Welcome to the Juneau Cruise Destination Guide! Situated at the base of majestic mountains and bordered by the pristine waters of the Gastineau Channel, Juneau, Alaska is a lesser-known treasure among cruise destinations. Renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, diverse wildlife, and fascinating cultural heritage, it’s no surprise that this capital city is a popular choice for travelers seeking an authentic Alaskan experience.
But hold on a moment! Before you start packing your bags, it’s important to understand that a trip to Juneau requires some careful planning and research. Why? Because this place is bursting with possibilities. From observing whales and visiting glaciers to exploring historic gold mines and immersing yourself in the local arts scene – there’s an array of activities for everyone. So let’s delve into what makes Juneau a must-see destination on any Alaskan cruise itinerary.
Port Highlights and Attractions
Juneau is not just known for its scenic beauty, but also for the variety of attractions that dot its landscape. A cruise to Juneau is an opportunity to embark on a remarkable journey, filled with breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences.
Mendenhall Glacier
One of the must-see attractions in Juneau is the Mendenhall Glacier. Stretching across 13 miles, this stunning glacier offers visitors the chance to engage in activities like hiking, kayaking, or even dog sledding. The visitor center is equipped with telescopes for a closer look at the glacier, as well as exhibits that explain the science behind these magnificent formations.
Tracy Arm Fjord
Imagine sailing through pristine waters surrounded by towering cliffs adorned with cascading waterfalls. That’s exactly what Tracy Arm Fjord has to offer! As an added bonus, keep your eyes peeled for seals lounging on small icebergs!
Juneau Whale Watch
Witnessing humpback whales playfully swimming in their natural habitat is an experience like no other. And in Juneau, you have a high chance of encountering these majestic creatures during your whale watching excursion.
Mount Roberts Tramway
If you’re longing for a panoramic view of Juneau from above, look no further than the Mount Roberts Tramway. Hop on board this tramway and ascend to the summit where you’ll be greeted with breathtaking vistas. At the top, there’s also a restaurant, gift shop, and hiking trails for those who want to explore further.
Alaska State Museum
For history buffs and culture enthusiasts, a visit to the Alaska State Museum is a must. This museum provides insights into Alaska’s Native tribes and the era of Russian occupation. Discover artifacts, artworks, and exhibits that shed light on the rich heritage of this region.
Each of these attractions contributes its own unique charm to the tapestry that is Juneau. Every experience promises to create lasting memories in the hearts of its visitors.
Getting Around Juneau Cruise Port
Navigating Juneau can feel as thrilling as discovering an uncharted island. And why not? With its compact downtown area, friendly locals, and accessible public transportation, getting around this Alaskan city is a breeze!
Walking
When your cruise ship docks, you’ll find yourself in the heart of downtown Juneau. It’s all about walking here! You can stroll along the beautiful waterfront, where shops and restaurants beckon. Don’t forget to check out South Franklin Street – a hub of activity filled with bustling souvenir stores and historic buildings.
Public Transportation
If your sense of adventure prompts you to explore beyond downtown, the Capital Transit Bus System is your best companion. It offers comprehensive routes covering key attractions such as Mendenhall Glacier and Macaulay Salmon Hatchery.
Shuttle Buses
For those looking for direct transportation, many tour operators offer shuttle buses to major attractions. This mode of transport is often included in the tour price.
Taxis are plentiful around the cruise terminal and can be flagged down easily. Uber or Lyft aren’t available in Juneau but there are local ride-sharing services such as Juneau Taxi Tours and EverGreen Taxi, which offer similar services.
Remember, every journey in Juneau unfolds a new tale of discovery! Embrace the unknown and let this charming city surprise you at every corner.
Juneau Cruise Terminal Guide
Welcome to the heart of Juneau – the Cruise Terminal! This hub of activity is where your Alaskan adventure truly begins. Here’s what you need to know:
Convenient Location
The terminal is conveniently located in downtown Juneau, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city. From the moment you disembark, you’re greeted by a bustling atmosphere filled with local vendors, quaint shops and charming cafes.
Easy Accessibility
One key feature of the Juneau Cruise Terminal is its accessibility. It’s designed to seamlessly accommodate passengers, with crew members and local volunteers readily available to assist newcomers in navigating their surroundings. This makes embarking and disembarking your cruise ship a breeze.
Stay Connected with Wi-Fi
For those who are tech-savvy, free Wi-Fi is available at the terminal. This not only keeps you connected but also helps in planning any last-minute excursions or changes to your itinerary.
Duty-Free Shopping
And let’s not forget about shopping! The terminal houses a variety of duty-free shops perfect for picking up souvenirs or last-minute necessities.
Convenient Luggage Storage
Lastly, there are luggage storage facilities available at the terminal for those who want to explore freely without being weighed down by their bags.
So, whether it’s the start or end of your cruise journey, the Juneau Cruise Terminal is positioned as your perfect companion, ready to make your experience smooth and memorable.
Juneau Weather and Best Time to Visit
One thing travelers often ask is, “When is the best time to visit Juneau?” Well, the answer largely depends on what you hope to experience.
Summer in Juneau (May through September)
During summer in Juneau, temperatures usually hover around a comfortable 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit – perfect for exploring the outdoors. Plus, daylight hours are incredibly long (up to 18 hours in mid-summer), giving you ample time to soak up all the experiences Juneau has to offer.
Winter in Juneau (November through March)
If you’re keen on winter activities like skiing or experiencing the ethereal Northern Lights, consider visiting between November and March. Be warned though, temperatures can drop below freezing and snowfall is common.
Rainfall in Juneau
It’s also important to note that Juneau is located in a rainforest, so it’s common to experience rainfall no matter when you visit. Don’t let this dampen your spirits though! Just pack some waterproof gear and embrace the beauty of this lush landscape.
In essence, there’s no wrong time to visit Juneau. Each season paints this cruise destination in different shades of charm and enchantment. It’s just about picking which palette suits your adventure style best!
“Bucket List” Things to Do in Juneau
- Mendenhall Glacier: A beautiful blue wonder, the Mendenhall Glacier is a must-see in Juneau. Put on your hiking boots and explore the icy wilderness or take an unforgettable helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view.
- Whale Watching: Nothing is more exciting than seeing a humpback whale jump out of the water in Juneau’s clean waters. Make sure your camera is ready!
- Gold Rush History: Go back in time and try your luck at finding gold at the historic Gold Creek.
- Mount Roberts Tramway: For amazing views, get on the Mount Roberts Tramway. At the top, enjoy a meal with a view at Timberline Bar & Grill.
- Alaskan Brewing Company: Beer lovers will enjoy visiting this local brewery, trying their unique brews made with glacial water and spruce tips.
- Dog Sledding: An exciting experience, dog sledding gives you a taste of Alaska’s rich traditions.
Each experience is special, each memory valuable in its own way. Get ready to be thrilled, amazed, and enchanted by Juneau’s diverse attractions that are as enchanting as they are varied.
Cory Edwards
Cory Edwards has a passion for cruising that is only matched by his knowledge of the industry. He is the owner of his own travel agency, Blue Ocean Cruise and Travel, that is dedicated to putting together dream cruises for all his clients. He has embarked on a countless number of cruises himself and he plans to keep sailing the high seas as often as possible.
