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Book your tour 3+ days in advance and save 10% with code EARLYBIRD at checkout!

Respecting the Ocean, Inspiring Adventure, and Creating Memories Since 1988

For over 30 years, Deer Harbor Charters has been the trusted guide for unforgettable whale watching experiences in the heart of the San Juan Islands. Our knowledgeable crew combines passion for the ocean with a deep respect for its creatures, offering you a front-row seat to nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. Whether you're marveling at the majestic humpbacks, playful orcas, or graceful gray whales, each tour is not only a chance to witness incredible wildlife but also to learn about and appreciate the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

Whale & Wildlife Tours

Discover the breathtaking San Juan Islands on an intimate whale watching tour with Deer Harbor Charters. Since 1988, we’ve specialized in small-group, educational, and respectful wildlife experiences that leave a lasting impression. Free Tour photos, blankets, binoculars and so much more.

Plus if you don't see whales during the peak season, join us again for FREE!

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Summer Sunset Cruise

Set sail on a 90 minute Sunset/Evening cruise! Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Glide past rugged shores, spot local wildlife, and watch vibrant sunsets paint the sky over tranquil waters.

Whether you're enjoying a group outing or a solo adventure, our relaxed pace invites you to fully embrace the serenity of the coast.

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Water Taxi to Sucia Island

Looking for the perfect family adventure? look no farther then our WATER TAXI to Sucia Island Marine State Park—hunt for fossils and agates, hike the island’s 10-mile scenic trail system, enjoy birdwatching, beach-combing, and more. Our Water Taxi service to Sucia Island State Park is fast, reliable, and convenient. Enjoy a day trip or camping!

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Testimonials

"Fantastic experience!!!! 10/10! We followed a pod of orcas up into Canada and it was the most beautiful experiance. The Boat Was super clean and comfortable also they give you professional photos at the end, highly recommended!"

Nicolle Merrilyne

"We had a great outing with deer harbor charters! We saw a group of 8 orcas, eagles nests, and lots of harbor seals! The boat was comfortable and we were given blankets and binoculars to enhance the experience!"

Julia Larson

"Absolutely breathtaking! Super informative with whales in the area. We were lucky to see a few different pods. Very highly recommend and I plan on coming back!"

Nicole Barthel

WHY CHOOSE US?

We've got the boats, you bring the crew! For over 35 years, Deer Harbor Charters has been Orcas Island's top choice. With honest, transparent service and unforgettable extras, we deliver an experience like no other.

See Whales, on Whale Watch Tours or come again

FOR FREE!
Free Tour Photos to Remember your adventure!

TOUR PHOTOS
Free Use Binoculars and Blankets

ON EVERY TOUR
Professional Naturalists W/ Lots of Fun Stories!

THE BEST CREW!

ENJOY OUR

Family Fun Educational Entertaining Small Group

Adventures

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Let us show you the magic of the San Juan's!

TOUR VIDEO

LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE CHARTER?

Planning a group adventure to Orcas Island? Looking for something unforgettable? Give us a call—we’ve got the boat, you bring the fun!

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Going The Extra Mile

Traveling with someone who has a disability or requires special assistance?

While our boats are not ADA accessible, we strive to accommodate everyone. If you're traveling with someone who has mental or physical needs, please give us a call. Many of our staff have experience working with individuals with special needs, and we'll do our best to ensure a comfortable experience. Our team is compassionate, patient, and dedicated to making it work.

While our boats are not ADA accessible, we strive to accommodate everyone. If you're traveling with someone who has mental or physical needs, please give us a call. Many of our staff have experience working with individuals with special needs, and we'll do our best to ensure a comfortable experience. Our team is compassionate, patient, and dedicated to making it work.

Nature Decides, We Adapt - A Word of Warning

Please note: While we strive to provide the best experience, we cannot control the weather. Trips may be postponed, canceled, delayed, or modified due to weather conditions. We’ll keep you informed and work with you to accommodate any changes.

Please note: While we strive to provide the best experience, we cannot control the weather. Trips may be postponed, canceled, delayed, or modified due to weather conditions. We’ll keep you informed and work with you to accommodate any changes.

Our Whale Sightings Guarantee

We’re committed to an unforgettable whale watching experience! If you don’t see whales on your tour, peak season guests (June 15–Sept 15) will receive a 1-year voucher for a free return trip or the option to waive the voucher and have $25 per person refunded. Shoulder season guests are welcome to return if space allows but we do not offer partial refunds.

Please note, we watch wild whales, and sightings depend on nature's whims—Mother Nature and the whales are in charge. While our expert crew will do everything possible to ensure a great experience, weather and whale movements are beyond our control. With over 95% success during peak season, we’re confident you’ll have an amazing time. For the rare 5% who don’t see whales, we appreciate your understanding.

We’re committed to an unforgettable whale watching experience! If you don’t see whales on your tour, peak season guests (June 15–Sept 15) will receive a 1-year voucher for a free return trip or the option to waive the voucher and have $25 per person refunded. Shoulder season guests are welcome to return if space allows but we do not offer partial refunds.

Please note, we watch wild whales, and sightings depend on nature's whims—Mother Nature and the whales are in charge. While our expert crew will do everything possible to ensure a great experience, weather and whale movements are beyond our control. With over 95% success during peak season, we’re confident you’ll have an amazing time. For the rare 5% who don’t see whales, we appreciate your understanding.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

We respectfully acknowledge that Orcas Island and the surrounding waters of the Salish Sea are the ancestral lands of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Lummi, Samish, and other Indigenous Nations. These peoples have lived in this region for thousands of years, cultivating a deep connection to the land, sea, and the natural world. Their cultures, traditions, and knowledge continue to enrich this place today. We recognize the enduring relationship that the Indigenous peoples have with these lands and waters, and we honor their past, present, and future. As we live, work, and recreate in this beautiful area, we strive to show respect, gratitude, and responsibility for the environment and the communities that have stewarded it long before us.