I've used Outer Island Excursions many times in the past four years. When guests come from out-of-town, whale watching is always high on the list of things they want to do. With Outer Island, you can leave from Anacortes or Orcas Island - we prefer the Orcas Island departure. They have a guarantee that you'll see whales, or the next trip is on them. In 8-9 excursions, we've never failed to find the whales! Depending on the season, you'll almost always see harbor seals, harbor porpoise, smaller sea lions, eagles, deer and other wildlife - you may see Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, Minke Whales, Stellar Sea Lions (giant beasts), and Dall's Porpoise (these guys are a blast if you get into the midst of a school!) The captains are expert at navigating the Sound and respecting the whales' space. The naturalists are informative and fun! They can answer simple questions, or help with identifying certain Orcas. They'll help you distinguish a resident Orca from a transient. Eat before you sail and catch the potty before you sail. The boat has snacks and a tiny head. Their snacks are granola bars and candy bars. You'll have a better experience if you take some good snacks along. Mind your trash please? No matter the season - it's cooler out on the Sound than on land. TAKE A JACKET! Even if it's 90 degrees on land, if you're going out on the afternoon/evening excursion, it can cool off fast out on the water. You'll thank me. Sunglasses, a hat, and binoculars are essentials. If you're going out in the earlier spring, or later fall, pack a pair of light gloves. Most of the boats have two levels. Upstairs you can see farther. Downstairs you're closer to the animals that get close. If you're going in the later Fall....get a space in the cabin. In the summer, you'll want to stake out a seat on the upper deck. Now...make your reservations and have a blast!!!
Remember to tip the captain at the end of the journey. It's just gracious.