Alaska is among the best places for whale watching, and you'll find a lot of opportunities during your cruise.
From Juneau to Ketchikan to Kenai Fjords, there are many different whale watching tours, so which one is the best?
We ranked our tour options based on cruiser feedback from real people that took these tours, and reported back they loved it.
If you're ready to see Orcas or Humpbacks while in port, here's what you need to know to find the best whale watching excursions.
Juneau whale watching tours
Jayleen's Alaska was recommended many times by cruisers. In 2023, they were voted the #1 Water Tour in Juneau, Alaska and the #2 Outdoor Adventure & #2 Family Attraction. Website
Alaska Tales Juneau take you to view whales and guarantee your money back if you do not see a whale. Website
Icy Strait whale watching tours
Glacier Wind Charters offers tours on extremely roomy boats. It can handle just 13 guests, and is a boat designed for the best possible guest experience. Website
Icy Strait Whale Adventures has a custom-built whale-watching vessel that has large windows that allow unrestricted viewing while getting up close and personal to whales. Website
Hoonah Travel Adventures offers intimate small boat experience to their customers that have large viewing decks and oversized sliding windows. Website
Sitka whale watching tours
Cpt.Gary’s Sitka Adventures offers whale watching tours (along with other animals too). Gary was born and raised in Alaska, and shares his passion for Alaska's wildlife with his guests. Website
Coastal Tours Sitka is another reputable company that takes out a boat that can handle just 6 guests for an intimate view of the whales. Website
Our recommendations for whale watching
No matter which tour you take, be sure to follow these tips.
It's a great idea to take Dramamine or sea sickness patches, because your boat tour will likely not be as stable as your cruise ship. You'll want to take it before the tour begins, but you could also pop Dramamine or Bonine if you start to feel queasy. Just keep in mind it takes a bit for it to kick in.
Ideally, take the Dramamine the night before and again morning of your tour. Taking it the night before helped the morning and does not make you as sleepy.
You should plan for all sorts of weather conditions during your tour.
Have a sweatshirt or light jacket, along with a waterproof jacket. That way, you can take either one on or off as you see fit.
Gloves and hats are not a bad idea either, just in case the wind makes it feel colder out on the water.
