Tuesday, July 6, 2004
7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Back to Summary of all Excursions
| Get a taste of both cosmopolitan and frontier styles when you tour the capital of Alaska. Nature walks, sport fishing and scenic bike rides await you in this stunning city. Meander through original shops or marvel at Mendenhall Glacier (click here to go to Mendenhall WebCam), just outside of town. | |||
| Excursion | Excursion Description | Length | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
 Mendenhall Glacier & Salmon Hatchery |
Discover the city of Juneau with your driver/guide who will share the history of Juneau's gold rush era as you depart downtown. Visit the Macauley Salmon Hatchery where you see may adult spawning salmon (late June through September) or have the opportunity to feed immature salmon fry (May through early June). Learn about the reproductive cycles of Pacific salmon and view exhibits detailing the hatchery's annual production of over 150 million salmon and numerous aquariums showcasing local marine wildlife.
Mendenhall Glacier is 1.5 miles wide and hundreds of feet thick and is fed by a 1,500-square-mile ice field outside Juneau. This meandering river of compressed blue ice ranks as the largest, most rugged glacier accessible by road. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center, along with U.S. Forest Service staff, offers information on glaciers and is a vantage point for taking photos of this world-famous sight. |
2.75 Hours | $39 |
 Four Glacier Adventure via Helicopter |
This unique flightseeing tour takes you to see four of Alaska's glaciers. The extended flight time on this tour allows you to see more of the Juneau Icefield and its rapidly changing glaciers. You'll remain with the same pilot/guide throughout the entire adventure and view the Juneau Icefield as you fly over the ice spires and pinnacles of the "cascading" Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier, the "advancing" Taku Glacier, the "retreating" Norris Glacier and a one-of-a-kind "floating" glacier. New areas emerge each day on this active glacial icefield. Your pilot will choose one of these areas and land on a remote glacier where you may step out and explore the ancient landscape. Peer down into a crevasse and watch for a glacial stream that emerges and then disappears beneath the icy surface. As you fly over the rain forest surrounding Juneau on your return trip, watch for bears, mountain goats and moose.
Specialized footwear is provided to wear over your shoes, thus flat shoes are recommended. Please wear warm clothing and bring your sunglasses. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 35-40 minutes flight time and 15-20 minutes on the glacier. |
2 Hours | $254 |
 Mendenhall Glacier: Ice Age by Helicopter |
Travel back to the Ice Ages with Alaska’s original glacier helicopter tour company when you board a turbine-powered helicopter for a flight to the Mendenhall Glacier. Moments after departing Juneau, experience vistas seen by few. Rain forests, alpine ridges, and mountain peaks create a dramatic setting for the Mendenhall Glacier. Your flight takes you over the glacier itself and the helicopter’s perspective gives you an eagle’s eye view of ice spires, deep blue crevasses and meltwater pools. Descending towards the landing site, fly past the Mendenhall Towers, rock sentinels that soar to nearly 7,000 feet. A gentle landing brings you to the ice itself, where you’ll explore the glacier’s surface with knowledgeable guides. Bring plenty of film and batteries for your once-in-a-lifetime photo.
Warm clothing and sunglasses are recommended. Glacier boots and rain gear are provided as needed. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 30 minutes of flight time and 20-25 minutes on the glacier. |
2.25 Hours | $216 |
 Pilot's Choice Glacier Exploration |
Imagine having the opportunity to visit some of the most remote and best-kept-secret locations in Alaska. If pilots could take their family or friends to their favorite spots on the Juneau Ice Field, this would be the tour. Soaring high above the rain forest, deep valleys and awe-inspiring peaks, you’ll experience vistas seen by few. Your pilot will provide an eagle’s eye view of high alpine lakes, "icefalls" hanging from sheer cliffs and some of the most remote peaks and glaciers in the Juneau Icefield. Your itinerary is flexible so your pilot may create the best possible tour under the current weather and glacier conditions. To further appreciate this ancient landscape, your pilot will land in two different locations where you will continue the tour on foot. During these two landings learn about the geological and environmental processes at work creating moraines, crevasses, seracs, and the glaciers themselves.
