The Ultimate Juneau Alaska Port Guide

Embark on an unforgettable Alaskan adventure as we guide you through the captivating port of Juneau, Alaska, from the comfort and elegance of the Majestic Princess cruise ship. This comprehensive guide reveals the best activities, delectable dining options, and unique shopping experiences awaiting you in Alaska’s stunning capital.

Journeying to Juneau marked a special milestone, completing visits to all 50 states of America – and what a spectacular way to cap off such an achievement! Alaska, with its rugged wilderness and breathtaking vistas, is truly a wonder. Cruising offers an unparalleled perspective of this northern frontier, allowing you to access remote beauty and majestic scenery that is simply unattainable by land.

Our journey began with an invitation to sail with Princess Cruises during their much-anticipated return to Alaskan waters in 2021, marking one of their inaugural voyages after a hiatus of over 500 days. This particular cruise was my ninth with Princess, and my first time experiencing the Majestic Princess. This magnificent vessel, originally designed for the Asian market, now gracefully navigates the Western US routes, including the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles and the stunning Alaskan itineraries, as well as journeys to Australia.

For an in-depth look at our experience and What Cruising Is Really Like After The Pandemic, click here to read my full review of our first post-COVID cruise experience!

Editor’s Note: Our remarkable cruise took place in the late summer of 2021. While Alaska itself did not enforce a statewide mask mandate, Juneau did have one in effect during our visit. Princess Cruises, adhering to CDC guidelines, required vaccinations, a negative COVID test, and masks indoors and within port buildings. Local restaurants and tour operators were diligently compliant with these protocols, striving to protect the invaluable weeks remaining in the 2021 summer cruise season. Throughout our journey, we felt an unwavering sense of safety and security.

Cruising has evolved, becoming an exceptionally safe, immaculately clean, and profoundly relaxing yet adventurous way to travel. There’s truly no better method to unwind with loved ones, discover magnificent destinations, and indulge in exquisite cuisine, all while bypassing the typical hassles and anxieties of travel. This allows you to effortlessly transition into full vacation mode from the moment you step onboard.

With state-of-the-art HEPA filters, advanced HVAC systems, rigorously enhanced cleaning protocols, and abundant hand-washing and sanitization stations, alongside strict mask, testing, and vaccination requirements, Princess Cruises has unequivocally prioritized guest safety. I can honestly attest that I felt significantly safer on the ship than in hotels, restaurants, or the few airports I visited post-pandemic – by a considerable margin. Having embarked on nine Princess cruises, I’ve consistently found their ships to be impeccably spotless, but the Majestic Princess truly set a new standard for cleanliness.

The collective spirit among our fellow cruisers and the dedicated crew was genuinely uplifting; everyone shared a profound joy at being back at sea. While mask-wearing isn’t anyone’s favorite, the respect for individual comfort and safety was palpable. There were simply no issues that could dampen our spirits or detract from a truly wonderful experience. This camaraderie and positive atmosphere were a refreshing change from other post-pandemic environments I’d encountered, offering a much-needed respite from what often feels like a negative world.

If your ideal vacation involves exploring diverse destinations, savoring meals at various restaurants, enjoying world-class entertainment, discovering vibrant new bars, lounging poolside, or dancing the night away—all within a secure and managed environment—then cruising, particularly with Princess, should be at the very top of your list!

PS – Are you a fan of themed experiences? Don’t miss out on some of the exciting new theme cruises this winter! I’m absolutely eager to book one of the 80’s inspired sailings! They sound like an absolute blast!

Disclaimer: In accordance with CDC regulations, both my husband and I were fully vaccinated more than 14 days prior to embarkation and underwent coronavirus testing before boarding the ship, with our negative results confirmed 35 hours pre-boarding. For the thoroughness of this review, we both also performed lateral flow and PCR tests 14 days after sailing, confirming we remained COVID-free.

