We cruised out on a near-perfect day, clear, sunny and calm. Before setting out the skipper introduced all the crew members, and explained clearly the safety rules to be observed on the boat. As we sped out to the area where the whales were, he pointed out various landmarks and other bits of local color, which included the Lady Washington, a replica of an 18th-century sailing ship that has appeared in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" movies.
The skipper knew where to find the whales, and skillfully followed them once they were located. We saw about a half-dozen orcas, and got many excellent photo opportunities. The skipper and the naturalists among the crew knew all the whales by name, and their ages, history, relationships, etc. I learned quite a lot about killer whales that day.
On the return leg of the voyage, we went past some islands where many birds nested, including cormorants that build nests that are high piles of sticks. We also cruised in close to shore to see several bald eagles.
In sum, a very enjoyable and educational time. One bit of advice: even on a warm summer day, take at least a windbreaker, if not something heavier, if you want to be out on the open deck. At the speed the boat reaches the wind chill is more than negligible.