Monday, April 1, 2024

How to Get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau Cruise Port

mendenhall glacier from cruise port

Shuttles run regularly from the cruise port to the visitor center at Mendenhall Glacier, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska, and for good reason. The glacier is located just a short drive from Juneau, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. If conditions allow, consider joining a guided tour to explore the magical ice caves within the glacier. These remarkable formations offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as you walk through translucent blue ice tunnels and witness the captivating light play. It’s important to note that access to the ice caves is subject to safety and environmental conditions, so be sure to check with local authorities or tour operators for availability.

Juneau Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour

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If you want to get a bird’s-eye view of the glacier, you can take a flightseeing tour. Flightseeing tours typically last about 30 minutes and take you over the glacier and the surrounding mountains. The other perk of chartering a helicopter tour is that you’ll be able to get an aerial view of the glacier.

Option 4: Guided Tour

You can simply hail one on the street or call for pick-up at designated taxi stands. Taxis offer a comfortable and hassle-free way to reach your destination. Safety is paramount throughout our expedition; adhere to guidelines and heed cautionary signs.

Best Alaska Helicopter Tours

mendenhall glacier from cruise port

Most tours will give you 1.5 to 2 hours at the glacier, depending on the rest of the tour stops. Just ask how much time there is at the glacier and make sure it matches what you want to do. You can always choose the shuttle instead of a tour if you want to be flexible about the time.

Take a tour shuttle from the port ($25-$45 each)

Guides are well-versed in the history, geology, and wildlife of the area, providing fascinating insights and enriching your understanding of the glacier. Using public transportation to reach Mendenhall Glacier offers an affordable option compared to other transportation methods. The fare for the Glacier Shuttle is typically nominal, allowing you to save money while experiencing the beauty of the glacier. Keep in mind that taxi and rideshare fares can add up, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time at the glacier.

Choosing Your Excursion

Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips. However, you’ll experience an unforgettable one as you see Mendenhall Glacier up close and, depending on the tour, even land on the glacier and walk around a bit. If you are booking through a tour company, admission to Mendenhall Glacier is typically included in the price.

Nugget Falls is about a mile from the visitor center on a flat and wide trail. Give yourself an hour to walk there and back, plus however long you want to spent soaking up the waterfall (which might be awhile!). The visitor center has done an excellent job of sharing the impact of climate change on Alaska’s glaciers and the Mendenhall Glacier in particular. The Visitor Center is about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, where Juneau’s cruise ship docks are located.

Make your decision about whether or not to do it and then let fate (or weather) make the final call! You can also book a tour on the dock if there is still space available, but if it’s important to you to get to the glacier I recommend booking in advance. I first visited Mendenhall Glacier in 1994 and have been many times since, both as a former Alaskan and a frequent visitor. Getting to Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port is a piece of cake. Secondly, always carry bear spray and know how to use it properly in case of a wildlife encounter.

This reveals a stunning landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. With a ride on the Mount Roberts Tramway, prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring views of the glacier from above. However, the glacier is also beautiful during the winter months, when it is covered in snow. For our most cost-effective method, Capital Transit (the city bus) will give you a ride most of the way for only $2 per person each way. If you want to be at the glacier for 30 minutes or five hours, you can choose. Buses depart half-hourly from both points, provided you have a reservation.

It’s important to follow guidelines and regulations to protect both the animals and yourself. Binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens can enhance your wildlife viewing experience without intruding on their natural habitat. While exploring the Mendenhall Glacier area, keep an eye out for marine wildlife in Mendenhall Lake.

Do not approach or feed any animals you encounter, including black bears and eagles. If you spot a bear, make noise to alert them to your presence and slowly back away. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and observe wildlife from a safe standpoint.

Mendenhall Glacier’s surrounding wilderness is also inhabited by a variety of other wildlife. Keep an eye out for Sitka black-tailed deer, marmots, and snowshoe hares. You may even spot smaller mammals like squirrels and shrews scurrying along the trails.

The accumulation of plastic debris not only harms these organisms but also disrupts ecosystems and food chains. It is alarming to know that plastic waste can take hundreds of years to decompose, causing long-term damage to our environment. Food allergies and dietary restrictions can be a challenge for chefs both on land and at sea.

Juneau Shuttle To The Mendenhall Glacier

mendenhall glacier from cruise port

These excursions are typically offered by the cruise line, and they will include transportation to and from the glacier, as well as a guided tour. Once you’re at Mendenhall Glacier, you have a few different options for tours. You can take a guided hike on the glacier, go kayaking on the lake, or take a flightseeing tour. Taxis are more expensive than shuttle buses, but they can be more convenient if you’re traveling with a group of people. The journey by taxi takes about the same amount of time as the shuttle bus.

