Welcome to Juneau, the unique and remote capital of Alaska, accessible only by air or sea. This port is a cornerstone of any Alaskan cruise, with major lines like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line making it a regular stop. Juneau's special appeal lies in its incredible access to glaciers, abundant wildlife, and rich Gold Rush history, all nestled within the breathtaking Tongass National Forest. It offers an unparalleled blend of natural wonder and cultural experiences right at your ship's gangway.
The most iconic attraction is the Mendenhall Glacier, located just 13 miles from downtown. Visitors can take a shuttle or taxi to the visitor center to witness the magnificent river of ice, view icebergs in Mendenhall Lake, and walk trails to viewpoints like Nugget Falls. Another must-do is the Mount Roberts Tramway, which departs from the cruise dock area and ascends 1,800 feet for panoramic views of the city, Gastineau Channel, and surrounding mountains.
No trip to Juneau is complete without a whale watching tour. The nutrient-rich waters of the Inside Passage are prime feeding grounds for humpback whales during the summer, and tour operators guarantee sightings. For a truly unique Alaskan experience, consider a helicopter tour that lands on a glacier, allowing you to walk on the ancient ice.
Last updated on July 5, 2025
While Juneau is isolated by land, incredible natural destinations are accessible by boat or plane for day trips. Many cruise itineraries include scenic cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord, located about 45 miles south of Juneau. This narrow fjord is known for its stunning sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the twin Sawyer Glaciers at its terminus.
For wildlife enthusiasts, bear viewing tours to Admiralty Island National Monument are a popular, though often longer, excursion. Known to the Tlingit people as "Kootznoowoo" or "Fortress of the Bears," this island boasts one of the highest densities of brown bears in the world and is reachable by a short floatplane ride from Juneau.
Last updated on July 5, 2025
The cruise port in Juneau is ideally situated, with its main docks located directly in the downtown area along the Gastineau Channel. Passengers can step off their ship and immediately be on South Franklin Street, the heart of the historic city. All of the downtown shops, restaurants, and the Mount Roberts Tramway are within a short, flat walking distance.
No shuttles are needed to explore the city center. Most large ships dock directly at one of several berths. On extremely busy days, a ship might have to anchor in the channel and use tenders to bring passengers ashore, but docking is the standard procedure.
Last updated on July 5, 2025
The official currency in Juneau is the US Dollar (USD). Other international currencies, such as the Euro, are not accepted. Credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, are widely accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, and tour offices.
For cash needs, ATMs are readily available throughout the downtown area, easily accessible from the cruise ship docks. It is not necessary to exchange currency before arriving if you are carrying US Dollars or plan to use credit cards.
Last updated on July 5, 2025
Juneau is considered a very safe destination for tourists, and exploring the downtown area independently is common and secure. The main safety considerations are related to the natural environment, not crime. When venturing onto trails, even those near the city, be aware of the potential for encountering bears. It is wise to make noise while hiking, never approach wildlife, and carry bear spray if heading into more remote areas.
While downtown is safe, always use common sense by being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure. For wilderness activities like glacier trekking, sea kayaking, or bear viewing, booking a guided tour is strongly recommended. Local guides provide essential safety equipment and expertise for navigating the Alaskan wilderness.
Last updated on July 5, 2025
The weather in Juneau during the cruise season (May through September) is famously unpredictable and characterized by its temperate rainforest climate. Expect cool temperatures, with average daily highs ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (12-18°C). Rain is a frequent occurrence, and it's wise to assume you will encounter at least some precipitation during your visit.
The key to comfort is dressing in layers. A waterproof or water-resistant outer jacket is essential, along with sweaters or fleece for warmth underneath. Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes are also highly recommended. There is no hurricane season to worry about, but being prepared for rain and fluctuating temperatures will ensure you can enjoy all the outdoor activities Juneau has to offer.
