Whale Watching from Friday Harbor

Overview

The best orca whale watching is from Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, just an easy day trip adventure from downtown Seattle. The San Juan Islands are considered the "jewel" of the Pacific Northwest, located in the Puget Sound.

City: San Juan Islands

Mon 14 Jul

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $135.00

Make a reservation

Mon 14 Jul

Starting at $135.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Whale Watching Cruise

Local taxes

Additional Info

Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For maximum safety children under 2 should be in a harness carrier strapped to a parent and remain in the cabin
"Special Limited" tour not recommended for child aged 13 and under
Restrooms are available on board the boat

What To Expect

San Juan Island

San Juan Island is considered one of the best place to view wild orca whales because the surrounding nutrient rich water of the Salish Sea. These nutrients draw all types of marine animals, including large marine mammals like orcas. Take this Whale watching tour and see orca whales, during peak season we have a 90-95% success rate of spotting orca, minke, humpback and gray whales. What is the best time to see orca whales? Anytime. They are out and about all day. Aside from whales, many other marine mammals like harbor seals and stellar sea lions, as well as various sea birds, bald eagles and some unique terrestrial mammals are all common sightings! You'll definitely come back with memories to last a lifetime! Enjoy the beauty of San Juan Island on an exclusive Whale Watch Cruise from Friday Harbor. Sail aboard the fast, new 55 foot MV Sea Lion (with windowed, heated cabin, which seats up to 24 guests). 40 or fewer guest aboard this comfortable boat with walk around deck.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (728)

Brenda_L

Apr 2024

Kelly is a terrific tour guide and teacher. We learned so much about whales and other mammals in the region. Thanks for a great day!

878larya

Oct 2023

On October 4th, later in the season we saw abundant variety of wildlife: Bald Eagle, Harlequin Duck, Harbor Seals, Harbor Porpoises, and of course a pod of Orcas. Three Orcas swam under our boat. (see attached photos) The Naturalist on board was very knowledgeable and she was always ready to answer questions. The captain was very friendly and experienced. Love to go again when we are on San Juan Island.

Eileen_A

Sep 2023

EVERYTHING!! Even if we had not gotten to see TWO different pods, the experience was out of this world! From the moment we ran onto the boat (island time ferry schedule) we were greeted with smiles. Everyone was so accommodating and helpful. We learned so much from all the information that was given to us. The most important thing to us, was the care that has been taken, in protecting the whales in their environment. From the way they drive the boat, to the partnering with the UW. We were so impressed!! We highly recommend this company for ANY excursions. As I says earlier, you are not guaranteed to see any whales, but we were lucky enough to see two. They are the most beautiful and majestic creatures. The time we spent on the water in their habitat, was worth every penny!!! Thank you for everything!!! Crystal & Eileen Adams