Visiting Mendenhall Glacier

From this vantage point, you’ll have the perfect opportunity for unique photography. You can capture the beauty of the mountains and the serenity of the fjords. From this vantage point, you can truly appreciate the immense scale of the glacier and the surrounding landscape. If you only have five or six hours in town, you might not want to spend half of that time or more just at the glacier.

Research Transportation Options

The glacier stands tall against a backdrop of lush greenery, creating a breathtaking sight that will leave you in awe. By following these safety guidelines, you can fully enjoy the experience of visiting Mendenhall Glacier without any unnecessary risks or complications. While exploring other attractions near Mendenhall Glacier, it is important to follow safety protocols to make the most of your experience. The first guideline is to stay on designated trails and paths, as venturing off can be dangerous due to unstable terrain. Additionally, considering the popularity of rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft, using these services can be a great alternative for getting around town comfortably and efficiently. By taking these factors into account, you can make the most out of your trip and create unforgettable memories at this stunning natural wonder.

Time

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The DJ played an incredible Bollywood music playlist, featuring popular hits that had everyone grooving to the beat. The dance floor was packed with enthusiastic party-goers, showing off their best moves. As I entered, I couldn’t help but notice the stunning Bollywood fashion trends that were on display. People were dressed in vibrant sarees, sparkling lehengas, and stylish sherwanis, adding to the overall glamorous atmosphere.

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Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to compare prices and see which one fits your budget and preferences. With over 788,000 pounds of plastic removed from our oceans, they have made a significant impact on improving ocean ecosystems and protecting marine life. 4Ocean’s bracelets financially support their cleanup efforts through their business model. Each bracelet purchased funds the removal of one pound of plastic from the oceans, contributing to their mission of fighting plastic pollution.

The Trail of Time, a .5-mile paved interpretive walk, features signs marking the glacier’s recession. The 3.5-mile East Glacier Trail loop has 500 feet of elevation gain, offering a elevated views of the ice and surrounding terrain. This meandering river of compressed blue ice is the largest glacier accessible by road in Southeast Alaska. It is a half-mile wide, hundreds of feet deep and fed by the 1,500-square-mile Juneau ice field. US Forest Service staff offer a wealth of information on glaciers during your 90-minute visit. The Visitor Center features exhibits, interactive videos and a panoramic view of the glacier -- the perfect vantage point for photos of this world-famous attraction.

mendenhall glacier from cruise port

HAPPY BUS RIDE TO MENDENHALL GLACIER!

If you prefer a guided experience, you may find shuttle services that include a guided tour along with transportation. One of the most convenient and hassle-free ways to get to Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port is by taking a shuttle service. Many cruise lines and local tour operators offer shuttle services specifically designed to transport visitors to and from the glacier. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can take advantage of Juneau’s public transportation system to get to Mendenhall Glacier. The Capital Transit bus system offers regular service from the cruise port to the Mendenhall Loop Road, the main access road to the glacier.

How to Get From Juneau Cruise Port to Mendenhall Glacier

Take in the sights and smells of immaculately manicured flowers and gardens. The sawdust floors and the waitresses wearing brothel apparel make the place very atmospheric. If you are looking for an authentic western style bar that fits Alaska well, stop for a beer and a bite at the Red Dog Saloon. Together, we can make a positive impact and protect our precious marine habitats. The Bollywood Glow Party was a night to remember, where music, fashion, and dancing came together to create an unforgettable experience.

Seeing an actual, real-life, glacier has always been on my bucket list. Part of the entire reason I decided to take an Alaskan Cruise was to get up close to one. I asked the bus driver if it was going to downtown Juneau and they said yes, so I didn’t have to wait at all. I thought I’d have to wait 20 minutes or so for the next bus, but right as I arrived I saw another bus. If you’re making the trip out to Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, you want to not only see the Mendenhall Glacier, but you also want to do the Nugget Falls Trail. There is a paved trail from the bus stop to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, and it is basically flat.

As I admired my own henna tattoo, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of joy and connection to the rich traditions of India. The henna tattoos truly added to the authenticity and cultural experience of the cruise. On this incredible cruise, I experienced the magic of henna tattoos, indulged in a feast of aromatic Indian cuisine, and was mesmerized by a breathtaking Bollywood performance. We want to provide our passengers with an authentic culinary experience, but we also understand that not everyone may be accustomed to certain flavors or ingredients. That’s why we work closely with our suppliers and local chefs to create dishes that are both authentic and accessible.