Warm clothing and sunglasses are recommended. Glacier boots and rain gear are provided as needed. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 50 minutes of flight time and 30 minutes for landings. |
2.75 Hours | $299 |
 Glacier Dogsled Adventure via Helicopter |
Join in a combination of Alaska's most highly desired activities - helicopter flightseeing, a glacier landing, and a dogsled ride. This excursion combines the Four Glacier Adventure via Helicopter Tour with a once-in-a-lifetime dogsled ride on a glacier. Fly over the Juneau Icefield and land on the Middle Branch of the Norris Glacier, home of the exclusive dog mushing camp. After your helicopter touches down on the snow-capped glacier, view the scenery high above as you hear stories of the famous 1,000 mile Iditarod dogsled race from Anchorage to Nome. The highlight of your visit to the camp is a dogsled ride on the snow-covered glacier. Your flightseeing resumes over the glacial landscape as you watch for bears, mountain goats, and moose. Warm layered clothing, jacket and gloves are recommended.
If weather conditions cancel the dogsled portion of this excursion, the tour may be operated as helicopter flightseeing with a glacier landing. The price would be modified accordingly. In the event this option occurs, you will be notified prior to the tour departing. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 30-35 minutes flight time and 1 hour at the dogsled camp. |
3.25 Hours | $419 |
 Helicopter Glacier Trek |
Join professional mountaineering guides for an approximate two-hour trek through a glacial icescape. A scenic helicopter flight will take you to your trekking site. No experience is necessary, as guides will teach you the proper use of the mountaineering gear (ice axe, crampons, harness, helmet), so that the remote areas of the glacier may be accessed. Your trek will be interspersed with detailed explanations of the glacier environment and surrounding area. All of the outerwear and mountaineering gear that you will need for your trek is provided. All you need to bring is a camera, a willing attitude and an appetite for adventure.
Minimum age to participate is 12 years old. Participants must be able to hike 2 miles over varied terrain. There are certain inherent risks in this type of activity and guests should make themselves aware of same before deciding to join this excursion. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 30-35 minutes flight time and 2 hours on the glacier. |
4.25 Hours | $367 |
 Extended Helicopter Glacier Trek |
This trek is an Alaskan glacier adventure that includes approximately four hours hiking and climbing over the rugged terrain of the glacier. A picturesque helicopter ride will take you from sea level to the glacier to meet your guide who will teach you the basics of glacier travel and then lead your group on an exploration of the glacier's most pristine and remote areas. Opportunities for adventure photos abound as you are introduced to and practice basic climbing techniques enabling you to safely climb and descend the ice walls. All outerwear and mountaineering gear needed for your trek is provided. No experience is required but you should be in good physical condition and have an open mind for adventure.
Minimum age to participate is 16 years old. Participants must be able to hike 3 to 4 miles. There are certain inherent risks in this type of activity and guests should make themselves aware of same before deciding to join this excursion. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 30-35 minutes flight time and 4 hours on the glacier. |
6.25 Hours | $489 |
 Whale Watching & Wildlife Quest |
This wildlife sightseeing cruise features guaranteed whale watching. Following a short motorcoach ride to Auke Bay, you'll board a waterjet-powered catamaran specifically designed for wildlife viewing. Relax in the warm, spacious main cabin, surrounded by large windows as your captain guides you through the island-studded waters of Stephen's Passage. Against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers of the Juneau Icefield, the onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of wildlife you may encounter, including humpback and killer whales, Steller sea lions, Dall's porpoise, harbor seals, bald eagles, bears and deer. The operators of this tour guarantee you will see a whale. If not, you'll receive a $100 cash refund ($50 per child) as you disembark the tour boat. Don't anticipate a refund; in the past eight years whales have been sighted on every tour!
