Above and Beyond Alaska

Based in Juneau, Above and Beyond Alaska has established itself as a prominent tour operator specializing in small-group, activity-focused excursions. Since 2002, the company has built a strong reputation, reflected in its near-perfect customer rating of 4.9 stars across over 600 reviews. This locally owned business positions itself as a provider of high-quality adventure travel, focusing on authentic experiences centered around glaciers, bears, and whales. They aim to deliver more than just a sightseeing trip, providing immersive journeys that require active participation from their clients.

Service Offerings and Client Experiences

The portfolio of Above and Beyond Alaska is diverse, catering to those who wish to engage directly with the Alaskan environment. Their offerings can be broadly categorized into glacier explorations and marine wildlife encounters, often combining multiple activities into a single package.

Glacier-Centric Guided Tours

The company provides unique access to two of the area's significant glaciers: Mendenhall and Norris. Unlike passive viewing experiences, these trips are designed for hands-on participation.

• Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Hike: This is one of their most popular offerings. The excursion involves a bus ride to Mendenhall Lake, followed by a canoe trip across the water to get a direct view of the glacier face. Clients have noted that this part of the journey is filled with commentary from staff on local birdlife and geology. Upon reaching the shore, a short hike allows for closer inspection of glacial features. Past participants frequently describe this as a highlight of their time in Alaska, praising the breathtaking proximity to the ice. However, it's important to note that due to the glacier's rapid recession, direct access to step onto the ice from this route is no longer consistently possible, a point some visitors have expressed disappointment in, despite acknowledging it is a matter of natural change and safety.
• Fly-In Norris Glacier Hike & Packraft: For a more remote and intensive experience, this tour involves a seaplane flight over the Juneau Icefield to the Norris Glacier. This multi-sport trip includes hiking directly on the glacier and paddling in a packraft on glacial waters. Reviews consistently highlight the spectacular aerial views and the thrill of walking on ancient ice, often mentioning visits to features like ice caves. The comprehensive nature of this trip, combining flightseeing with glacier trekking, makes it an unforgettable adventure for many.

Wildlife Viewing and Marine Adventures

Beyond the ice, the company leverages its location to offer exceptional marine and wildlife excursions.

• Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure: This kayak tour takes participants into the Channel Islands State Marine Park for opportunities to see humpback whales. Customers frequently report remarkable sightings, including whales breaching, feeding, and tail splashing, sometimes numbering over a dozen different individuals. The tours also commonly encounter other marine life such as harbor seals and Steller sea lions.
• Brown Bear Viewing: Above and Beyond Alaska offers floatplane trips to prime bear viewing locations like Pack Creek on Admiralty Island and Waterfall Creek. These excursions are designed to provide intimate and respectful encounters with brown bears in their natural habitat, particularly during the salmon run.

The Quality of Personnel and Logistics

A recurring theme in customer feedback is the exceptional quality of the company’s staff. The personnel are consistently described as top-notch, knowledgeable, patient, friendly, and highly capable. There is a strong emphasis on safety, with clients noting that staff members are diligent in ensuring everyone is comfortable and secure, particularly with guests who may have less experience with the activities. The guides' ability to share interesting facts about the local ecosystem and adapt plans based on weather conditions is frequently praised. Logistically, the company is reported to be well-organized, providing necessary gear like rain jackets, pants, and boots, along with transportation and snacks, creating a seamless experience from start to finish.

Practical Considerations for Potential Customers

While the experiences offered are overwhelmingly positive, prospective clients should be aware of several practical factors before booking. These are not so much negative aspects as they are inherent characteristics of this type of premium Alaskan adventure.

Cost of Excursions

This is a premium service, and the pricing reflects the complexity, equipment, and expertise involved. Single-day tours can range from over $200 for a Mendenhall Glacier hike to nearly $1,000 for a fly-in bear viewing trip. Multi-day vacation packages that combine glacier, bear, and whale experiences can cost several thousand dollars. This price point places the company's offerings in the higher tier of the market, making it a significant investment and potentially unsuitable for budget-conscious travelers.

Physical Requirements

The company's focus is on active participation. Tours like the glacier treks and canoe trips are described as moderately difficult and require a reasonable level of physical fitness. Activities involve hiking over uneven, rocky terrain, scrambling over boulders, and paddling for extended periods. Potential customers, especially those with mobility issues related to knees, hips, or ankles, are advised to carefully review the physical demands of each tour on the company's website to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Booking and Availability

As a travel agency that emphasizes high-quality, small-group tours, availability is limited. Popular excursions, especially during the peak summer season (May through September), often sell out well in advance. Last-minute booking is generally not feasible. Furthermore, the company's office operates on a weekday schedule (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM) and is closed on weekends, which could be a minor inconvenience for travelers trying to make arrangements outside these hours.

Dependence on Weather

Alaskan weather is notoriously unpredictable. All outdoor activities, especially those involving floatplanes and watercraft, are subject to change or cancellation due to unsafe conditions. While customer reviews indicate the company is adept at making on-the-fly adjustments to itineraries, travelers should be prepared for the possibility that their planned excursion may be altered. The company maintains a cancellation policy where trips canceled by them due to weather are refunded, but this is an important reality of booking eco-tourism adventures in this region.

In conclusion, Above and Beyond Alaska operates as a high-end tour operator for those seeking genuine, physically engaging encounters with Alaska's natural phenomena. The high cost is justified by expert staff, small group sizes, and access to incredible experiences. It is best suited for the active traveler who prioritizes authenticity over luxury, plans well in advance, and understands the physical and financial commitments required for such specialized Juneau excursions.