Embarking on the hike from the cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier is an awe-inspiring adventure. The duration of the hike depends on your pace, but it typically takes around 2-3 hours. And as you continue your journey, you’ll get a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains and fjords, showcasing the incredible beauty of Juneau’s natural surroundings. The scenic bus ride from the Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier is an absolute must-do for nature lovers. As you embark on this journey, get ready to feast your eyes on stunning landscapes and capture breathtaking moments through scenic photography. The best option for you will depend on your budget, time constraints, and preferences.

The Glacier Shuttle operates during the summer months when cruise ships are in port, ensuring you can easily access the glacier throughout the day. Buses run on a regular schedule, providing multiple departure and pick-up times from the cruise port area. Now that you know the different transportation options, it’s time to plan your visit and explore the wonders of Mendenhall Glacier.

There is a bus stop that is kind of near the Juneau cruise port, and from there, you’ll take a direct bus to get you close to the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. 👆 It’s a bit of a walk from the bus stop to Mendenhall Glacier, but the walk comes with scenic views! The most popular options to see Mendenhall Glacier are by tour or by shuttle.

Next, we’ll provide essential information about the hiking trails available at Mendenhall Glacier. Discussing the fare and duration with the driver before starting the journey is crucial to avoid any unexpected costs. Make sure to communicate clearly about your destination and desired duration to ensure a mutual understanding of the price. Taxis and rideshare vehicles provide comfort and convenience, especially for those who value privacy and flexibility. You can enjoy a relaxed and comfortable ride to Mendenhall Glacier, soaking in the scenery and preparing for the outdoor adventure that awaits.

There are a number of tour companies that offer day trips to Mendenhall Glacier. Tours typically include transportation, a guided hike, and a boat tour of the glacier. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a more extended adventure, Mendenhall Glacier is a must-see for any visitor to Alaska. With its stunning scenery and endless activities, it’s the perfect place to experience the beauty of the Last Frontier. Standing at 13,000 feet tall, Mendenhall Glacier is one of Alaska’s most popular tourist destinations. Located just a short drive from Juneau, the cruise ship port, it’s easy to add a visit to this natural wonder to your Alaskan cruise itinerary.

Whether you choose a short stroll or a longer trek, exploring the hiking trails allows you to connect with nature and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier up close. Don’t miss the theater, which screens fascinating documentaries about the glacier and its history. Additionally, keep in mind that the Glacier Shuttle may become crowded during peak times, especially when multiple cruise ships are in port. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid larger crowds and have a more serene experience at the glacier. This convenience allows you to make the most of your time at the glacier.

THE BEST Carnival Cruises to Barbados with Prices on Cruise Critic

carnival cruise barbados

If you want a front-row seat to the colorful and exciting marine life around Barbados but don’t want to go diving or snorkeling, why not try a passenger submarine instead? This special vessel takes you below the sea for an up close look at all that lives in and around the beautiful coral reefs of Barbados. Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. High tea and cricket in the afternoons remains a tradition on the very British island of Barbados, also called the "Little England" of the Caribbean. The Bajan landscape, with its breathtaking panoramas of oceans and valleys, and endless pink- and white-sand beaches, is one of the most majestic in the Southern Caribbean.

Cruises out of Barbados

Seabourn Odyssey will operate 7-day cruises from Barbados to destinations in the Southern Caribbean, including Antigua, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, and St. Kitts. The purchase window for certain products and activities closes before to the sail end date. If you missed the purchase window, check with us on board, we'll help you find what you’re looking for.

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carnival cruise barbados

Other events include a barbeque lunch featuring grilled lobster, fresh fruit, and other delicious dishes. The line will also open its marina, where the ship’s staff treats guests to an afternoon of active watersports operated directly from a platform on the back of the ship. More cruises from the Caribbean are becoming available as Carnival Corporations ultra-luxury operator Seabourn announces cruises homeporting in the beautiful island of Barbados starting in July 2021. (if you turn right you will continue along the ABC Highway) Continue straight, you will reach a round-about at Collymore Rock. Keep going straight until you reach another round-about where you will also keep straight until reaching the traffic lights on River Road in Bridgetown. Turn left immediately after crossing the bridge, as the road becomes one way.

Cruise Lines Operating Out of Barbados Cruise Port

A Carnival cruise offers not only outstanding value for the money, but most importantly, fun! A "Fun Ship" cruise features day and nighttime entertainment like stage shows, musical performances, casinos and more. Just outside the cruise port, plenty of catamaran tour operators will take you around to see the area’s stunning coastline.

