Below are the FAQs (frequently asked questions) we get most often, along with some simple answers. We tried to break them up into some intuitive categories, so you won’t have to search too hard for the information you need.

We also included our policies and recommendations for your convenience. That may seem boring, but you’ll be glad you read them, especially once you’ve booked your tour.

If you don’t see what you’re looking for, or want additional clarification, feel free to email us at rookery@sealiontoursak.com any time. You can also call us at 907.500.4115 between
8 am – 6 pm AKST. If we don’t answer, feel free to leave a message, and we’ll call you back as soon as possible.

Reservations/Booking

When are your tours?
Please visit our reservations page to review the schedule. Since the system updates our availability in real-time, you’ll be able to see current availability immediately.
Do I have to make reservations very far in advance?
We recommend that you make reservations as far in advance as possible since we can’t predict when each tour may fill up. However, if you aren’t ready to decide until you arrive, feel free to check our online reservation system for availability.

The best way to purchase tickets is through our online booking system, as it updates availability automatically in real time. However, if you need personal attention, feel free to contact us directly.
How will I know my trip is confirmed?
You’ll receive a confirmation email once you book your trip with us, but feel free to contact us to double-check your reservation any time.
Do you offer discounts?
We always offer a 10% discount to active-duty military, veterans, & first responders (police, firefighters, EMTs, etc.). Ask for a discount code when you’re ready to book.We do not offer discounts for children.

Policies & Recommendations

What are the booking/cancellation policies?
We require full payment at the time you make your reservation.
Full refunds are usually available if cancellations are more than 30 days from the scheduled trip. Refund amounts for cancellations less than 30 days in advance may be up to 50% and handled on a case-by-case basis. Cancellations within 24 hours and no-shows receive no refund.
Is being late the same as being a no-show?
Like other transportation and activities, we must keep to a schedule and must promptly at the scheduled departure time. Please plan to arrive at our designated meeting area 15-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow ample time for check-in, loading, etc. If you show up at our location and we’ve already left, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next trip on the same day or another day if possible.
Does SLAT ever cancel?
Sea Lion Adventure Tours tries to never cancel your trip. However, sometimes things out of our control, such as weather conditions or mechanical issues, require us to cancel. If this happens, we will let you know as soon as possible and offer either a full refund or a rebooking on a different day. If a trip is cut short due to weather, mechanical issues, etc., pro-rated refunds are issued based on time. Refunds are for the fare amount; we are not responsible for any additional expenses incurred with a cancellation. Purchasing travel insurance is a good idea.
Do we go even if it’s raining?
Juneau is in a rainforest, so we typically shove off rain or shine. However, we always have to consider the weather and water conditions. For everyone’s safety, the decision of whether or not to cancel is at the discretion of your licensed captain.
Are kids welcome on board?
We do allow kids 10 years and older on our tours. We love kids of all ages but have found guests younger than 10 may not find this tour as appealing as parents think. Since these are private tours, we may waive our policy in special circumstances. If this applies to your group, please let us know at the time of your reservation.
Are your tours suitable for pregnant women?
We recommend pregnant women check with their medical provider.
What if someone in our group has physical challenges or is disabled?
If you have any physical challenges or disabilities, please let us know. We are not ADA compliant but based on the information you provide we’ll know whether our tours can accommodate you. We’ll certainly be happy to assist where we’re able.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is not permitted. We are proud to provide smoke-free and vape/E-cigarette-free tours!
Do you serve alcohol?
We do not serve alcohol, but guests aged 21 and over may bring beer, wine, or other cocktails aboard. We, of course, expect our guests that choose to consume alcohol to do so in a responsible manner. Remember that the temperature of the North Pacific Ocean is just below freezing and must always be respected! (Translation: Getting drunk can create a dangerous situation for everyone on board, so don’t make us take your booze away while everyone else on the boat is just trying to have a great time in a great place.)
Our crew WILL NOT HESITATE to let a guest know if it appears he/she has had too much to drink and require that the passenger refrains from drinking any additional alcohol while onboard.
What about marijuana?
SLAT is also a pot-free zone. While it is common knowledge that Alaska legalized marijuana, we comply with Federal law, which means we are a drug-free vessel. Please don’t bring marijuana or illegal drugs on board.
Do you allow pets on your tours?
Sorry to disappoint anyone; pets are not allowed. Of course, service animals are allowed on our tours, per the ADA statutes. If you are bringing a service animal, please let us know when you make your reservation.

