Mammal Information

• Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae)- During our entire season we find Humpback Whales on more than 95% of our tours. We have about ten Humpbacks that feed, socialize and play in the waters near Juneau from mid-April through October, and up to fifteen additional Humpbacks spend some of their summer here. Humpbacks are among the most playful whales, and often breach (leap from the water), bubble net feed, and slap their tails while we watch. We find Humpback Whales more often than any other mammal. Most of our Humpbacks spend part of their winter in Hawaii but a few can be found here year around. More Humpback Information
• Orca (Orcinus orca)- Orca, also known as "Killer" Whales, can be seen any day of the year near Juneau. These hunters search for salmon and small marine mammals over a large area. We see a "pod" of Orca about every five days during the summer, as they forage nearby. Orca are active and fast moving, and stay in tight family groups for their entire lives. Length to 30 ft. (9.1 meters).
• Dall's Porpoise (Phocoenoides dalli)- This strikingly marked, fast swimming porpoise loves to ride the bow wave of a boat...sometimes. Seen on most trips until July, occasionally through September. A wonderful addition to any trip. Length to 6.5 ft. (2 meters).
• Steller Sea Lions (Eumetopias jubatus)- Steller Sea Lions are curious and often approach the boat singly or in groups. Often can be seen hauled out on channel markers or rocks from April through September. Hundreds live near Juneau. Endangered and population declining. Males to 10.5 ft. (3.2 meters), Females to 7 ft. (2.1 meters).
• Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina)- Harbor Seals are common, but shy. Often haul out on rocks or are seen as small round heads bobbing in the water. Seals exhale as they dive and can reach great depths. Hundreds live near Juneau and seen on many trips. Length to 5 ft. (1.5 meters).
• Harbor Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena)- These quiet, shy animals are hard to spot and rarely surface more than once near boats. Occasionally seen in passing. Length to 6 ft. (1.8 meters).