San Juan Island Whale Watching & Wildlife Cruises
San Juan Island is the seasonal home of orcas, humpbacks, greys, minkes, porpoises as well as white-sided dolphins and whale watching is among the island’s most popular activities. Peak season is from May-September, but that shouldn’t stop you from visiting during the off-peak months. If you do, you’ll see more eagles, stellar sea lions and other kinds of wildlife.
San Juan Safaris
Visit San Juan Safaris’ office and cute coffee shop on the Friday Harbor waterfront to discuss the whale watching trip right for you.They offer whale watching tours on three different vessels:
LARGE BOAT: The fast, double decker Osprey is not only San Juan Island's largest whale watching boat, with plenty of space to stretch out, Osprey also features a galley, where you can purchase grab and go items, concession snacks, a variety of soda, beer, wine, hot chocolate, coffee, water and more. All San Juan Safaris’ tours have one to three naturalists onboard. The Osprey leaves from the Friday Harbor docks. Tours are around 4 hours.
MEDIUM BOAT: The Sea Lion departs from Roche Harbor on the Westside of the isle during the summer, where the orcas are most often seen. The boat offers a walk-around deck, windowed cabin, bow seating and a head - that’s “boat” for “bathroom”. The deck sits 5 feet above the water and allows for great viewing. Tours are around 4 hours. The Sea Lion is an excellent charter choice for your family reunion or corporate retreat.
SMALL BOAT: Kestrel is San Juan Island’s fastest zodiac vessel—perfect for anyone looking for a high-speed adventure! Kestrel has a wraparound observation deck and restroom. Includes high-quality exposure suits! 35 feet long, 24 or fewer passengers.
WESTERN PRINCE WHALE & WILDLIFE TOURS
Western Prince, right by the ferry landing in Friday Harbor, offer exhilarating rides on their bright, orange Zodiac seating 15. You get suited up in wind-and-weather-tight gear and go on a fast, fun ride, lasting about 2 1/2 hours.
Maya's legacy whale watching
Maya's Legacy Whale Watching offers a premier experience with never more than 15 passengers per tour. Brand-new, custom designed boats feature theater style seating and a heated cabin for comfort in all conditions. There is excellent viewing from the outdoor bow and stern viewing decks, as well as unparalleled indoor visibility through the large cabin windows. You are never seat-bound, and can move freely between the cabin and all viewing areas. There's plenty of elbow room and no competition for prime viewing space.
More Whale and Wildlife Tips
Lime Kiln State Park, the only US state park dedicated to whale watching, is less than 10 miles from Friday Harbor, on San Juan Island’s west side. Whales typically pass the park once or twice per day in season. If you left your car behind, San Juan Transit offers a regularly scheduled bus. Fantastic, picnic-perfect sunsets.
Don’t miss Friday Harbor’s renowned Whale Museum, featuring interactive exhibits, a gift shop, gallery and friendly staff available to answer all your whale and wildlife questions.