Recommendations

What should I wear?
No matter what the day’s forecast says, our best recommendation is to wear layers or bring a few things with you just in case. Even if it’s quite sunny, warm, and dry that day, bring warm clothes (like fleece, or warmer if you’re someone that gets cold easily). You’ll also want a waterproof jacket and boots/shoes (pants, too, if you’ve got ‘em). Oh! Don’t forget your sunscreen! Trust us on that.
While on the boat, you’ll have access to a dry, warm cabin, but there is no doubt you’ll spend time outside during your time with us, even if it’s wet and cold.
What camera gear should I bring?
Whatever you like! In general, bringing a variety of lenses is best. Sometimes, the wildlife/scenery is right next to us; sometimes it’s farther away. Bear in mind, though, that the use of bigger lenses can be problematic on a rocking boat. In our experience, tripods are not useful on the boat because the boat is rocking, and therefore it is better to shoot hand-held or with a monopod.
Will I get seasick?
On tours like ours, motion sickness is rare. However, the water around Juneau ranges from calm to a bit bumpy on any given day. We do our best to avoid a rough or rocky ride by finding some “smoother sailing” whenever possible. If you are prone to seasickness (or think you might be), we recommend taking preventative measures before the tour. Once you feel seasick, it’s too late.
Can you store my luggage during my tour?
You’re welcome to bring backpacks and similar-sized bags, camera bags, etc., onboard. However, our vessels cannot accommodate luggage, and we do not have a secure, dry facility to provide bag storage. If you’re staying at a hotel, they will generally be happy to store your bags for you.

Miscellaneous

What will we see?
You’re likely to see wildlife like humpback whales, Killer Whales (Orcas), sea lions, harbor seals, eagles, sea otters, dolphins, porpoises, bears, and Mountain goats. You’ll also enjoy seeing the gorgeous local trees, plants, flowers, stunning mountains jutting straight up from the ocean floor, magnificent waterfalls, glaciers, icebergs, and forested islands that make up the Alexander Archipelago.
All destinations, wildlife sightings, etc., are dependent on the weather and mother nature and are not guaranteed.
What time of day is best to see wildlife?
Anytime! There is no difference between wildlife sightings and the time of day.
Do you offer a whale/wildlife sighting guarantee?
Seeing humpback whales, porpoises, and orcas are common during our tours, but we cannot guarantee whale sightings (or other wildlife).
Please note: Our company adheres to the Alaska Humpback Whale Approach Regulations, so our vessels do not intentionally approach whales within 100 yards. For the whales and our passengers’ safety, if a whale approaches our vessel within 100 yards, the vessel will place the engine in neutral and wait until the animal is located safely away from the vessel before re-engaging the engines.
Can I fly my drone?
We do not allow drone flights due to safety concerns and Federal regulations.
How’s the weather?
In the summer, Juneau’s weather has a wide range from the 50s to the 80s at times. Rain-wise, we can have weeks of dry weather followed by rain. The key is to be flexible and be ready for either rain or shine, hot or cold. The ocean tends to moderate the temperature in the 50s to 60s.
Are food or drinks served?
We provide water, soft drinks, and snacks on each tour. Depending on the time of day and length of your tour, we may also provide a light lunch or more substantial snacks. It is not unusual for guests to have food sensitivities, so you’re encouraged to let us know about any dietary restrictions at least 48 hours in advance.Juneau is not a large city and sometimes challenges our best intentions. While we’re able to meet most specific dietary needs, there are times we can’t. However, you are more than welcome to bring snacks on board.