Discover Alaska's Whales (A Small-Group Tour)
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Port
Juneau, Alaska, US
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Activity Level
Easy
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Excursion Type
Ecotour,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$229.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3¾ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
What a great way to put into practice your personal travel ethos and leave the beautiful State of Alaska even better than you found it!
This small-group outing (maximum 20 privileged guests) will travel aboard a fully-permitted research vessel for a closer look into the habitat of humpback whales. The boat has a heated cabin, a low-to-the-water build, large opening panel windows, and an open bow and stern -- features specifically designed to meet the challenges of observing wildlife here in Alaska.
As you head out from the quaint harbor at Auke Bay, your guide will share the current understanding of humpback whale research and what is known about activities and feeding patterns here in Alaska. A whale sighting is guaranteed in peak season, and you're also likely to see seals, porpoise, sea lions and other marine animals, all while doing some significant good as you contribute to a whale research program.
You'll explore the foundation of the food chain by looking at live sea animals in a touch tank, and using a GPS camera to identify whale species while recording their various behaviors.
You will also have the satisfaction of being a marine scientist for a day and knowing your efforts have contributed to understanding the delicate marine environs of Southeast Alaska and the whales' interaction with their habitat. Bottled water and a snack pack are provided.
Notes:
All activities on this tour are operated by permit and regulation through the ADFG and NOAA in support of the University of Alaska and the Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program. The operator of this tour guarantees that a whale will be sighted on this excursion from May 15th through September 15th, with participants receiving a $100 cash refund from the tour operator after the tour if a whale is not sighted. A guarantee is not offered outside of these dates; however, a whale sighting remains highly likely. The small group size of this tour ensures a personal and interactive atmosphere making the most of this authentic Alaska experience. Participants should be old enough and agile enough to walk up to 200 yards, including down a sloped ramp to the boat harbor and back. Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer; bring gloves, a scarf and a warm hat. Binoculars are available for your use. Tour operates rain or shine but may be canceled by the operator in the event of extremely bad weather or unsuitable conditions. Each guest receives access to a digital publication as a memento of the trip. Participants are eligible to enter to win cash prizes in the tour operator's Capture Juneau Photo Contest. Waiver must be signed and medical conditions disclosed.