CarolinaTravelers2
Jul 2018
We booked this activity for our family of nine and hoped for good weather, whale sightings, and a pleasant experience. The tour exceeded expectations. The bus driver who took us to the dock narrated the route—including pointing out areas where we could see bald eagles teaching their young to fish. There were about 20-22 of us on the boat, two to a seat, with viewing decks in front and back. As we made our way out to the places to see whales, we were given lots of information about whales and the area. When a whale was spotted, the boat slowed and we moved out to the front or back deck with our cameras. We were always given plenty of time to observe each whale (from a distance). The scenery—mountains, glaciers, islands—is gorgeous, and we had a beautiful, sunny day. When our allotted time was over, the boat turned back, and we experienced an exhilarating ride to the dock. Our crew of two was fantastic.
Next we continued our excursion by boarding the bus to Mendenhall Glacier. At this glacier we were dropped off with an overview including when and where to catch the bus back to town (at half hour intervals). A visitors’ center (with a video and exhibits), several viewing areas, and trails provides a variety of vantage points and activities. We listened to several short, interesting ranger talks, one inside and one at a viewpoint. We liked the flexibility of deciding how long to stay at the glacier.
On the way back, the bus driver dropped us near a restaurant we had asked about. We recommend the combined whale watching and Mendenhall Glacier trip: the dock and the road to the glacier are both a little way out of town, and combining the two destinations saves time in going back and forth. No food is allowed or sold at the glacier. Take a snack to eat before entering the glacier park.