To fully experience the sights and sounds of a close encounter with wildlife, be sure to bring a warm, rainproof jacket to wear on the topside observation deck... and don't forget your camera. Throughout the cruise your attentive crew will offer complimentary snacks and beverages. |
4 Hours | $118 |
 Fly-Out Fly Fishing |
For the discerning guest who would like to fly fish in some of the best waters in Alaska, join the combination Fly-Out Fly Fishing trip. You will be transferred from the ship to the airport where you will meet your guide and purchase fishing licenses. Rainwear and chest waders are then distributed. After a fifteen to twenty minute scenic flight, the floatplane lands and you and your guide disembark. The plane then departs leaving you to enjoy the solitude of the stream or estuary selected. The equipment is assembled and casting instruction is given to novices of fly fishing. The next approximate 3.5 hours are spent pursuing wild salmon or trout depending on the season. Breaks are taken for wildlife viewing, photos and additional instruction if desired. Your guide is always on hand to assist in whatever capacity is necessary and provides flies and tippet material. The very small client-to-guide ratio (max 5:1) ensures that each individual receives personal attention. Beverages and a snack will be provided. The plane returns participants to Juneau for transfer to the ship. The nature of this tour, combined with flightseeing and fly fishing in a wilderness setting, make this an exclusive highlight to any Alaska visit.
Minimum age to participate is 8 years old. Bring layered clothing appropriate for the weather. Alaska State Law requires a valid one day fishing license, which may be purchased for $10. Please note that once fly fishing participation figures have been sent to the operator (minimum of 24 hours before arrival) no refunds will be granted in cases where guests decide not to utilize the service for whatever reason. No guarantees are made with respect to catching any fish. Kindly note that this is a catch and release program, so bring a camera. |
6 Hours | $387 |
 Juneau Deluxe City Tour |
For a more personalized look at Juneau, this is the tour for you. Meet your driver/guide dockside and board a mini-bus for a look into Juneau's highlights. Pass by the Governor's Mansion en route to the Macauley Salmon Hatchery and the Mendenhall Glacier and Visitor Center. Visit Glacier Gardens, nestled in the heart of the Southeast Alaska rain forest. View this natural wonder from covered shuttles as you make your way to a view of the Mendenhall Valley, Chilkat Mountains and Gastineau Channel. The Alaska State Museum welcomes you to explore its many intriguing exhibits. Throughout the tour, your guide will Juneau's history and explain the various issues that may affect its future. Hot Russian tea and homemade muffins or cookies will be served at one of the stops. | 4.5 Hours | $80 |
 Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip |
Join a white-water rafting trip that is popular with beginner and experienced rafters of all ages. Your adventure begins with a drive to Mendenhall Lake, where you may view the Mendenhall Glacier, which measures 1.5 miles wide and 150 feet high at the face. Near the shoreline you'll suit up with rain gear, life jackets and rubber boots. Each raft carries eight to twelve people and is rowed by an experienced guide. While boarding your raft, view the Mendenhall Glacier and its floating icebergs in the distance. Hanging glaciers, towering peaks and glacial topography may also be seen. As your raft proceeds down the river, your guide will explain the natural phenomena in the valley and you'll encounter stretches of rapids, adding excitement to the trip. Make an Alaskan-style snack stop near the end of the river where smoked salmon spread, reindeer sausage, cheese, crackers and beverages are provided. After your adventure return to the ship via motor coach.
Minimum weight to participate is 40 pounds. This tour will operate in all weather conditions so warm clothing and an extra pair of socks is recommended. This tour is operated under a Special Use Permit by the U.S. Forest Service. |
4 Hours | $109 |
 Glacier View Kayaking |
Travel by bus to North Douglas Island for a view of the Mendenhall Glacier and Auke Bay. On arrival to the launch ramp, you'll be outfitted in life jackets and rain gear. Your guide will provide a safety briefing and orientation to kayaking before boarding your two-person kayak. The stable kayaks will allow you to silently approach any wildlife in the area and give you a sense of how the famed Aleut Indians traveled the coastal waterways of Alaska in search of pelts for the Russian fur trading companies. Be guided in groups of five to six kayaks to places such as the Mendenhall Wetlands, where you may have the opportunity to view the Mendenhall Glacier from an ocean explorers point of view. Your guide will explain the significance of places such as Smugglers Cove, the history of the surrounding area, and help identify local flora and fauna. You may see porpoise, seals, sea lions, eagles, herons or even a whale. After your paddle, an Alaskan snack is provided.
