JUNEAU

Juneau hosted just over 1.3 million cruise ship travelers in 2019, making it one of the busiest Alaskan cruise ports during the summer tourism season. This capital city is only accessible through plane and boat, as there are no roads leading in and out. It is a popular destination famous for its history and natural beauty.

The greater region was inhabited by Indigenous people for thousands of years before the first European encounter in 1794. The first population boom came with the Gold Rush in the 1880s. Juneau continued to developed in the 1950s with the construction of the Alaskan Pipeline. Its population now sits at 32,000 residents.

While Juneau is capable of accommodating multiple ships at the downtown docks, during peak summer months, ships may have to anchor offshore and tender in or dock at the “AJ” Dock that is 1 mile out of town. If docked out of town, often cruise ships will provide a shuttle service. Or consider walking to enjoy the fresh Alaskan air.

Juneau’s downtown area features historic architecture, particularly along South Franklin Historic Street, where you will find old buildings filled with jewelry and souvenir stores. You will also find museums, religious buildings, pubs with Alaskan beer, and access to the Mt. Roberts Tramway.

For a nature-focused day, consider getting out of town and visiting the Mendenhall Glacier and the Glacier Gardens. Juneau is also a popular port for whale watching trips as well as float plane and helicopter tours. Many of which leave from downtown or close by.

If you are not taking a cruise guided tour, you can find local tour companies downtown in addition to an information center if you wish to travel independently. Whatever you choose to do, Juneau is a memorable Alaskan port that will be a highlight of your cruise.

PORT FAST FACTS

DOCKED OR TENDERED?

Normally Docked. There are multiple docking berths, but in the peak summer months ships will tender when all berths are occupied.
TERMINAL BUILDING OR PIER?

There are multiple docks. The downtown ones lead to walking up the pier ashore right into the downtown area.
WIFI AVAILABLE?

Not at the pier, however it is available at many of the downtown bars, restaurants and coffee shops, as well as the public library.
PUBLIC RESTROOMS ASHORE?

Not right on the pier, but close by in the downtown restaurants and also in the Merchants Wharf building.
TOURIST INFORMATION?

Yes, Local visitor information staff available on the pier ashore.
MAPS AVAILABLE?

Yes.
TAXIs / PUBLIC TRANSPORT?

Taxis are available throughout the downtown area right by the cruise ports. Depending on where you are trying to get to, public transport might also be an option. The bus terminal is located close by.
ATMs / MONEY EXCHANGE?

Not upon most recent visit.

5 Must Pack Items for an Alaska Cruise

Not sure what exactly you might need in Alaska? Watch this video to make sure you take the items with you to get the most our of your Alaska cruise experience!