Last updated on July 5, 2025
Downtown Juneau is very walkable from the cruise ship docks, but transportation is necessary for attractions further afield. Shuttle buses, often called the 'Blue Bus,' provide direct transport to Mendenhall Glacier for a round-trip fee, with kiosks located right near the pier. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available for more flexible travel.
The local Capital Transit public bus system offers a more economical way to reach the glacier, though it involves a longer walk from the bus stop to the visitor center. For a spectacular view, the Mount Roberts Tramway is a popular transport option in itself, with its base station located a short walk from the main cruise docks.
Last updated on July 5, 2025
Shopping in Juneau is concentrated along South Franklin Street and the surrounding downtown blocks, conveniently located just steps from the cruise docks. The area is filled with a wide variety of stores offering authentic Alaskan souvenirs and goods. Popular items include Native Alaskan art, such as hand-carved totem poles and masks, and jewelry made from local gold, silver, and jade.
Be sure to look for the 'Made in Alaska' silver hand logo to ensure you are buying authentic, locally crafted items. Smoked salmon is another popular purchase to take home. Prices in most shops are fixed, and while it's a U.S. port, you will find a huge selection of goods catering specifically to cruise passengers.
Last updated on July 5, 2025
Juneau offers breathtaking natural wonders, from the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier to thrilling whale watching tours in the surrounding waters. For stunning panoramic views, you can ride the Mount Roberts Tramway located just steps from your ship. Explore historic Downtown Juneau, where you can browse unique shops, savor fresh local seafood, and experience the city's gold rush-era charm.
Embark on a 3.5 to 4-hour canoe adventure across Mendenhall Lake for incredible views of the Mendenhall Glacier. In a guaranteed small group, you will paddle past steep cliffs while looking for wildlife like mountain goats and arctic terns. Your guide will safely navigate you to the best viewpoints of the glacier’s blue crevasses on this canoeing-only tour.
If you prefer to avoid crowds and packed boats, this private and exclusive luxury tour is designed for you. Enjoy a four-hour experience that provides more time on the water for a truly exclusive adventure. This tour is defined by its 5-star service, offering an incomparable way to see Juneau.
Discover Juneau's history, art, and culture on a private and personable tour through the historic downtown and along the Seawalk. This excursion can be a one-hour trip or customized to your interests for a practical and fun experience. Your guide will stop whenever and wherever you request for photos, ensuring a personalized adventure.
Join a certified naturalist guide for an unforgettable hike through the world's largest temperate rainforest. Your guide will choose a 2-4 mile trail offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, the Tongass National Forest, and the Mendenhall Glacier. Keep an eye out for wildlife like black bears, bald eagles, and wild salmon on this incredible outdoor adventure away from the crowds.
Kayak in the serene waters near the Mendenhall Glacier on this small-group tour with a maximum of 8 guests. No experience is necessary, as you'll receive a lesson and your own single kayak for the journey. Dry suits, all equipment, snacks, and round-trip transportation from the cruise port are included for your comfort and convenience.
Get up close with majestic whales on this must-do boat tour in Juneau. For an intimate VIP experience, trips are limited to just 20 passengers, ensuring you have a great view. Your captain and naturalist will be on board to guide the tour and answer any questions, with shuttle service from downtown Juneau included.
Experience Juneau's only brewery tour, a guided adventure that showcases the city's finest craft brews and breathtaking views. This fun tour takes you beyond the downtown core to explore more of our beautiful city and its craft beer scene. Youth over 10 may accompany their guardians, and special non-beverage tickets are available for them.
Embark on Alaska’s only lighthouse and whale watching adventure, combining the best of Juneau's marine life with a visit to the historic Sentinel Island Lighthouse. Climb the lighthouse tower, inspect the beacon, and enjoy stunning views across Lynn Canal from the heart of a prime whale watching area. This tour also includes a stop at Brotherhood Bridge for a spectacular view of Mendenhall Glacier. Complimentary local snacks, beverages, heated cabins, and binoculars are all provided on board.