Minimum weight to participate is 40 pounds. Maximum weight to participate is 250 pounds. Participants should bring apparel appropriate for outdoor activities and be able and willing to paddle for 1.5 - 2 hours. |
3.5 Hours | $89 |
 Whale Watching |
This is the tour to take for an intimate encounter with Humpback and Orca (Killer) whales. Your adventure begins with a short drive to a scenic harbor where you will board a “mammal friendly” jet boat with a fully enclosed and heated cabin, big windows, and deck space. Each vessel holds just 18 to 30 passengers and is equipped with an underwater microphone to enhance your experience. Humpback whales are seen every day from April through September; individual whales come back to northern Stephen’s Passage year after year to feed on small fish and krill. Orca whales roam large areas while feeding on salmon and other marine mammals. When you find marine mammals, including whales, porpoise, sea lions and seals, your captain will approach slowly and quietly to keep from disturbing the animals and leave it to the animals to provide a close encounter if they so choose.
The operator guarantees that you will see at least one whale or you will receive $100.00 adult ($50.00 child) cash back from the tour operator at the end of the tour. Binoculars are available and complimentary snacks and beverages are offered during the trip. |
3 Hours | $113 |
 Whale Watching & Orca Point Lodge |
Join naturalist guides for a whale watching and wildlife cruise. You will explore and meander along the coastline of the many wilderness islands near Juneau as local captains and crew will take you through Stephen’s Passage and other areas known for their abundance of Humpback whales and marine wildlife. Other wildlife species frequently seen include Steller sea lions, Dall’s porpoise, harbor porpoise, Orca (killer whales), harbor seals and bald eagles – occasionally even bears. Local mountain peaks and glaciers serve as backdrops to your many photographic opportunities throughout the day.
Arriving at the southern tip of Colt Island, the crew at Orca Point Lodge will greet you and serve a meal of freshly grilled Alaskan salmon and chicken along with rice pilaf, green salad, roll and dessert. Orca Point Lodge provides peaceful seclusion in an environment that allows you to enjoy modern comforts amidst a remote wilderness setting. Comfortable walking shoes and a rainproof jacket are recommended - you may decide to take a stroll along the beach before the return to Juneau and your ship. The tour operator is so sure of success spotting wildlife and whales that they will refund $50.00 cash ($25.00 child) if you don’t see at least one whale and two other wildlife species on this trip. |
5 Hours | $134 |
 Mendenhall Glacier & Wildlife Quest |
Experience Alaska's premier attractions, glaciers and wildlife, by land and by sea. A narrated drive takes you to view and photograph Mendenhall Glacier. At the Visitor Center you'll have the opportunity to talk with Forest Service interpreters, and, through interactive exhibits, learn about the awesome force of glacial ice. Back aboard the motorcoach take a drive through the Mendenhall Valley. Arriving at Auke Bay you’ll board a waterjet-powered catamaran specially designed for wildlife viewing. Relax in the warm, spacious main cabin, surrounded by large windows as you are guided through the island-studded waters of Stephen’s Passage. Against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, the onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of wildlife you may encounter, including humpback and killer whales, Steller sea lions, Dall’s porpoise, harbor seals, bald eagles, bears and Sitka blacktail deer.