Juneau, Alaska, is a realm of magnificent glaciers, abundant wildlife, and awe-inspiring scenery. With such a wealth of attractions, choosing your perfect shore excursion can be both exciting and challenging. The city truly offers something for every type of traveler, from adrenaline junkies to nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Many visitors are drawn to the thrilling, adventure-packed experiences Juneau is famous for. Imagine soaring over majestic icefields on a helicopter tour, paddling through serene waters on a kayak trek around ancient glaciers, or embarking on invigorating hikes that reveal panoramic Alaskan wilderness. Juneau is undoubtedly a premier cruise destination where you can elevate your heart rate and immerse yourself in serious outdoor action.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace without sacrificing excitement, Juneau also provides a diverse array of options. Consider a captivating wildlife watching excursion, where you might spot humpback whales, orcas, seals, and bald eagles. Delve into the rich history and culture with a local tour, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, browsing unique shops. A perennial favorite, the Juneau Tram, offers unparalleled views high above the city, providing a spectacular introduction to this Alaskan gem.

One of Juneau’s most iconic attractions, the Juneau Tramway (also known as the Mount Roberts Tramway), is conveniently located just steps from the cruise ship port. A ride to the summit provides a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Juneau, the Gastineau Channel, and the surrounding mountains and rainforest. It’s an ideal way to grasp the sheer scale and beauty of the Alaskan landscape.

At the mountain top, there’s more than just the view. You can explore various hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels, immerse yourself in local culture at the fascinating nature center, or find unique souvenirs at the gift shop. For a delicious meal with an unparalleled backdrop, the mountaintop restaurant offers both sustenance and stunning vistas. The tram ride itself is a memorable experience, gently ascending over lush forests to reveal a world above.

My husband and I chose a whale watching excursion as our primary Juneau activity, and it was an absolute highlight of our Alaskan cruise. There’s something incredibly magical about observing marine wildlife in their natural habitat, and witnessing humpback whales “breaching” – or leaping dramatically from the ocean – was an experience I’ll never forget. The sheer power and grace of these magnificent creatures left us in awe.

We embarked on a larger catamaran, which was excellent for comfort and family groups. However, for a more intimate encounter and closer proximity to the action, a smaller boat might be preferable on a future visit. Regardless of the vessel size, the experience itself was phenomenal. We were particularly impressed by the passionate and knowledgeable family who operated our tour. Every tour operator we encountered throughout our cruise expressed immense gratitude for the return of guests, understanding that cruise tourism directly supports Alaskan families who depend on these tours for their annual income. This made the experience even more meaningful, offering a wonderful opportunity to learn about Juneau’s history, the indigenous Tlingit people, the intricate ecosystem of Alaskan waters, and the migratory patterns of its whales.

If you’re planning a whale watching excursion, especially if the weather is cloudy or unpredictable (which is common in Alaska), be sure to pack these essential items:

• Binoculars: Crucial for spotting distant wildlife and getting a closer look at the intricate details of whales, seals, and birds.
• Camera with a Zoom Lens and Rain Hood: A powerful zoom lens is essential for capturing incredible shots of marine life. Ensure your camera is weather-sealed or protected by a rain hood to withstand any unexpected sprays or light rain.
• Waterproof Hat or Rain Jacket with a Hood: Essential for staying dry and warm in potentially damp and cool Alaskan weather.
• Waterproof Gloves: Keeping your hands warm and dry will significantly enhance your comfort, especially when holding binoculars or cameras.
• Waterproof Shoes/Boots: Protect your feet from splashes on deck and ensure comfort throughout the excursion.

Most whale watching boats provide complimentary drinks and snacks, or have them available for purchase. Always remember to be mindful of Alaska’s pristine environment by taking all your trash with you and never littering.

