7 Night Alaskan Cruise - Disney Wonder Day 5
Day 5: Whale Watching, Salmon Bake, and Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau
Alaska’s beauty is truly unparalleled, and day five of our cruise brought us face to face with some of its most stunning natural wonders. From an exciting wildlife expedition to the breathtaking Mendenhall Glacier and an authentic Alaskan salmon bake, this day was packed with adventure, discovery, and a touch of personal preference when it came to the cuisine.
Whale Watching in Auke Bay
The day started with whale watching in Auke Bay, though the weather was quite gloomy, which seemed to reflect in everyone’s mood. However, once we were out on the water, things picked up. We saw quite a few humpback whales, and while there were no dramatic jumps or breaches, it was still incredible to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Our guide was very knowledgeable, providing insights into the whales’ behaviors and migration patterns, making the experience even more enriching. Unfortunately, we didn’t spot any orcas, but the experience was still amazing, and the scenic beauty surrounding us made for some fantastic photos.
Mendenhall Glacier: A Frozen Marvel
After the whale-watching excursion, we were scheduled to be picked up for our visit to Mendenhall Glacier, but unfortunately, our driver was about 20 minutes late. Standing in the rain and cold wasn’t ideal, and while there was a small shelter, it was crowded with other people also waiting. With new groups arriving from whale-watching tours, the area became a bit chaotic.
Once we finally arrived, though, Mendenhall Glacier was absolutely stunning. The icy blue expanse of the glacier is breathtaking, and the visitor center offered interesting interactive exhibits that provided insight into its formation and the local ecosystem. We would have loved to explore more and take one of the scenic walking trails, but we were short on time. Since I’m a slower walker, I didn’t want to risk getting left behind, so we decided to play it safe and stick to the main observation areas. Even without the hike, the glacier was a sight to behold.
Gold Creek Salmon Bake: A Feast in the Forest
Our final stop was the Gold Creek Salmon Bake, an outdoor dining experience nestled within a lush rainforest. The setting was undeniably picturesque, with a nearby creek and rustic décor enhancing the charm. The smell of wild salmon grilling over alder wood fires filled the air as we settled in for our meal.
While the menu featured a variety of Alaskan-inspired dishes—including Grilled Salmon, Cheechako Chicken, Chilkoot Baked Beans, and Tongass Wild-Rice Pilaf—I found the food to be just okay. It wasn’t necessarily bad, but it didn’t stand out as a culinary highlight of the trip. I will say, though, that the atmosphere and live music added a special touch to the experience. As for dessert, blueberry cake was on offer, but since I’m not a fan of blueberries, we skipped it.
Heading Back to the Ship
By the time we finished our meal, we were cold and wet and just wanted to get back to the ship to change into dry clothes. Unfortunately, the buses seemed poorly organized, and the waiting process was frustrating. Eventually, we made it back, and the journey itself was uneventful. We were relieved to finally step back on board, warm up, and relax after a long day of exploration.
Wrapping Up the Day
While the food may not have been the highlight for me, and the transportation left something to be desired, the overall experience was still unforgettable. If you’re planning an Alaskan cruise, this day trip offers a perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and culture, making it an essential addition to your itinerary!
Have you visited Juneau or experienced any of these activities? Share your thoughts!