Whale SENSE Sustainability

At Juneau Tours and Whale Watch, responsible whale watching is more than a guideline, it is a promise we make to the ocean, the wildlife that call it home, and every guest who steps aboard our vessels. We are proud to be one of the founding members of Alaska’s Whale SENSE program, a voluntary accountability, education and recognition initiative designed for commercial whale watching companies in both the U.S. Atlantic and Alaska Regions. Sponsored by NOAA Fisheries and Whale and Dolphin Conservation, Whale SENSE was created in collaboration with the whale watching industry to promote safe, respectful, and conservation-minded wildlife viewing practices.

Our participation in Whale SENSE reflects our belief that sustainable tourism depends on protecting the very environments that inspire us. Every tour we run is guided by the program’s core principles that ensure our guests experience the wonder of humpback whales in a way that honors their natural behaviors and preserves their habitat for generations to come.

Being a Whale SENSE operator means voluntarily committing to the highest standards of responsible whale watching. These standards go beyond legal requirements and reflect a deeper commitment to science-backed guidelines, passenger education, and marine stewardship.

As a proud Whale SENSE company, Juneau Tours and Whale Watch endeavors to:

Mindfully, we conduct all our on-the-water activities in harmony with the whales and other marine life. We never wish to interrupt feeding patterns, disturb natural rhythms, or cause stress to the animals that make our tours so special. The humpback whales of Juneau are remarkable ambassadors for Southeast Alaska’s rich ecosystem, curious, powerful, and awe-inspiring. And while they no longer appear on the endangered species list, protecting their recovery is an ongoing effort that requires diligence from everyone on the water.

At Juneau Tours and Whale Watch, we raise awareness of these beautiful animals while giving them the space and respect they deserve. Whether it’s adjusting our routes, slowing our speed, or educating guests on the importance of distance, every decision we make on the water reflects our desire to observe without interfering.