The operators of this tour guarantee you will see a whale. If not, you’ll receive a $100 cash refund ($50 refund per child) as you disembark the tour boat. Binoculars and souvenir route maps are provided along with complimentary snacks and beverages. To fully enjoy this excursion, be sure to bring a warm, rainproof jacket...and don’t forget your camera! |
5 Hours | $135 |
 Historic Juneau Gold Mine Tour |
Relive Juneau's mining heritage on this one-of-a-kind tour of the remains of what was once the world's largest producing gold mine. Your driver/guide sets the stage during a short ride to Sheep Creek and the site of the mill ruins. A tour guide steps onboard the bus as you make your way up the mountainside to the railroad superintendent's house, where you will view a display of mining equipment and the Gastineau Channel below.
Your next stop takes you underground into the conveyer tunnel, through which the crushed ore was transported to the main mill building. Don hard hats and venture along a boardwalk into the 360-foot long tunnel carved in the mountainside. Inside, experienced miners will demonstrate equipment and talk about the mining lifestyle. Make your way back to the mill ruins, where crushed rocks were further processed and gold recovered. No chemicals were used in the entire process and the mill averaged a 90% recovery rate. Dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes. |
3.25 Hours | $59 |
 Rainforest Walk of Discovery |
Join naturalists on an leisurely-paced adventure into wilderness Alaska. The rain forest trail meanders through towering stands of spruce and hemlock trees and leads to pristine and protected beaches. The deep forest and quiet bays are home to a variety of wildlife and chances are you will see eagles and ravens soaring above the shoreline. Explore the meaning of wilderness as you pass through the rain forest while you learn about its traditional uses and relationship with the people of Alaska.
Comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing are recommended. Rain ponchos will be provided when necessary. This tour will be conducted in all weather conditions. Participants must be in good health and able to walk over uneven ground. Total walking distance is approximately 1.5 miles. |
3 Hours | $66 |
 Gold Panning Adventure |
Relive Juneau's gold rush history and pan for gold in the authentic setting of Last Chance Basin. A costumed prospector will accompany you on a narrated van ride through a historic residential area en route to Last Chance Basin. Trace the route taken by Joe Juneau and Richard Harris in their search for gold over 100 years ago. Near the famous Alaska-Juneau gold mine, one of the world's largest hard rock mining operations, you will get hands-on experience panning for gold in the creek. "Guaranteed gold" for everyone! Your prospector/guide recaptures the history of Juneau's gold discovery and hard rock mining as you view remnants of the mine. | 1.5 Hours | $43 |
 Guide's Choice Adventure Hike |
Put on your hiking boots, fill your lungs with fresh air, and experience world-class hiking. The footpaths taken wind through glacial valleys and forested mountains. Waterfalls and alpine meadows are just a few of the treasured places reached only on foot. Your guide will provide knowledge of the region's natural and cultural history and share favorite local stories, as well as select the trail best suited for the day's conditions. Whether you are interested in violets or eagles, glaciers or rain forests, this hike will offer panoramic views, exercise and lasting memories of Alaska.
Hiking boots are recommended. Hikes will be conducted in all weather conditions. Water, snacks and ponchos are provided. Hiking groups are small and space is limited. This hike covers 3 to 5 miles with an elevation gain of 600 to 1,200 feet. |
4.5 Hours | $73 |
 Tram & Trek |
Tour the city, ride the tram and take a walk on one of Juneau's mountains! Learn of the colorful culture and history of gold rush Juneau on a brief bus tour before boarding the tram for a short ride to the 1,800 foot level of Mount Roberts. Hit the trail with your naturalist guide and take in views where meadow meets forest, and where porcupine, marmot, and ptarmigan share clean air with alpine wildflowers and twisty timberline trees. After your mountaintop walk, and at your leisure, explore the views and free activities at the top of the tram, including the Mount Roberts Nature Center. Your tram ticket is valid all day.