• Mendenhall Glacier: A stunning, accessible glacier just a short drive from downtown Juneau. You can walk to the visitor center, view the glacier from designated platforms, or embark on a more adventurous hike to Nugget Falls. Some tours combine a visit to the glacier with whale watching.
• Dog Sledding: For an iconic Alaskan experience, consider a dog sledding tour, often conducted on a glacier accessed by helicopter. It’s an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in Alaska’s heritage.
• Glacier Discovery by Helicopter: These tours offer unparalleled aerial views of Juneau’s vast icefields and typically include a landing on a glacier for an incredible photo opportunity and a chance to walk on ancient ice.
• Fishing Charters: For anglers, Juneau offers world-class salmon and halibut fishing. Many local charters provide all the gear and guidance you need for a memorable catch.
• Gastineau Salmon Hatchery: Learn about the fascinating salmon life cycle and the conservation efforts in Alaska at this educational facility.

No visit to Juneau is complete without a stop at Tracy’s King Crab Shack, arguably the city’s most famous and beloved restaurant. Conveniently located right by the cruise ship docks, Tracy’s is synonymous with fresh, succulent Alaskan king crab. It’s the original king crab shack in Juneau, renowned for its hearty bisques, perfectly fried crab cakes, an excellent selection of cold Alaskan beers, and, of course, an abundance of freshly caught, steamed crab legs that are simply divine.

You can choose to book specific excursions that include a visit to Tracy’s for an in-depth culinary experience, or simply pop in for a casual meal on your way to or from another Juneau adventure, or after a delightful shopping spree along South Franklin Street. Expect a lively atmosphere and be prepared for lines, as its popularity often means a wait, especially during peak cruise season. However, the wait is absolutely worth it for the unforgettable taste of fresh Alaskan seafood.

Be sure to ask for extra butter and get ready to indulge! Tracy’s is the ultimate destination to satisfy your craving for sweet, salty, and buttery Alaskan king crab. It’s a true taste of Juneau that every visitor should experience.

Beyond its grand natural thrills, Juneau also offers exciting shopping opportunities for cruise travelers. A significant advantage of shopping in Alaska is the absence of a statewide sales tax, making it a potentially lucrative spot for shoppers. However, it’s important to note that Juneau itself imposes a city-wide sales tax of 5%.

Just a short walk from the cruise pier, along South Franklin Street, you’ll find a concentrated area of tourist-oriented shops eagerly awaiting your visit. These stores offer a wide range of goods, from quirky souvenirs to exquisite local crafts. To ensure you’re supporting the local economy and authentic Alaskan craftsmanship, look for specific labels:

• “Made in Alaska” tags: These indicate that items were crafted locally within the state, directly supporting Alaskan artisans and businesses.
• “Authentic Native Handicraft from Alaska” stickers: These certifications guarantee that the item was created by Native Alaskans, preserving traditional art forms and providing economic support to indigenous communities.

When searching for unique treasures in Juneau, keep an eye out for amber jewelry, locally sourced diamonds, intricate Native handicrafts such as carvings and baskets, and the famous smoked salmon and other seafood products perfect for taking home. You’ll also find stunning Alaskan art, and due to Alaska’s historical ties and geographical proximity, a fascinating selection of Russian goods, including folk art pieces and religious icons. While some tourist items might lean towards the “cheesy,” there’s often a charming quality to them. We found delightful trinkets our children absolutely adored and purchased several beautifully hand-sewn Christmas ornaments that will serve as cherished mementos.

Before you disembark in Juneau, don’t overlook the potential savings at your ship’s stores. For instance, my husband forgot his binoculars for our trip, planning to purchase a pair in Juneau. However, during our first day at sea en route to Juneau, he browsed the Majestic Princess’s camera store. To his surprise, he found two pairs of binoculars he had been researching online for months, offered at a deeply discounted, duty-free price.

Since the ship operates as a Duty-Free zone while at sea, it’s always wise to visit the onboard shops before stepping ashore at any port. You might just find what you’re looking for at a better price than in port. While ships won’t offer the unique, handmade items found in local Juneau shops, they can be excellent for essentials like memory cards, batteries, electronics, certain cameras, apparel, and name-brand jewelry. A quick browse onboard could save you money and ensure you have all you need for your Alaskan adventures!