Paddleboard in a unique area with amazing views of Mendenhall Glacier and opportunities to see eagles, seals, and whales. This serene tour is limited to 8 guests, and no experience is necessary as guides will teach you everything you need to know. All equipment is provided, including dry suits to keep you warm, plus snacks and round-trip transportation from the cruise port.
Join Juneau's original, family-owned whale-watching company for an intimate tour on a mammal-friendly jet boat. This excursion offers a unique advantage with an additional hour at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. This gives you nearly two hours to visit the Visitor's Center, look for salmon, or hike to the beautiful Nugget Falls.
Experience three iconic Alaskan adventures—flightseeing, glacier hiking, and packrafting—all in one five-hour tour. Your journey begins with a scenic flight to a glacier-fed lake where you'll paddle a single-person packraft past icebergs to the Norris Glacier. You will then land your raft directly on the glacier for a guided hike to explore ice features like crevasses and pools before your return flight.
Fly 25 minutes from Juneau to the famous Pack Creek wildlife sanctuary on Admiralty Island to watch bears in their natural habitat. Your experienced local guide will share information on the bears, local history, and indigenous culture. This carbon-negative trip includes your breathtaking round-trip flights over the Tongass National Forest, all permits, and lunch.
Combine the best of Juneau with a three-hour wildlife cruise on a luxury yacht and a guided tour in a Mercedes “land-yacht.” While at sea, a master captain and naturalist will help you spot whales, sea lions, and eagles. On land, you'll get breathtaking photo opportunities of Mendenhall Glacier and then choose a second stop: the Alaskan Brewing Company or the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery.
Take your private group on an authentic wilderness adventure to watch Alaska's famous Brown Bears in their natural habitat. This carbon-negative tour includes scenic round-trip flights and 3-4 hours of bear viewing, led by an expert local guide. Your journey features flights over Admiralty Island and the Tongass National Forest, with an option to add extra flightseeing over the stunning Juneau Icefield.
Journey to Chichagof Island on a peak season trip to watch brown bears fishing below a large waterfall. This tour includes scenic flights over Admiralty Island and the Tongass National Forest, with over 2.5 hours of prime bear viewing time. All of our culturally rich and environmentally responsible trips are led by an expert local guide.
For travelers with a sense of adventure, this exclusive tour lets you explore Juneau's waters on a JETSKI. Take in stunning views of Mendenhall Glacier and the surrounding area while looking for whales, porpoises, and seals. This 4-hour adventure is catered to your group by a professional guide and is not a typical slow, single-file ride.
Discover a unique blend of adventure and reflection on a guided journey into the Tongass National Forest. Learn about local plants as you walk a forest trail leading to a beach with stunning views. Here, you'll take part in a guided mindfulness session before the experience concludes with some of Juneau's best local cuisine back in town.
Sip and stroll through Alaska's Capital City on an entertaining pub crawl. Your guide will lead you to classic saloons and a new distillery to sample Alaskan beers, local spirits, and a famous Juneau shot. Along the way, you'll be entertained with stories of hauntings, gold rush characters, and brothel shenanigans.
Experience Indigenous Alaskan culture with a hands-on cooking class in the home of your friendly local hosts. You will prepare authentic dishes using regional ingredients while uncovering the traditions and stories behind each recipe. This unique opportunity allows you to share stories, explore traditions, and enjoy a meal celebrating the spirit of Alaska.
Paddleboard in a unique area with amazing views of Mendenhall Glacier and opportunities to see eagles, seals, and whales. This serene tour is limited to 8 guests, and no experience is necessary as guides will teach you everything you need to know. All equipment is provided, including dry suits to keep you warm, plus snacks and round-trip transportation from the cruise port.
Showing 13 ships in the area
No ships scheduled in port today.
Want to hear about the best deals and cruise tips every week? Sign up for our free weekly VIP Newsletter, customized exactly to your preferences!