Sturdy comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing are recommended. Rain ponchos are available during inclement weather. The walk is approximately 0.75 miles over uneven terrain. Participants should be in good health and able to walk easily over uneven terrain for at least 60 minutes. This tour is conducted in all weather conditions. Due to snow conditions on the mountain in the beginning of season, an alternate trail may be used. Due to climatic changes, no guarantee is given for the views at any given time. |
2.5 Hours | $49 |
 Gold Creek Salmon Bake |
More than a meal, this is a true Alaskan cookout. This has been Alaska's original "all-you-can-eat" outdoor salmon bake for over 30 years! At Gold Creek Salmon Bake, Alaskan-caught salmon will be grilling over an open alderwood fire. Your meal also includes barbecued ribs, chicken, baked beans, rice pilaf, a variety of salads, corn bread and beverages. Live musical entertainment is provided as you dine beside Salmon Creek, nestled in the foliage of Southeast Alaska's rain forest, under translucent domes that will protect you from any sort of weather. After dining, roast marshmallows over a campfire or view the Salmon Creek waterfall, where, in season, salmon spawn and the remnants of a historic stamp mill and gold mine are located. This true Alaskan cookout is a taste of the Last Frontier's history. | 1.5 Hours | $32 |
 Mount Roberts Tramway |
Soar to new heights and experience the panorama of Juneau and the Inside Passage from 1,800 feet above the city. The starting point of the Tramway is in downtown Juneau, a short walk from the cruise ship pier. Embark on a journey through Alaska's rain forest to its alpine meadows. At the top of Mount Roberts, the mountain lodge houses a theater, restaurant, bars, gift shops and displays of Native artwork. Native artists are featured working on totemic carvings in cedar and silver or making traditional dolls and garments. Well-groomed hiking trails offer access to the alpine with several viewing decks and interpretive signage.
As one of Juneau's most popular attractions, a tram ride to the top of Mount Roberts provides photo opportunities and a chance to learn of the area's rich Native culture. Your ticket includes the award-winning Tlingit film "Seeing Daylight" and unlimited rides throughout the day, allowing you to combine this ride with any other excursion during your stay in Juneau. Due to climatic changes, no guarantee is given for the views available at any given time. Actual tour duration is at the guest's discretion. |
Hours | $22 |
Helicopter Glacier Walkabout |
Discovery the diversity of the Southeast Alaska landscape via helicopter as you fly over the temperate rain forests and granite peaks that surround the Juneau Icefield. Your pilot will choose a landing site on one of the 36 glaciers borne of the 1,500 square-mile icefield. During an approximate 1 hour interpretive walk, your guide will provide detailed explanations of glacier environments and allow time for photo opportunities. Rain and wind proof outerwear, boots, and gloves are provided for your comfort. Trekking poles and crampons will provide balance and traction enabling you to travel on the gently rolling glacial terrain. Come walkabout and put the grandeur of the glacier at your feet!
Minimum age to participate is 8 years old. Participants must be able to walk 1 mile over relatively flat, sometime uneven, gently rolling terrain. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 30-35 minutes flight time and 1 hour on the glacier. |
3.25 Hours | $297 |
Glacier Outback Adventure via Helicopter |
This excursion combines a flightseeing tour with an extended glacier landing. Lift off from the Juneau heliport for flightseeing over the Juneau Icefield. After touching down on a glacier, be greeted by a professional guide and view the rain forests and mountain peaks that surround you while standing on the glacier. Your guide will teach you the fundamentals of glacier travel, glaciology, and demonstrate the basics of climbing. Highlight your visit by taking a guided glacier walk while wearing crampons. You'll have time to take plenty of pictures of your adventure on the glacier and save film for your return flight back as your pilot/guide points out some of Alaska's most unique glaciers, including the cascading Hole in the Wall Glacier and the Advancing Taku Glacier.
