Which time is best for whale watching in Juneau?

Question

Hello, NJ cruiser here, my second time to Alaska, visiting Alaska on the Ruby Princess on Memorial Day week.

We will be in port until 8:30 PM and have three times available for a Whale Watching tour:

11:00 AM

2:00 PM

5:00 PM

Based on your experience, which time is best for seeing whales and other wildlife?

Thanks in advance.

Answer

Whale watching in Juneau is highly dependent on the time of day and tide conditions, but there are some general observations from experienced guides and visitors that can help you choose the best tour time.

In general, late morning to mid-afternoon tends to offer the best combination of calm waters, good lighting for photography, and higher likelihood of whale activity. However, early evening trips can be less crowded and offer beautiful lighting for scenic views, though whales may be less predictable.

Based on your options of 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM, here’s a breakdown:

11:00 AM: This is often considered one of the best times for wildlife activity. Whales are usually feeding, and the water tends to be calmer in the morning. The lighting is good for photos with the sun behind you.
2:00 PM: This is also a solid option. Whale activity may be slightly less than mid-morning, but tours are still very reliable. It allows you some flexibility if your cruise ship timing or breakfast plans run late.
5:00 PM: Evening trips can be scenic, with sunset colors and fewer crowds. However, some whales may be less active as they feed earlier in the day. You may still see orcas, humpbacks, seals, and other wildlife.

Other considerations:

The earlier tour (11:00 AM) is generally recommended if your main goal is whale sightings and maximizing the chances of seeing active feeding behavior.
If photography is a priority, the late morning or early afternoon light is usually best for capturing whales and scenery.
Evening tours can be more peaceful and offer a different ambiance but may have slightly lower whale sighting rates.

Overall, for a first-time whale watching experience in Juneau and to maximize your chances of seeing whales feeding and active, the 11:00 AM tour is likely your best choice. The 2:00 PM tour is a strong alternative, while the 5:00 PM tour is best if you prefer a quieter, more scenic experience over peak wildlife activity.

Which time is best for whale watching in Juneau?

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