Are you a wildlife enthusiast who is searching for new and exciting ways to witness marine animals in their natural habitat? San Juan Islands is home to some of the best whale watching experiences in North America and is a popular destination for travelers keen on exploring the untouched beauty of the Pacific Northwest. With stunning landscapes and a diverse marine ecosystem, this destination is perfect for anyone who is seeking an adventure of a lifetime. In this post, we’ll take a look at the best whale watching tours in San Juan Islands that offer unforgettable experiences and insights into the world of these majestic creatures.
The 4 Best Whale Watching in San Juan Islands
- Whale Watching from Friday Harbor
- Anchorets Whale Watching
- Orcas Island Whale Watching
- Guaranteed Whale Watching Tour
The 4 Best Whale Watching in San Juan Islands
1. Whale Watching from Friday Harbor
Get up close with orca whales near Seattle on this 4-hour whale-watching cruise. San Juan Island is where the southern resident killer whales live for about six months out of the year. It’s the best place to view these magnificent creatures. Over 90% of tours have seen whales, so you will be guaranteed to see marine mammals. The tour includes a whale-watching cruise, local taxes, transport to/from Friday Harbor from Seattle, gratuities, and a port fee. The meeting point is Friday Harbor, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. San Juan Safaris’ office is located on Front Street. Enjoy the beauty of San Juan Island while experiencing the best whale-watching near Seattle.
2. Anchorets Whale Watching
Explore the home port of the picturesque San Juan Islands on a guided 3-hour whale-watching cruise near Seattle. Board a high-speed vessel and travel through the scenic Pacific Northwest while searching for orca, humpback, and gray whales, led by knowledgeable naturalist guides and captains. Marvel at the ocean’s wildlife, including seals, porpoises, sea lions, otters, birds, and more, all in their natural habitat. From April through early September, killer whale sightings are guaranteed. This fun-filled adventure is suitable for the entire family, with professional guides and gratuities included. Meet at 2201 Skyline Way, Anacortes WA 98221 USA, at the yellow building with a red roof past the Skyline Marine.
3. Orcas Island Whale Watching
Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juan Islands near Seattle, on a 3.5-hour guided whale-watching cruise from Eastsound. Accompanied by expert naturalist guides and captains, hop aboard a Blackfish fleet vessel and embark on a scenic journey through the Pacific Northwest’s stunning landscapes and search for orca, humpback, and gray whales. Be amazed by the sight of ocean wildlife such as seals, porpoises, sea lions, otters, birds, and more in their natural habitat. Sightings are guaranteed between April through early September. The tour includes a professional guide, high-speed vessels, a 3-4 hour tour, and gratuities. The meeting point is 8368 Orcas Rd r Eastsound WA 98245 USA. Check-in starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise departure time. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience of watching resident killer whales and other magnificent creatures in their natural environment.
4. Guaranteed Whale Watching Tour
Observe Pacific Northwest whales in their natural environment on a 3.5-hour guaranteed whale watching tour from Seattle. This tour offers you the chance to get up close to orcas, humpbacks, and minkes while learning about the marine life from your on board guide. If, for any reason, you don’t see any whales during your excursion, enjoy a second journey on the boat free of charge. This small group personalized experience also allows you to observe local marine life in its natural environment. Choose from two departure times in the summer and enjoy the convenience of meeting and pickup at 8368 Orcas Rd, Eastsound, WA 98245 USA, located at the dock directly beside the Orcas Island Ferry Terminal. This activity ends back at the meeting point. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Professional guide, food and drinks, and gratuities are included in the tour. Don’t miss the opportunity for the best whale watching in San Juan Islands with this guaranteed whale watching tour.
Whale Watching in San Juan Islands: FAQs
San Juan Islands are a popular tourist destination in the Pacific Northwest, attracting thousands of visitors every year. One of the main reasons people visit San Juan Islands is to go whale watching. Whale watching in San Juan Islands is an exciting, educational, and awe-inspiring experience. In this blog post, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about whale watching in San Juan Islands.1. When is the best time to go whale watching in San Juan Islands?
The best time to go whale watching in San Juan Islands is from May to September. During this time, the weather is usually warm and dry, and the waters are calm, making for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Additionally, the resident orca whales are most active during this time and are generally easier to spot.2. What kind of whales can you see in San Juan Islands?
San Juan Islands are home to three types of whales – resident orcas, transient orcas, and humpback whales. Resident orcas are the most commonly sighted whales in San Juan Islands and can be seen throughout the year. Transient orcas and humpback whales, on the other hand, are only seen during specific times of the year.3. Do you guarantee whale sightings during the tour?
