Flooding in Juneau could impact cruise travelers — what to know

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Flooding in Juneau could impact cruise travelers — what to know originally appeared on TravelHost.

A powerful surge of glacial meltwater is once again testing Juneau's resilience, and this time, the ripple effects could reach well beyond city limits — impacting thousands of travelers headed to Alaska’s capital by cruise ship.

Related: Celebrity Cruises expands cruise options in Europe, Alaska, Japan

On Aug. 12, an “outburst flood” from Suicide Basin, a glacier-fed reservoir near the Mendenhall Glacier, sent water levels in the Mendenhall River to record heights, surpassing last year’s flooding and prompting urgent evacuations in low-lying areas.

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The Mendenhall Glacier — just 12 miles from downtown and a top attraction for cruise passengers — is now surrounded by closures, trail washouts, and uncertainty over when tourism activities can safely resume.

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The stunning Mendenhall Glacier is closed to visitors after floodwaters engulfed the area.Shutterstock

What Alaska cruise passengers need to know about Juneau flooding

For many cruise passengers, Juneau is a highlight — not just for its pastel storefronts and salmon-filled streams, but for those epic glacier views.

The trouble is, Mendenhall Glacier’s recreation area closed temporarily due to the flood. Until officials determine it's safe to reopen, travelers will miss out on lakeside strolls, ice cave hikes, and quiet moments watching the ice shift and crack in the distance.

Related: Princess Cruises offers greater access to Alaska’s Glacier Bay

If you have a shore excursion to Mendenhall Glacier booked soon, don't panic. Your cruise line or tour operator will let you know if changes to your excursion are necessary. If excursions need to be canceled, cruise lines will likely offer alternate tour options, which might include whale watching, brewery hopping, or city walking routes.

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The good news? Downtown is still very much open for business. The not-so-good news? Everyone else with a canceled glacier tour will probably be there, too. Expect longer lines at restaurants, packed gift shops, and more competition for shuttle seats.

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Plan for the unexpected when traveling to Alaska

Local officials have stacked the riverbank with giant sand-filled barriers to protect homes and infrastructure, and so far, the cruise docks are unaffected.

But Alaska weather has a way of rewriting itineraries — sometimes overnight. The safest move is to stay flexible, check for updates from your cruise line, and have a backup port day activity in mind.

Related: Holland America Line adds 100 Alaska voyages for 80th season

Flooding like this isn’t rare anymore. Scientists say it could keep happening for decades as the glacier continues to retreat. So, if you miss Mendenhall this time, you may have another shot — but maybe not with the same itinerary you booked months ago.

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For now, Juneau’s message to travelers is simple: the city is still here, still welcoming visitors, and still as scenic as ever. Just be ready to trade your glacier selfie for a pint of local craft beer or a surprise wildlife encounter — because in Alaska, the best stories often come from the detours.

(The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.)

Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me’s Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at [email protected] or call or text her at 386-383-2472.

This story was originally reported by TravelHost on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared.