The Taku Glacier Helicopter and Airboat Adventure in Juneau
This port excursion combines two distinct aerial and water experiences in one action-packed day. The tour departs from Juneau, Alaska, and includes a scenic helicopter flight over the Tongass National Forest, an airboat journey along glacial waters, and a landing directly on Taku Glacier. The video follows a cruise passenger through the entire experience, showcasing the natural beauty and scale of Southeast Alaska's landscape.
This excursion suits travelers who want to see more of Alaska than a typical port walk allows, enjoy active adventures, and don't mind spending time in boats and aircraft. If you're visiting Juneau as part of a cruise itinerary and have several hours available during your port day, this combination tour delivers both thrill and visual reward without requiring professional outdoor experience or extreme fitness.
Key Moments
Highlights of the Taku Glacier Tour Experience
- Helicopter flight over the Tongass National Forest with up-close views of mountainous terrain and forest canopy
- Airboat ride across glacial meltwater with exceptional close-range views of Taku Glacier and surrounding scenery
- Landing on Taku Glacier itself, where visitors can walk around and collect fresh glacier water
- Stop at Tracy's King Crab House in downtown Juneau for local crab cakes before or after the tour
- Optional seat switches during the airboat ride to experience different vantage points and perspectives
- Sunset views from the ship after returning from the full day of exploration
What to Know Before Booking Your Taku Glacier Tour
- Provided gear includes waterproof pants, glacier-appropriate shoes, a flotation jacket, and hearing protection for the airboat
- The tour involves multiple transitions: ship to bus, bus to helicopter, helicopter to airboat, and back again
- Weather can be rainy, but it does not cancel the experience; plan for cool, wet conditions
- The airboat portion is cold and windy, especially in the rear seats; layers and winter gloves are strongly recommended
- Total walking distance on the port day can exceed 7 miles when combined with downtown exploration
- Glacier water is available to drink directly at the landing site
- Tour operators may recommend local food vendors; fish tacos are highlighted as a top-tier option near the dock
- Book this excursion well in advance, as spots fill up quickly during cruise season
Common Questions About the Taku Glacier Helicopter and Airboat Adventure
How long does the entire tour take?
The video does not specify a total duration, but it shows departure after breakfast, multiple activity segments including helicopter flights and airboat riding, and return in time for sunset dinner viewing on the ship. Plan for a full port day commitment of 6 to 8 hours.
Is this tour safe for people who have never flown in a helicopter before?
The video shows a relaxed, routine operation with no safety incidents or warnings. Professional pilots and airboat drivers manage the experience. The video creator appears comfortable throughout, suggesting the tour is designed for general cruise passengers without prior aerial or water sports experience.
What should I wear for this adventure?
Wear layers under the provided waterproof pants, as the airboat ride is cold and windy. The video creator notes that rear seats on the airboat are particularly freezing, so consider wearing winter gloves. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring Juneau's shops before or after the tour are essential, as 7+ miles of walking is typical.
Can I eat near the helicopter departure point?
The tour includes a bus ride back to the ship after the glacier activities. Local food options, including a fish taco food truck recommended by the bus driver, are available near the dock. The video shows this meal fits naturally into the schedule after the helicopter and airboat portions end.
What if the weather is bad on my port day?
The video shows the tour operating in slightly rainy conditions with beautiful views still available. Juneau weather can be wet, but it does not prevent the tour from running. Waterproof gear is provided, and visibility to the glacier and forest remains excellent even in light rain.