No, we cannot guarantee whale sightings on our tours. Whales are wild animals, and their movements cannot be predicted. However, our experienced guides will do their best to find the whales and provide you with an unforgettable whale watching experience.4. How long do whale watching tours last?
Whale watching tours in San Juan Islands usually last between 3 to 4 hours, but some tours can last up to 6 hours. The duration of the tour depends on the type of tour you choose and other factors such as weather conditions and whale sightings.5. Do I need to make a reservation for a whale watching tour?
Yes, it is highly recommended to make a reservation for a whale watching tour in advance, especially during peak season (June-August). Whale watching tours in San Juan Islands are very popular, and reservations fill up quickly.6. What should I bring to a whale watching tour?
We recommend bringing warm and waterproof clothing as the weather can be unpredictable. Additionally, bringing binoculars, a camera, and sunscreen can enhance your whale watching experience.7. Can children go on whale watching tours?
Yes, children of all ages can go on whale watching tours. However, some tour companies may have age restrictions or requirements, so it is best to check with the tour operator before booking.8. Are there any safety rules I need to follow during the tour?
Yes, all passengers are required to follow safety rules during the whale watching tour. The rules include staying seated while the boat is moving, wearing a life jacket at all times, and following the guide’s instructions.9. How close can we get to the whales?
There are strict guidelines set by the National Marine Fisheries Service that require all whale watching tours to maintain a distance of at least 200 yards from the whales. This is to ensure the safety of both the whales and the passengers.10. Can I swim with the whales during the tour?
No, swimming with the whales is prohibited in San Juan Islands. It is against the law to harass, disturb, or injure whales, and violating this law can result in fines and legal consequences.In conclusion, whale watching in San Juan Islands is a unique and unforgettable experience. With resident and transient orcas, humpback whales, and a variety of other marine life to spot, Joining a whale watching tour is a great way to explore the wonders of the Pacific Northwest’s aquatic wildlife. By answering these FAQs, we hope to have provided you with the necessary information to plan your next whale watching trip to San Juan Islands.How to do Whale Watching in San Juan Islands: A Comprehensive Guide
San Juan Islands is one of the best locations in the world to go whale watching. The area has a rich marine environment that is home to a variety of marine mammals, including orcas, humpback whales, minke whales, porpoises, and seals. If you’re planning a trip to the San Juan Islands and want to experience the thrill of whale watching, then this is the guide for you. Here are some steps you can follow to ensure that you have a successful and unforgettable whale watching experience.
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Tour Operator
Whale watching tours are the best way to see these majestic creatures up close and personal. There are several tour operators in the San Juan Islands that offer whale watching tours. It’s important to choose a reputable tour operator that is licensed, insured, and follows responsible whale watching guidelines. Check their online reviews, and look for tours that follow the Whale Watching Guidelines set by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Tip:
- Choose a tour operator that has a naturalist on board. They will provide educational information about the whales and other marine life in the area.
Step 2: Plan Your Trip
The whale watching season in the San Juan Islands typically runs from May to September, with peak sightings from June to August. Plan your trip accordingly, and book your tour in advance to ensure availability. Consider the following:
Whale Watching Tours Timing:
| Months | Tour Timing |
|---|---|
| May-June | 9:30 am, 1:30 pm |
| July-August | 8:30 am, 11:00 am, 1:30 pm, 4:00 pm, 6:30 pm |
| September | 9:30 am, 1:30 pm |
Tip:
- Check the weather forecast before booking your tour. Calm seas and clear skies are ideal for whale watching.
- Dress in layers. The weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for both warm and cold temperatures.
- Bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture the whales and other marine life.
Step 3: Enjoy Your Tour
On the day of your tour, arrive at the dock at least 30 minutes before departure to check-in and receive any additional instructions. Once on board, listen to the naturalist’s briefing on safety guidelines and the marine mammals you may encounter. Keep your eyes peeled for any sightings, and be respectful of the whales’ space.
Tip:
- Stay hydrated. Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay refreshed during the tour.
- Be prepared for a bumpy ride. Whale watching tours can be rough, so if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness medication.
Final Thoughts
A whale watching tour in the San Juan Islands is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget. By following these steps, you can ensure that you have a safe and memorable trip. Remember to be respectful of the marine environment and its inhabitants, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the San Juan Islands.
Don’t forget to share your photos and experiences with your friends and family and spread the word about the importance of responsible whale watching.
Table of Contents
