Whale Watching from Friday Harbor

Highlights

  • Enjoy the views from a boat with a walk-around deck and heated cabin

  • Look out for other marine life including humpback and gray whales

  • Convenient departure times throughout the day

Summary

Meet at Friday Harbor in San Juan Island at your selected time and board the boat for your whale-watching cruise. Climb aboard and choose a seat in the heated cabin with large viewing windows or head outside for a spot on the walk-around deck. As you cruise, be on the lookout for whales and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Stop in prime locations and observe the species up close. Your seasoned captain is on hand to teach you about the ecology and geology of the waters in the region. While it’s not guaranteed that killer whales will be seen on this tour, they are spotted more than 90 percent of the time. Minke, humpback, and gray whales are also often spotted in this area. The tour ends at Friday Harbor where it began.

Tour info

Duration
4 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

The waters surrounding San Juan Island are full of salmon, the primary food source of orca whales, making it an ideal location for whale watching. With this tour, set out on a boat equipped with a heated cabin and large viewing windows to look for killer whales in their natural habitat. San Juan Island is rich in wildlife, and minke, humpback, and gray whales can also often be seen in the area.

What’s included?

  • Whale Watching Cruise

  • Local taxes

  • Transport to/from Friday Harbor from Seattle

  • Gratuities

  • Port Fee (USD1.00 per person)

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 4h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

Covid Policy

  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

50% capacity on vessels

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

San Juan Safaris

About operator:

The waters surrounding San Juan Island are the #1 place in North America to see wild orca whales. San Juan Safaris, located in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, is in the perfect location to provide you with the thrill of seeing orcas in their natural habitat. For over 20 years, San Juan Safaris has been offering the highest quality whale watching tours with a focus on our guests’ experiences and respectful wildlife viewing. Experience orcas, seals, sea lions, eagles, and more from the comfort of our safe, fast, and US Coast Guard approved vessels. With four vessels and multiple daily departure times, there’s sure to be a tour that’s right for you. Our seasoned Captains will keep you safe while aboard our vessels and position the boat in prime locations for whale and wildlife viewing. All of our tours are staffed by seasoned Captains and passionate Marine Naturalists who will teach you about the wildlife, ecology, and geology of the Salish Sea. We encourage you to ask questions and love to share stories about orcas and the local area. Choose from two vessel tours: M/V Sea Lion: The Sea Lion is our flagship vessel, built specifically for whale watching & wildlife viewing. 55 feet, comfortable, stable, great for passengers of all ages and mobility levels. Restroom on board, 360* viewing deck, heated inside cabin. Great for families and groups. M/V Kestrel: The Kestrel is our new high-speed adventure vessel-- perfect for anyone looking for an exciting excursion! Fast, safe, and comfortable. 360* viewing deck, all-weather exposure suits keep you warm and dry, plus on board marine bathroom. Fun and fast! This tour is great for passengers 8 years and older. Our brand new Whale Watch Headquarters is located just feet from the ferry terminal in Friday Harbor, and steps from local restaurants and shops. Stop by and say “hello” to learn more about our tours and the best spots on San Juan Island to explore. Visit our retail and gift shop for the latest in northwest guide style. Don’t forget to stop by our new Ridetide Café for coffee, sandwiches, desserts, and more!

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