Whale Watching · SAN JUAN ISLANDS
The 10 best San Juan islands whale watching tours you can book today, with what each costs, how long it stays out and who it suits. Number one is top for a reason, so start there.
From Friday Harbor, you’ll cruise the Salish Sea aboard the 55-foot MV Sea Lion, with a heated cabin, restrooms, and a walk-around deck. Naturalists share information as the crew searches for orcas, humpbacks, minke and gray whales, plus seals, sea lions, and bald eagles.
“Well conducted trip -excellent vessel and crew. Saw Killer whales and a humpback. Nothing negative to report.”
Join Outer Island Excursions from Anacortes for a 3 to 4 hour search for orcas, humpbacks, gray whales, and other wildlife. Fast boats, naturalist guides, and a 98 percent whale sighting rate make this a strong choice for a Pacific Northwest day on the water.
“Came from Kitsap. We had a great time. The crew was very nice, attentive, and knowledgeable. It was nice to have interior seating for when it got chilly and the views were still great from inside. The San Juan’s are so beautiful that it would be worth the trip even if we didn’t see the whales and other wildlife. We took the Port Townsend Ferry. Make a reservation and show up 30 min before sailing. We had to rush back to catch the ferry home and almost didn’t make it. There is not much on that side so if we had missed it we would have been bored and starving…”
From Orcas Island, join a 3.5-hour cruise with a captain and naturalist such as Phil, Ginny, Drew, or Sheila. Fast boats cover wide water in search of resident orcas, humpbacks, gray and minke whales, plus seals, sea lions, otters, and eagles. Dress warmly and plan around the ferry.
“Being new to the area & unfamiliar w/the ferry system, we excitedly booked a tour w/out taking in to account the ferry schedule & travel. The employees went above and beyond in giving us an opportunity to make a tour & it all worked out! The captain (Drew) & crew (Sean, Sophia & Katie) were diligent in finding whales to make sure everyone on board had a good experience! They're all so knowledgeable & nice! We had a great time. Would highly recommend.”
Departing from Orcas Island, this 3.5-hour whale watch searches for orcas, humpbacks, seals, porpoises, eagles, and other wildlife. Guides such as Sheila, Phil, Brock, Tiffany, Jim, and Brooke have led memorable trips, but you must plan carefully around ferries and confirm the departure point.
“We had a 1:00 PM reservation for whale watching boat trip and a 7:30 AM ferry reservation to the island. The ferry system had a boat down so the 7:30 ferry was canceled. The next ferry to the island wasn’t until 3:15 later that day. I call the place and spoke to the owner and explained the situation. The exact words were “the ferry being down was not his problem” and refused to refund my money. This place was a complete ripoff and the owner was very arrogant about the whole situation. Stay away from this we whale watching your company.”
Meet your captain at Obstruction Pass for a private three-hour sailing lesson around Orcas Island. Nate guides your group through sailing terms and hands-on practice. Choose a 9 a.m. or 1 p.m. departure, with room for up to six people at one group price.
“Sailing with Nate was a great experience, he was very accommodating with me and my friends and each of our skills and comfort level. Would really recommend him for sailing with any age group or skill set.”
Join Outer Island Excursions from Orcas Island’s north shore for a 3 to 5 hour search for Biggs killer whales in the Salish Sea. A marine naturalist joins you on the high-speed vessel, with an onboard restroom and room for up to 49 people. The tour returns to its starting point.
“Hunter guided us like the pro he is on the water. We were blessed and saw multiple orcas up close!!”
At Doe Bay Wine Company in Eastsound, Cole or another host leads you through four Orcas Project wines, explaining the vineyards, winemakers, and Orcas Island artists behind each label. Add the cheese board, ask questions, and allow about 30 minutes for this small-group tasting.
“Everyone was incredible and kind! Wine was excellent and the whole town is so welcoming. This is a must see to get the feeling of the entire community.”
Launch from Rosario Resort with a certified guide and paddle along Orcas Island after dark. Around the mansion, each stroke can stir glowing plankton in the water. Departures follow the new moon, so expect late starts, shifting times, and a two-hour outing for up to 12 people.
“This was such a cool experience and Tyler was a great guide! We saw so many amazing things and it really was an unforgettable experience.”
Spend about six hours kayaking from Rosario Marina along Orcas Island’s Cascade Bay coast, with wildlife viewing, a stop in Olga for cafe food and local art, and a guided paddle back. Kayak gear is included, but lunch and bottled water cost extra.
“Big thanks to Jake for a beautiful kayak excursion to Sucia Island. We circumnavigated the entire island, had a lovely lunch+hiking break. Beautiful scenery and soaring bald eagles everywhere!”
Paddle from Orcas Island’s north shore with a guide from Orcas Wild Kayak and Bike Adventures. This three-hour trip reaches a park accessible only by boat, where you can take a short nature walk, scan for harbor seals and porpoises, and enjoy views of Mt. Baker. Tyler and Jenni have led recent outings.
“Jenni was knowledgeable, in her instruction for kayak, friendly and a great leader including and connecting with everyone. Weather was perfect.”
Pick an animal, a boat or a season.
