More about Juneau
Why Cruise to Juneau?
Alaska's capital city is easy to navigate, serving as a great jumping-off point for tours.
There are some busy roads, making this port a bit less walkable than others in Alaska.
Juneau has lots for visitors to discover: wildlife, shopping, history and excellent seafood.
Juneau Cruise Port Facilities?
Your ship will arrive to any of three areas, all within walking distance of downtown. Most large ships dock along South Franklin Street near the library and Mount Roberts Tramway. Small ships dock next to floatplanes at Seadrome Dock. AJ Dock is at the south end of town. Ships might anchor and tender passengers when more than four large vessels are in port. The Alaska Marine Highway ferry docks about 7 miles outside of downtown.
Everything -- information kiosks, cafes, shops, museums, tour operators, public library -- is a short walk from the cruise ships. Tour guides meet passengers right at the docks (motor coaches line up for cruise excursions in an organized fashion), and several tourism information kiosks are available to help with additional arrangements.
Souvenir shops are located along the dock, and some -- like the Caribou Crossings store -- have ATM machines.
Good to Know?
Your visit to Juneau will most likely have a backdrop of overcast skies. Located in a temperate rainforest, the port sees an average of 220 days of precipitation a year. Poor weather can spoil your day, especially if you have your heart set on riding in a helicopter and landing on top of a glacier.
Getting Around?
On Foot: Juneau is an easily walkable town. It's a good idea to carry an umbrella if it looks at all cloudy.
By Car: Taxis gather at Marine Park. For car rentals, the usual major companies -- Avis, Hertz, Budget - are available at the airport, and they might offer pickup service at the dock.
By Shuttle Bus: A shuttle bus runs from the AJ Dock to town. Whether there's a charge for the shuttle bus depends on the cruise link docked there; some charge, others don't. Otherwise, it's fairly easy to get to key attractions beyond downtown, such as Mendenhall Glacier, without renting a car. Numerous shuttle services offer round trip rides for around $45, which includes the cost of entry to the glacier. Inquire at the tourist kiosks lined up along the cruise piers.
By Public Bus: Juneau offers a publics bus system, but it doesn't go right to the main attractions outside of town, so a shuttle would be a better option. Public buses stop at the airport and shopping center.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Currency is the U.S. dollar. ATMs and banks are readily available around town.
Language?
Residents speak English. If you want to learn a few Tlingit (Native American) phrases, take the Mount Roberts Tramway to the top and sit in on a free lesson in the auditorium.