Brandons Beach

Plus, these excursions are affordable, and many will include lunch at one of the city’s more iconic establishments. The Bridgetown Fish Market is also exciting to visit, and it’s located just half a mile from the port. As you wander, you will also find numerous shops selling local cigars and rum, especially if you visit the Pelican Village Craft Center. Given the importance of cruise-related tourism to the economy of Barbados, it is no surprise that the cruise terminal is one of the best you will find anywhere in the Caribbean. It features all the modern amenities and facilities passengers could hope for, including a helpful Barbados Tourist Information Center.

Barbados Cruise Port: Getting Around, What’s Nearby and Guide

With its Caribbean-style BBQ buffet, refreshing rum punch, and tropical atmosphere, it’s always worth the 1.5-mile journey. If you plan to make your way to Carlisle Bay, grab a to-go plate at Cuzz’s Fish Stand. The fried seafood sandwiches have been a Bridgetown favorite for over 50 years. Once you have walked to the downtown core along the ocean-view path, you can take a leisurely stroll along the city’s iconic Broad Street, packed with shops and restaurants. At the end of Broad Street, you’ll find the country’s beautiful and historic parliament buildings. From the airport, passengers would travel along the Tom Adams Highway until exiting onto Errol Barrow Highway.

Thinking about the Caribbean?

The shipwrecks are a dazzling spectacle, as well as all the fish and other coral reef denizens. Barbados -- or B'dos, as the locals abbreviate the name -- was a British territory until 1966 and remains greatly influenced by the United Kingdom. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, and afternoon tea is a respected ritual.

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Starting at just $1,200, choose the perfect cruise from Barbados that fits your traveling desires.

THINKING ABOUT THE CARIBBEAN?

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When you travel to Barbados on a cruise, you don’t want to miss a chance to try a unique experience that the whole family will enjoy. Barbados is home to some great restaurants and street vendors where you can find delicious local seafood and cuisine. With something available to suit all tastes and budgets, you’ll be sure to leave Barbados with a full stomach and satisfied taste buds. Don’t miss the national dish, cou cou, and a typical dessert called cassava pone. The cruise terminal has the usual duty-free shopping options, complete with jewelry, clothing, souvenirs and crafts. There's also a tourist information desk and a telecommunications center with phone, Internet and postal services.

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Popular tourist destinations and events on the island include the Mount Gay rum distillery, Harrison’s Cave, the Lickrish Food Tours in Bridgetown, and the Crane Beach in St. Philip. Located along the crescent-shaped interior of Carlisle Bay, Brownes Beach is another popular Bridgetown beach. It is about double the distance from the other two beaches, so you may want to opt for a taxi, but it has plenty to offer. With all of that said, one of the best things to do is simply walk around Bridgetown without a plan.

Itineraries include the line’s famous “Caviar in the Surf” where Seabourn team members wade through turquoise water to serve chilled caviar and Champagne. Barbados cruises often range from nights providing cruisers with a variety of different entertainment and dining options. Most commonly, cruises from Barbados go to exciting destinations such as Transatlantic, Caribbean - All, Caribbean - Eastern, Caribbean - Southern, and Caribbean - Western. The Bridgetown Port is located approximately a half hour from the Grantely Adams International Airport. Ships dock at the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, about a mile west of downtown Bridgetown.

If you missed the purchase window, check with us once you're on board — we'll help you find what you’re looking for. Adventure lovers will enjoy a visit to this enormous underground limestone cave. Located in central Barbados, it takes a while to get to, but it is one of the nation’s most iconic natural wonders. An underground tram car takes tourists through the cave to explore flowing streams and towering stalactites.

Bajans also tend to be friendly people, so there is a good chance your taxi driver will be able to recommend a few things to do while you explore the city. In terms of accessibility, the Barbados Cruise Terminals are equipped to handle all guests, so you can easily find wheelchair-friendly ramps and elevators. Outside the terminal are car rental booths, shuttle bus pickup zones, and taxi lines.

Barbados cruises give you the chance to experience tropical life with a refined twist. With pearly pink sand and a jaunty British lilt, Barbados is one of the Caribbean’s most captivating islands. Whether you’re cruising to or from Barbados, discover a hothouse landscape where old sugar plantations and rum distilleries dot the verdant sun-dappled hills. Or, start your travels here and give yourself more time to get immersed in the local culture while you vacation in Barbados.

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