Juneau is not only a haven for world-class seafood but also a thriving hub for Alaskan craft beverages. While the renowned Alaskan Brewing Company is headquartered here, the city boasts a vibrant local brewery scene perfect for quenching your thirst after an exciting day of exploration. Explore these local establishments for a true taste of Juneau’s brewing and distilling prowess:

• Alaskan Brewing Company: Known for its award-winning craft beers, including Amber Ale and Icy Bay IPA. You can often find their beers on tap or in bottles throughout Juneau.
• Devils Club Brewing Company: A popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a diverse tap list in a cozy setting.
• Forbidden Peak Brewery: Experience unique Alaskan flavors in their innovative brews.
• Barnaby Brewing Company: A smaller, local brewery creating distinctive craft beers.
• Amalga Distillery: Beyond beer, Amalga Distillery crafts exceptional spirits, including their signature “Juneauper” gin, which embodies the spirit of Alaska.

Many of these establishments offer tasting rooms and tours, providing an excellent opportunity to sample local flavors and learn about the craft beverage scene in Alaska.

As Juneau is an island city surrounded by rich, cold waters, it’s no surprise that fresh, locally sourced seafood is at the heart of its culinary scene. When you visit, prepare to fill your plate with some of the most delicious marine delicacies you’ll ever taste!

Be sure to seek out these Alaskan seafood specialties, each offering a unique flavor and texture:

• Alaskan King Crab: The undisputed king of Alaskan seafood, known for its sweet, tender meat. Best enjoyed steamed with melted butter.
• Halibut: A flaky, mild white fish often served grilled, baked, or pan-fried. Halibut cheeks are a particular delicacy.
• Salmon: Alaska is world-famous for its five species of Pacific salmon. Enjoy it fresh, grilled, baked, or try unique preparations like smoked salmon dip, salmon burgers, or candied salmon.
• Scallops: Sweet and succulent, often pan-seared to perfection.
• Spot Prawns: Prized for their delicate flavor and tender texture, these large prawns are a seasonal favorite.
• Dungeness Crab: Another delicious crab variety, smaller than king crab but with equally flavorful meat, often served whole or in crab boils.

While Juneau is a seafood lover’s dream, don’t worry if fish isn’t your preference. The city also offers a variety of sports bars, pubs, and restaurants that cater to all tastes, serving up classic comfort foods like pizza, burgers, and other non-seafood focused dishes.

Your Alaskan culinary journey doesn’t have to end when you return to the Majestic Princess. Princess Cruises is dedicated to bringing local flavors onboard, ensuring that your dining experience continues to be inspired by the region. You’ll find plenty of fresh, local options in the buffet and main dining rooms, and often in the specialty restaurants as well.

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed a variety of Alaskan-themed dishes onboard. We savored delectable Alaskan halibut fish tacos, classic fish and chips made with local halibut, fresh Alaskan oysters, and perfectly prepared Alaskan salmon. To complement our meals, we also indulged in a selection of local Alaskan beers, continuing our gastronomic exploration long after we had left the port of Juneau. It’s a wonderful way to extend the immersion into Alaskan culture throughout your entire cruise.

Are you ready to cast off the stresses of the past few years and embark on a truly rejuvenating vacation? A Princess cruise to Alaska offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and unparalleled natural beauty, making Juneau an essential stop on your itinerary.

Take advantage of these incredible offers to book your unforgettable Alaskan journey:

Unlock up to $200 onboard spending money per stateroom, applicable on all cruises and cruisetours. BOOK YOUR ALASKAN CRUISE ADVENTURE TODAY!

Princess is back on the California Coast! Guests and crew reunite starting October 6 aboard the Majestic Princess! These cruises operate consistent with CDC guidelines for a vaccinated cruise. Secure your spot now!

Explore Princess Cruises – Alaska 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers (Northbound) – Interior cabins available from $899* per person. BOOK TODAY, AND SAIL LATER!

Princess Cruises is deeply committed to meeting, and often surpassing, CDC guidelines for safe cruising, ensuring you can truly relax and savor every moment of your vacation. If you’ve never considered a cruise before, or if it’s been a while, now is the perfect time to reconsider. An Alaskan adventure awaits!