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 29 Dec

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $135.00

Make a reservation

Mon 29 Dec

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)

tarheelgirl230

Jul 2024

We had a fantastic trip. The boat was large with plenty of seating inside and outside and room to move around. I liked the upper level for easy viewing of our surroundings and the orcas. The naturalists were knowledgeable and available for all our questions and very friendly. We were able to spend a good amount of time near the T46B pod. Amazing sight to view in person! We returned along the ocean side of the island which was a little rough but it allowed us to pass goose island and the Lime Kiln lighthouse and see some cormorants and seals with some pups.

Meg_R

Jul 2024

We went out in the ocean for about 1.5 hours then turned around and came back. Slowed down to see harbor seals on a rock on our way back. I got the impression none of the crew were looking for any sign of whales or orcas. We were given a voucher for another outing however, like most folks on board, we have no plans to come back and we live in another state. My guess is most people don’t use the voucher so that is a win for San Juan Safaris but not so good for customers. It is almost a scam. Pay more, find another tour!

Deb_B

Jul 2024

Beautiful cruise of the islands into Canada. Knowledgeable and professional staff. We didn't see whales, but had a gorgeous afternoon and memorable experience.