This summer it is looking less and less likely that there will be a cruise ship season. Which is obviously a big disappointment for both those who were planning a cruise up to Alaska and businesses in Juneau, like mine, who depend on tourists. However, all is not lost. You can still get to Juneau and explore Southeast without a cruise ship. Here’s how and why you should consider this option:
Although Juneau is surrounded by mountains, glaciers and water, getting here from the Lower 48 is easy. Juneau is a short two hour flight from Seattle. Both Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines have multiple flights every day from Seattle. Juneau has plenty of hotels, AirB&B’s and VRBO properties to choose from. All major car rental companies have a desk at the airport, and trust me you’ll want a car. This will make make exploring Juneau much much easier. Although we have public transportation, it is not conducive to sightseeing. Feel free to contact me if you need any local guidance on logistics. I live here year round and I would be happy to help.
Now that you understand how to get to Juneu, I’m sure you’re wondering what’s the “why come to Juneau” now? The answer is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pretty much have the place to yourself! Juneau usually gets over a million cruise ship passengers a summer. It is highly unlikely this will happen this year. It’s the perfect opportunity for you to experience Southeast Alaska the same way the local’s experience it.
Getting on the water is a priority with both locals and visitors. The humpback whales begin to arrive back from Hawaii in May and stay in our waters through until the end of September, so whale watching is always popular. I offer various tours and I’m also very happy to cater to your desires as this summer allows for more flexibility than normal. Between the stunning scenery and the magnificent ocean creatures, a whale watching trip is a must if you visit Juneau.
If whale watching doesn’t float your boat, we also have some great salmon and halibut fishing in Juneau. Salmon fishing opens on June 15th and goes all the way until September. The first salmon to show up are the Chinook or King salmon. They are hard fighting and great to eat. Next to arrive are the Chum salmon which smoke up great. The Pinks and Cohos arrive next and are fantastic sport fishing. They make delicious table fare and are very bitey when they see a lure.
In addition to salmon, we also have halibut in the waters around Juneau. Deep sea fishing is an adventure in itself. If you have never jigged in 300ft of water for an aggressive, hungry predatory flat fish then be prepared for a work out! After a day of fishing on the Narwhal you’ll leave with enough tall fisherman’s tales and memories to last a lifetime!
Aside from fishing and whale watching, Juneau also has 240 miles of trails. Flat, gentle options to glaciers and more challenging ones up mountains. There are helicopter tours, bear viewing, museums and restaurants/ shopping too! There is something for everyone.
There you have it! Getting to Juneau is easy and you’ll be wowed by all the fun opportunities available to you! I hope to be a part of your excitement when visiting the Capital City! Let’s book your whale watching or fishing trip or give me call with questions at 907-209-8227. We would love to see you this summer…it’s going to be a chance for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!!
Check out our fishing page for more info HERE and you can visit Alaska Department of fish and game website HERE