Whale Watch Orcas Island

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Whale Watching, Wildlife Tours, & So Much More!

TOUR SCHEDULE - Simply select your date from our calendar of live availability. Reserve seats on a public tour or opt for a private charter.

Whale Watch FAQ's

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO WHALE WATCH?

The prime season for whale watching around Orcas Island and the San Juan Island's archipelago is late May - October.
Most of the migratory whale species (humpback, minke & gray whales) return to our sheltered waters to feed around April- May.
Orca whales frequent our waters and are a non-migratory species of dolphin (thats right, orca are not really whales!). Two genetically distinct and seemingly similar types (eco-types) of orca live, hunt and socialize around our region YEAR ROUND.
However, having a reliable "whale sightings" and calm weather during our offseason (November 1st - March 31st) can be hit and miss.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO WHALE WATCH?

The prime season for whale watching around Orcas Island and the San Juan Island's archipelago is late May - October.
Most of the migratory whale species (humpback, minke & gray whales) return to our sheltered waters to feed around April- May.
Orca whales frequent our waters and are a non-migratory species of dolphin (thats right, orca are not really whales!). Two genetically distinct and seemingly similar types (eco-types) of orca live, hunt and socialize around our region YEAR ROUND.
However, having a reliable "whale sightings" and calm weather during our offseason (November 1st - March 31st) can be hit and miss.

WHICH TOUR LOCATION IS BETTER?

Both Deer Harbor & Eastsound Brandts Landing Marina are great tour location. They are both centrally located Often times both boats will end up going to the same group of whales. Ususally

WHICH TOUR LOCATION IS BETTER?

Both Deer Harbor & Eastsound Brandts Landing Marina are great tour location. They are both centrally located Often times both boats will end up going to the same group of whales. Ususally

WHAT IF WE DON'T SEE WHALES?

If you don’t see whales on a whale watching tour, we invite you to return for another trip: 1-year free return for peak season guests (May 1st - October 1st) , or come again while you're on Orcas Island if space allows during the shoulder or off-season.

WHAT IF WE DON'T SEE WHALES?

CAN WE BRING FOOD ONBOARD?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring snacks, lunch and non-alcoholic drinks onboard.

CAN WE BRING FOOD ONBOARD?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring snacks, lunch and non-alcoholic drinks onboard.

WHAT TIME OF YEAR IS BEST TO SEE ORCA WHALES?

Orca whales can be seen year round with most active sightings between April & October.

WHAT TIME OF YEAR IS BEST TO SEE ORCA WHALES?

Orca whales can be seen year round with most active sightings between April & October.

DO YOU GUARANTEE WHALES?

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 crew!

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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.

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

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.

Nature Decides, We Adapt - A Word of Warning

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.

Our Whale Sightings Guarantee

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.