruises (Australia) provides a quintessential holiday experience for Australians and New Zealanders, taking them to some of the world's most idyllic and hard-to-reach places across Asia and the South Pacific. Visit: www.pocruises.co.au

Princess is the world’s leading international cruise line and tour company operating a fleet of modern cruise ships, renowned for the innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities. Visit: www.princess.com

Seabourn provides ultraluxury cruising vacations in a unique, small-ship style that focuses on genuine, intuitive service, all-suite accommodations, superb cuisine and unique experiences in destinations worldwide. Visit: www.seabourn.com