Minimum age to participate is 12 years old. Specialized footwear is provided to wear over your shoes, thus flat shoes are recommended. Please wear warm clothing and bring your sunglasses. Participants must be able to walk up to up to 1 mile over ice covered surfaces. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 35-40 minutes flight time and 1 hour on the glacier. |
3 Hours | $340 |
 Mendenhall Lake Canoe & Salmon Bake |
Image a time when the region's first people, the Tlingit, traversed the waters of Southeast Alaska in hand-carved canoes. Today, you can experience the landscape and intriguing Native legends of this region while in a canoe much like those used thousands of years ago. The journey will take you through the waters of Mendenhall Lake, paddling near the face of the Mendenhall Glacier. After canoeing and with the appetite you have earned, enjoy the all-you-can-eat mouth-watering fare at the original Gold Creek Salmon Bake. Feast on alderwood-smoked wild Alaskan salmon, chicken, ribs, and assorted side dishes and later toast marshmallows over an open fire. Enjoy the meal at your leisure and return to the ship on any of the frequent shuttles. Minimum weight to participate is 40 pounds. This is a participatory trip where all guests must be able and willing to paddle. The tour will operate in all weather conditons and warm clothing is recommended. Operated by permit in the Tongass National Forest. Due to Forest Service permit conditions this tour has limited capacity and may sell out. | 5 Hours | $152 |
Gold Panning & Salmon Bake Combination |
Combine two popular Alaskan activities as you relive Juneau’s gold rush history by panning for gold, followed by a salmon bake at Salmon Creek! Your costumed prospector will drive you to historic Last Chance Basin, where gold was first discovered in Juneau. Retrace the route of Joe Juneau and Richard Harris and view the remains of the famous Alaska-Juneau gold mine. Your prospector will show you how to pan for gold and you keep everything you find. Guaranteed gold in every pan!
Your next stop is Alaska’s "original" outdoor salmon bake, where Alaska salmon is grilled over an open alderwood fire. Your meal also includes barbecued ribs, chicken, baked beans, rice pilaf, a variety of salads, corn bread and beverages. Local entertainment is provided as you dine beside Salmon Creek, nestled in the foliage of Southeast Alaska's rain forest, under translucent domes that will protect you from any sort of weather. After your meal you may roast marshmallows over a campfire or walk to the waterfall by the remains of an old gold mine. Stay as long as you like and return to the ship at your leisure onboard one of the Salmon Bake shuttle buses. |
3 Hours | $71 |
 Mendenhall Glacier & Salmon Bake |
Experience the highlights of Juneau: the Mendenhall Glacier, Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and an all-you-can-eat Alaskan salmon bake. Learn the rich history of the area en route to a unique salmon-rearing facility where displays will enlighten you. Next, view the Mendenhall Glacier and explore the exhibits at the Visitor Center.
Finally, feast on Alaskan salmon, chicken or ribs along with a variety of side dishes guaranteed to satisfy the heartiest appetite. Listen to musical entertainment and venture out to explore the nearby creek, waterfall and mining remnants. Buses depart regularly back to the pier, so you may return at your leisure. |
4 Hours | $65 |
Whale Quest, Mendenhall Glacier & Salmon Bake |
This tour combines three Juneau favorites: whale watching, the Mendenhall Glacier and a salmon bake! Your adventure beings with a wildlife viewing cruise aboard a water-jet propelled catamaran. Relax in the warm, spacious main cabin, surrounded by large windows as you are guided through the island-studded waters of Stephens Passage. The onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of wildlife you may encounter, including humpback and killer whales, Stellar's sea lions, Dall's porpoise, harbor seals, bald eagles and more. The operators of this tour guarantee you will see a whale. If not, you'll receive a $100 cash refund ($50 refund per child) as you disembark the tour boat. Next, a narrated drive takes you to view and photograph the Mendenhall Glacier. At the Visitor Center you'll have the opportunity to talk with Forest Service interpreters, and, through interactive exhibits, learn about the awesome force of glacial ice. An all-you-can-eat outdoor feast at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake completes your Juneau experience, where Alaskan-caught salmon will be grilling over an open fire. Your meal also includes barbecued ribs, chicken,
baked beans, rice pilaf, salads, corn bread and beverages. After dining, roast marshmallows over a campfire or view
the Salmon Creek waterfall before returning to your ship aboard one of the regularly departing shuttle buses.
To fully enjoy this excursion, be sure to bring a warm, rainproof jacket...and don't forget your camera! |
6.25 Hours | $160 |